Best Food To Try Hanoi

Are you planning a trip to Hanoi and wondering what food to try? Look no further! Hanoi is a culinary paradise, with a diverse range of dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. From savory soups to sweet desserts, Hanoi has something for everyone. Here are the best foods to try in Hanoi:

🍜 Pho

Pho is a traditional Vietnamese soup that is a must-try in Hanoi. It consists of a flavorful broth, rice noodles, and a variety of meat or tofu toppings. The most popular version is pho bo (beef pho) with tender slices of beef and fresh herbs. Don’t forget to add a squeeze of lime and a dollop of chili sauce for extra flavor!

🍲 Bun Cha

Bun cha is a beloved Hanoi dish that consists of grilled pork, rice noodles, and a sweet and sour dipping sauce. It’s usually served with fresh herbs and crispy spring rolls. This dish is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, and it’s a great way to immerse yourself in Hanoi’s street food culture.

🍢 Nem Ran

Nem ran, also known as Vietnamese spring rolls, are a staple in Hanoi. These crispy rolls are filled with pork, shrimp, and vegetables, and they’re usually served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce. You can find nem ran at street food stalls and upscale restaurants alike.

🍛 Com

Com is a traditional Vietnamese dish that consists of steamed rice topped with a variety of meats, vegetables, and herbs. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that you can find at many local restaurants in Hanoi. Don’t be afraid to try different types of com, such as com ga (chicken com) or com suon (pork com).

🍺 Bia Hoi

Bia hoi is a popular beer in Hanoi that is brewed daily and served fresh. It’s a light and refreshing beer that’s perfect for hot summer days. You can find bia hoi at local bars and street vendors throughout the city.

🍦 Kem Xoi

Kem xoi is a unique Hanoi dessert that consists of ice cream, sticky rice, and toppings such as peanuts and coconut milk. It’s a perfect way to cool down after a hot day of sightseeing. You can find kem xoi at many dessert shops and street vendors in Hanoi.

🍲 Bun Bo Nam Bo

Bun bo nam bo is a delicious noodle dish that originated in Hanoi. It consists of vermicelli noodles, tender slices of beef, and a variety of fresh herbs. The dish is finished with a sprinkle of roasted peanuts and a drizzle of nuoc cham sauce. It’s a perfect meal for a warm day in Hanoi.

🍜 Bun Thang

Bun thang is a traditional Hanoi noodle soup that is usually served during the Lunar New Year. The soup consists of chicken, pork, egg, and vermicelli noodles, and it’s finished with a sprinkle of dried shrimp. It’s a unique and flavorful dish that you won’t find anywhere else in Vietnam.

🍢 Banh Cuon

Banh cuon is a popular breakfast dish in Hanoi that consists of steamed rice rolls filled with pork and mushrooms. It’s usually served with a dipping sauce made from fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. You can find banh cuon at street food carts and local eateries throughout the city.

🍛 Cha Ca

Cha ca is a famous Hanoi dish that consists of turmeric-marinated fish that’s grilled or fried and served with vermicelli noodles and fresh herbs. The dish is finished with a sprinkle of peanuts and a drizzle of nuoc cham sauce. It’s a unique and flavorful dish that you won’t find anywhere else in Vietnam.

🍺 Egg Coffee

Egg coffee is a unique Hanoi specialty that’s a must-try for coffee lovers. It’s a creamy and decadent coffee that’s made with egg yolk, sugar, and condensed milk. You can find egg coffee at many cafes throughout the city, but the best place to try it is at Cafe Giang, the original creator of the dish.

🍢 Banh Mi

Banh mi is a Vietnamese sandwich that’s become a popular street food worldwide. In Hanoi, banh mi is usually filled with pork, pate, and fresh vegetables, and it’s served on a crusty baguette. You can find banh mi at street food carts and local eateries throughout the city.

🍲 Bun Rieu

Bun rieu is a popular noodle soup in Hanoi that’s made with a tomato-based broth, crab meat, and vermicelli noodles. It’s usually served with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime. This dish is perfect for seafood lovers!

🍛 Cao Lau

Cao lau is a noodle dish that’s unique to the town of Hoi An in central Vietnam, but it’s also popular in Hanoi. The dish consists of thick noodles, sliced pork, and fresh herbs, and it’s finished with a sprinkle of crispy rice crackers. Don’t miss the opportunity to try this unique and delicious dish!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best time to try street food in Hanoi?

The best time to try street food in Hanoi is in the evening, when the city comes alive with food vendors and bustling markets. The atmosphere is lively and the food is fresh and delicious!

Is it safe to eat street food in Hanoi?

Yes, it’s generally safe to eat street food in Hanoi as long as you choose vendors that look clean and hygienic. Use your judgment, and if something looks or smells off, it’s best to avoid it. Also, make sure to avoid drinking tap water and ice made from tap water.

What is the most popular drink in Hanoi?

The most popular drink in Hanoi is bia hoi, a light and refreshing beer that’s brewed daily and served fresh. It’s a must-try for beer lovers!

What is the best way to experience Hanoi’s street food culture?

The best way to experience Hanoi’s street food culture is to take a food tour with a local guide. They’ll take you to the best street food vendors and help you navigate the bustling markets. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in Hanoi’s food scene!

What is the best way to get around Hanoi?

The best way to get around Hanoi is by walking or taking a motorbike taxi. The city can be chaotic and traffic can be heavy, so it’s best to avoid renting a car or driving yourself.

What is the best way to order food in Hanoi if you don’t speak Vietnamese?

The best way to order food in Hanoi if you don’t speak Vietnamese is to point and use hand signals. Most vendors will understand what you want, and they’ll appreciate your effort to communicate with them. You can also learn a few basic phrases, such as xin chao (hello) and cam on (thank you).

What is the most popular dish in Hanoi?

The most popular dish in Hanoi is pho, a traditional Vietnamese soup that’s made with beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and a variety of toppings.

What is the best dessert to try in Hanoi?

The best dessert to try in Hanoi is kem xoi, a unique dish that consists of ice cream, sticky rice, and toppings such as peanuts and coconut milk.

What is the typical cost of a meal in Hanoi?

The typical cost of a meal in Hanoi depends on where you eat. Street food vendors are the cheapest option, with dishes costing around 20,000-50,000 VND (less than $3 USD). Restaurants and cafes are more expensive, with dishes costing around 50,000-150,000 VND ($3-$7 USD).

What is the best way to find the best food in Hanoi?

The best way to find the best food in Hanoi is to ask locals for recommendations. They’ll know the best street food vendors and secret foodie spots that tourists might not find on their own. You can also read food blogs and travel guides for inspiration.

What is the best way to pay for food in Hanoi?

The best way to pay for food in Hanoi is with cash, as many vendors and restaurants don’t accept credit cards. Make sure to carry small bills and coins, as some vendors might not have change for large bills.

What is the most unique food in Hanoi?

The most unique food in Hanoi is egg coffee, a creamy and decadent drink that