Vietnamese cuisine is deeply regional, with many dishes in Hanoi being unique to the capital, even though some can also be found in other cities. Vietnamese food has gained worldwide popularity and is now a favorite among food lovers everywhere. There’s no need for formal attire or strict dining etiquette in upscale restaurants—Hanoi’s vibrant street food scene offers a taste of the city’s culinary delights at every corner. Here, you’ll be welcomed by the warmth and friendliness of the locals. All you need is a hungry stomach and a spirit of adventure to enjoy the authentic flavors of Hanoi.

In addition to the city’s three most iconic dishes—pho bo (traditional Vietnamese beef noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with rice vermicelli), and banh mi (baguette)—Hanoi’s street food scene is incredibly diverse and full of culinary adventure.

Bánh cuốn (Steamed rice rolls)

A traditional breakfast in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is *Bánh cuốn*. This dish comes in various versions, including ones with minced pork (*bánh cuốn nhân thịt*), mushrooms, eggs, or a mix of these ingredients. *Bánh cuốn* is typically served with fried shallots, a sweet and sour fish sauce (*nước mắm chua ngọt*), fresh herbs, and a tangy lime-based sauce on the side.

Bún Ốc (Snail rice vermicelli soup)

Snail rice vermicelli soup is a beloved comfort food in Hanoi. A typical bowl features rice vermicelli (bún) along with a mix of toppings like beef and crab meat, all served with a generous side of fresh herbs, a staple in many Vietnamese dishes. The broth is infused with key ingredients like tomatoes, wine vinegar, and pepper, giving it a tangy, flavorful kick.

Lẩu (Vietnamese hot-pot)

Gather around the steaming pot and add a generous selection of fresh vegetables, meat, and seafood—just the way you like it. It may seem a bit daunting at first, but hot pot is one of the most authentic ways to dive into the vibrant street food scene of the city. Who knows? You might even make a few new friends while enjoying a cold beer and good conversation.

Bún cá (Fish rice vermicelli soup)

This dish is a popular choice for lunch. One version features bún (rice vermicelli) paired with crispy fried fish pieces. The broth is made with green vegetables, typically including a variety of ‘morning glory’—a beloved vegetable often stir-fried or boiled. A blend of aromatic herbs, such as cilantro and dill, gives the dish its distinctive flavor.

Miến lươn (Stir-fried glass noodles with eel)

Although it’s not a typical ingredient in everyday dishes, crispy eel is definitely worth trying. It’s combined with stir-fried glass noodles, eggs, and bean sprouts for a unique flavor. Other variations include mien tron (noodles with eel, cucumber, and herbs) and chao luon (eel porridge).

Bánh đa trộn (Mixed flat rice noodles)

As you stroll through the charming streets of the Old Quarter, you might come across a woman with a carrying pole balanced on her shoulders, two baskets hanging from either side. One basket holds a steaming pot, while the other is filled with fresh ingredients. Together, these baskets carry a beloved Hanoi specialty: *Bánh đa trộn*. This dish features thick, flat noodles topped with a medley of sausage, crispy fish cakes, tofu, peanuts, and fresh greens. Another variation includes delicate glass noodles called *miến*. The flavors of this authentic local treat are sure to impress anyone who tries it.

Bánh tôm (Ha Noi shrimp cakes)

These snacks originate from Ho Tay, the West Lake area, and are made with locally caught shrimp. Bánh tôm consists of crispy battered sweet potatoes and prawns, served with a side of sweet and sour fish sauce and fresh papaya. To balance out the richness, you can pair it with a refreshing glass of iced soy milk.

Bánh gối (Crispy “pillow” cake)

Another energizing snack for an active afternoon exploring Hanoi is *bánh gối*—a pillow-shaped pastry filled with minced pork, black fungus, vermicelli noodles, and a quail egg. For those craving more fried treats, you can also find *há cảo* (fried dumplings), *phô mai que* (fried cheese sticks), and *nem chua rán* (fried fermented sausage) sold alongside *bánh gối*.

Mỳ gà tần (herbal braised chicken noodles)

This dish might seem a bit unusual to some, but it’s both hearty and satisfying, featuring braised chicken and egg noodles. Diners can choose between the ‘regular’ chicken or a smaller, slightly pricier black chicken, which gets its name from its dark-colored skin.

The chickens are carefully stuffed into empty soda or beer cans along with aromatic herbs like mugwort. The cans are then heated, allowing the meat to absorb the rich flavors as it simmers. Egg noodles (mỳ trứng) are added to the stew, completing the comforting dish.

Bánh đúc nóng (Vietnamese hot steamed rice cake)

When visiting Hanoi during the winter, be sure to try a bowl of hot *Bánh đúc* – a steamed rice cake made from a blend of rice and tapioca flour. This dish is prepared with great care and precision, requiring skillful cooking and stirring to achieve the perfect texture. The filling typically includes black fungus, meat, and fried shallots, and it’s served with a flavorful chili garlic fish sauce and fresh herbs. The warm, soft, and savory *Bánh đúc*, infused with the aroma of onions and meat, is the perfect choice for a comforting snack on a chilly afternoon.

Chè (Colourful sweet  dessert soup)

There’s always room for dessert. A sweet, fragrant dish featuring fruits and flowers is the perfect way to end a culinary adventure in Hanoi. One must-try is *chè*, a traditional “sweet soup” made from layers of red bean and mung bean pastes, glutinous rice balls, herbal jelly cubes, and topped with syrup and coconut shreds. For an authentic experience, be sure to try the mixed *chè thập cẩm* with the town’s famous jasmine syrup.

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