When planning a trip to Vietnam, Hanoi is undoubtedly a destination you should not miss. Beyond its iconic landmarks and rich history, Hanoi’s food scene is what truly captivates food lovers from all over the world. In this guide, Vietnam Vibes brings you a carefully curated checklist of must-try dishes in Hanoi — perfect to save for your next Hanoi food tour experience.
Bun Ca Sam Cay Si (Vietnamese Fried Fish Noodle Bowl)
Address: 5 Ngo Trung Yen, Hang Bac, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
A must-try dish when exploring Hanoi’s local food scene. The dry mixed fried fish noodles (bún cá trộn khô) here are incredibly flavorful and uniquely Hanoi-style.
Although the shop is tucked away in a small alley, it is always crowded with locals lining up for a bowl. The fish is fried to a perfect crisp and served with fresh scallions that add aroma without overpowering the dish. You should also try deep-fried fish rolls wrapped with pork, crispy on the outside and juicy inside, dipped in the restaurant’s signature fish sauce — an unforgettable local specialty.
Pho Ga Lam (Traditional Chicken Pho)
Address: 7 Nam Ngu Street, Hanoi
This legendary pho restaurant has been serving Hanoi for over 50 years. As soon as you step inside, you’ll see the owner skillfully preparing bowls of steaming pho.
The chicken is tender and naturally sweet, while the broth is light, clear, and comforting. If you prefer a bolder flavor, you can add chili vinegar, fresh chili, or fish sauce.The shop is small and cozy, reflecting the traditional Hanoi dining style — simple, quick, and deeply authentic.
Bun Ca Tam at “Bep Chit Mit” (Sturgeon Fish Noodles)
Address: 41 Nguyen Sieu Street, Hang Buom, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
A must-try dish — you will say “WOW” from the very first bite.
Fresh sturgeon fish is tender yet slightly crispy, perfectly paired with a tangy and mildly spicy broth infused with dill and sour starfruit. The balance of flavors creates a warm, comforting sensation that instantly satisfies your taste buds.You can order a single bowl of noodles or share a sturgeon hotpot with friends. Portions are generous, so come hungry!
Banh Cuon Cham Ba Xuan (Steamed Rice Rolls)
Address: Hoe Nhai Slope, Truc Bach, Ba Dinh, Hanoi
A well-known spot among Hanoi food lovers, this banh cuon shop has been operating for over 30 years.
The freshly steamed rice rolls are filled with minced pork and wood ear mushrooms, served hot with sweet-and-sour fish sauce and rich Vietnamese pork sausage. Don’t forget to admire the over-100-year-old stone mill used to grind the rice flour — a key element that preserves the dish’s original, authentic flavor.
Egg Coffee at Cafe Dinh
Address: 13 Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
Highly recommended for anyone visiting Hanoi. Egg coffee at Cafe Dinh is a true Hanoi specialty. The menu focuses on coffee and cocoa, offering flavors that are rich, smooth, and unforgettable.
The café is small, often crowded, and has limited seating — but the experience is well worth it.
Lemon Snow Ice Dessert
Address: 8 Chan Cam Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
This refreshing lemon snow ice dessert is absolutely delicious. It’s not exactly ice cream, but more like a finely blended frozen smoothie with a thick, creamy texture. The combination of lemon and milk creates a perfect balance of tangy and creamy flavors — refreshing and addictive.
These are the top local dishes in Hanoi recommended by Vietnam Vibes. Save this list and use it as your personal guide when joining a Hanoi food tour to experience the city like a local. Stay tuned for more travel and food stories from Vietnam Vibes — see you in our next post!
Content by Vietnam Vibes
