Hanoi, Vietnam’s thousand-year-old capital, is a culinary paradise where history and flavor meet in every bowl. From steaming noodle soups to fragrant street snacks, these ten iconic dishes capture the soul of the city.
Let’s take a look at the famous dishes in Hanoi that tourist cannot miss when visiting this country.
Phở Bò – Beef Noodle Soup
The ultimate Vietnamese classic. Thin rice noodles bathe in a clear, aromatic beef broth simmered for hours with star anise and cinnamon. Add fresh herbs, a squeeze of lime, and thinly sliced beef for the perfect breakfast or late-night treat.
Pho Bo – one of the best dishes in Hanoi
Bún Chả – Grilled Pork with Vermicelli
Charcoal-grilled pork patties and caramelized pork belly are served with rice vermicelli, a sweet-savory dipping sauce, fresh herbs, and pickled vegetables. President Obama famously tried this dish during his 2016 Hanoi visit.
Bun cha Hanoi
Chả Cá Lã Vọng – Turmeric Fish with Dill
Chunks of catfish are marinated in turmeric and galangal, then pan-fried with plenty of dill and green onions. It’s served with rice noodles, peanuts, and a splash of fish sauce. A must-try for seafood lovers.
Cha ca La Vong
Bánh Cuốn – Steamed Rice Rolls
Delicate sheets of rice batter are filled with minced pork and wood-ear mushrooms, then topped with crispy shallots. Dip them in a warm fish sauce blend for a light but satisfying meal.
Banh cuon
Xôi Xéo – Sticky Rice with Mung Bean
This vibrant yellow sticky rice is topped with mashed mung beans, fried shallots, and sometimes a slice of Vietnamese pork sausage. It’s a popular breakfast for locals on the go.
Xoi xeo
Bánh Mì Hà Nội – Hanoi-Style Baguette
The Hanoi version is crispier and often filled with pâté, cold cuts, pickled carrots, and cucumber. A perfect fusion of French and Vietnamese culinary traditions.
Banh mi Pate
Bún Thang – Deluxe Chicken Noodle Soup
A delicate, clear broth made from chicken and dried shrimp, served with thin rice noodles, shredded chicken, omelet strips, and fragrant herbs. Elegant and comforting.
Bun thang
Bún Riêu – Crab & Tomato Noodle Soup
A tangy broth flavored with freshwater crab paste, tomatoes, and herbs. Toppings often include tofu, pork, and a hint of fermented shrimp paste for extra depth.
Bun rieu
Nem Rán – Hanoi Spring Rolls
These golden-fried rolls are stuffed with minced pork, mushrooms, glass noodles, and fragrant spices. Crispy on the outside and juicy inside, they are irresistible with a sweet-sour dipping sauce.
Nem ran
Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng)
Not a dish but an essential Hanoi experience. Strong Vietnamese coffee is topped with a creamy foam made from whisked egg yolk and sweetened condensed milk—rich, velvety, and unforgettable.
Cafe Trung
Tips for Food Lovers
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Best Time to Explore: Early morning or late evening when the streets are cooler and vendors are bustling.
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Where to Go: The Old Quarter’s narrow alleys are a treasure trove of hidden eateries.
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How to Order: Most vendors don’t speak much English, so pointing at ingredients or showing a photo works wonders.
From the smoky aroma of grilled pork to the sweet comfort of egg coffee, Hanoi’s food scene tells the story of a city where tradition and creativity never stop simmering. Grab your chopsticks and let your taste buds explore!
