Exploring the street food in Hanoi is an adventure in itself. Each dish tells a story of Hanoi’s rich culinary heritage, and trying them is the best way to experience the local culture.
Whether you’re exploring bustling night markets or quiet alleyways, these 10 foods to try in Hanoi will give you a true taste of Hanoi.
Top 10 foods to try in Hanoi, Vietnam
1. Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)
Pho, the iconic dish of Hanoi, is a must-try. This fragrant noodle soup features tender slices of beef or chicken, fresh herbs, and rice noodles in a clear, aromatic broth.
It’s typically served with lime, fresh herbs, and chilli, allowing you to customize the flavours according to your preference.
2. Banh Cuon (Rolled Rice Pancakes)
Banh cuon is a soft, thin rice sheet filled with a mixture of minced pork, mushrooms, and sometimes a few dried shrimp.
We often serve it with a side of tangy fish sauce and fresh herbs. The dish is a delicate balance of flavours and textures.
3. Goi Cuon (Vietnamese Spring Rolls)
Goi cuon are fresh spring rolls filled with prawns, herbs, and vermicelli noodles, and dipped in a sweet and savoury peanut or fish sauce.
These rolls are light, refreshing, and perfect for a quick snack.
4. Banh Mi (Vietnamese Sandwich)
Banh mi is a delightful fusion of French baguette and Vietnamese ingredients. It’s filled with a variety of meats like grilled pork, pâté, or meatballs, along with pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and chili.
The combination of crispy bread and flavorful fillings makes it a favorite street food.
5. Com Lang Vong (Grilled Sticky Rice Cakes)
We grill sticky rice cakes, giving them a chewy texture. They are often served with sesame seeds, sugar, and sometimes a drizzle of coconut milk.
These simple yet delicious treats make the perfect snack.
6. Cha Ca (Grilled Fish with Turmeric)
Cha ca is a traditional Hanoi dish made with marinated fish, turmeric, and dill. We grill the fish and then serve it sizzling in a pan with herbs, peanuts, and vermicelli noodles.
It’s a flavorful and aromatic dish that captures the essence of Hanoi’s culinary culture.
7. Bun Thang (Hanoi’s Special Noodle Soup)
Bun thang is a unique noodle soup made with thin rice noodles, shredded chicken, egg, and pork. The broth is light yet flavorful, with a hint of herbs.
We top each bowl with crispy fried shallots and herbs, making it a comforting dish.
8. Cao Lau
Cao lau is a noodle dish from Hoi An, but you can find it in Hanoi too. It consists of thick, chewy noodles served with slices of pork, fresh herbs, and bean sprouts.
The dish has a unique taste due to the use of water from traditional wells in Hoi An, but it’s still worth trying in Hanoi.
9. Bun Oc (Snail Vermicelli Soup)
Bun oc is a flavorful vermicelli soup featuring snails in a rich, herbal broth. We cook the snails with lemongrass, turmeric, and a variety of spices, giving the dish a unique and earthy flavor.
It’s a favorite among locals and adventurous foodies.
10. Xoi Xeo (Yellow Sticky Rice with Fried Shallots)
Xoi xeo is sticky rice with a hint of turmeric, topped with fried shallots and sometimes mung beans. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish, often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack. The combination of textures and flavours makes it a favourite in Hanoi.
Exploring the street food in Hanoi is an adventure in itself. Each dish tells a story of Hanoi’s rich culinary heritage, and trying them is the best way to experience the local culture.
Whether you’re exploring bustling night markets or quiet alleyways, these 10 foods will give you a true taste of Hanoi.
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