Bowl of Hanoi

There are countless delicious dishes in Hanoi, yet strangely, when it comes to phở, diners tend to become notably pickier. The delicate and sophisticated preparation, along with the mysterious origins of this iconic dish never fails to spark curiosity and passion among foodies.

A significant example of Hanoian culinary arts is bún ốc. This humble dish embodies the delicate harmony of contrasts: rustic yet tasteful, gentle yet bold, which reflects the elegant aspect of Hanoi’s gastronomic spirit.

Bún chả is a must-try when visiting Hanoi. It is so charming that no billboards are needed to grab diners’ attention. Despite being found on every street corners across the city, its best flavors only reveal themselves at just the right time of day.

Another representative of Hanoi’s culinary delights is miến lươn. The unexpected harmony between chewy vermicelli and tender eel may seem contrasting at first, yet it consistently surprises and wins over the hearts of food lovers with its depth and balance.

Known as one of the most intricate dishes in Hanoi cuisine, bún thang is a symphony of more than ten carefully selected ingredients, offering diners a rich tapestry of flavors in a single bowl. Beyond its complex preparation, it also symbolizes the Hanoian spirit: elegant, gentle, yet exquisitely meticulous.

Completing the vibrant mosaic of Hanoi’s street food is a selection of traditional sweet soups (chè xưa). Embracing the essence of the land and seasons in every sticky rice grain and silky spoonful, these sweet treats are more than just snacks, but graceful cultural expressions passed down through generations of Hanoians.