Embarking on a culinary journey through Hanoi means immersing yourself in its vibrant food culture. With fresh ingredients, time-honored traditions, and treasured family recipes, Hanoian cooking is a true delight for food enthusiasts. Hanoians take their cuisine seriously, and their passion for good food shines through in every dish. So, get your chopsticks ready for a mouthwatering adventure as we unveil the most iconic dishes in Hanoi that you simply cannot afford to miss!

Pho

Pho

Pho, the renowned Vietnamese dish, has gained global recognition. Across the country, you’ll find a plethora of options to savor this comforting bowl of noodle soup, whether from street vendors or upscale establishments. Hanoi, situated in the Northern region, boasts its distinct pho charm with wide rice noodles being the norm. The two common types found here are chicken pho (pho ga) and beef pho (pho bo).

Pho Hanoi, in particular, holds a unique allure with its signature large, white noodles and a broth infused with the tantalizing aroma and delightful sweetness of simmered beef bones. For this reason, avid food enthusiasts gather at pho restaurants as early as 9 am, when the broth reaches the pinnacle of its rich flavors. Enjoying a steaming bowl of beef or chicken noodle soup in the morning, especially when the weather takes a cooler turn in Hanoi, is a cherished experience that truly captures the essence of this beloved Vietnamese culinary tradition.

Bun Cha

Hailing from Hanoi, Bun Cha is a tantalizing blend of pork, noodles, fragrant herbs, and a savory dipping sauce. At the heart of this dish lies grilled pork patties and rice noodles. While it shares similarities with another Vietnamese delicacy called “bun thit nuong,” the key distinction lies in the choice of meat. Bun Cha features minced pork, while bun thit nuong boasts a succulent grilled pork belly. Both dishes offer incredible flavors, but it’s worth noting that bun cha remains a culinary gem primarily found in Hanoi, while bun thit nuong enjoys widespread popularity throughout Vietnam.

Banh Mi

Banh mi -street food loved by every Vietnamese

Derived from French cuisine, Banh mi has evolved into a delightful Vietnamese masterpiece, uniquely crafted with a blend of wheat and rice flour to achieve its remarkable texture. This delectable Vietnamese food in Hanoi presents a symphony of flavors, with succulent pork, pate, and cured ham harmoniously complemented by a medley of Vietnamese herbs and vegetables.

From coriander to cucumber, carrot slices, and radish, Banh mi showcases a diverse range of regional variations, reflecting Vietnam’s rich culinary landscape. Each bite offers a delightful fusion of textures and tastes, from spicy and salty to savory, sweet, and aromatic, culminating in an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

Cha Ca La Vong

In the bustling city of Hanoi, an extraordinary street pays homage to a truly exceptional dish. Cha Ca Street is home to the iconic Cha Ca La Vong, an esteemed restaurant with a century-old legacy dating back to the city’s history. This legendary establishment was the first to grace the historic Cha Ca Street, leaving an indelible mark on Hanoi’s culinary heritage.

The celebrated dish of Cha Ca La Vong is none other than the iconic Cha Ca, a cherished recipe passed down for over 130 years. Its origins trace back to the resourceful Doan family, who ingeniously crafted this special dish to nourish troops during the era of French colonial rule. Comprising vermicelli noodles and turmeric-spiced fish, Cha Ca promises a tantalizing experience where you can delight in grilling the fish themselves, adding a personal touch to the culinary adventure.

Egg Coffee

Enjoy Egg Coffee – Ha Noi

Indulging in a steaming cup of egg coffee while wandering through Hanoi’s enchanting Old Quarter is an absolute must. Vietnam, esteemed as the world’s second-largest coffee exporter, is home to true coffee enthusiasts. However, coffee in Vietnam isn’t your typical brew; it’s a delightful concoction graced with generous amounts of creamy condensed milk and a frothy beaten egg yolk, akin to a complete breakfast in a single mug.

The robusta coffee used in this traditional drink exudes a dark and intense flavor that expertly harmonizes with the sweetness of the condensed milk. Embrace the Vietnamese approach to food and beverages, where achieving a perfect balance is paramount, resulting in a brew that’s not overly sugary. Sip and savor this one-of-a-kind blend, an ode to Vietnam’s rich coffee culture, and let its unique and delightful essence captivate your taste buds.