Hanoi is renowned for its street food, offering a rich tapestry of flavors that attracts visitors from around the globe. Hanoi's cuisine is a delicate balance of flavors, distinct from the rest of Vietnam. Southern dishes are often sweet and spicy, while Hanoi's food relies on a harmonious use of sweet, salty, sour, and umami (savory), highlighting the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Diners can find delicious food everywhere, from street stalls and small family eateries to upscale restaurants. Here are 5 dishes that visitors to Hanoi shouldn't miss.

Bun cha

Minced and sliced bun cha at Tuyet Bun Cha 34. Photo: Michelin

Minced and sliced bun cha at Tuyet Bun Cha 34. Photo: Michelin

Bun cha is an iconic Hanoi street food, a combination of grilled pork (sliced or minced), vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a sweet and sour dipping sauce. Upon arriving at a bun cha stall, diners are immediately greeted by the enticing aroma of grilling meat. The meat is served in a bowl of the prepared dipping sauce. To enjoy, dip the noodles into the sauce and eat with fresh herbs or pickled vegetables.

Recommended places: Tuyet Bun Cha 34, Bun Cha Ta, Bun Cha Chan, Bun Cha Hang Quat

Fried Rice

Fried rice is a favorite of chef Sam Tran from the Michelin-starred restaurant GIA. She enjoys the dish fried until fluffy, served with various accompaniments such as pork, vegetables, tofu, and an array of dipping sauces. Her preferred choice is fried rice with pig's brain and egg, which she describes as "amazing."

Banh cuon

Banh cuon showcases the skill of Hanoi's chefs. These steamed rice rolls are filled with various ingredients, such as minced pork, shrimp, or chicken, mixed with wood ear mushrooms. This dish is perfect for a light breakfast, served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce, often accompanied by gio (Vietnamese sausage), cha que (cinnamon pork sausage), or Vietnamese ham. Diners can customize their dish with chili, lime, and garlic.

Recommended places: Banh Cuon Ba Xuan, Banh Cuon Ba Hoanh

Cha ca

Cha ca. Photo: Michelin

Cha ca. Photo: Michelin

Cha ca originated from an address in Hanoi's Old Quarter. The fish is cut into square pieces, marinated with turmeric, and combined with fresh dill and onions. It is then served with peanuts and vermicelli noodles, with the option of adding shrimp paste. The dish is cooked tableside, allowing diners to choose their preferred level of doneness for the fish.

Recommended places: Cha Ca La Vong, Cha Ca Anh Vu

Bun rieu

Hanoi's bun rieu features local and traditional ingredients like freshwater crab, tofu, and pork. The dish boasts a rich broth made from pounded crab (shell and all), which is then filtered and cooked with tomatoes, shrimp paste, and sometimes tofu or pork. Recommended by a young chef from the Michelin Guide 2023, it is described as having a "stronger flavor compared to many other Hanoi dishes."

Tam Anh (according to Michelin Guide)