If you’re planning a trip to Hanoi, get ready to tantalize your taste buds with some of the most amazing local dishes. The Vietnamese capital is a culinary paradise, with a wide range of flavors and textures to explore. From street vendors to upscale restaurants, Hanoi has it all. In this article, we’ll introduce you to five must-try dishes that will leave you craving for more.
Xôi Xéo: The Sticky Rice Sensation
One dish that you simply can’t miss while in Hanoi is Xôi Xéo. This traditional Vietnamese delicacy consists of sticky rice topped with ground de-hulled mung bean and fried onion. Sometimes, it’s served with eggs or steamed chicken breast as well. Xôi Xéo is incredibly filling and can be enjoyed at any time of the day. However, most locals prefer it for breakfast or lunch. When you’re in Hanoi, keep an eye out for this dish in the open-air markets or head to one of the dedicated Xôi Xéo restaurants in the Old Quarters.
Where to try: Xôi Yen is a local favorite located just North of Sword Lake (Hoan Kiem lake) on Nguyen Huu Huan street. Ask anyone in the area, and they’ll point you in the right direction. A bowl of Xôi Xéo, without chicken, costs about 50 cents. Pair it with a glass of soy milk, and you’ll have an energy boost that rivals any granola bar.
Bánh Cuốn: The Steamed Crepe Delight
Similar to the famous French crepes, Bánh Cuốn is a steamed crepe made of rice flour and water. This savory dish is filled with ground pork, wood-ear mushrooms, and seasoning. The steaming process happens right at the door of many street vendors, so keep an eye out for the steam rising high. Bánh Cuốn is typically served with nuoc mam, a mixture of fish sauce, sugar, and lime.
Where to try: For a more upscale experience, head to Banh Cuon Gia An on Ba Trieu street (opposite Vincom tower). Here, you can enjoy Banh Cuon without preservatives and with the assurance of high hygiene standards. The prices are not much different from street vendors, around $1.5 per serving. They also offer a vegetarian option for those who prefer it.
Phở: The Noodle Soup Sensation
No trip to Hanoi is complete without savoring a bowl of Phở, the iconic Vietnamese noodle soup. Considered a national dish, Phở originated in Hanoi in the early 20th century. You’ll find it everywhere, from street vendors to high-end restaurant chains. Some variants are served with chicken, while others feature beef. Each meat option comes with a variety of sub-dishes, ranging from beef tenderloin to beef brisket, and from chicken wings to chicken thighs. To truly experience the best Phở, look for the places where locals gather the most.
Where to try: Phở Bat Dan is a renowned local restaurant famous for its Phở bò (beef noodle soup). Located in the Old Quarter, you won’t miss it thanks to the long line of people waiting to be served. Join the locals, line up for your Phở, and find a table to savor this iconic dish.
Bún Thang: The Colorful Noodle Bowl
If you’re looking for a hidden gem in Hanoi, try Bún Thang. This popular dish is harder to find outside of the Old Quarters or a few special restaurants scattered across the city. Bún Thang is a harmonious blend of colors, with sliced eggs (yellow), rice vermicelli (white), chicken (off-white), and garnished with onions and herbs (green). The chicken broth is artfully prepared, and the dish itself is beautifully presented.
Where to try: For an authentic Bún Thang experience, head to Bún Thang Ba Duc on Cau Go street. This street vendor may have limited seating on the pavement, but don’t be surprised to see how many people can fit in the two-story old house behind the stall. Enjoying Bún Thang in such a setting will undoubtedly be a highlight of your trip to Hanoi.
Cha Ca La Vong: The Grilled Fish Delight
Listed as one of the top 100 dishes to try before you die, Cha Ca La Vong is a must-try in Hanoi. This exquisite dish features grilled fish served with bún (rice vermicelli), peanuts, green onions, dill, and shrimp paste. The fish is carefully selected to ensure there are minimal bones and no strong fishy smells. To enhance the flavors, pair your meal with a glass of bia hoi (local draft beer) or tra da (iced tea).
Where to try: Visit Cha Ca La Vong restaurant on 14 Cha Ca street for a truly traditional and high-quality dining experience. While it may be more expensive than other local food options, dining in one of Hanoi’s oldest houses, and being served by traditionally styled chefs, is an experience worth every dollar.
When visiting Hanoi, make sure to try these mouthwatering local dishes. The city’s vibrant food scene will leave you longing for more delicious adventures. So grab your chopsticks, dive into the culinary wonders of Hanoi, and immerse yourself in the flavors that define this captivating city. Rừng Cúc Phương can’t wait to welcome you!
