10 Best Foods To Try In Hanoi, Vietnam: From Pho To Bun Cha

Best Food at Hanoi

Introduction

Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is well-known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. But, the city’s culinary scene is equally impressive and deserves equal attention. From street food to fine dining, Hanoi has it all. In this article, we are going to explore the best food at Hanoi.

Whether you are a foodie or not, Hanoi’s food scene will leave you mesmerized. The city’s food culture has been influenced by various factors such as geography, climate, history, and religion.

Hanoi’s food culture is unique and diverse, with a wide range of dishes that are both delicious and healthy. The city is home to some of the best street food, seafood, and vegetarian dishes in Vietnam.

In this article, we will take you on a gastronomic journey through Hanoi’s streets, markets, and restaurants, highlighting some of the best dishes you must try.

The Best Food at Hanoi

Before we dive into the world of Hanoi’s food, let’s take a look at some of the dishes that you absolutely must try.

🍲 Pho: Pho is undoubtedly the most famous Vietnamese dish and is a must-try when in Hanoi. This fragrant noodle soup is made with rice noodles, herbs, and beef or chicken.

🍢 Bun Cha: Bun Cha is a delicious dish made with grilled pork, rice noodles, and a dipping sauce. It is usually served with fresh herbs and lettuce.

🍲 Banh Mi: Banh Mi is a Vietnamese sandwich made with a crispy baguette that is filled with meat, vegetables, and herbs.

🍜 Bun Bo Nam Bo: Bun Bo Nam Bo is a dish made with beef, vermicelli noodles, and fresh herbs. It is usually served with a sweet and sour sauce.

🍲 Cha Ca La Vong: Cha Ca La Vong is a famous Hanoi dish made with grilled fish, rice noodles, and fresh herbs. It is usually served with peanuts and shrimp paste.

Best Street Food at Hanoi

Hanoi’s street food is famous for its diverse flavors and affordable prices. Here are some of the best street food dishes you must try when in Hanoi.

1. Pho

Pho is not just a restaurant dish but is also served as street food in Hanoi. It is a popular breakfast dish among locals and tourists alike. The best places to try pho in Hanoi are Pho Gia Truyen, Pho Bat Dan, and Pho Thin.

2. Banh Cuon

Banh Cuon is a rice pancake filled with pork and mushrooms, served with fish sauce and fresh herbs. The best places to try Banh Cuon in Hanoi are Banh Cuon Gia Truyen, Banh Cuon Thanh Van, and Banh Cuon Ba Hanh.

3. Bun Cha

Bun Cha is a grilled pork and noodle dish, served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce. The best places to try Bun Cha in Hanoi are Bun Cha Huong Lien, Bun Cha Dac Kim, and Bun Cha Nem Cua Be.

4. Banh Mi

Banh Mi is a Vietnamese sandwich made with a crispy baguette that is filled with meat, vegetables, and herbs. The best places to try Banh Mi in Hanoi are Banh Mi 25, Banh Mi P, and Banh Mi Ngon.

5. Xoi

Xoi is a sticky rice dish that is usually served with meat, vegetables, and herbs. The best places to try Xoi in Hanoi are Xoi Yen, Xoi Ho Tay, and Xoi Ba Duc.

Best Seafood at Hanoi

Hanoi’s location near the coast makes it a hub for fresh and delicious seafood. Here are some of the best seafood dishes you must try when in Hanoi.

1. Cha Ca La Vong

Cha Ca La Vong is a famous Hanoi dish made with grilled fish, rice noodles, and fresh herbs. It is usually served with peanuts and shrimp paste. The best places to try Cha Ca La Vong in Hanoi are Cha Ca La Vong, Cha Ca Thang Long, and Cha Ca Anh Vu.

2. Nom Ca Com

Nom Ca Com is a salad made with green mango, dried shrimp, and young rice. It is usually served with grilled fish and peanuts. The best places to try Nom Ca Com in Hanoi are Cha Ca Anh Vu, Nem Lui Nha Hang Ngon, and Nem Lui Ngoc Son.

3. Cua Rang Me

Cua Rang Me is a dish made with crab cooked in tamarind sauce. It is usually served with steamed rice. The best places to try Cua Rang Me in Hanoi are Sen Tay Ho, Lang Lieu Restaurant, and Cau Go Restaurant.

Best Vegetarian Food at Hanoi

Hanoi’s vegetarian food scene is equally impressive and offers a wide range of delicious and healthy dishes. Here are some of the best vegetarian dishes you must try when in Hanoi.

1. Xoi Xeo

Xoi Xeo is a sticky rice dish that is usually served with mung bean paste and fried shallots. The best places to try Xoi Xeo in Hanoi are Xoi Yen and Xoi Ba Duc.

2. Banh Cuon Chay

Banh Cuon Chay is a vegetarian version of Banh Cuon that is filled with mushrooms and tofu. It is usually served with fish sauce and fresh herbs. The best places to try Banh Cuon Chay in Hanoi are Banh Cuon Ba Hanh and Banh Cuon Gia Truyen.

3. Bun Cha Gio Chay

Bun Cha Gio Chay is a vegetarian version of Bun Cha that is made with fried spring rolls, vermicelli noodles, and fresh herbs. It is usually served with dipping sauce. The best places to try Bun Cha Gio Chay in Hanoi are Bun Cha Dac Kim and Bun Cha Huong Lien.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is Hanoi famous for?

Hanoi is famous for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and delicious food.

Q2. What should I eat in Hanoi?

You must try Pho, Bun Cha, Banh Mi, Cha Ca La Vong, and Xoi when in Hanoi.

Q3. Is Hanoi a good place for street food?

Yes, Hanoi is famous for its street food and has a diverse range of delicious and affordable food.

Q4. What is the best time to visit Hanoi?

The best time to visit Hanoi is from August to October when the weather is mild and comfortable.

Q5. Is Hanoi safe for tourists?

Yes, Hanoi is generally safe for tourists, but it is always advisable to take necessary precautions and be vigilant.

Conclusion

Hanoi’s food culture is unique and diverse, offering a wide range of delicious and healthy dishes that are both affordable and accessible. From street food to fine dining, Hanoi has it all. In this article, we have explored some of the best food at Hanoi, including street food, seafood, and vegetarian dishes. We hope this article has inspired you to explore Hanoi’s food scene and try some of the city’s famous dishes.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets to Hanoi and embark on a gastronomic journey that will leave you mesmerized.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. The author does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information in this article and is not responsible for any errors or omissions. The reader is solely responsible for their use of the information provided in this article.