Where to Eat the Best Street Food in Hanoi (From a Local Expat) 

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Introduction: Where to Eat the Best Street Food in Hanoi

If you’re wondering where to eat the best street food in Hanoi, I’ve got you covered. After living here for over seven years, I’ve tried it all—from quick snacks on street corners to popular dishes served in small family-run spots. 

Hanoi is one of Southeast Asia’s street food capitals, and the Old Quarter is where you’ll find most of my recommended street food spots. 

This guide breaks it down for you: the best dishes to try, where to find them, and tips for figuring out Hanoi’s street food scene. 

Whether it’s your first time in the city or you’re looking to try something new, this is the resource you need to make the most of Hanoi’s incredible food scene.

I have a full article on the most popular Hanoi Foods to try when you’re visiting. Definitely give it a read and figure out what you want to try when you are here. 

This article is broken down into the most popular street food in Hanoi based on time of day (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snack, treat). I am sharing two places to try each of these dishes. 

Breakfast Foods

Phở Bò (Beef Noodle Soup)

Phở is Vietnam’s most iconic dish, and Hanoi’s Northern-style version is what you’ll get. The broth is clear, savory, and highlights the natural flavor of beef, with no added sweetness like the Southern style. 

It’s simple, delicious, and served everywhere in Hanoi, from early mornings to late nights (though typically eaten for breakfast). A bowl will cost anywhere from 30,000VND – 70,000VND. 

My Two Top Places for Phở Bò

Phở Tư Lùn Au Trieu 

• Address: 34 P. Ấu Triệu, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm 
• Cost: ~65,000 VND per bowl
• Why It’s Worth Trying: This is, hands down, my favorite bowl of phở bo in the city. Michelin-recommended and a local institution, it’s known for its rich, gingery broth that sets it apart. They’ve been serving incredible phở for years, and it’s always busy—so come early before they sell out. Don’t be intimidated by the crowd; just make eye contact with a staff member, and they’ll sort you out with a seat. This is classic Hanoi phở at its finest.
• Fun Fact: This is one of the few Michelin recommended eateries in Hanoi that I think they got right!
• Google Maps Location

Phở Thìn

• Address: 1 P. Hàng Tre, Lý Thái Tổ, Hoàn Kiếm
• Cost: ~50,000–70,000 VND per bowl
• Why It’s Worth Trying: Phở Thìn is famous for its rich, smoky broth, thanks to the unique addition of stir-fried beef before it’s added to the soup. It’s a bit different from traditional Hanoi-style phở but an absolute must-try for its bold flavor.
• Fun (?) Fact: Recently (June 2024) this place tried to pull the old “give me the wrong change” scam. As soon as I started speaking a bit of Vietnamese to them, they were soooo apologetic and said it was a big mistake. Maybe it was! But also, maybe it wasn’t! Just a little reminder to be aware of your money!
• Google Maps Location

**There are a few Pho Thin restaurants around the city. This is the OG one in the Old Quarter

Phở Gà (Chicken Noodle Soup)

A lighter take on Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup, phở gà is simply Vietnamese chicken noodle soup. Tender chicken is in a fragrant, clear broth, served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lime. It’s simple, comforting, and full of flavor.

My Two Top Places for Phở Ga

Phở Tư Trang Á Trà

• Address: 289 P. Kim Mã, Giảng Võ, Ba Đình
• Cost: ~35,000–65,000 VND per bowl
• Why It’s Worth Trying: This spot serves my favorite phở gà in the city. Made by a Hmong family from Sapa, the standout feature here is the hand-cut noodles—thicker and more satisfying than the usual rice noodles. The chicken is incredibly tender, never chewy, and the broth is clean and flavorful. The restaurant itself is tidy and indoor, making it a comfortable spot to enjoy a traditional bowl of phở. 
• Fun Fact: I have never seen another foreigner here – a Hanoi hidden gem of an eatery!
• Google Maps Location

Phở Gà Nguyệt

• Address: 5b P. Phủ Doãn, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm
• Cost: ~55,000–70,000 VND per bowl
• Why It’s Worth Trying: Famous for both its traditional chicken phở and phở trộn (dry chicken phở without broth), this Michelin-recommended spot offers a simple, clean, and flavorful take on Hanoi’s iconic dish. The tender chicken and unique phở trộn option make it a standout. It’s also become a popular choice for travelers exploring the city.
• Fun Fact: This place is right around the corner from Ly Quoc Su Pho Restaurant. Skip the lines there and come here!
• Google Maps Location

Xôi (Vietnamese Sticky Rice)

Xôi, or Vietnamese sticky rice, is a breakfast staple and a go-to snack. This simple yet versatile dish is made with glutinous rice and topped with everything from dried pork and fried shallots to sesame seeds and peanuts. 

For a more filling version, some spots serve it with extras like pork floss, sweet sausage, or even a fried egg on top. It’s affordable, satisfying, and a true taste of Hanoi mornings. 

If you walk around the streets of Hanoi early in the morning, you will likely see people sitting on stools eating rice out of banana leaves. This is xoi! 

My Two Top Places for Xoi:

Xoi Yen

• Address: 35b P. Nguyễn Hữu Huân, Hàng Bạc, Hoàn Kiếm
• Cost: ~25,000–50,000 VND per portion
• Why It’s Worth Trying: Xôi Yến is a Hanoi institution for sticky rice lovers. Known for its wide selection of toppings, from classic pork floss and fried shallots to more elaborate combinations like eggs and Chinese sausage, this spot offers something for everyone. The portions are generous, and the flavors are perfectly balanced, making it a great choice for a satisfying meal. This was the first place I came for my first bite of Vietnamese food I ate in Hanoi in 2015!
• Fun Fact: Xoi Yen is so popular the place next door also named itself Xoi Yen. Don’t get confused!
• Google Maps Location

Xôi Bàn Thơ

• Address: 546 Đ. La Thành, Giảng Võ, Ba Đình
• Cost: ~35,000++ VND per portion
• Why It’s Worth Trying: The portions are generous, loaded with a variety of toppings. The sticky rice is flavorful, the grilled meat is perfectly seasoned, and the prices are hard to beat. While the hygiene could use some improvement, the laid-back breakfast atmosphere and local charm make it a spot worth checking out—some even say it’s better than the well-known Xôi Yến
• Fun (?) Fact: This is not in the Old Quarter, so it may not be worth seeking out if you’re short on time.
• Google Maps Location

Bánh Cuốn (Vietnamese Rice Rolls)

Bánh cuốn are delicate steamed rice rolls stuffed with a mix of minced pork and mushrooms, served with a side of nuoc cham (Vietnamese fish sauce) for dipping. It’s often topped with crispy shallots and fresh herbs, it’s a light and flavorful breakfast or snack. I LOVE banh cuon, it is my favorite thing to tell people to eat in Hanoi!

My Two Top Places for Banh Cuon

Bánh Cuốn Bà Xuân

• Address: Dốc P. Hoè Nhai, Nguyễn Trung Trực, Ba Đình
• Cost: ~30,000–50,000 VND per serving
• Why It’s Worth Trying: This is a Hanoi institution, loved by locals for decades and recognized by Michelin for good reason. The delicate rice rolls are freshly steamed and filled with perfectly seasoned pork and mushrooms, served with a flavorful fish sauce. No matter what time of day you visit, it’s going to be crowded, but the wait is worth it. Just hang around until a seat opens up—someone is likely to help you if you’re a tourist.
• Fun Fact: try trung bánh cuôn (egg rice roll) which is essentially the same with an egg in the middle
• Google Maps Location

Lunch/Dinner

Bún Chả (Grilled Pork with Rice Noodles)

Bún chả is a Hanoi favorite that pairs smoky, marinated pork patties and slices grilled over charcoal with a tangy dipping sauce, fresh rice noodles, and a mountain of herbs. The combination of rich, savory meat and refreshing sides makes it a well-loved lunch dish that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor. 

You may have heard of bun cha because Anthony Bourdain and Obama famously visited a restaurant in the Old Quarter. 

My Two Top Places for Bun Cha

Bún Chả Hàng Quạt (Secret Bún Chả)

• Address: 74 P. Hàng Quạt, Hàng Gai, Hoàn Kiếm
• Cost: ~50,000 VND for bún chả; ~30,000 VND for fried spring rolls
• Why It’s Worth Trying: Known as “Secret Bún Chả,” this spot might have been a hidden gem once, but it’s no secret anymore. Tucked down a long alley that’s easy to miss, the entrance is now marked by staff calling you in from the street. Once inside, you’ll be greeted by the smell of barbecue pork. While the soup is sometimes lukewarm, the quality of the food and the unique location make it well worth a visit. 
• Fun Fact: This restaurant is actually four separate businesses – one sells the bun cha, one sells spring rolls, one sells tea and the other sells coffee.
• Google Maps Location

Bún Chả Cam Gấu (Bún Chả Under the Bridge)

• Address: 34 P. Hàng Giấy, Hàng Mã, Hoàn Kiếm
• Cost: ~40,000–60,000 VND
• Why It’s Worth Trying: This spot is tucked under a bridge in a cool alley. I think it has the best grilled pork belly in the city. The portions are generous, the meat is freshly grilled in front of you, and the busy atmosphere is as authentic as it gets.
• Fun Fact: They don’t make nem (fried spring roll) which is a typical go-to bun cha side dish! 
• Google Maps Location

Bún Riêu Cua (Crab and Tomato Noodle Soup)

Bún riêu cua is a tangy, flavorful noodle soup made with a crab paste base, tomatoes, and a hint of tamarind for a light yet complex flavor. Topped with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and sometimes fried tofu or pork, it’s a must-try Hanoi specialty. It is pronounced “bun ziyu”. 

I will say that bun rieu is probably one of my favorite soups in Hanoi. I will often choose bun rieu over pho!

My Two Top Places for Bun Rieu

Bún Riêu Cô Hoàn (Hàng Lược)

• Address: 14 P. Hàng Lược, Hàng Mã, Hoàn Kiếm
• Cost: ~50,000–70,000 VND per bowl (depending on toppings)
• Why It’s Worth Trying: This spot offers not just great bún riêu but also a memorable dining experience. The entrance is a tiny door that leads you down a long alley before opening into a spacious dining area. It’s a place frequented by locals, and you’ll rarely spot another foreigner here, making it a truly authentic experience. You can customize your bowl with tofu, meat, egg, shrimp, and more. I recommend going all-in and getting the bowl with everything. The flavors are incredible, and the atmosphere feels genuinely local.
• Fun Fact: I have never seen another foreigner in here
• Google Maps Location

Bún Riêu Tóp Mỡ Mọc Giòn Cô Hương Béo

• Address: 2c P. Tống Duy Tân, Hàng Bông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam
• Cost: ~55,000 VND for the “full topping” version
• Why It’s Worth Trying: This spot serves genuinely good bún riêu with a flavorful and tangy broth that’s refreshing and satisfying. The portions are generous, including a great mix of toppings like fried tofu, pork collagen, meatball, and sausage. It’s clean, tourist-friendly with an English menu, and a perfect choice for an evening meal before heading to Tống Duy Tân Street or Train Street.
• Fun Fact: This is right next to the Phung Hung section of train street – come here before or after seeing the train!
• Google Maps Location

Banh Mi

Bánh mì is a must-try in Vietnam, blending French and Vietnamese flavors into a crusty baguette stuffed with meats like pork or chicken, pickled veggies, fresh herbs, and condiments. 

To be fair, I think that banh mi is better in the Central and Southern regions of Vietnam. But you really cannot go wrong with a banh mi anywhere. 

In Hanoi, the standout is bánh mì pate, with pork liver paste for extra richness. The bread makes all the difference—look for a crispy crust with a light, airy inside. If it’s lacking that crunch, skip it and find one that’s worth the bite!

My Two Top Places for Banh Mi

Bánh Mì Ngọc Thuộc

• Address: 100-C2 Tập thể, 34A P. Trần Phú, Điện Biên, Ba Đình
• Cost: ~30,000–50,000 VND per sandwich
• Why It’s Worth Trying: This isn’t your typical street-side bánh mì spot—it’s a cozy cafe with clean, high-quality sandwiches. The friendly staff, excellent bread, and customizable menu (with English translations) make it a perfect choice for a relaxed meal away from the busy streets.
• Fun Fact: I come to this banh mi shop a lot for more than just banh mi – they do good coffees and salads as well!
• Google Maps Location

Thịt Nướng Quảng Đông Hương Nguyên

• Address: 43A P. Hàng Bè, Hàng Bạc, Hoàn Kiếm
• Cost: ~30,000–50,000 VND per portion
• Why It’s Worth Trying: This spot serves an underrated BBQ pork skewer bánh mì that’s simple yet incredibly satisfying. The pork is fresh, high-quality, and lightly coated with homemade chili sauce. You can enjoy it as a classic bánh mì or order the skewers on a plate without bread. The bread, grilled over coals, adds a smoky touch. Run by a friendly couple, this is authentic Hanoi-style bánh mì at its best.
• Fun Fact: You can get your sandwich to go and walk it down the street to Hoan Kiem Lake and have a little lakeside picnic!
• Google Maps Location

Bún Đậu Mắm Tôm

Bún đậu mắm tôm is a classic northern Vietnamese dish made with vermicelli noodles (bún), fried tofu (đậu), and fermented shrimp paste (mắm tôm). Often served with fresh herbs and vegetables, it’s a simple yet flavorful meal that can be enjoyed any time of day.

The pungent shrimp paste is an acquired taste but pairs surprisingly well with the crispy tofu and soft noodles. If shrimp paste isn’t for you, many spots offer alternatives like fish sauce, chili, and lemon. 

I was very against trying this for awhile. I don’t know why, it took me living in Hanoi a few years before I really appreciated tofu! Once I tried it, I started to really like it! I will say this is NOT a popular street food for tourists in Hanoi, but I think you should try it!

Where to Eat Bun Dau Mam Tam

Bún Đậu Mẹt Tuấn Trọc

• Address: 23 P. Phan Huy Ích, Nguyễn Trung Trực, Ba Đình
• Cost: ~50,000–70,000 VND for a full set
• Why It’s Worth Trying: This local favorite is known for its plentiful portions, high-quality ingredients, and friendly service. The bún đậu special comes loaded with a variety of meats. I like that it is in a casual alleyway setup with low tables and plastic stools makes for an authentic dining experience. It can get busy—expect a 10+ minute wait during peak lunchtime on weekends—but the food is worth it.
• Fun Fact: The owner always remembers me and takes the time to chat about life in Hanoi.
• Google Maps Location

Bún Đậu Cây Đa

• Address: To Be Confirmed (Thụy Khuê Street, near West Lake)
• Cost: ~50,000 VND for a full topping set
• Why It’s Worth Trying: Known for its fresh noodles and crispy fried tofu, this spot offers a satisfying bún đậu experience in a spacious setting. The fish sauce and soybean milk are great additions, and the restaurant is on Thuy Khue street right next to West Lake. 
• Fun Fact: Supposedly, this restaurant was once visited by David Beckham (I cannot confirm this lol)
• Google Maps Location 

Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Crispy Pancakes)

Bánh xèo is a crispy, golden pancake made from rice flour, coconut milk, and turmeric. It’s stuffed with a mix of shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and green onions. The name “bánh xèo” translates to “sizzling cake,” referring to the sound it makes when cooking on a hot pan.

Served with a platter of fresh herbs and lettuce, bánh xèo is best enjoyed by wrapping pieces of the pancake in the greens and dipping them in nuoc cham (Vietnamese fish sauce). It’s a fun, hands-on dish with a perfect balance of crispy, savory, and fresh flavors—definitely a must-try in Hanoi!

I love love love banh xeo! 

Where to Eat Banh Xeo

Quán Nem Lụi – Bánh Xèo Cô Minh 1

• Address: 198, Yên Phụ, Quận Tây Hồ, Thành Phố Hà Nội, Yên Phụ, Tây Hồ
• Cost: ~60,000 VND for a set
• Why It’s Worth Trying: This spot offers an authentic street food bánh xèo experience in Tây Hồ, a neighborhood not usually known for its street food scene. An order the bánh xèo comes with grilled pork skewers for more full meal. The location occasionally shifts along the sidewalk due to construction, but it’s worth tracking down. The food is delicious, the prices are reasonable, and it’s a truly local experience—even if English isn’t spoken. It’s a must-visit if you’re in Tây Hồ!
• Fun Fact: I first discovered this gem back in 2015 while traveling, and it’s still going strong nearly a decade later.
• Google Maps Location

Mr. Bảy Miền Tây – Bánh Xèo

• Address: To Be Confirmed
• Cost: ~70,000–90,000 VND for a set
• Why Go: As one of the most foreigner-friendly bánh xèo spots in Hanoi, this place delivers on both quality and experience. It’s clean, Michelin-recognized, and serves massive portions of perfectly crispy pancakes. The bánh xèo here is hot, crispy, and generously filled with meat, seafood, and bean sprouts. The set includes a huge platter of fresh vegetables and rice paper, making it easy to enjoy the dish the traditional way.
• Fun Fact: The workers speak excellent English and are incredibly helpful—so much so that they’ll even stop you from over-ordering!

Cơm Bình Dân (Street Food Rice)

A lunchtime staple, cơm bình dân translates to “affordable rice” and is a go-to for quick, tasty meals in Hanoi.

At these street food stalls or small restaurants, you’ll find a mini buffet setup with dishes like tomato-sauce tofu, boiled cabbage, chicken, and fish, all served with steamed rice. Just point to what you want, and enjoy a simple meal. Vegetarian-only cơm bình dân spots are also easy to find across the city. 

Where to eat Com Binh Dan

Quán Phở 3 Chị Em (3 Sisters)

• Address: 11 P. Đặng Thai Mai, Quảng An, Tây Hồ
• Cost: ~35,000 VND, depending on portions
• Why It’s Worth Trying: This cozy lunch spot offers a Vietnamese rice buffet with plenty of fresh veggie and tofu options, plus free soup and tea. The relaxed back-garden setting and friendly, homey vibe make it a great value-for-money choice for both expats and locals. The food is consistently good, and the variety caters to vegans and non-vegans alike. Likely open only for lunch, so plan accordingly!
• Fun Fact: I am only recommending one Com Binh Dan because it is the one nearest my house and the one I frequent most. These places tend to be neighborhood haunts, so stroll around near you hotel and see if you can find one! If you see a buffet-esque style street food restaurant you’re in the right place! 
• Google Maps Location

SNACKS

Vietnamese Street Snacks are foods you can pick up and eat on the go, foods that are perfect for satisfying that midday hunger. There are tons of different snacks from different regions around Vietnam. You can learn about 31 Vietnamese Street Snacks in this article. 

For now, I will just highlight a couple of popular snack options to check out whilst you’re exploring Hanoi. 

Phở Cuốn (Fresh Pho Rolls)

Phở cuốn is a meal or snack made by wrapping stir-fried beef, lettuce, and herbs in soft, flat phở noodles. It is basically just another way to eat pho – deconstructed, wrapped up, and without the broth. 

This dish is easy to eat, light yet satisfying, and fun to dip – the perfect mid-day bite. For a truly memorable experience, eat it at a spot near Trúc Bạch Lake. This is supposedly where pho cuon was created. 

Honestly any place in Truc Bach is a great option to eat this dish. 

Phở Cuốn 31

• Address: 31 P. Ngũ Xã, Trúc Bạch, Ba Đình
• Cost: ~50,000–80,000 VND per dish
• Why It’s Worth Trying: The most famous phở cuốn spot on Trúc Bạch, this busy restaurant serves fresh, quickly prepared food with a diverse menu. The highlights are the signature phở cuốn (pho rolls) and they’re also known for their pho pillows (fried pho). While it may not be significantly better than other spots in the area, the location is easy to find, and the food is consistently good.  
• Fun Fact: Visit during off-peak hours for the best experience and least amount of people. 
• Google Maps Location
  

Phở Cuốn Hương Duy

• Address: 71 P. Trúc Bạch, Trúc Bạch, Ba Đình
• Cost: ~40,000–70,000 VND per dish
• Why It’s Worth Trying: For a more local phở cuốn experience, Phở Cuốn Hương Duy is the spot. Unlike the tourist-heavy restaurants nearby, this place feels authentically Vietnamese, and it’s my favorite for its simple, delicious flavors. This is my go-to for phở cuốn and their phở chiên (fried phở), which I highly recommend. 
• Fun Fact: It’s a no-frills spot where you’ll enjoy great food without the crowds or distractions of more touristy places. A hidden gem for those looking to eat like a local!
• Google Maps Location
  

Nộm Đu Đủ (Beef Jerky Papaya Salad)

A classic Hanoi snack made with fresh shredded papaya, carrots, cilantro, herbs, and peanuts, topped with roasted garlic beef jerky.

The first time I ever had bo ko (beef jerky) was my first trip to Hanoi in 2015. I went to a market with a cooking class where we tasted it. I then kept buying bag after bag! It’s sweet it’s savory it’s spicy. Ah, I love it!

The addition of beef jerky sets this papaya salad apart, giving it a savory, smoky kick that balances the freshness of the veggies. This is one of my favorite snacks in Hanoi. It’s light, flavorful, and perfect for when you want something satisfying but not too heavy. It is an awesome middle of the day snack!

Nem Cuốn Cô Hoàn

• Address: 20 P. Hoè Nhai, Nguyễn Trung Trực, Ba Đình, Hà Nội, Vietnam
• Cost: ~30,000 VND for beef salad; ~8,000 VND per spring roll
• Why It’s Worth Trying: A budget-friendly spot for delicious spring rolls and papaya beef salad. The spring rolls are generously packed and served with a flavorful dipping sauce, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.
• Fun Fact: The seating is a bit tight, but you can get it for take-away and bring it to a park! 
• Google Maps Location

Dessert

Vietnamese desserts are all about light, refreshing flavors and creative use of simple ingredients. Popular options include chè, a sweet soup or pudding made with beans, jellies, and coconut milk, often served over ice; bánh flan, a silky caramel custard with a French influence; and kem xôi, a unique dessert featuring sticky rice topped with coconut ice cream. 

Fresh tropical fruits like mango, lychee, and jackfruit also play a big role, often served as-is or incorporated into desserts. These treats are the perfect way to end a meal or cool off on a hot day in Vietnam. There are so so many sweet treats to have in Hanoi, I have a whole article dedicated to the best desserts in Hanoi. These are just a few of my go to sweet treats. 

Che (Vietnamese Sweet Soup)

Chè is a very popular Vietnamese dessert that comes in many forms – from rich puddings to refreshing drinks. It’s made with a variety of ingredients like fruits, beans, seeds, tapioca, and often coconut milk, offering endless combinations to suit every taste.

There are countless ways to enjoy chè, depending on the toppings and even the temperature—some are served warm, while others are icy and refreshing. A few favorites include chè chuối (banana chè), chè trôi nước (soft mochi-like balls stuffed with mung bean), and chè sương sa hạt lựu (rainbow dessert made with jellies, water chestnuts, and coconut milk). 

For a long time I was kind of against che because I wasn’t sure how I felt about the textures of all of the toppings. But in recent years, I have very much grown to like it!

Two Spots I like to go to: 

Chè Yến

• Address: 2RPX+WXC, Ngõ, Chợ, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam
  Cost: ~15,000–30,000 VND per serving
• Why It’s Worth Trying: This little spot down an alley outside of Dong Xuan Market offers a true local chè experience. The owner, stationed behind a table loaded with chè ingredients, is always busy with a flood of take-away orders, but sitting down at her table is part of the fun. You get to customize your dessert by picking from a spread of ingredients, even if there are no English signs or explanations—just point and guess! Served with shaved ice, it’s an ideal sweet treat for hot days.
• Google Maps Location

Chè Bich Beo (Che with Glutinous Rice Balls)

• Address: 80 Hàng Điếu, Cửa Đông, Hoàn Kiếm
• Cost: ~20,000 VND per bowl
• Why It’s Worth Trying: This tiny street food spot specializes in glutinous rice balls stuffed with mung beans and black sesame, served in a warm, sweet ginger soup. It’s a perfect dessert for Hanoi’s colder months. The rice balls have a delicate, thin skin that holds dense, flavorful fillings, perfectly complemented by the gingery soup. The two elderly ladies running the stall are friendly and always rolling rice balls with big smiles (and a cigarette in hand!). With limited seating, it’s literal street food at its best. Don’t miss the red bean soup, another standout option!
• Fun Fact: The first time I ate here, I was trying to take a video and spilled the hot soup all over my lap. The ladies laughed at me and gave me another bowl!
• Google Maps Location

Sữa Chua Dẻo & Sữa Chua Xếp Lớp (Frozen Yogurt Cubes)

Unlike the soft-serve frozen yogurt you might be used to, sữa chua dẻo and sữa chua xếp lớp are uniquely Vietnamese. The yogurt is frozen, cut into cubes, and often layered (xếp lớp) with fruit or toppings.

The texture is creamy and slightly chewy, offering a completely different take on yogurt desserts. It’s refreshing, fun to eat, and a perfect balance of tangy and sweet.
There’s something addictive about the simplicity of these frozen yogurt chunks. It’s a light, cooling treat that I can never get enough of in Hanoi’s warmer months—or honestly, anytime.

Cafe Sam

• Address: 39 P. Đường Thành, Cửa Đông, Hoàn Kiếm
• Cost: ~30,000–50,000 VND, depending on toppings
• Why It’s Worth Trying: This hidden gem offers a street-side experience where you can enjoy coffee, beer, or the standout sữa chua dẻo. It’s tucked just far enough away from the busy streets to feel relaxed while still being part of the busy neighborhood. The sữa chua dẻo here is incredible—you choose your yogurt base, add a flavored syrup, and top it with options like tapioca pearls, coconut, or jellies. It’s refreshing, customizable, and perfect for Hanoi’s warmer days. Plus, sitting on the sidewalk watching the city go by is a quintessential Hanoi experience!
• Google Maps Location

Kem Xôi (Sticky Rice Ice Cream)

Kem xôi is a dessert made with sticky rice, coconut milk, and ice cream, often topped with toasted mung beans. At first you might think it is very strange to eat ice cream and rice together…but it works! 

This treat combines the chewiness of sticky rice with the creamy smoothness of ice cream for a perfect texture contrast.

I love it because It’s light, refreshing, and distinctly Vietnamese—a great way to end a meal or cool off while exploring the city.

My go to Kem Xoi Place is…

Quán Kem Xôi Thu Nga

• Address: 8 P. Hai Bà Trưng, Tràng Tiền, Hoàn Kiếm
• Cost: ~30,000 VND per serving
• Why It’s Worth Trying: This local spot serves a classic kem xôi—vanilla ice cream paired with sticky rice and crunchy dried coconut. Simple yet delicious, it’s a perfect example of Vietnamese dessert culture. It’s a no-frills spot where you can grab a stool outside and enjoy a sweet, refreshing treat. For just 30,000 VND, it’s a great way to cool off and experience a local favorite.
• Google Maps Location
  

Tips for Eating Street Food in Hanoi

In the last decade of eating the street food of Hanoi, I can honestly say I have never been sick from the street food. That being said, I make sure to follow a few rules when I find new places. Here are some tips for eating street food in Hanoi:

1. To get the best street food experience, explore in the early mornings or evenings when the dishes are freshest 
2. Look for vendors that are busy with locals—this usually guarantees good quality and fresh ingredients. 
3. While language barriers might feel intimidating, most vendors are fine with figuring out how to communicate, and pointing works just fine! Some spots even have English menus to help you out. 

Conclusion

Hanoi’s street food scene is more than just a way to eat—it’s an essential part of the city’s culture. From iconic dishes like bún chả and bánh mì to unique desserts like chè and kem xôi, the variety and flavors are unmatched. 

Exploring street food means immersing yourself in the heart of Hanoi, connecting with locals, and experiencing the city through its rich culinary traditions. So, grab a stool, order something new, and savor every bite. 

If you’re hungry for more, check out my detailed guides for specific dishes and neighborhoods to make the most of your Hanoi food adventure!