Top 20 Street Food in Hanoi: A Guide to Must-Try Dishes

The beauty of street food in Hanoi is its diversity. Whether you’re craving a steaming bowl of pho, crispy spring rolls, or a fresh banh mi, there’s always something to suit your taste. Each dish tells a story, reflecting the city’s rich history and culinary traditions.

Wander through the Old Quarter, and you’ll be greeted by the enticing aromas of grilled pork, simmering broths, and freshly baked bread. This is where you’ll find the best street food in Hanoi, often at a fraction of the price of a restaurant meal. From early morning to late at night, the streets are filled with locals and tourists indulging in authentic, flavorful food. Exploring Hanoi through its street food is one of the most unforgettable ways to experience the city’s heart with our Vietnam Tour Packages!

A Journey Through Street Food in Hanoi

Food in Hanoi reflects the flavors of northern Vietnam, which tend to be less spicy than southern cuisine. This is where you’ll find balanced food, focusing on fresh ingredients like herbs, lime, and fish sauce. Hanoi street food includes everything from savory noodle soups to sweet desserts, making it impossible not to find something that suits your taste buds.

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1. Pho

Pho is more than just a meal in Hanoi; it’s an experience. It is typically eaten for breakfast but is available all day. The dish’s simplicity makes it universally appealing, and for many, it is the highlight of their trip to the city. To taste the best pho, seek out food stalls in the Hanoi night market food area or the numerous streets in the Old Quarter.

Price for a Bowl: 40,000 – 60,000 VND ($1.70 – $2.50)

2. Bun Cha

Bun cha is typically eaten for lunch, and the best versions of this dish are often found at small, family-run stalls. The smoky flavor of the grilled pork paired with the tangy sauce is a perfect example of how street food in Hanoi Vietnam combines bold flavors with fresh ingredients.

Price for a Serving: 30,000 – 60,000 VND ($1.30 – $2.50)

3. Banh Mi

This dish is perfect for those on the go, as it’s portable and can be eaten at any time of day. The balance of crunchy, savory, and tangy flavors is what makes it one of the famous foods of Hanoi. It is one of the best street food in Hanoi.

Price for a Sandwich: 15,000 – 30,000 VND ($0.60 – $1.30)

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4. Cha Ca La Vong

Cha ca is typically cooked tableside, where the fish is grilled and then served with fresh ingredients that are mixed in as you eat. It’s a more elaborate dish compared to other Hanoi street foods, but it’s a must-try for anyone looking to experience something authentic and traditional.

Price for a Serving: 120,000 – 170,000 VND ($5 – $7)

5. Bun Rieu

Price for a Bowl: 25,000 – 40,000 VND ($1 – $1.70)

6. Xoi (Sticky Rice)

Xoi is often eaten for breakfast, but you can find it throughout the day, especially in the Old Quarter.

Price for a Serving: 10,000 – 30,000 VND ($0.40 – $1.30)

7. Banh Cuon

Price for a Plate: 15,000 – 30,000 VND ($0.60 – $1.30)

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8. Nem Ran (Spring Rolls)

Price for a Serving: 15,000 – 25,000 VND ($0.60 – $1)

9. Thit Xien Nuong (Grilled Meat Skewers)

Price for a Skewer: 10,000 – 20,000 VND ($0.40 – $0.90)

10. Che (Sweet Dessert Soup)

Price for a Bowl: 10,000 – 20,000 VND ($0.40 – $0.90)

11. Banh Goi (Vietnamese Empanadas)

Price for a Serving: 10,000 – 25,000 VND ($0.40 – $1)

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12. Mien Luon (Eel Noodles)

Price for a Bowl: 30,000 – 50,000 VND ($1.30 – $2.10)

13. Banh Tom (Shrimp Cake)

Price for a Serving: 25,000 – 50,000 VND ($1 – $2)

14. Bun Thang

Price for a Bowl: 30,000 – 50,000 VND ($1.30 – $2.10)

15. Oc (Snails)

Price for a Serving: 25,000 – 50,000 VND ($1 – $2)

16. Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Pancake)

Price for a Bowl: 30,000 – 50,000 VND ($1.30 – $2.10)

17. Bun Bo Nam Bo (Beef Noodles)

Price for a Bowl: 30,000 – 50,000 VND ($1.30 – $2.10)

18. Ga Tan (Herbal Chicken Soup)

Price for a Bowl: 10,000 – 20,000 VND ($0.40 – $0.90)

19. Nom Hoa Chuoi (Banana Blossom Salad)

Price for a Bowl: 10,000 – 20,000 VND ($0.40 – $0.90)

20. Hoa Qua Dam (Mixed Fruit Dessert)

Price for a Bowl: 10,000 – 20,000 VND ($0.40 – $0.90)

Conclusion

Whether you’re on a budget and looking for cheap eats in Hanoi or eager to dive into the city’s rich food culture, you won’t be disappointed by what the streets have to offer. Make sure to explore the best street food in Hanoi Old Quarter, where food stalls line the narrow streets and offer an authentic taste of the city’s most famous foods. Don’t forget to try the Hanoi night market food for an exciting and flavorful end to your day of exploration.

With this guide, you’ll have a great starting point to dive into the street food culture of Hanoi, discovering everything from hearty meals to sweet desserts at the countless Hanoi food stalls throughout the city. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

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