Hanoi Street Food: 15 Best Dishes & Where To Try Them

Planning a food adventure in Hanoi? Our guide to the best Hanoi street food has everything you need to know, from top spots to insider tips.

Hanoi is a street food haven. This city is buzzing with energy, and its food scene is just as vibrant.

From the bustling Old Quarter to the charming side streets, each corner offers a unique taste of Hanoi’s rich food heritage.

In this guide, I’ll take you through the best street foods in Hanoi—dishes you can’t miss. Whether you’re a food lover or just curious, this guide will help you discover the flavors that make Hanoi such a food paradise.

Best Hanoi Food to Try

1. Bun Cha

You can’t visit Hanoi without trying Bun Cha. This dish is a local favorite for good reason.

It combines juicy, grilled pork patties and slices of pork belly with soft rice vermicelli. The pork is perfectly charred, giving it a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the tangy, slightly sweet fish sauce loaded with pickled carrots and kohlrabi.

To eat Bun Cha like a local, dip the pork into the fish sauce first, then add some vermicelli and fresh herbs. This way, you get a perfect blend of flavors in every bite.

And if you’re still hungry, don’t hesitate to ask for more vermicelli—most places won’t charge you extra.

Where to Find It: For a great Bun Cha experience, head to 34 Hang Than in Ba Dinh District or 1 Hang Manh in Hoan Kiem District. A serving typically costs around 50,000 VND ($2), making it a delicious and affordable meal.

2. Egg coffee

Egg Coffee is a must-try when you’re in Hanoi. This unique drink combines the bitterness of strong Vietnamese coffee with a sweet, creamy layer of whipped egg yolk.

The egg mixture is light and fluffy, almost like a meringue, balancing the bold coffee underneath perfectly.

Even if you’re not a coffee drinker, you might want to give this one a try.

Tips: To fully appreciate Egg Coffee, take your time and enjoy the contrast between the sweet, creamy egg foam and the bitter coffee below. If coffee isn’t your thing, ask for the egg chocolate—it’s just as rich and indulgent.

Where to Find It: Ca phe Giang at 39 Nguyen Huu Huan in Hoan Kiem is the birthplace of Egg Coffee and still serves one of the best in town. The café is tucked away down a small alley, giving it a cozy, hidden-gem vibe.

3. Jelly Yogurt (Sữa Chua Dẻo)

Jelly Yogurt is a refreshing snack that’s perfect for a hot day in Hanoi. It’s not your typical yogurt—it’s thicker, creamier, and cut into bite-sized cubes that practically melt in your mouth.

Often topped with green tea or cocoa powder, and sometimes fresh fruits, it’s a light, slightly tangy treat that’s just sweet enough to satisfy your cravings.

Where to Find It: For a delicious serving of Jelly Yogurt, check out Cay Da Coffee at 3 Duong Thanh or Sam Cafe at 39 Duong Thanh, both in Hoan Kiem. These cozy spots offer a perfect setting to relax and enjoy this treat.

4. Bun dau mam tom

Bun Dau Mam Tom is a dish that’s bold, flavorful, and definitely not for the faint of heart.

It’s a combination of crispy fried tofu, slices of pork, fried sausage, and vermicelli, served with a potent shrimp paste sauce.

The shrimp paste has a strong, salty flavor that might take some getting used to, but if you can handle it, it’s incredibly rewarding.

The dish is rounded out with fresh herbs, adding a layer of freshness to the bold flavors.

To eat, wrap a piece of tofu or pork in the vermicelli, dip it in the sauce, and top it with fresh herbs for the perfect bite.

Tips: The shrimp paste can be intense, so if you’re trying it for the first time, mix in some kumquat juice and a bit of chili to mellow out the flavor. If it’s still too strong, you can always ask for fish sauce instead.

Where to Find It: For authentic Bun Dau Mam Tom, visit Ngo Tram Shop at 1B Ngo Tram or Trung Huong at 49 Phat Loc Lane in Hoan Kiem. These places are known for serving some of the best versions of this dish in Hanoi.

5. Nem Chua Ran

Nem Chua Ran is one of my favorite street snacks in Hanoi.

These fried pork rolls are crispy on the outside and packed with flavor on the inside. The pork is mixed with garlic, chili, and spices, then rolled in breadcrumbs and fried until golden brown.

They’re usually served with a side of spicy chili sauce and fresh slices of cucumber and green mango to balance the richness.

Where to Find It: Tam Thuong alley off Hang Bong Street is the place to go for Nem Chua Ran. This tiny alley is packed with stalls, each offering its twist on this popular snack, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.

6. Snail Noodles (Bún Ốc)

Snail noodles might sound unusual, but trust me, it’s a Hanoi street food that you shouldn’t miss.

This dish is all about balance—tender vermicelli noodles in a light, tangy broth made with tomatoes and star fruit.

The snails add a chewy texture that’s surprisingly satisfying, and the broth has a sweet and sour flavor that really hits the spot.

When you eat Bún Ốc, make sure to add a bit of chili paste and a squeeze of lime to your bowl for an extra kick. The snails might be a new experience for you, but take your time and enjoy their unique texture.

Where to Find It: For a delicious bowl of Bún Ốc, I recommend Giang Snail Noodles at 36 Luong Ngoc Quyen or the spot at 57 Hai Ba Trung in Hoan Kiem.

7. Pho

Pho is the dish that put Vietnamese cuisine on the world map, and Hanoi is where it all began.

Hanoi’s Pho is different from what you might find elsewhere—it’s lighter and has a clear, fragrant broth that’s been carefully simmered with bones and spices.

The flat noodles soak up the broth perfectly, and you can choose between chicken (Phở Gà) or beef (Phở Bò).

Tips: If you like your beef a bit rare, order “Phở Tái,” where the meat is lightly cooked in the hot broth. For an extra touch, ask for a poached egg (trứng chần). Customize your Pho with fresh herbs, lime, and chili to suit your taste.

Where to Find It: To try some of the best Pho in Hanoi, head to 49 Bat Dan in Hoan Kiem District or 13 Lo Duc in Hai Ba Trung District. A bowl usually costs around 60,000 VND ($2.5), with a bit more if you add extras like fried dough or a poached egg.

8. Pho Rolls (Phở Cuốn)

Pho Rolls are a fun twist on traditional Pho and are a must-try on your Hanoi food journey.

Instead of being served in a bowl of broth, the Pho noodles are rolled up like spring rolls and filled with stir-fried beef, fresh herbs, and vegetables.

The rolls are then dipped in a tangy fish sauce that ties all the flavors together.

Tips: Don’t skimp on the dipping sauce—make sure each bite gets a good soak.

Where to Find It: For the best Pho Rolls in Hanoi, visit Huong Mai at 25 Ngu Xa or Hung Ben Noodle Soup at 35 Nguyen Khac Hieu, both in Ba Dinh District. These spots are well-loved for their fresh and flavorful rolls.

9. Banh Cuon

Banh Cuon might look simple, but it’s a Hanoi dish that packs a punch.

These steamed rice rolls are filled with minced pork and wood ear mushrooms, giving them a savory, slightly earthy flavor.

They’re light, slightly chewy, and served with fish sauce for dipping. Topped with crispy fried shallots and fresh herbs, it’s a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicate.

Tips: Adding fresh herbs on top before you take a bite really enhances the taste. If you want something more filling, ask for a side of Vietnamese sausage (chả lụa).

Where to Find It: Some of the best Banh Cuon in Hanoi can be found at 14 Hang Ga Street in Hoan Kiem or at 12 Hang Bo. Both spots are local favorites, known for their perfectly steamed rolls.

10. Bun Rieu Cua

Bun Rieu Cua is a Northern Vietnamese crab noodle soup that’s hearty and full of flavor.

The broth is tangy and tomato-based, packed with chunks of crab meat, fried tofu, and fresh herbs. The noodles are soft and soak up the rich flavors of the broth, making each bite a comforting experience.

Bun Rieu Cua is often served with lime, chili, and fermented shrimp paste on the side—add these to taste to really bring out the flavors.

The broth is tangy and slightly sweet, so don’t hesitate to sip it straight from the bowl. If you want something extra, order a side of fried tofu.

Where to Find It: For a delicious bowl of Bun Rieu Cua, check out the stall at 2F Quang Trung or 32 Nguyen Sieu in Hoan Kiem District. These spots are known for their rich, flavorful broth and generous portions.

11. Sticky rice

Sticky rice, or Xôi, is a popular breakfast option in Hanoi, but it’s delicious any time of the day.

The sticky rice itself is slightly chewy, with a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with a variety of toppings.

Traditional options include corn, peanuts, and green beans, but you can also find versions topped with fried eggs, shredded chicken, or braised pork. The crispy fried shallots sprinkled on top add a delightful crunch.

Tips: If you’re new to Xôi, start with a basic version like Xôi lạc (sticky rice with peanuts) before trying the more elaborate ones. Don’t forget to add a bit of soy sauce for extra flavor. If you’re looking for something unique, try the fried sticky rice—it has a crispy exterior while staying soft inside.

Where to Find It: For some of the best Xôi in Hanoi, visit 44 Hang Hom in Hoan Kiem or 35b Nguyen Huu Huan Street in Hang Bac. Another great option is Hang Dieu Fried Sticky Rice at 18 Nguyen Van To, where they serve a delicious version with pork and egg.

12. Pork Ribs Porridge (Cháo Sườn)

Pork ribs porridge, or Cháo Sườn, is the perfect comfort food, especially on a chilly morning or evening in Hanoi.

The porridge is thick, creamy, and rich with the flavor of simmered pork ribs.

It’s often served with fried dough sticks, which are perfect for dipping, and a sprinkle of green onions for added freshness.

Tips: When eating Cháo Sườn, break the fried dough sticks into pieces and stir them into the porridge. They’ll soak up the flavorful broth and add a nice texture. If you like a bit of spice, add some freshly ground pepper or chili flakes on top.

Where to Find It: For a comforting bowl of Cháo Sườn, head to Dong Xuan Market at 14 Dong Xuan in Hoan Kiem District or Ngo Huyen Alley. Both spots are known for serving up some of the best pork ribs porridge in Hanoi.

13. Banh Mi

Banh Mi is a Vietnamese classic, and you can find some of the best versions right here in Hanoi.

This iconic sandwich features a crispy baguette filled with a variety of meats, pâté, fresh vegetables, and herbs.

The balance of textures is what makes Banh Mi so special—the crunch of the bread, the savory meats, and the freshness of the herbs all come together perfectly.

Whether you go for the traditional version with pork and pâté or something more adventurous like grilled beef or chicken, Banh Mi is a must-try.

Where to Find It: Some of the best Banh Mi in Hanoi can be found at Dung Hanh Bread, specializing in sausage fillings, or at Thai Thinh Bread and Bao Quyen Bread for more traditional options.

14. Bun Thang

Bun Thang is one of Hanoi’s most sophisticated dishes. It’s often called a “combination noodle soup” because it combines various ingredients.

The clear, delicate broth is made from chicken, pork, and dried shrimp, giving it a rich, layered flavor.

It’s served with thin slices of chicken, pork, egg, and mushrooms, along with a heap of fresh herbs.

Tips: Bun Thang is all about the broth, so take your time to savor its rich, complex flavor. To enhance the taste, add some fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a spoonful of shrimp paste for an extra layer of umami.

Where to Find It: For a taste of Bun Thang, head to 48 Cau Go in Hoan Kiem District or 29 Hang Hanh. These places are known for their authentic versions of this elegant dish.

15. Bun Moc

Bun Moc is a lesser-known gem in Hanoi’s food scene, but it’s worth trying.

This noodle soup features a light, savory broth made from pork bones. It’s filled with vermicelli noodles, pork meatballs, and slices of tender pork.

The meatballs, known as “Moc,” are made with minced pork and mushrooms, giving them a unique flavor and texture.

The dish is topped with fresh herbs and sometimes fried shallots for an added crunch.

Tips: To brighten up the flavors, add a bit of fresh chili or lime juice. If you want a heartier meal, ask for an extra meatball or two.

Where to Find It: For a great bowl of Bun Moc, check out 57-59 Hang Luoc in Hoan Kiem District. This spot is a local favorite for its delicious and comforting version of this dish.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

From the smoky grills of Bun Cha to the delicate flavors of Bun Thang, each dish tells a story of tradition, culture, and passion.

I hope this Hanoi food guide has inspired you to explore the vibrant food scene in Hanoi.

Don’t stop here—there’s always more to discover. Check out my other guides for even more tips on where to eat and what to do in this incredible city.