Top 11 Must-Try Dishes at Ngo Si Lien Secondary School in Hanoi

Surrounding Ngo Si Lien Secondary School is a world of salads, and one of the most renowned salad shops is Mai Nga's Salad. This place is a nostalgic memory for many generations of Hanoi students, especially those near the school. Everyone in this area knows Ms. Nga.

With a long-standing reputation, the shop has become iconic for its unique salad flavor. The dish features a fresh, tangy mix of ingredients, including aromatic dried beef, various cow organs, and a sweet-and-sour dressing that perfectly complements the crunchy texture. The highlight of Mai Nga's Salad is the dipping sauce and the salad dressing itself, which makes anyone who tries it hooked. The shop offers traditional salad varieties like sour fermented sausage salad, cow organs salad, quail salad, and mixed salad. The prices are very affordable since the shop mainly caters to students. Besides salads, they also serve delicious tapioca cakes. Don't miss out on visiting 25 Ham Long to try it out.

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 25 Ham Long, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Phone: 0382 756 696 & 0855 988 555
Email: [email protected]

Opening Hours: 10:00 - 21:00

When we think of buffets, we usually picture hotel breakfasts or elegant snack spreads at events. Few people know about the unique 'sidewalk buffet' in the heart of Hanoi. Located right at the corner of Ham Long – Pho Hue street, opposite Ham Long Church, this small dessert stand doesn’t have a large space; it’s simply a corner spot with a small table stacked with various dessert ingredients and a row of plastic chairs. Visitors can grab a cup and freely choose the ingredients to create their own personalized dessert. Since the 80s and 90s, Giang Son Self-Serve Dessert has been one of the first spots to offer this concept in Hanoi. There are separate bowls filled with different types of desserts—tapioca pearls, jelly cubes, shredded coconut, pomelo dessert, green bean soup, red bean soup, banana dessert, and more. Guests can mix and match to make a colorful and delightful treat.

Giang Son Self-Serve Dessert has become popular for giving people the freedom to make their own dessert, whether they prefer a cup with little ice or loaded with ingredients of their choice. You can choose from corn, sweet potatoes, green beans, black beans, pomegranate seeds, tapioca pearls, basil seeds, and various types of jelly. The stand typically operates in the afternoon, with a friendly owner who helps guide customers on how to combine the ingredients for the best tasting dessert.

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: Alley 18 Ham Long, Phan Chu Trinh, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Phone: 0856 161 914
Opening Hours: 07:00 - 22:00

For students, the most convenient snacks are often sandwiches, such as egg sandwiches or pâté sandwiches—foods that have become quite familiar. However, if you visit Tasty Toasty near Ngo Si Lien Secondary School, you'll be introduced to a whole new way of enjoying sandwiches. The 'Toasty Blanket Bread' is bound to spark curiosity and leave you wanting to try it. The name comes from the unique and appealing appearance of the sandwich. Made with soft bread, the sandwich is filled with minced beef, sausage, or bacon, depending on your preference.

The outside of the bread is topped with a thin layer of cheese, which is toasted just enough to melt and envelop the sandwich. While it’s not much different from a regular sandwich, the visual appeal and irresistible taste make it stand out. The softness of the bread, the savory fillings, and the creamy cheese blend together to create a perfect bite. In addition to the famous Toasty Blanket Bread, the shop also offers cheese hotdog sandwiches, grilled beef sandwiches, smoked meat sandwiches, and various types of noodle dishes. Cheese lovers will definitely enjoy a visit to Tasty Toasty.

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 31 Ham Long, Hang Bai, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Phone: 0795 075 830
Email: [email protected]
Fanpage: www.facebook.com/tastytoastyvn/
Opening Hours: 06:30 - 19:00

The grilled skewers served on the sidewalk, with their rich, savory flavor and mouthwatering aroma, are a favorite among students. The Grilled Skewers stand at the entrance of Alley 18 Ham Long is a familiar spot for Ngo Si Lien students after school. Located right at the entrance of the alley, opposite Ham Long Church, it’s easy to find. The vendor is always friendly and welcoming.

Watching the skewers sizzling golden brown over the hot charcoal is enough to make anyone hungry. These skewers are made by threading square pieces of pork onto bamboo sticks. The pork is marinated perfectly and grilled to keep its natural sweetness intact. If you enjoy fatty cuts, be sure to ask the vendor to pick a skewer with a balance of lean and fatty meat—this combination gives you a rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience. The fat gets slightly crispy, adding a nice texture. The skewers are so addictive that you can’t stop at just one. The shop’s extremely spicy dipping sauce pairs perfectly with the sweet flavor of the pork. The skewers are small—about two-thirds the size of regular skewers—but are just the right portion. You can also order a baguette to go with it for a more filling meal. Many students, busy with group study sessions or extra lessons, stop by to grab a couple of skewers and a baguette for a quick, satisfying snack.

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 18 Ham Long, Phan Chu Trinh, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Phone: 0799 059 382
Opening Hours: 16:00 - 19:00

One of the must-visit snail spots in Hanoi is Oanh's Snails, located opposite Ham Long Church. The shop's setup is on the sidewalk, where you can enjoy the food while sitting under the shade of trees. In middle school, there's no need for fancy bubble teas or expensive cakes—just a handful of delightful memories. After school, stopping by a snail stall is the best way to unwind. This particular shop offers a variety of snails, and the boiled snails are the most student-budget-friendly option. Oanh’s Snails serves both snail varieties like spiral and coconut snails, but the best choice is a mix of both, served with pickled fig, chili, lemongrass, and fragrant kaffir lime leaves. The snails are boiled with lemongrass, infusing them with a lovely aroma. The meat is tender and flavorful. The key to making the boiled snails even more delicious is the dipping sauce—a clever blend of ginger, sweet, and spicy flavors. Alongside the snails, they serve a side of salted figs, which pair perfectly with the dish.

The shop, located in Alley 18 Ham Long, attracts not only Ngo Si Lien students but also plenty of passersby and young locals from Hanoi. In addition to snails, they also serve steamed clams, fried spring rolls, French fries, and other popular street snacks.

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: Alley 18 Ham Long, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Phone: 0776 336 768
Opening Hours: 15:00 - 22:00

One of the summer favorites is undoubtedly the fruit salad. Near Ngo Si Lien School, there is a well-known stall called Bill Gates Fruit Buffet. In the past, fruit buffets were all the rage, and it was easy to find one anywhere. However, it's not that easy to find a spot like this one at 33 Ham Long. The stall is set up on the sidewalk but is very clean and organized. They offer a variety of fruits like red dragon fruit, pineapple, mango, pear, papaya, grapes, and some kiwi, all pre-cut and served in trays. In addition to fruits, they also serve homemade jelly and chewy tapioca pearls.

The biggest plus of this place is the freshness of the ingredients. The homemade tapioca pearls are crunchy and aromatic, while the fruit is constantly replenished, so it's always fresh. The shop owner is friendly and easygoing. You can get creative by mixing and loading up your cup with as much fruit as you like, drizzling it with sweetened condensed milk or coconut milk before digging in. Though some fruits might not be as fresh on certain days, getting a heaping cup of fresh fruit at Bill Gates Fruit Buffet is totally worth it.

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 33 Ham Long, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Opening Hours: 19:00 - 23:00

Bep Quan is a restaurant that embodies traditional Vietnamese charm, from its decor to its food. The restaurant’s design exudes a distinctly Vietnamese aesthetic. The soft, soothing color palette brings an elegant simplicity that still manages to feel warm and welcoming. The wooden furniture, with its dark tones, adds a classic, cozy touch, while the gentle hues of the walls blend harmoniously with the greenery of plants, creating a peaceful atmosphere that evokes nostalgic memories of childhood.

The cuisine at Bep Quan celebrates Vietnam’s culinary traditions, offering everything from humble, everyday dishes to more refined specialties. The food here captures the essence of Vietnamese culture, and every dish is crafted with care to reflect the richness of the country’s heritage. With a menu that embraces the best of traditional Vietnamese cooking, Bep Quan ensures that every guest leaves satisfied. If you’re a fan of authentic Vietnamese food, bring your loved ones to Bep Quan for an unforgettable dining experience!

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Address: 38 Ham Long, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

Phone: 1900 636 932

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://bepquan.vn/

Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/bepquanvn

Opening Hours: 09:00 – 22:00

If you're looking for a European-inspired date night, look no further than Huyen Thu Winecellar & Steakhouse. This renowned restaurant in Hanoi has earned a loyal following for its perfect blend of European charm. The restaurant’s color scheme is dominated by elegant white, warm golden hues, and calming greens, creating a sophisticated yet cozy atmosphere. The addition of red and green accents adds depth and visual interest to the space. The classic European design, combined with soft golden lighting, invites guests to relax and enjoy a romantic dining experience with their loved ones.

One of the unique features of Huyen Thu Winecellar & Steakhouse is its impressive wine cellar, which offers a selection of renowned wines with distinct aromas and flavors. When you visit, you can explore the cellar and taste a variety of wines. Sipping on a glass of fine wine while enjoying the restaurant's exquisite European menu will transport you to the heart of culinary luxury.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Address: 8D Ham Long, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

Phone: 0973 100 688 & 024 3943 0033

Email: [email protected]

Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/huyenthuwinecellar

Opening Hours: 09:00 - 23:00

At Fusion Sushi House, carefully selected ingredients and innovative cooking techniques come together to offer diners a unique fusion of traditional Japanese cuisine with a modern twist. The dishes here are spontaneous yet maintain the timeless elegance of Japanese culinary culture.

A standout dish is the sesame sake carpaccio – an elevated version of sashimi with seared salmon marinated in sesame oil, served with fresh greens, salmon roe, and a signature ponzu sauce. Another must-try is the mochi, soft and chewy with a creamy ice cream filling, paired with matcha sauce and slightly tart strawberries for a perfect finish. A fan favorite, inspired by the alluring elegance of Marilyn Monroe, the Marilyn Moon Roll features a spicy layer of salmon, crispy shrimp, and three delicious sauces, all delicately charred over an open flame, creating a memorable culinary experience.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Address: 37B Van Ho 3, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi

Phone: 0866 898 175 & 0357 020 493

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.fusionsushihouse.com/

Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/fusionsushihouse

Opening Hours: 11:00 - 14:00 | 18:00 - 23:00

Mr. Xoay is a popular spot known for its sizzling sandwiches, sandwich rolls, spaghetti, and especially the soft-boiled egg cake. This dish quickly became a favorite among young people after it was introduced to Vietnam. At Mr. Xoay’s, located across from Ngô Sĩ Liên Middle School, you’ll find a variety of soft-boiled egg cakes that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. The exterior is crispy, while the inside is soft, rich, and full of flavor, offering options like cheese, coconut, Oreo, banana, or even black sesame. The cakes are best enjoyed while hot, as the combination of textures and flavors will leave you hooked.

If you’re looking to satisfy your hunger further, try the sizzling sandwich, which typically includes pate, sausage, fried eggs, and carrots, served with a hearty, crusty bread. You can choose between cooked or runny eggs, according to your taste. What really sets this place apart is the signature sauce – it’s sweet, savory, and pairs perfectly with the bread. Don’t hesitate to ask for extra sauce, as it complements the sandwich beautifully.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Address: 28 Hàm Long, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi

Phone: 024 6294 2332

Fanpage: www.facebook.com/banhmimrxoay/

Opening Hours: 08:00 - 21:30

If you're looking for a famous place to enjoy salad in Hàm Long Alley, look no further than Toan Beo’s Salad. A beloved spot for over 20 years, this eatery has become a favorite among Hanoi's food lovers, especially the younger crowd. The menu here is filled with classic Vietnamese dishes, and one of the standout items is the dried beef salad. It's simple yet incredibly delicious, with ingredients like shredded papaya, carrots, dried beef, pork liver, and roasted peanuts. Despite the straightforward ingredients, the flavors come together perfectly, with the beef being tender and the papaya crunchy and juicy. The secret to its success lies in the tangy, sweet, and spicy dressing that ties it all together.

At Toan Beo’s Salad, the menu offers even more salad options. Besides the traditional favorites, there are unique varieties like heart stalk salad, gizzard salad, vegetarian salad, and tendon salad. If you’re into rolled snacks, try the delicious spring rolls stuffed with fresh vegetables, shredded pork skin, and fermented sausage. The bánh bột lọc (steamed tapioca dumplings) are also a hit, with a thick, chewy outer layer that doesn’t break easily, and a generous filling of tender shrimp and sweet pork that pairs perfectly with a dipping sauce.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Address: 20 Alley 18 Hàm Long, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi

Phone: 0585 861 268

Email: [email protected]

Fanpage: www.facebook.com/NomToanBeo.HamLong

Opening Hours: 10:00 - 21:00