Culinary journey through 10 delicious foods in Hanoi's Old Quarter

Embark on a delightful exploration of 10 delicious foods within Hanoi's Old Quarter. This historic district is renowned for its vibrant street food culture, offering a tantalizing array of dishes that showcase the city's culinary prowess. Indulge in iconic favorites like banh cuon (steamed rice rolls), bun thang (vermicelli noodle soup), and crispy nem ran (fried spring rolls). Whether you're strolling along bustling Hang Be Street or exploring hidden alleyways, the Old Quarter promises a gastronomic adventure like no other. Get ready to savor the essence of Hanoi through its diverse and flavorful street food offerings.

Location: Old quarter, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam (click here to open google map)

Direction to Hanoi Old Quarter

Situated at the heart of Hanoi, the Old Quarter provides a range of transportation choices for easy access. You can catch a bus to Hoan Kiem Lake, which is around 1.8km away (bus routes: 36, 09, 14), or to the Quan Chuong Gate, just 2km from the Old Quarter (bus routes: 03, 14, 18, 34). Opting for bus travel offers the convenience of exploring the Old Quarter without the hassle of parking, although be prepared for some walking upon arrival.

For a more relaxed experience, consider renting a motorbike or a cyclo to navigate the charming streets of the Old Quarter. Rental rates typically range from 150,000 VND to 200,000 VND per vehicle, depending on the type and duration of rental. It's advisable to negotiate the fare with the driver in advance to secure the most favorable deal.

Compilation of Delicious Foods in Hanoi's Old Quarter

1. Pho Bat Dan - The most famous street food dish

Location : 49 Bat Dan, Hoan Kiem distric, Hanoi Open time: 06:00 AM - 10:00 AM, 18:00 PM - 20:30 PM (see in map)

4.3* from nearly 4500 rates in google

Pho Bat Dan is a renowned dish in Hanoi, Vietnam, celebrated for its flavorful broth and tender rice noodles. This iconic version of phở is named after Bat Dan Street in the historic Old Quarter, where it originated. The broth is simmered for hours with a blend of spices such as star anise, cinnamon, and cloves, resulting in a rich and aromatic base. Thinly sliced beef or chicken is added to the steaming broth along with fresh herbs like cilantro, Thai basil, and green onions. Pho Bat Dan is typically served with a side of bean sprouts, lime wedges, and chili peppers, allowing diners to customize the dish to their taste. It's a beloved street food that encapsulates the essence of Hanoi's culinary heritage and is a must-try for visitors exploring the city's vibrant food scene.

2. Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su

Location : 10 Ly Quoc Su, Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem distric, Hanoi Open time: 6:00 AM - 21:50 PM (see in map)

4.1* from nearly 7300 rates in google

Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su is a renowned phở restaurant located on Lý Quốc Sư Street in Hanoi, Vietnam. This establishment is celebrated for serving exceptional bowls of phở, a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup.

The atmosphere at Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su is bustling and lively, typical of a popular street food eatery in Hanoi. The restaurant's reputation attracts locals and tourists alike who crave an authentic and satisfying bowl of phở.

For anyone looking to experience the quintessential flavors of Vietnamese cuisine, Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su is a must-visit destination in Hanoi's culinary scene.

3. Bun Oc - Dong Xuan market

Location : 11 Dong Xuan, Dong Xuan, Hoan Kiem distric, Hanoi Open time: 7:30 AM - 17:30 PM (see in map)

4.4* from nearly 200 rates in google

Bún ốc is a favorite street food option in Hanoi, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike for its satisfying flavors and comforting warmth. It's often served with a side of shrimp paste (mắm tôm) or chili sauce for dipping, allowing diners to customize the taste according to their preference.

If you're looking to experience authentic Hanoi cuisine, don't miss the opportunity to try bún ốc at local eateries or street food stalls. It's a delightful dish that showcases the rich culinary heritage and diverse flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.

4. Bun Cha - Hang Quat street

Location : 74 Hang Quat, Hang Gai, Hoan Kiem distric, Hanoi Open time: 10:00 AM - 14:00 PM (see in map)

4.3* from nearly 600 rates in google

Bun cha Hang Quat is a famous dish in Hanoi, Vietnam, celebrated for its delicious flavors and iconic presentation. This dish consists of grilled pork (cha) served with rice vermicelli noodles (bun), fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce.

To enjoy bun cha Hang Quat, diners typically assemble each bite by dipping the noodles and pork into the sauce, along with fresh herbs like lettuce, perilla leaves, and cilantro. The combination of flavors and textures – from the tender pork and fragrant herbs to the tangy dipping sauce – creates a delightful and satisfying culinary experience.

Bun cha Hang Quat is a must-try dish for anyone visiting Hanoi, offering a taste of authentic Vietnamese street food and showcasing the unique flavors of this beloved local specialty.

5. Xoi May

Location : 31 Ly Thuong Kiet, Hang Bai, Hoan Kiem distric, Hanoi Open time: 5:30 AM - 13:00 PM (see in map)

4.6* from nearly 300 rates in google

Xôi is a traditional Vietnamese dish made from glutinous rice, often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack item. This versatile dish can be served sweet or savory, depending on the toppings and ingredients used.

Xôi is often sold at street food stalls throughout Vietnam, including Hanoi, where vendors offer a wide range of xôi varieties to cater to different tastes and preferences. This beloved dish reflects the culinary diversity and creativity of Vietnamese cuisine, making it a must-try for anyone exploring the vibrant street food scene in Hanoi or beyond.

6. Nom Ham Long street

Location : 25 Ham Long, Hang Bai, Hoan Kiem distric, Hanoi Open time: 10:30 AM - 18:00 PM (see in map)

Nom Ham Long is a popular dish in Vietnamese cuisine, particularly in Hanoi. It is a refreshing and colorful salad that combines a variety of fresh ingredients to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The salad typically features shredded green papaya, carrots, cucumber, and sometimes green mango, along with fragrant herbs like Vietnamese mint and basil. The dressing is a key component of Nom Ham Long, usually a mix of fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, garlic, and chili, creating a perfect balance of sweet, savory, tangy, and spicy notes.

What sets Nom Ham Long apart is the addition of crispy fried tofu or shrimp crackers, adding a delightful crunch to each bite. This dish is often garnished with roasted peanuts and crispy shallots for extra texture and flavor. Nộm Hàm Long is not only delicious but also a healthy choice, as it's packed with fresh vegetables and herbs.

Enjoyed as a light and refreshing appetizer or side dish, Nom Ham Long embodies the vibrant and diverse flavors of Vietnamese cuisine, making it a delightful culinary experience for locals and tourists alike.

7. Nem chua ran

Location : 38 Hang Bong, Hang Gai, Hoan Kiem distric, Hanoi Open time: 9:00 AM - 23:00 PM (see in map)

Nem chua ran, or fried fermented pork rolls in the Old Quarter, is a beloved street food in Hanoi, Vietnam. These delectable treats consist of fermented pork mixed with garlic, chilies, and various spices, rolled into small patties or sausages, then deep-fried until golden and crispy.

What makes nem chua ran unique is its delightful combination of flavors and textures. The fermentation process gives the pork a tangy and slightly sour taste, complemented by the spicy kick from the chilies. When fried, the exterior becomes wonderfully crunchy while the inside remains juicy and savory.

Typically served with fresh herbs like mint, lettuce leaves, and perilla, along with rice paper and a side of dipping sauce (such as sweet and sour fish sauce), nem chua rán is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike as a flavorful snack or accompaniment to drinks. Its popularity in Hanoi's Old Quarter is a testament to its irresistible taste and the rich culinary heritage of Vietnamese street food.

8. Ha cao - Hang Bo

Location : 57 Hang Bo, Hang Gai, Hoan Kiem distric, Hanoi Open time: 15:00 PM - 18:00 PM (see in map)

Ha Cao at Hang Bo is a popular dish in Hanoi's Old Quarter, known for its delicious and delicate flavors. These steamed dumplings are filled with a savory mixture of minced pork, shrimp, mushrooms, and sometimes crabmeat, all wrapped in a thin, translucent dough.

At Hang Bo, a bustling street known for its diverse culinary offerings, you can find stalls and eateries specializing in Há Cảo. These dumplings are typically served hot, accompanied by a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and chili, adding a tangy and spicy kick to each bite.

Ha Cao is not just a snack; it's a culinary experience that showcases the artistry and craftsmanship of Vietnamese cuisine. Whether enjoyed as a quick bite on the go or as part of a leisurely meal, Ha Cao at Hang Bo is a must-try for anyone exploring the vibrant street food scene of Hanoi.

9. My Van Than

Location : 56 Hang Chieu, Dong Xuan, Hoan Kiem distric, Hanoi (see in map)

My van than, also known as "stir-fried noodles," is a distinctive dish found in Hanoi's Old Quarter, originating from Western cuisine but localized and popularized as a street food staple in Hanoi.

My van than is made by stir-frying spaghetti noodles with onions, garlic, and a variety of vegetables such as carrots, cabbage, and bell peppers. The main protein component can vary, often including beef or shrimp depending on personal preference. The dish is known for its bold and savory flavors, enhanced by the spices and stir-fry sauce used.

This dish is beloved for its delicious taste, enticing aroma, and quick preparation, fitting well into the fast-paced urban lifestyle. If you're exploring street food in Hanoi, don't miss the chance to try mỳ vằn thắn at eateries in the Old Quarter.

10. Ga Tan noodle

Location : 24 Hang Bo, Hang Bo, Hoan Kiem distric, Hanoi Open time: 17:30 PM - 23:30 PM (see in map)

What sets ga tan noodle apart is its simplicity and focus on quality ingredients. The chicken is typically poached to perfection, resulting in juicy and flavorful meat, while the noodles are cooked al dente to ensure a satisfying texture.

This dish is enjoyed by both locals and visitors alike, offering a comforting and satisfying meal that reflects the fusion of Vietnamese and Chinese culinary influences. If you're in Hanoi, don't miss the opportunity to savor ga tan noodle at one of the many street food stalls or eateries specializing in this delightful dish.

While exploring Hanoi's Old Quarter, you must indulge in the tempting and rich flavors of Vietnamese street food. From the robust taste of Phở Bát Đàn to the delightful crunch of nem chua rán and traditional xôi xéo, these dishes truly embody the essence of Hanoi's culinary scene.

In addition to savoring the traditional fare, take the time to try new dishes like bún ốc or bánh mỳ gà. Don't forget to visit famous street food spots like Phở 10 Lý Quốc Sư or seek out hidden gems in the Old Quarter to enjoy unique culinary experiences.

A final piece of advice is to keep an open mind and be adventurous with your food choices. Street food in Hanoi is not just about sustenance; it's a way to experience the culture and lifestyle of the local people. Enjoy your journey and immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary world of Hanoi's Old Quarter!