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When it comes to street food, few cities rival Hanoi in terms of diversity and authenticity. With centuries-old recipes and a competitive culinary scene, Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a hotspot for food enthusiasts. Michelin’s recommendations showcase the best places to experience Hanoi’s street food culture over two days. Each eatery has earned its spot in the Michelin Guide for delivering exquisite local flavors that have stood the test of time.
Day 1: A Taste of Hanoi’s Iconic Dishes
Morning: Pho Bo at Pho Bo Au Trieu
Kickstart your food journey with a Vietnamese classic – pho bo (beef noodle soup) at Pho Bo Au Trieu, a Bib Gourmand spot according to the Michelin Guide 2024. Located in the narrow Au Trieu Street, this eatery is tucked away near the famous St. Joseph’s Cathedral. Don’t expect a signboard, but look for crowds spilling onto the street, a sure sign of its popularity. This pho is based on a Nam Dinh style, known for its intense beef broth cooked for 10 hours, giving it a rich depth of flavor. The bowl is topped with beef ribs and tendon, making for a hearty breakfast that captures the essence of Hanoi.
Location: 34 Au Trieu, Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Afternoon: Mien Luon at Mien Luon Dong Thinh
After taking a stroll around St. Joseph’s Cathedral and perhaps enjoying a coffee with views of the cathedral’s façade, it’s time to explore mien luon (eel noodles) at Mien Luon Dong Thinh. Another Bib Gourmand favorite, this small, 40-year-old establishment is beloved for its flavorful eel dishes. Choose between the dry version or the soupy option, both of which combine noodles, eel, green vegetables, ground peanuts, and fried shallots. For a crunchy side dish, order extra crispy fried eel.
This meal is a great recharge before delving deeper into Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where you can explore local landmarks such as Bach Ma Temple and the traditional medicine street of Thuoc Bac. These spots not only enhance the cultural experience but also build up an appetite for the next meal.
Location: 87 Hang Dieu, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Evening: Cha Ca at Cha Ca Thang Long
As the evening rolls in, savor a traditional dish with historical roots – cha ca (pan-fried fish with turmeric, noodles, and greens). While cha ca is more commonly served in restaurants today, it’s an iconic Hanoi dish that once graced street-side stalls. Michelin recommends Cha Ca Thang Long on Duong Thanh, a century-old townhouse serving this unique dish. The fish, marinated in turmeric and herbs, is cooked at your table, allowing you to witness the aromas of dill and green onions blending with the fish. Pair it with noodles and a dash of shrimp paste for an unforgettable dining experience.
Location: 6B Duong Thanh, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Day 2: Discovering Lesser-Known Street Food Gems
Morning: Banh Cuon at Banh Cuon Ba Xuan
On day two, step away from pho and try another Vietnamese breakfast staple – banh cuon (steamed rice rolls). Banh Cuon Ba Xuan, recommended by Michelin, specializes in these delicate rice rolls filled with minced pork and wood ear mushrooms. The rice sheets are thin and tender, showcasing the skill of the cook as they operate massive steamers. Dip each roll into a special fish sauce blend with lime, garlic, chili, and herbs. Banh Cuon Ba Xuan is located in an artistic corner of Hanoi, surrounded by the Bookworm bookstore, Manzi art gallery, and anthropology displays, making it a culturally rich area to explore over coffee afterward.
Location: 16 Doc Hoe Nhai, Nguyen Trung Truc, Ba Dinh, Hanoi
Afternoon: Bun Cha at Tuyet Bun Cha 34
A trip to Hanoi would be incomplete without tasting bun cha, a beloved local specialty featuring grilled pork and vermicelli. Tuyet Bun Cha 34, listed in the Bib Gourmand section of Michelin’s guide, serves generous portions of bun cha. The dish consists of a bowl of grilled pork, fresh noodles, and a plate of vibrant greens and herbs. This eatery may be small, with tables often extending onto the street during busy hours, but it captures the lively spirit of Hanoi street dining. Its proximity to Truc Bach Lake, Tran Quoc Pagoda, and Quan Su Temple makes it an ideal stop on a sightseeing tour.
Location: 34 Hang Than, Nguyen Trung Truc, Ba Dinh, Hanoi
Evening: Seafood Delights at Oc Di Tu
Conclude your culinary adventure at Oc Di Tu, a Michelin-approved street food spot that serves an array of quality seafood. Known for its fresh ingredients, Oc Di Tu offers various dishes featuring snails, clams, and other shellfish. Michelin inspectors were particularly impressed with their oc giac (giant snail) grilled with scallions and fried garlic, as well as the Venus clams cooked in a spicy broth with lemongrass, chili, and pineapple. This vibrant, bustling eatery is a favorite for locals craving seafood and is an exciting place to try unique flavors paired with cold drinks.
Location: 144C Quan Thanh, Quan Thanh, Ba Dinh, Hanoi
>> People see also Hanoi food tour 1 day
Additional Michelin-Recommended Street Food Spots
For those who want to extend their culinary adventure, here are a few more Michelin-recommended spots to consider:
- Pho Gia Truyen – This famous spot on Bat Dan Street is known for its classic northern-style pho, with a clear yet flavorful broth and perfectly cooked beef slices. Pho Gia Truyen often has lines forming outside, a testament to its quality.
- Xoi Yen – For a taste of xoi (sticky rice), Xoi Yen offers sticky rice served with various toppings like shredded chicken, fried shallots, and pork. This spot is a Michelin-recommended favorite for locals craving comfort food.
- Banh Mi 25 – Banh mi is a must-try Vietnamese staple, and Banh Mi 25 is one of the most popular spots in Hanoi. This sandwich shop serves crusty baguettes filled with savory options such as pâté, meats, and vegetables, earning its place as a must-visit.
Exploring Hanoi Through Food
Hanoi’s street food scene is a reflection of its cultural heritage, with each dish carrying a story of tradition and pride. Michelin’s curated list highlights places that not only offer delicious meals but also represent the city’s culinary resilience, with eateries that have survived through intense competition. The bustling streets, the aroma of freshly prepared dishes, and the friendly atmosphere make Hanoi’s street food experience unique and unforgettable. Whether you’re exploring the Old Quarter’s narrow lanes or dining near one of the city’s serene lakes, each meal offers an insight into Hanoi’s rich culinary tapestry.
In just two days, you can taste a variety of iconic dishes that define Hanoi’s vibrant food culture, leaving you with an appetite for more culinary adventures in Vietnam.
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