1. Grilled Beef Sweetbreads
Hanoi always captivates visitors with its ancient charm and rich culinary heritage. When talking about Hanoi's cuisine, grilled dishes are a must-mention, especially grilled sweetbreads. This particular dish uses the fatty portion of the beef, known as the 'sweetbread', which has a soft texture, without the toughness of meat. The grilled beef sweetbread offers a delicious, tender, and sweet flavor that doesn't leave you feeling overwhelmed. It's a beloved street food, especially among young people.
The best place to enjoy grilled sweetbreads in Tay Ho is at Bò Nầm Nướng Sốt Me Kiên Kồ, known for its top-notch food quality. The beef sweetbreads are perfectly grilled to achieve a crispy, fragrant exterior, making it irresistible. The venue not only attracts local visitors but also welcomes international tourists. The spacious restaurant, with both indoor and outdoor seating, provides a cool and comfortable environment. The dish, like many other grilled foods here, is marinated with rich spices and grilled with butter, giving it a unique flavor. The honey bread served at the restaurant is also quite delicious.
When enjoying the grilled beef sweetbreads, don't forget to order cucumber, bread, kimchi, and fresh vegetables to enhance the taste! The food quality here is highly rated for being tasty, clean, and affordable, especially for students. However, it's best to avoid peak hours as the road can get quite congested. Most customers who have dined here rate the food quality highly. A full platter with various meats like beef, liver, and pork belly for just 150k, enough for two people, is a great deal. The portions are generous, and you can eat to your heart's content. The staff is friendly and welcoming. Additionally, Bò Nầm Nướng Sốt Me Kiên Kồ offers many other dishes and affordable combos waiting for you to try!
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: Ngã Tư Văn Cao, Tay Ho District, Hanoi
Phone: 0962 282 894
Email: [email protected]
Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/bonamnuongkienko/

2. Crab Noodle Soup
Crab noodle soup is a well-known dish in Hanoi, famous for its distinct taste that every foodie must try. It's loved for its delicate broth, fresh crab meat, and soft noodles that hold their shape without being mushy. When it comes to crab noodle soup, Cô Ngà is a name every local recognizes, one of the busiest spots in Hanoi. The restaurant is never empty, despite its simple, modest setting, as it has become a go-to for Old Quarter residents. Their bowls are generously filled with toppings and high-quality ingredients. They're also famous for their crab noodle soup with pork knuckles, a rich, unforgettable flavor.
This is a humble eatery with a small indoor space and several sidewalk tables. The pot of steaming noodle soup always tempts passersby, and the owner is warm and quick, preparing each bowl with care. The best part about dining here is the comfortable atmosphere, the delicious food, and the incredibly fresh crab meat. You can even choose noodles with whole crab legs. Each bowl is packed with flavor, and you'll fall in love with the rich broth. Cô Ngà has built a strong reputation, and you can also take it to-go to enjoy your meal elsewhere.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 69 Yên Phụ Nhỏ, Yên Phụ, Tay Ho District, Hanoi
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM


3. Shrimp Cakes
Shrimp cakes are freshly made and fried on-site, resulting in a crisp, golden texture. They are best enjoyed hot, served with a sweet, sour, and spicy dipping sauce, along with a side of pickled vegetables (shredded papaya and carrot soaked in vinegar). The shrimp cakes are tender and sweet, often paired with lettuce and sometimes vermicelli noodles. While simple, this dish is crafted with great care, showing the effort of the cooks, and delivers a delightful and flavorful experience for every diner. Particularly when talking about shrimp cakes, Thanh Mai Shrimp Cake Restaurant is a must-mention, always crowded despite its lack of a scenic view or expansive space. The restaurant brings the charm and rustic feel of old Hanoi.
This is a signature dish of Hanoi in general, and specifically of the Tay Ho district. So, make sure to visit and savor the wonderful flavors of this dish! The shrimp cakes at Cô Ầm are made with dough finely ground from the best rice, then mixed with water to create the perfect texture, with the addition of shredded sweet potato for extra flavor. The cakes have a delicious, slightly sweet, and nutty taste, and are never greasy. Thanh Mai Shrimp Cakes is a famous spot around West Lake, and anyone who visits will immediately be impressed by the quality. The cakes at Hiền Hảo's shop have a thicker crust, fried crispy to avoid greasiness, with large, fresh shrimp filling the center.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 61 Alley 50 Đặng Thai Mai, Quảng An, Tay Ho District, Hanoi
Phone: 0987 608 520
Opening Hours: 08:00 AM – 10:00 PM


4. Savory Fried Dumplings
On chilly winter days, a perfect idea for young people in Hanoi is to stop by a savory fried dumpling stall. These round dumplings are hot and crispy, making them a delightful snack to enjoy. Võng Thị Fried Dumplings is a popular spot that draws a lot of visitors. Located at Alley 242, Lac Long Quan Street, Tay Ho District, this place offers savory fried dumplings that are crispy on the outside, with a thick dipping sauce that is neither ketchup nor fish sauce but a rich, slightly viscous sauce. Even after dipping, the dumpling crust remains crunchy and doesn’t get soggy. Served with a side of pickled vegetables, these dumplings make for a delicious snack. Despite being a street-side eatery, the shop is always busy, and you might have to wait for a little while to enjoy this treat.
Võng Thị Fried Dumplings is a well-known location, so expect to encounter a crowd. It's best to avoid peak hours to ensure faster service, as some customers have mentioned waiting for up to an hour just to get their dumplings. The dumplings have a crispy crust, thanks to minimal oil absorption, with a generous filling and a flavorful, slightly spicy dipping sauce. This makes it easy to enjoy several dumplings without feeling overwhelmed by grease. The price for a savory dumpling is 7,000 VND each, and 3,000 VND for a sweet dumpling. Though slightly pricier than other places, it is still loved by many, and this savory fried dumpling is a beloved snack for people of all ages. Don’t miss the chance to try these irresistible dumplings!
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: Alley 242 Lac Long Quan, Tay Ho District, Hanoi
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 07:00 PM


5. Grilled Pork Skewers
On a cool day in Hanoi, gathering with friends for grilled skewers is an ideal way to enjoy the weather. Yên Phụ Grilled Pork Shop is one of the most popular places for delicious grilled pork rolls, especially among young locals. With a four-generation family tradition of making grilled pork, the owner benefits from years of experience, a skilled and close-knit team, and the ability to create perfectly authentic flavors. The grilled pork here is special: long and flavorful, like grilled fermented pork but without the sourness. It's grilled just right—neither dry nor overdone, and the skewers are tender, not burnt or bitter, with a fantastic dipping sauce!
The shop offers two types of grilled pork rolls: savory and sweet, both of which are equally delicious. It’s a popular spot, so the place tends to be crowded. The grilled pork rolls here are quite large and require around 45 minutes of grilling to cook evenly. They are served immediately after being grilled, so they are piping hot and full of flavor. Moreover, the spring rolls are made fresh on-site, unlike other places that freeze them in advance, ensuring high-quality dishes for every customer.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 57 Yên Phụ Nhỏ, Yên Phụ, Tây Hồ District, Hanoi
Opening Hours: 4:30 PM – 11:30 PM


6. Wonton Noodles
Wonton noodles is a delightful dish with Chinese roots that has gradually become a beloved food in Hanoi. The dish is evolving and becoming more familiar to the people of the capital. As a result, many wonton noodle restaurants have opened up to cater to the growing demand.
Mai Hắc Đế Wonton Noodles is one of the top spots for delicious wonton noodles in Hanoi, popular among food connoisseurs. Although the bowl may not be overflowing, all the ingredients are fresh, perfectly seasoned, and served steaming hot. The noodles, though soaked in hot water, maintain their chewy texture. Each bowl is packed with shrimp, tender roast pork, golden fried dumplings, a boiled egg, liver, and fresh herbs. The noodles are aromatic and chewy, while the broth has a naturally sweet taste from shrimp and simmered bones, unlike the overpowering taste of MSG. Besides the regular dumplings and roast pork, they also serve steamed shrimp, which adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
The noodles are thin yet firm, and the broth is rich and flavorful without being overly strong. The restaurant provides a comfortable, classy environment with friendly and attentive service. It’s an ideal spot for enjoying a relaxed dining experience. The accompanying dishes are also noteworthy—soft and chewy dumplings, succulent roast pork, and thin slices of liver that add a smooth, nutty flavor. A special homemade brown sauce is drizzled over the noodles, giving them a unique, well-balanced taste.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 57 Xuân Diệu, Quảng An, Tây Hồ District, Hanoi
Phone: 0975 502 346


7. Gio Cake
When talking about Gio Cake, it’s a popular dish that most people are familiar with. However, Cô Béo’s Gio Cake in Thụy Khuê offers a unique twist that has won the hearts of locals. A full portion of this cake includes a variety of ingredients like pickled cucumbers and pork skin (Gio Bi), which makes it less dry compared to other places where they use chả or Gio Lua. The cake is served piping hot with a light greenish wrapper and a thin, soft texture. Just a light touch of the spoon reveals the tempting filling of meat and wood ear mushrooms. The wrapper is smooth, tender, and melts effortlessly in your mouth, while the filling is flavorful, tender, and made from fresh ingredients.
The owner is quick and friendly, providing excellent service. As soon as you sit down, the staff quickly serves the hot Gio Cake. Having a warm, hearty Gio Cake in the morning will give you enough energy to power through your day. The filling consists of minced pork and wood ear mushrooms, skillfully prepared with generous portions. You can also add extra Gio (Vietnamese sausage) or enjoy it with iced tea or soy milk, making for a satisfying and filling meal.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 3 Thụy Khuê, Ba Đình District, Hanoi
Phone: 0984 500 041
Opening Hours: 06:00 AM - 08:30 PM


8. Tacos
Tacos are a beloved national dish of Mexico, made from either corn or wheat flour, filled with various choices of ingredients. In Hanoi, the popularity of tacos has risen significantly, with many places serving this unique dish. One spot that stands out in the West Lake area is Hey Pelo French Tacos. Famous for their Taco Katsu Chicken with a special sauce, the beef is tender and perfectly spiced with pepper and bell peppers, complemented by a large piece of chicken. The tacos here are quite special, featuring a sweet Honey Mustard sauce that may feel a bit heavy for some.
This dish is best enjoyed with a can of Coca-Cola Zero. The tacos are large, so those with smaller appetites should consider ordering the M-size. Hey Pelo French Tacos is known for their generously filled tacos, loaded with beef, chicken, and even fish for a unique twist. The fillings are wrapped in crispy fries, lettuce, onions, tomatoes, and drenched in sauce. The fries are soft, and the beef and chicken are rich and filling, with fresh veggies to balance it all out. The taco shell is perfectly grilled, soft but slightly crispy, with the warm, melted filling inside.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 32 Xuân Diệu, Tây Hồ District, Hanoi
Phone: 0369 574 691
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.heypelo.com/
Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/heypelohanoi/


9. Snail Vermicelli
Each bowl of snail vermicelli may seem simple, but it contains the delicacy, care, and precision of the chef. The broth is tangy and light, with a hint of spiciness from the chili, blending perfectly with the rich taste of the snails and the smoothness of the tofu. Bà Ngoại Snail Vermicelli is a well-known spot in West Lake, Hanoi, famous for its long-standing snail vermicelli. The vermicelli here is thin, and the snails are meticulously cleaned with no sand. The bowl is generously filled with large, firm snails, and the broth has just the right amount of sourness. The menu offers a variety of options, but the snail vermicelli is the standout dish. The broth is spicy, aromatic, and rich with red tomatoes. The snails are tender and slightly chewy, making each bite enjoyable. A favorite feature of the restaurant is the cleanliness of the snails with no grit. If you finish your bowl of snail vermicelli, try the cold vermicelli, which is just as delicious. Additionally, they offer other tasty snail dishes, such as ginger-steamed snails, snail spring rolls, and the delightful honey-filled donuts.
When serving, the snails are placed in a bowl, and the vermicelli is briefly dipped in boiling water before being topped with the broth. A plate of fresh herbs and a dish of red chili paste will be placed on the table to enhance the flavor, although it can be very spicy if you use too much. Bà Ngoại Snail Vermicelli is located in a quiet alley, away from the hustle and bustle, providing a peaceful atmosphere. The food is delicious, and the prices are reasonable—not too expensive, but not too cheap either. The restaurant is popular during lunchtime, but the staff always provide excellent service to customers.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 17 Alley 11 – Tô Ngọc Vân, Quảng An, Tây Hồ District, Hanoi
Phone: 0932 049 615
Email: [email protected]
Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/bunocbangoai/
Opening Hours: 07:30 - 21:00


10. Fried Tofu with Shrimp Paste Vermicelli
Fried tofu with shrimp paste vermicelli is a simple, rustic dish in the culinary tradition of northern Vietnam. It’s often enjoyed as a light meal or a snack. The main ingredients include fresh vermicelli, golden-fried tofu, crab cakes, sour pork rolls, dog intestines, shrimp paste mixed with lime and chili, and a variety of aromatic herbs like perilla, basil, and lettuce. This dish has become a beloved favorite for many.
In particular, Cây Đa Fried Tofu with Shrimp Paste is probably the most famous spot for those who are die-hard fans of this dish. The fried tofu here is crisp on the outside, tender and fragrant on the inside. The real highlight, however, is the shrimp paste, which is imported all the way from Thanh Hoa. The shrimp paste has a unique, rich flavor that is difficult to match anywhere else. Additionally, all the ingredients here are carefully selected to ensure the freshest and most delicious experience: the vermicelli is perfectly cut into bite-sized pieces, while the tofu is soft on the inside and crispy on the outside, hot, fatty, and irresistible.
You can also add sides like boiled meat with shrimp paste, crab cakes, or dog intestines. Among these, the crab cakes and boiled tongue are highly praised by customers. Be warned, though, that Cây Đa Fried Tofu with Shrimp Paste is very busy around lunchtime, so you may need to squeeze in a little bit. The dishes are arranged neatly and efficiently, ensuring quick service: the tofu is pre-fried, the crab cakes are stacked, and the shrimp paste is perfectly layered. If you’re looking for a place in Hanoi to enjoy a delicious serving of fried tofu with shrimp paste, this is a spot you should not miss.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 235B Thụy Khuê, Tây Hồ District, Hanoi
Phone: 0344 810 966
Email: [email protected]
Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/bundaucayda/
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM


