Buzz
1. Mixed Fruit - Hoa Quả Dầm Hoa Béo
In Hanoi, there's nothing better in the summer than strolling along the winding streets by Hoan Kiem Lake in the evening, enjoying the breeze. During this little journey, you must stop by Hoa Quả Dầm Hoa Béo for a refreshing glass of mixed fruit to cool off from the scorching heat. This small street has become famous as 'Mixed Fruit Street,' so well-known that the name is rarely mentioned. At the street's entrance, you'll be dazzled by the colorful cups of mixed fruit neatly arranged one after another. Customers simply choose their favorite stall, sit down, and enjoy.
Mixed fruit at Hoa Quả Dầm Hoa Béo used to be served in glass cups. Customers not only enjoyed the fruit but also admired the beautiful arrangements of colorful fruits stacked neatly in the glasses. The bottom layer typically includes yellow melon, red melon, papaya, pears, or apples. In the middle, you'll find dragon fruit, jackfruit, mango, and on top, there's avocado, coconut jelly, white longan, lychee pulp, and even slices of fresh strawberry. The arrangement of fruits is perfectly organized, resembling a splash of color across the glass. The tall glasses allow for a delicate mix of sweetened condensed milk and coconut milk without mashing the fruits. It's a treat that requires patience to stir gently, ensuring the sauce is evenly absorbed without crushing the fruits. The experience is slower, but definitely more enjoyable and tastier.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 17 To Tich, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Phone: 0937 541 988
Opening Hours: 09:30 AM - 10:30 PM
2. Grilled Beef Ribs - Bo Nuong Xuan Xuan
In recent years, grilled beef has become a favorite dish among the youth in Hanoi. It’s simple to prepare and easy to enjoy, which is why it quickly became a trendy dish. You can find bustling vendors on streets like Gầm Cầu, Cát Linh, or Bạch Mai (near the Mai Hương alley), but Bo Nuong Xuan Xuan stands out as a unique gem. Located on Mã Mây Street, this spot holds an exclusive position with no competitors in sight. The shop isn’t fancy or modern, rather it retains the charm of an old, unrenovated building. First-time visitors may be put off by the damp, worn-down atmosphere, but this rustic feel is part of its appeal. Despite its modest appearance, the restaurant enjoys a steady stream of customers every day.
While the grilled beef here may not be the most unique or extraordinary, it’s flavorful, well-seasoned, and perfectly tender with a slight chewiness that leaves everyone satisfied. The service is fast and efficient, adding to the restaurant's appeal. As soon as you park, someone will greet you and make sure you’re seated quickly. Even during peak hours, you won’t have to wait for long. At Bo Nuong Xuan Xuan, the staff is entirely male, yet they are courteous and attentive. It’s this combination of charm and efficiency that has helped Bo Nuong Xuan Xuan become a well-loved brand in the old quarter.
CONTACT DETAILS:
Address: 47 Mã Mây, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Phone: 0936 005 525 & 0934 999 912
Email: [email protected]
Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/bonuongxuanxuan/
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 11:30 PM
3. Mixed Rice Paper Salad - Banh Trang Tron Co Hieu
Banh Trang Tron Co Hieu, located at 86 Hang Trong, has become a well-known spot frequented by young locals. Upon visiting, you'll immediately notice the unique flavor of their mixed rice paper salad. The space is modest with a small indoor corner and most customers sit on plastic chairs along the sidewalk. The shop is especially crowded at night, and often, if there aren't enough seats, customers may have to either take their food to go or come back another time.
The mixed rice paper is tossed with a sweet and sour tamarind sauce, combined with herbs, shredded mango, roasted peanuts, fried shallots, shredded dried beef, and two boiled quail eggs. Everything is mixed together to form a visually stunning golden dish. The rice paper is chewy, blending perfectly with the sourness of the mango and the sweet tang of the sauce. The crunch of the peanuts and shallots, the aromatic herbs, the spiciness of the squid and dried beef, and the rich flavor of the quail eggs come together to create a unique and refreshing taste. Although it has a bit of spice, this dish is perfect for the summer. If you're in the area around Hoan Kiem Lake, Banh Trang Tron Co Hieu is a must-visit spot!
CONTACT DETAILS:
Address: 86 Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Phone: 0904 967 564
Opening Hours: 09:00 AM - 11:00 PM
4. Grilled Pork Rice - Com Suon 47 Dao Duy Tu
Among the many famous dishes in Hanoi, Com Suon 47 Dao Duy Tu stands out as a must-try destination in the Old Quarter. After undergoing renovation just over a year ago, this once small restaurant with only 10-15 tables can now serve over 200 guests at a time. Upon entering, the heat of summer is quickly replaced by the cool air conditioning. The decor, featuring old-town paintings, Long Bien Bridge, and rustic walls, creates a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, unlike the cold, high-end designs of more upscale eateries.
Each serving of grilled pork rice at Com Suon 47 Dao Duy Tu comes with a rich, flavorful marinade that you won't find anywhere else. The meal is generously portioned, always served with vegetables and a bowl of soup, all at an affordable price. Another plus is that the restaurant uses a traditional charcoal grill to cook the pork, unlike other places that rely on microwaves or industrial ovens. The sight of the perfectly grilled pork with crispy edges and the mouth-watering aroma of charcoal grilling makes it impossible to resist, especially if you're walking by on a hot afternoon.
CONTACT DETAILS:
Address: 47 Dao Duy Tu, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Phone: 0904 113 553
Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/comsuondaoduytu/
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 10:30 PM
5. Pork Rib Porridge - Quan Nguyet
Pork rib porridge is a dish that has captured the hearts of many generations. This comforting meal can be enjoyed at any time of the day: breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even late-night cravings. Unlike regular porridge made with glutinous rice, the secret to pork rib porridge lies in the finely ground rice cooked with sweet, savory bone broth. This creates a perfect, heartwarming dish for the cold winter months. You can personalize your bowl with added pork ribs, crispy dough sticks, shredded pork, or even clams, depending on your taste.
On chilly, windy days, having a steaming bowl of pork rib porridge, savoring it slowly, is truly one of life's simple joys. It doesn’t need to be fancy—just a sprinkle of pepper or chili is enough to make it rich and flavorful. At Quan Nguyet, this dish is affordable, with prices varying based on the toppings you choose. If you’re near Hoan Kiem Lake, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a bowl of this tasty, satisfying porridge!
CONTACT DETAILS:
Address: 2 Ngo Huyen, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Opening Hours: 07:00 AM - 10:00 PM
6. Bun Cha - Bun Cha, Crab Spring Rolls Hoang Yen
Bun Cha is a signature dish from Hanoi, beloved by locals and visitors alike. However, not all places in Hanoi serve authentic Bun Cha. Bun Cha, Crab Spring Rolls Hoang Yen is one of the top spots for delicious, authentic Bun Cha that Hanoi residents rave about. The restaurant is designed with a cozy atmosphere, making you feel right at home the moment you step inside.
The Bun Cha here is outstanding. The dish is primarily made with lean pork belly and shoulder cuts, which are marinated in a special blend of spices to absorb the flavors. What sets this place apart is that the marinade does not contain artificial coloring but is instead naturally created using sugar and water, giving the grilled meat a beautiful golden hue. When you take a bite, the flavor will amaze you, with the rich broth and the tender, perfectly seasoned pork patties. The Bun Cha at Bun Cha, Crab Spring Rolls Hoang Yen is served with a delicious mix of fish sauce, chili, green papaya, banana flower, lettuce, and various herbs.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 2A Ly Thai To, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Phone: 0914 400 789
Email: [email protected]
Fanpage: facebook.com/p/Bun-cha-nem-cua-be-Hoang-Yen-2A-Ly-Thai-To-100028971377148/
7. Fish Cake Pâté Sandwich - Bánh Mì Lãn Ông
If you're a fan of sandwiches, you can't miss the Fish Cake Pâté Sandwich from Bánh Mì Lãn Ông. Originally located in Lãn Ông, the shop has now moved to Chả Cá Street. The sandwich here isn't filled with numerous fillings like others; it simply consists of pâté, crispy shallots, cilantro, cucumber, and a bit of chili sauce. Despite its simplicity, anyone who tries it ends up praising the delicious taste and might even get 'addicted' without realizing it. The restaurant is popular due to the quality of the food and the reasonable prices.
The pâté, the soul of the sandwich, is made perfectly—rich and smooth without the overpowering taste of liver, making it incredibly enjoyable. The shop serves Fish Cake Pâté Sandwiches throughout the day, so you can visit anytime for a tasty snack. A sandwich can be a quick bite at any time, but it's especially perfect on a cool day. Grab your friends or loved ones and head to Bánh Mì Lãn Ông for this amazing, unique sandwich!
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 8 Chả Cá, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Phone: 0936 297 799
Opening Hours: 06:00 AM - 11:30 PM
8. Grilled Sour Pork Sausages - Nem Nướng Em Thuý Church
Nem Nướng Em Thuý Church is a modest spot, often referred to as a small eatery, but it’s quite simple. The tables here are nothing more than small trays placed on green chairs, lined up on one side of the alley to avoid blocking the path. Adjacent to these tables, the owner can be seen skillfully turning skewers of bright pink sour pork sausages over a blazing charcoal fire. While waiting for the sausages to cook, you can enjoy a plate of jicama slices with a refreshing glass of iced lemon tea.
Once the sour pork sausages are ready, they’re served hot. Unlike the fried sour sausages that are dry and golden, Nem Nướng Em Thuý Church keeps the sausages’ bright pink color and sticky, chewy texture. A dip in a small bowl of spicy chili sauce, and the aroma and flavors of the grilled sausages blend and melt in your mouth. Aside from the grilled sausages, you can also opt for side dishes like grilled anchovies, grilled beef, or grilled squid. Couples who frequent this spot often order a plate of jicama, a dozen grilled sour sausages, and two pieces of grilled beef. Don’t worry if you’re unsure about ordering too much— the owner will offer suggestions for the best combination of dishes.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 10 Au Trieu, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Phone: 024 3824 4391 & 0933 446 947
Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/p/Nem-Nướng-Em-Thuý-Nhà-Thờ-100063697564069/
Opening Hours: 2:00 PM - 11:00 PM
9. Sticky Rice - Xôi Yến
Sticky rice is an iconic dish in Vietnamese cuisine, especially beloved in Hanoi. It's a versatile meal enjoyed at any time of day and by everyone. When talking about the best places to enjoy sticky rice in Hanoi, Xôi Yến is always on the list. This establishment has been around for many years and continues to attract crowds daily. Some people are drawn in by the name, while others are repeat customers, hooked on the rich flavors of their sticky rice.
Xôi Yến offers a modern twist on traditional sticky rice, pairing it with sesame salt or cooking it with a variety of beans for an even more flavorful experience. The restaurant is a go-to spot for sticky rice lovers who want a hearty, delicious breakfast to start their day full of energy. The fried onions are crispy and fragrant, without being greasy, and the accompanying pickled vegetables provide a perfect balance to the meal. The prices are very reasonable considering the quality of the food. It’s a popular spot, so make sure to stop by and give it a try!
10. Dried Beef Salad - Nộm Khô Bò Long Vi Dung
In Hanoi, when people mention 'nộm', they immediately think of the famous dried beef salad. Hanoi is home to many places serving this dish, from street vendors to high-end restaurants, but for true food lovers, Nộm Khô Bò Long Vi Dung on Hồ Hoàn Kiếm Street is an undisputed favorite. Known for its long-standing reputation, this location is always bustling with customers.
The dried beef salad at Nộm Khô Bò Long Vi Dung is a hearty plate, filled with shredded papaya, aromatic herbs, and an abundance of beef: pieces of dried beef, thinly sliced boiled beef, beef tendons, fried stomach, and crispy beef liver. All the ingredients are perfectly mixed together with a tangy-sweet dressing, making each bite burst with flavor. This spot is popular with both locals and tourists alike, and it's no surprise why—the crispy papaya, crunchy peanuts, and tender dried beef blend together beautifully with the sweet-and-sour dressing. In addition to the salad, the restaurant also offers roasted pigeon, fried sour pork, and other tasty snacks. Grab your friends and head over to enjoy the delicious offerings!
11. Hot Rolled Rice Pancakes - Bếp Tuệ An
Hot rolled rice pancakes are a beloved traditional dish in Vietnam, known for their simplicity and deliciousness. A plate of these pancakes, served hot with grilled pork, fried spring rolls, or meat, paired with dipping sauce and fresh herbs, has become a signature of Vietnamese cuisine. Bếp Tuệ An is a popular spot for enjoying this dish in Hanoi. The focus here is on the flavors, with a humble approach to presentation. The pancake wrapper is soft and tender, filled with fragrant minced pork and crunchy wood ear mushrooms. Dip it into a bowl of sweet and sour fish sauce for the perfect balance. What makes this place stand out is its affordable prices, making it a great choice for students and anyone seeking a satisfying meal. On chilly days, a hot plate of pancakes with aromatic herbs and dipping sauce is the perfect comfort food. If you're in Hanoi, don’t miss a chance to try Bếp Tuệ An, a must-visit spot for true pancake lovers.
