city Essentials · 10 foods
Hanoi Essentials
A considered first route through Hanoi: the foods that carry its everyday habits, celebrations, ingredients, and memory.
Explore all Vietnam foods →THE
ESSENTIALS
The complete shortlist
10 foods to know.
Each selection includes the reason it belongs here—so this is a guide, not just a pile of names.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Pho Bo
Phở bò
Thin rice noodles sit in clear beef broth with brisket, herbs, and aromatic spices.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Bun Cha
Bún chả
Charred pork patties and belly arrive with rice vermicelli, herbs, and dipping sauce.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Banh Cuon
Bánh cuốn
Silky steamed rice rolls hold minced pork and wood ear beside fried shallots.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Cha Ca La Vong
Chả cá Lã Vọng
Turmeric-marinated fish sizzles with dill and scallions, served over noodles and peanuts.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Ca Phe Trung
Cà phê trứng
Whipped egg cream crowns strong coffee in a sweet Hanoi breakfast drink.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Bánh tôm (Shrimp and Sweet Potato Fritters)
Bánh tôm
Crisp shrimp and sweet potato fritters are served with herbs and dipping sauce.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Phở cuốn (Pho Rolls)
Phở cuốn
Fresh pho sheets wrap grilled beef, herbs, and lettuce into cool hand-held rolls.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Miến lươn (Cellophane Noodles with Eel)
Miến lươn
Glass noodles carry crisp fried eel, herbs, and broth or a light sauce.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Bún mọc (Pork Ball Vermicelli Soup)
Bún mọc
Clear pork broth holds rice vermicelli, pork balls, and sliced meat.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Cốm (Green Sticky Rice)
Cốm
Young green rice flakes have a grassy aroma and delicate chewy texture.