Discover the 15 most beloved Hanoi dishes, from iconic phở to local street snacks, plus where to eat them like a local in Vietnam’s capital.
A Culinary Introduction to Hanoi
Hanoi is not just Vietnam’s political capital—it is the heart of northern Vietnamese cuisine. Food here is shaped by centuries of tradition, seasonal ingredients, and a deep respect for balance and subtlety. Compared to the bold sweetness of southern dishes or the spicy complexity of central Vietnam, Hanoi food is refined, delicate, and deeply comforting.
For international travelers, especially first-time visitors, exploring Hanoi through its food is one of the most rewarding experiences. From early-morning noodle soups to late-night street snacks, the city offers an endless culinary journey. Below are 15 iconic Hanoi dishes that consistently win over locals and visitors alike—along with cultural context and tips on how to enjoy them.
1. Phở – Hanoi’s Most Iconic Noodle Soup
Phở is the soul of Hanoi cuisine. This fragrant noodle soup features flat rice noodles, tender beef or chicken, and a clear, delicately simmered broth made from bones and spices. Hanoi-style phở is lighter and more restrained than versions found elsewhere in Vietnam.
Locals typically enjoy phở for breakfast, adding only a touch of lime, chili, or vinegar—never overpowering the broth.
2. Bún Chả – Grilled Pork and Noodles Done Right
Bún chả is a lunchtime favorite and one of Hanoi’s most famous dishes internationally. It consists of charcoal-grilled pork patties and sliced pork belly served in a sweet-savory dipping sauce, alongside cold rice noodles and fresh herbs.
The contrast between smoky meat, tangy sauce, and crisp herbs makes this dish unforgettable.
3. Bánh Cuốn Thanh Trì – Steamed Rice Rolls
These ultra-thin steamed rice sheets are soft, silky, and incredibly light. Filled with minced pork and wood ear mushrooms, bánh cuốn Thanh Trì is usually served with fried shallots, Vietnamese sausage, and a delicate fish sauce dip scented with vinegar.
This dish showcases Hanoi’s talent for subtle flavors and refined textures.
4. Bún Dọc Mùng – Taro Stem Noodle Soup
A lesser-known local favorite, bún dọc mùng features pork broth, taro stems, pork leg, and handmade meatballs. The taro stems add a refreshing crunch, while the broth has a gentle sour note that makes the dish especially enjoyable in warm weather.
5. Bún Ốc – Snail Noodle Soup
Bún ốc is a uniquely Hanoi dish built around freshwater snails. The broth is tangy thanks to fermented rice vinegar, balanced by tomatoes and herbs. Snails are chewy and flavorful, often paired with fried tofu and fresh greens.
This dish may sound adventurous, but it’s surprisingly approachable and deeply traditional.
6. Bánh Đa Trộn – Mixed Flat Noodles
Often sold by street vendors carrying bamboo poles, bánh đa trộn is a rustic Hanoi specialty. Wide flat noodles are mixed with fried tofu, fish cakes, peanuts, herbs, and a savory sauce. Some versions include fermented pork rolls for extra richness.
It’s casual, filling, and full of character.
7. Bánh Tôm Hồ Tây – West Lake Shrimp Fritters
Crispy on the outside and tender inside, bánh tôm is made by frying whole freshwater shrimp in a light batter. The best versions are found near West Lake, where shrimp are especially fresh.
Served with greens and a sweet-sour dipping sauce, this dish is perfect for sharing.
8. Mì Gà Tần – Herbal Chicken Noodle Soup
Originally considered a medicinal dish, gà tần combines slow-cooked chicken with Chinese herbs such as goji berries and mugwort. Egg noodles were later added, turning it into a popular late-night comfort food.
The broth is earthy, slightly bitter, and deeply nourishing—especially on cool evenings.
9. Bánh Đúc Nóng – Warm Rice Flour Pudding
A cold-weather favorite, bánh đúc nóng is a savory rice flour dish topped with minced pork, mushrooms, and herbs. It’s soft, creamy, and served steaming hot with fish sauce and chili.
This is classic Hanoi comfort food at its best.
10. Bánh Gối – Vietnamese Pillow Pastry
Similar to a savory fried turnover, bánh gối is filled with minced pork, glass noodles, mushrooms, and quail egg. The crispy shell contrasts beautifully with the juicy filling.
It’s commonly eaten as an afternoon snack with herbs and dipping sauce.
11. Bún Cá – Fried Fish Noodle Soup
Bún cá features golden-fried fish served in a light, slightly tangy broth made from fish bones and tomatoes. Fresh dill and scallions give the soup a distinctive northern aroma.
Simple yet satisfying, this dish is a lunchtime staple for many locals.
12. Hanoi-Style Snail Dishes (Ốc)
Beyond bún ốc, Hanoi offers countless snail preparations: steamed with lemongrass, stir-fried with tamarind, or sautéed with salted egg yolk. These dishes are social foods, often enjoyed with friends in the evening.
They reflect Hanoi’s vibrant street food culture.
13. Bánh Giò – Steamed Rice Dumpling
Bánh giò is a pyramid-shaped dumpling made from rice flour and filled with pork and mushrooms, wrapped in banana leaves. Soft, aromatic, and affordable, it’s eaten any time of day.
You’ll find it everywhere—from street carts to small neighborhood shops.
14. Chả Cá Lã Vọng – Hanoi’s Legendary Fish Dish
This iconic dish features turmeric-marinated fish grilled and then cooked tableside with dill and scallions. Diners assemble their own bowls with noodles, peanuts, herbs, and fermented shrimp paste.
Chả cá is not just a meal—it’s a cultural experience unique to Hanoi.
15. Măng Mực Bát Tràng – Bamboo Shoot and Dried Squid Soup
A specialty from the nearby village of Bát Tràng, this soup combines dried squid, bamboo shoots, and pork broth. The flavors are deep, layered, and surprisingly elegant.
Often reserved for special occasions, it represents the culinary craftsmanship of northern Vietnam.
Final Thoughts: Eating Hanoi Like a Local
Hanoi’s food scene rewards curiosity. Many of the best dishes are found in modest shops or street stalls rather than upscale restaurants. Take your time, eat where locals eat, and don’t be afraid to try something unfamiliar.
In Hanoi, every bowl tells a story—and every meal brings you closer to the city’s soul.