Hanoi street food: 10 Best dishes in the Old Quarter tour

1. Phở Bò Hanoi (Beef Noodle Soup)

Phở is more than just a dish; it’s a symbol of Vietnamese culture and culinary artistry. This traditional noodle soup, deeply rooted in Vietnam’s history, is a must-try for those who love Hanoi dishes. Each bowl offers a harmonious balance of flavors and textures, making it a beloved comfort food and a national treasure.

Phở consists of rice noodles, thinly sliced beef, or chicken, submerged in a clear, aromatic broth. The broth is the soul of the dish, traditionally simmered for hours with beef bones, star anise, cinnamon, ginger, and other spices to create a depth of flavor that is both rich and subtle. The result is a fragrant, umami-rich soup that warms the soul.

Phở - a symbol of Vietnamese culinary artistry

This dish is usually served with a platter of fresh herbs such as Thai basil, cilantro, and sawtooth coriander, along with bean sprouts, lime wedges, and chili slices. Diners are encouraged to tailor their bowls to their taste, adding condiments like hoisin sauce or Sriracha for an extra kick.

Average price: A typical bowl of Phở in Vietnam costs around $2.00 to $3.50.

Suggested Locations: While Phở can be found on almost every street corner in Vietnam, certain establishments stand out for their exceptional quality. For example:

• Phở Gia Truyền Bát Đàn (49 Bat Dan Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi): With over 50 years old, Phở Bát Đàn is famous for its authentic beef broth and authentic northern-style style.
• Phở Thìn (13 Lo Duc Street, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi): Known for its rich, fatty broth and stir-fried beef topping.
• Phở Lý Quốc Sư (10 Ly Quoc Su Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi): A favorite for locals and tourists alike, offering consistently high-quality phở.

2. Bánh Cuốn: Steamed Rice Rolls

Bánh Cuốn, a beloved staple of Hanoi’s cuisine, is an exquisite dish that combines simplicity with sophistication. This seemingly simple dish made Chef Gordon Ramsay utter, "Thank God I wasn't born in Vietnam, I'm just a bad cook here."

The rolls are filled with a savory mixture of minced pork, wood ear mushrooms, and shallots, creating a delightful harmony of textures and flavors. Once rolled, they are topped with crispy fried shallots and often paired with slices of Giò Chả, Nem, and Chả Quế (some types of Vietnamese sausage).

What sets Bánh Cuốn apart is its delicate texture and harmonious flavors. The rice rolls are incredibly soft and silky, almost melting in your mouth, while the filling adds a savory depth. The fish sauce, often infused with a touch of lime, garlic, and chili, brings a zesty, slightly sweet contrast to the dish.

Bánh Cuốn is paired with slices of Giò Chả, Nem, and Chả Quế

Banh Cuon Hanoi Average price: $1.50 - $2.50 per plate.

Suggested Locations:

• Bánh cuốn Bà Hanh: 26B Tho Xuong Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Bánh cuốn Thuỵ Khuê: Alley 29, Thuy Khue Street, Tay Ho District, Hanoi
• Bánh cuốn Phượng: 68 Hang Cot Street, Hang Ma, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

3. Bún Thang – Hanoi’s Culinary Harmony

Bún Thang is one of the most ancient dishes in Hanoi revered for its intricate preparation and elegant presentation. It was traditionally prepared during festive occasions, especially the Lunar New Year, to utilize leftover ingredients from holiday feasts.

Bún Thang is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, embodying the sophistication of Vietnamese cuisine. This noodle soup starts with a delicate, clear broth made by simmering chicken bones, dried shrimp, and squid for hours, resulting in a subtly sweet and aromatic base. The soup features thin rice vermicelli noodles topped with an array of finely shredded ingredients: poached chicken, Vietnamese pork sausage (chả lụa), thinly sliced omelet, and julienned radish. Additional garnishes like fresh herbs, chopped scallions, and chili add depth to the dish.

Bún Thang is specific with finely shredded ingredients: poached chicken, Vietnamese pork sausage, etc

Bún Thang Noodle Average Price: $2.50–$4.00 per bowl.

Suggested Locations:

• Bún Thang Bà Ẩm: 37 Cua Nam Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Bún Thang Hàng Hành: 29 Hang Hanh Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Bún Thang Tô Hiệu: 110B7 To Hieu Street, Nghia Tan, Cau Giay District, Hanoi

4. Bánh Mì Hanoian – Vietnamese Baguette

Bánh Mì is often hailed as a not-to-be-missed dish in Hanoi street food as well as one of the best street foods in the world. This dish originated during the French colonial period and was transformed by the Vietnamese into a completely unique style, becoming an iconic symbol of Vietnamese cuisine.

Bánh Mì is a baguette filled with an array of savory ingredients. The fillings vary widely but often include slices of grilled pork, pate, Vietnamese pork sausage, and pickled vegetables like carrot and daikon. Fresh herbs such as cilantro and a drizzle of spicy chili sauce add the final touches, elevating Bánh Mì to a sensory delight.

What makes bánh mì so special is its balance of flavors and textures. The crispiness of Bánh Mì contrasts beautifully with the soft, savory fillings, while the pickled vegetables and fresh herbs provide a refreshing crunch and tang. The use of pate and mayonnaise adds a creamy, rich depth, making each bite a delightful explosion of taste.

Bánh Mì - one of the most famous foods in Hà Nội, Việt Nam

Banh mi Hanoi Average Price: $1.00–$2.00.

Suggested Locations:

• Bánh Mì 25: 25 Hang Ca Street, Hang Dao Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Bánh Mì P: 12 Hang Buom Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Bánh Mì Phố: 29 Tran Binh Trong Street, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi

5. Bún Chả – Grilled Pork with Vermicelli

Bún Chả is the next popular dish with Hanoians, celebrated for its bold flavors and vibrant presentation. This traditional dish, which combines grilled pork, rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce, is a must-try for those exploring the rich food culture of Vietnam’s capital. When President Barack Obama visited Vietnam and enjoyed Bún Chả at Hương Liên restaurant in 2016, this Hanoi food became more and more popular in the international community.

Bún Chả consists of two main components: tender grilled pork and thin rice vermicelli noodles. The pork is prepared in two forms: juicy pork patties and thinly sliced, marinated pork belly, and then grilled over charcoal for a smoky aroma. These are paired with a bowl of dipping sauce made from fish sauce, vinegar, garlic, chili, and sugar, often accompanied by pickled green papaya and carrot.

Bún Chả became more and more well-known thanks to President Barack Obama

Bún chả Hanoi Average Price: $2.50–$5.00 per serving.

Suggested Locations:

• Bun Cha Dak Kim: 1 Hang Manh Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Bun Cha Huong Lien: 24 Le Van Huu Street, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi
• Bun Cha Kinh Ky: 2 LK6D Nguyen Van Loc Street, Mo Lao, Ha Dong District, Hanoi

6. Nem Rán – Fried spring Rolls

Nem Rán, also known as Vietnamese fried spring rolls, is one of Hanoi’s most cherished dishes. This crispy delight exemplifies the balance of textures and flavors that Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Nem Rán consists of a crispy, golden-brown exterior that encases a savory filling. The wrapper is typically made from rice paper, which becomes delightfully crunchy when fried. The filling often includes a mixture of minced pork, shrimp, wood ear mushrooms, glass noodles, carrots, and green onions, all seasoned with garlic, pepper, and fish sauce.

The rolls are deep-fried until they achieve a perfect crunch and are served hot alongside fresh herbs like lettuce, mint, and coriander. They are accompanied by sweet & tangy classic Vietnamese dipping sauce.

What makes Nem Rán special is its versatility and the contrast it offers between the crispy exterior and the juicy, flavorful filling. The combination of fresh herbs and the signature dipping sauce elevates the dish by adding refreshing and vibrant notes to every bite.

The appeal of Nem Rán is due to their rich flavor and crunchiness

Fried spring Rolls Average Price: $2.00–$5.00 per plate.

Suggested Locations:

• Nem Ran Hang Quat: 74 Hang Quat Street, Hang Gai, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Nem Ran Tam Thuong: 36 Tam Thuong Alley, Hang Gai, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Nem Ran 267 Ngoc Lam: 267 Ngoc Lam Street, Long Bien District, Hanoi

7. Chè – Vietnamese Sweet Soup

Chè is a category of sweet soups, puddings, and beverages that can be enjoyed hot or cold, making it a year-round favorite for locals and tourists alike.

Chè, a quintessential Vietnamese dessert, is one of the must-try dishes in your Hanoi street food tour. This beloved treat encompasses a wide range of sweet soups, puddings, and jellies, often served chilled or warm, depending on the season. It is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, combining ingredients like mung beans, black beans, sticky rice, tapioca pearls, coconut milk, and fresh fruits. Each spoonful offers a delightful mix of sweetness, creaminess, and chewiness that captures the essence of Vietnamese culinary artistry.

Chè has a wide range of sweet soups, puddings, and jellies

The average price: from $0.60 to $1.50.

• Che Bon Mua: 4 Hang Can Street, Hang Can Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Che Ba Thin: 1 Bat Dan Street, Hang Gai, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Che Go: 9 Tran Phu Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi

8. Xôi Xéo – Sticky Rice with Mung Bean

In the bustling streets of Hà Nội, Xôi Xéo holds a cherished spot among the city’s iconic street foods. This humble yet flavorful dish is a staple breakfast choice for locals and a must-try dish in the Hanoi food tour.

Xôi Xéo is a savory sticky rice dish, renowned for its simplicity and rich flavors. The core component is glutinous rice, cooked perfectly with turmeric, giving it a vibrant yellow hue and a subtly earthy aroma. The rice is paired with slices of mung bean paste, fried shallots, and a generous drizzle of rendered chicken fat or lard, creating a delectable combination of creamy, crispy, and savory textures. Optional toppings such as pork floss, boiled eggs, or shredded chicken can be added for extra indulgence.

The uniqueness of Xôi Xéo lies in its versatility and ability to satisfy on any occasion. While it is primarily a breakfast dish, its hearty and fulfilling nature makes it a popular choice for lunch or an afternoon snack. Additionally, Xôi Xéo is often served wrapped in banana leaves, adding a touch of tradition and enhancing its aroma.

This dish also reflects the cultural charm of old Vietnamese traditions. This is the beauty of street vendors, with women balancing bamboo baskets on their shoulders, walking through streets and alleys, calling out sweetly, “Xôi xéo đây!” You can even experience sitting on tiny stools along the sidewalks, savoring a steaming hot packet of Xôi while watching the bustling flow of traffic on the streets.

Xôi Xéo reflects the cultural charm of street vendors in Vietnam

Xoi Hanoi Average Price: $0.50 to $2.00

Suggested Locations:

• Xoi Cat Lam: 24B Duong Thanh Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Xoi Yen: 35B Nguyen Huu Huan Street, Ly Thai To, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi and 29A Tran Hung Dao Street, Phan Chu Trinh, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Xoi Nguyet: 90 Dao Tan Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi

9. Egg Coffee – Cà Phê Trứng

Although coffee is a popular beverage, you will have a novel experience with Cà Phê Trứng or Egg Coffee in this Hanoi street food. This extraordinary beverage perfectly blends Vietnamese ingenuity with a passion for bold, distinctive flavors.

Cà Phê Trứng is a creamy, velvety coffee made by whisking egg yolks with sugar, condensed milk, and robusta coffee. The result is a frothy, custard-like topping that sits atop a layer of strong, aromatic coffee. Served either hot or cold, this drink offers a delightful combination of bitter coffee and sweet, rich creaminess. When served hot, the coffee is often placed in a bowl of warm water to maintain its temperature, adding to its charm.

What makes Cà Phê Trứng truly unique is its inventive use of egg yolk as a key ingredient. The preparation process, requiring skillful whisking to achieve the perfect texture, showcases the artistry behind this iconic drink. Its flavor profile is unlike any other coffee—a harmonious balance of bitterness, sweetness, and a hint of savory richness from the egg.

Cà Phê Trứng has a harmonious balance of bitterness, sweetness, and richness from the egg

Egg Coffee Average Price: $1.30 to $2.50 per cup.

Suggested Locations:

• Leu Coffee Ta Hien: 01 Ta Hien Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Cafe Pho Co: 11 Hang Gai Street, Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Cafe Dinh: 13 Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

10. Kem Tràng Tiền – Trang Tien Ice Cream

Kem Tràng Tiên is a simple yet iconic dessert made with fresh milk, coconut, green beans, chocolate, and other natural ingredients. The texture is smooth and creamy, yet light, making it a refreshing treat for Hà Nội’s warm and humid days. The shop’s enduring charm lies in its ability to evoke nostalgia with every bite.

Kem Tràng Tiên’s uniqueness stems from its historical significance and simplicity. Unlike modern ice creams laden with artificial additives, Kem Tràng Tiên relies on traditional recipes and fresh ingredients. The iconic shop’s atmosphere, with locals and tourists alike enjoying their ice cream while standing outside, adds to its authenticity. The experience of savoring Kem Tràng Tiền in Tràng Tiền Street has become a beloved ritual for anyone visiting Hà Nội.

Savoring Kem Tràng Tiền is a beloved ritual of Hanoians

Trang Tien Ice Cream Average Price: $0.50–$1.00 per cone.

Suggested Locations: Số 35 đường Tràng Tiền, quận Hoàn Kiếm, Thủ đô Hà Nội.

Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a paradise for food lovers, where each dish tells a story of the city’s rich culinary heritage. Exploring these culinary delights is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture and history. Embarking on a street food tour in Hanoi’s Old Quarter is not just a meal but an unforgettable cultural experience.

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