Hanoi
Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter is a culinary playground where street stalls serve delights like Cà cuống (water bug) and Chả rươi sandworm cakes that capture the city’s love of fresh, local ingredients. The vibrant night markets also feature aromatic specialties such as roasted quails with Vietnamese curry leaves, while historic cafés offer classic dishes alongside modern twists, making Hanoi a must‑visit destination for food lovers seeking authentic Vietnamese flavors in an atmospheric, culturally rich setting.
Hanoi
Vietnam
About Hanoi
Hanoi is the capital and second-most populous city of Vietnam. The name "Hanoi" translates to "inside the river". The city encompasses an area of 3,358.6 km2 (1,296.8 mi2), and as of 2025 has a population of 8,807,523. Hanoi had the second-highest gross regional domestic product of all Vietnamese provinces and municipalities at US$48 billion in 2023, behind only Ho Chi Minh City.
Based on 13 spots from 3 travel guides
What to Expect in Hanoi
- A street food paradise with 12 restaurants, 1 natures to explore
- Home to legendary Cà cuống (water bug dish), beef tripe (stomach) with ginger, wine, and Czech spices and shrimp cakes made from tapioca starch and sweet potato
- Explore distinct areas including 12 Hàng Gà street, Hoan Kiem and Chinatown
Must-Try in Hanoi
steamed rice noodle rolls with pork‑mushroom filling and garlic sauce
atBahn CuonIt stands out for its savory pork‑mushroom filling paired with a garlicky sauce, offering a unique twist on classic Hanoi rolls.
roasted quails seasoned with Vietnamese curry leaves
atChim cút quay lá mắc mật - Roasted quails with Vietnamese curry leavesThe dish offers a crunchy texture and aromatic flavor that sets it apart from other street foods.
pig brain omelette
atChinatown RestaurantIt offers traditional Cantonese dishes that have been served since 1945, highlighting cultural heritage.
Chả rươi
atChả rươi - Sandworm CakesIt features fresh sandworms still moving in the batter, giving a unique salty and savory flavor.