Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, offers a vibrant and immersive culinary experience, with its bustling street food culture at the heart of it all. From savory noodles to sweet desserts, the streets of Hanoi beckon with countless flavors that represent the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. If you’re planning to explore the city’s food scene, here are ten must-try street food dishes that will take you on a flavor-packed adventure.
1. Phở – The Soul of Vietnamese Cuisine
Phở is the iconic Vietnamese noodle soup that has captured the hearts of food lovers across the globe. While there are many regional variations, Hanoi’s version is considered the most authentic. Phở is a broth-based dish, slow-cooked for hours using beef bones and fragrant herbs. The soup is served with flat rice noodles, thin slices of beef or chicken, and garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro and green onions.
In Hanoi, you’ll often find yourself sitting on small plastic stools at local food stalls, where the aroma of the simmering broth fills the air. Some of the best places to try Phở in Hanoi include Phở Gia Truyền Bát Đàn and Phở Thìn.
2. Bún Chả – Grilled Pork with Vermicelli Noodles
Bún Chả is another Hanoi specialty, consisting of grilled pork patties and slices of marinated pork belly, served with a bowl of vermicelli noodles. What sets Bún Chả apart is the unique dipping sauce made of fish sauce, sugar, garlic, lime, and chili, which adds a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.
The dish is usually accompanied by a plate of fresh herbs and pickled vegetables, making each bite refreshing and flavorful. Famous spots like Bún Chả Hương Liên, where President Obama dined, offer an authentic taste of this dish.
3. Bánh Cuốn – Steamed Rice Rolls
Bánh Cuốn is a delicate dish made from thin sheets of steamed rice flour, filled with ground pork and mushrooms. These soft rice rolls are served with a dipping sauce made of fish sauce, lime, and chili, and are often topped with fried shallots for an added crunch.
Eating Bánh Cuốn is a unique experience, as the dish is freshly made to order. The subtle flavors, combined with the freshness of the herbs and the umami-rich sauce, make this a light yet satisfying dish. One of the best places to try this dish is Bánh Cuốn Bà Hoành.
4. Chả Cá Lã Vọng – Grilled Fish with Turmeric and Dill
Chả Cá Lã Vọng is a dish deeply rooted in Hanoi’s culinary history. It features grilled fish, typically catfish, marinated in turmeric and served on a sizzling pan with generous amounts of fresh dill and green onions. The dish is often accompanied by vermicelli noodles, peanuts, and a side of shrimp paste for dipping.
The complexity of the flavors comes from the combination of the fragrant herbs and the rich turmeric marinade. Chả Cá Lã Vọng is traditionally cooked and served at the table, making it both a flavorful and interactive dining experience.
5. Xôi – Sticky Rice
Xôi, or sticky rice, is a staple in Hanoi’s street food scene and can be found in various forms throughout the city. This versatile dish can be either sweet or savory, depending on the toppings. Popular savory versions include Xôi Xéo, which is sticky rice topped with mung bean paste, fried shallots, and chicken or pork.
Sweet versions include Xôi Đậu Phộng, which features sticky rice topped with peanuts, sesame seeds, and shredded coconut. No matter which version you choose, Xôi is a filling and delicious snack.
6. Bánh Mì – The Vietnamese Sandwich
Bánh Mì is a French-Vietnamese fusion dish that has gained international fame. In Hanoi, Bánh Mì is made with a crispy baguette filled with various ingredients such as pâté, grilled pork, cucumber, pickled vegetables, and chili sauce. Each bite offers a delightful mix of textures, from the crispness of the bread to the freshness of the fillings.
What makes Hanoi’s Bánh Mì unique is the simplicity and freshness of its ingredients. The flavors are clean and bold, reflecting the city’s appreciation for balance in every dish.
7. Bún Bò Nam Bộ – Southern-Style Beef Noodles
Though originally from southern Vietnam, Bún Bò Nam Bộ has become a favorite in Hanoi’s street food scene. This dish consists of marinated beef strips, vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a sweet-sour fish sauce dressing.
What sets Bún Bò Nam Bộ apart is the balance of flavors and textures. The beef is tender and flavorful, while the fresh herbs and crispy fried onions add a contrasting crunch. It’s a refreshing and light dish, perfect for warm days exploring Hanoi.
8. Nem Rán (Chả Giò) – Fried Spring Rolls
Nem Rán, or fried spring rolls, are a crispy and savory snack that’s a must-try when in Hanoi. These spring rolls are filled with minced pork, mushrooms, glass noodles, and various vegetables, then wrapped in rice paper and deep-fried to perfection.
Nem Rán is often served with a dipping sauce made from fish sauce, garlic, sugar, and lime. The crispiness of the spring rolls combined with the tangy sauce creates an explosion of flavors. You’ll find Nem Rán served alongside many other dishes, including Bún Chả.
9. Bánh Tôm – Shrimp Cakes
Bánh Tôm is a popular street food snack in Hanoi, particularly around West Lake. These shrimp cakes are made by deep-frying whole shrimp in a batter made from wheat and sweet potato. The result is a golden, crispy cake with tender shrimp in the center.
Bánh Tôm is typically served with a side of pickled vegetables and a dipping sauce made of fish sauce, lime, and chili. The crispy texture and the savory shrimp make it an ideal snack while strolling around the city’s bustling streets.
10. Chè – Vietnamese Sweet Dessert
To end your street food adventure, try Chè, a traditional Vietnamese sweet dessert made with a variety of ingredients such as beans, jellies, coconut milk, and fruit. The dish is served in a bowl and can be enjoyed hot or cold, depending on the season.
Chè comes in many different varieties, from Chè Ba Màu (three-colored dessert) to Chè Thái (a Thai-inspired version with tropical fruit and coconut milk). It’s the perfect way to end a savory meal with a touch of sweetness.
Exploring Hanoi’s street food scene offers an unforgettable culinary adventure. Each dish tells a story of the city’s rich history, culture, and love for balanced flavors. From the iconic Phở to the sweet indulgence of Chè, there’s no shortage of delights waiting to be discovered.
