From iconic dishes such as Pho and Bun Cha to hidden gems and street food delights, discover the best food in Hanoi Old Quarter. Food exploration in this vibrant neighborhood will eventually bring you to your favorite local eateries. Below is the complete “Where to eat in Hanoi Old Quarter” guide which was thoughtfully researched and compiled by Lily’s Travel. We hope you find this article useful!
Iconic Dishes You Must Try in Hanoi Old Quarter
As one of the havens for foodies, Hanoi’s Old Quarter has a large number of iconic dishes representative of the city’s food heritage. Let’s dive in to see some of the must-try dishes and where to find them.
Where to Find the Best Pho in Hanoi Old Quarter
Pho is Vietnam’s national dish and a must-eat food in Hanoi Old Quarter. The broth is usually made with beef bones and herbs, and the noodles are combined with thinly sliced beef or chicken. To taste authentic Pho Hanoi, the following places can be put into consideration:
Pho Thin (13 Lo Duc)
It’s a high-energy spot, with no frills to the atmosphere but casually inviting. Central to the menu is a signature beef pho that’s rich in flavor and broth, beefy tender, and so good it keeps people coming. The customers could enjoy the generous portions in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
- Address: 13 Lo Duc Street, Pham Dinh Ho Ward, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 50,000 – 100,000
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 8:30 PM
- Why it’s famous: Pho Thin was mentioned in international media such as CNN and Reuters; it’s a Hanoi institution.
Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su
The energy of this place is alive at all times, filled with locals and tourists mingling together. Its popularity ensures a constant hum of conversation and clattering chopsticks add to the cheerful atmosphere. The star, once again, comes in the form of classic beef pho with its clear, slightly golden broth carrying a sensation of authenticity in every sip.
- Address: 10 Ly Quoc Su Street, Hang Trong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 50,000 – 80,000
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Why it’s famous: Visited by South Korean President Moon Jae-in, Phở 10 Lý Quốc Sư is a testament to its exceptional quality.
Pho Bat Dan
This historic eatery is almost like a time capsule: worn wooden tables and a mass of old photographs covering almost every inch of the wall seem to whisper stories of past decades. The pride of their menu is classic beef pho-clear broth, perfect in the way it balances sweetness against freshness in the noodles. Being rich in heritage and authenticity, this eatery also maintains moderately priced dishes, making it one of the best places to eat in Hanoi Old Quarter.
- Address: 49 Bat Dan Street, Cua Dong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 40,000 – 55,000
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM; 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- Why it’s famous: Featured on CNN, Phở Bát Đàn is one of the oldest pho shops in Hanoi.
Pho Suong
Its signature dish is, of course, the classic beef pho. With tender and flavorful beef and aromatic broth, every bowl feels like a family recipe made with love. It is a restaurant proud of using only top ingredients, guaranteeing the real Vietnamese taste comes out in every single bite. It’s this attention to quality and tradition that makes people return for dinner here over and over again.
- Address: 24B Ngo Trung Yen, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
- Price range: VND 50,000 – 70,000
- Opening hours: 5:30 AM – 11:00 AM; 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM
- Why it’s famous: A Hanoi institution, Phở Sướng is known for its exceptional quality.
Pho Vui 25 Hang Giay
This lively, bustling restaurant fills with the hum of people’s chatter, making for a warm and friendly atmosphere. The vibrant energy here is contagious, just perfect for devouring a hearty meal. What really makes this place stand out is how many options it has for pho; in fact, it is for all tastes without sacrificing quality. With all of the different kinds you could get, their prices remain reasonable, earning it a favorite not just among longtime pho lovers but among newcomers, too.
- Address: 25 Hang Giay Street, Hang Buom Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
- Price range: VND 40,000 – 55,000
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM
- Why it’s famous: It is a favorite for lovers of pho; they love the broth and the amount of herbs.
Pho Hanh Lan Ong
This casual eatery gives off a casual charm with its relaxed ambiance, welcoming anyone for a comfortable and leisurely meal. Chicken pho is the highlight of the restaurant, which boasts a special and savory sauce that gives the otherwise very common pho dish a startling kick. Besides pho, there’s a wide array of chicken dishes offered, all prepared just as carefully and tasty. This is an affordable treat that one easily indulges in without breaking the bank, attracting a loyal following of regular customers in search of variety and value with every visit.
- Address: 65 Lan Ong Street, Hang Bo Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
- Price range: VND 35,000 – 60,000
- Opening hours: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Why it’s famous: The special and delicious option for those who prefer chicken pho.
Additional Tips:
- The atmosphere, service, and other menu items that they offer are some of the characteristics that will help you decide which pho restaurant to select.
- Diversity in pho: it also includes Pho Tai, which is rare beef; Pho Chin, which is well-done beef; and Pho Ga, which is chicken pho.
- Herbs, chili, lime, and bean sprouts are some condiments that must not be forgotten to add to your pho.
- Check online reviews: This will give you a feel of what other people think about the place.
Bun Cha – A Local Favorite Not to Miss
Don’t know what to eat in Hanoi Old Quarter? Then, Bun Cha will be one of your answers: grilled pork patties are served with rice vermicelli noodles and herbs and sweet-and-sour dipping sauce.
Bun Cha Cua Dong
This casual, local restaurant has a traditional atmosphere, where to focus is on the food. The signature bun cha consists of succulent grilled pork, vermicelli noodles, and sweet and tangy dipping sauce-all perfectly balanced. Not to be forgotten, you must have chả xương sông, a must-have pork sausage wrapped in crispy pork rind for adding that extra kick to the menu. After all, they serve the best food in Hanoi Old Quarter.
- Address: 41 Cua Dong Street, Hang Bo Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 55,000 – 65,000
- Opening hours: 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Bun Cha Ngo 74 Hang Quat
Situated in a narrow alley, this small restaurant provides intimate dining. Their signature bun cha stands out: well-grilled pork and a dipping sauce full of flavor. It is always crowded as it has a good reputation, not only with local diners but also tourists who want to try this food gem.
- Address: 74 Hang Quat Street, Hang Gai Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 60,000 – 95,000
- Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Bun Cha Ta
Fresh and modern, this place has a spacious, clean restaurant that is indeed the modern vibe for dining. Their outstanding dishes included bun cha, which is grilled pork with scads of things on the side that you use to complement it. But the interesting one is chả xương sông, which is grilled on bamboo skewers; just that distinctive touch really added to the flavor.
- Address: 21 Nguyen Huu Huan Street, Ly Thai To Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 25,000 – 50,000
- Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Bun Cha Bat Su
This casual restaurant is easily accessible and features bun cha with nem cua be, or crab spring rolls. This is a combination that promises the best street food in Hanoi Old Quarter ever. This restaurant is also lauded for offering quite a value for money, making it a decent option to look for when you intend to have a full meal without breaking the bank.
- Address: 23 Bat Su Street, Hang Bo Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 40,000 – 60,000
- Opening hours: All day
Dac Kim
This small spot is filled with character and oozing with history; it gives you a real taste of the past. The bun cha is great, and the grilled pork is excellent, as well as the rich, flavorsome dipping sauce. Being one of the oldest restaurants for bun cha, it actually testifies to time-honored culinary excellence that lures patrons for a truly mouth-watering journey to savor tradition and taste with every single bite.
- Address: 1 Hang Manh Street, Hang Gai Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 45,000 – 65,000
- Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Hung Lau
This casual restaurant specializes in bun cha, with a slightly sweeter dipping sauce. Locals love it because the flavors are always just delicious and the atmosphere is relaxed. It is a favorite in the community for how perfectly this dish is prepared here.
- Address: 6 Ngo Tram Street, Hang Bong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 50,000 – 60,000
- Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 3:30 AM
Bun Cha Chi Lan
It is small and rustic, run by a sweet family, creating a cozy atmosphere. The main star is their bun cha with perfectly tender grilled pork, served with a montage of sides. Each meal is cooked to taste, just like it’s home-cooked, so dining here is always comfortable and personal.
- Address: 6 Chuong Duong Do Street, Chuong Duong Do Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 30,000 – 40,000
- Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Bun Cha and Nom
It is a casual restaurant that is well-placed for easy access and has the reputation for serving bun cha with a fresh beef salad accompaniment. A really nice balance of flavors and textures, hence a pretty satisfying meal.
- Address: 43 Hang Buom Street, Hang Buom Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 25,000 – 35,000
- Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Bun Cha Hang Khoai
Although it is a small, local place to dine at, the traditional ambiance is cozy for any meal. The bun cha here shines with perfectly grilled pork and a dipping sauce full of flavor. It has an authentic atmosphere with well-crafted dishes, which makes it cherished for those who want to try the real taste of locals.
- Address: 48 Hang Khoai Street, Dong Xuan Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 15,000 – 45,000
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Bun Dau Mam Tom – A Must-try in Hanoi
Bun Dau Mam Tom is one of the special dishes of Vietnam and the best food in Hanoi Old Quarter. It is made with fermented shrimp paste combined with fried tofu and vermicelli noodles. It is definitely going to provide an experience that is just so fascinating, almost smell-relishing.
Bun Dau Mam Tom Co Hoa 25 Au Trieu
This is a classic, no-frills-eating house that captures the real local vibe. The signature bun dau mam tom is topped with cha com and cha gio. Fresh ingredients combined with pungent, flavorful mam tom (fermented shrimp paste) make this a must-stop for authentic Hanoi Old Quarter street food.
- Address: 25 Au Trieu Street, Hang Trong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 40,000 – 70,000
- Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Bun Dau Trung Huong Ngo Phat Loc
This restaurant is small and local, tucked down a little alleyway, carrying an intimate and cozy atmosphere. Specializing in bun dau mam tom, each dish served to customers comes with fresh vegetables, well-tasting mam tom, and authentic taste locals prefer for the real taste in each bite.
- Address: 49 Ngo Phat Loc, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 50,000 – 80,000
- Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Bun Dau Viet Hang Khay
This modern, clean restaurant has a friendly atmosphere for enjoying your meal. The signature bun dau mam tom is served with numerous toppings: nem (spring rolls) and chank gio, to name a few. With a range of bun dau options, this joint is more popular for those who are looking for something new regarding the traditional dish.
- Address: 31 Hang Khay Street, Trang Tien Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 30,000 – 50,000
- Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Bun Dau Goc Da Hoan Kiem
The restaurant has ample space, with indoor and outdoor sitting areas, thus allowing flexibility and comfort. Although noted for generous serving portions, this restaurant offers free mint candy, adding a touch to the meal.
- Address: 4 Ngo Gach, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 50,000 – 110,000
- Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Bun Dau Yen Hoan Kiem
This famous local restaurant is widely popular among diners for its authenticity. Fresh and homemade nem can be included in the specialty bun dau mam tom, which is a real Old Quarter Hanoi food. The prestige of this restaurant has been built by using nothing but fresh ingredients in its dishes to bring out the real flavors. Thus, people come back for more and more.
- Address: 1C Ngo Tram, Cua Dong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 35,000 – 60,000
- Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Bun Dau Ngo Trang Tien
This is a casual street-side eatery with a very relaxed atmosphere to enjoy your meal. Specialty bun dau mam tom comes served with an assortment of toppings and richly flavored mam from small portions to full meals for those wanting a snack or even a full meal, suiting every diner’s needs.
- Address: 2 Ngo Trang Tien, Trang Tien Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 35,000 – 40,000
- Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Bun Dau Ma May
This busy local restaurant will surely impress, especially those in search of authentic Hanoi Old Quarter food. The signature bun dau mam tom here is elevated by its bold and flavorful mam tom, capturing the essence of traditional flavors so well. It is one of those restaurants known for the friendly service they offer, having a warm environment coupled with the real taste of food; thus, it’s popular among regulars.
- Address: 6 Ma May Street, Hang Buom Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 40,000 – 60,000
- Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Bun Thang Hanoi at Local Point of View
Bun Thang is a Hanoi specialty made of vermicelli noodles in light broth topped with shrimp, shredded chicken, and mushrooms. Lily’s Travel already has a comprehensive article providing you with a complete Bun Thang guide; check it out here. Don’t mis this best food in Hanoi Old Quarter in you visit!
Enjoy Cha Ca La Vong at Local Eateries
Cha Ca La Vong is one of the most famous Vietnamese dishes and is also widely known around Hanoi. It is a fish dish that has traditionally been made with catfish and then worked in a marinade made up of various spices such as turmeric, ginger, and chili peppers. Here are some of the best addresses for delicious Cha Ca La Vong taste:
14 Pho Cha Ca Hanoi
This is a traditional, historic restaurant that is quite nostalgic; it takes people back in time. Cha Ca La Vong serves its signature dish from a secret family recipe that has passed down the test of time. Being the birthplace of this iconic dish, the experience will be real and unforgettable; thus, it should be on the list of every person who seeks to taste history.
- Address: 14 Cha Ca Street, Hang Bo Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 350,000 per serving
- Opening hours: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Cha Ca Ha Thanh
These contemporary restaurants have a fresh modern feel inside their walls, blending style and comfort for diners. Cha Ca La Vong is made with the freshest fish to give a full flavor that will satisfy an individual’s appetite. Having several branches around Hanoi offers their visitors a higher chance to enjoy the street food Hanoi Old Quarter.
- Locations: 32 Nguyen Van Huyen, Cau Giay; 12 Huynh Thuc Khang, Ba Dinh; 67 Pho Duc Chinh, Ba Dinh.
- Price range: VND 180,000 – 250,000 per person
- Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Cha Ca Thang Long
This traditional restaurant encompasses all the classic charms of Hanoi in its warmth and welcoming atmosphere. Famed for its generous portions, the restaurant has received accolades for serving it right with full-on Hanoi flavors. It is highly preferred by both locals and tourists visiting this city.
- Address: 19-21-31 Duong Thanh Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 150,000 – 170,000 per person
- Opening hours: 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM and 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Vua Cha Ca
These restaurants are clean, modern eateries with the right environment to have one’s meal in comfort. The fish is fresh and prepared according to a secret recipe for Cha Ca La Vong that maintains the original tradition with a touch of modernity. This restaurant offers a modern take on this traditional dish and therefore caters to those who are seeking an authentic experience and those who are looking for something new.
- Address: 26C Tran Hung Dao, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 150,000 per serving
- Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Cha Ca La Vong Chi Be
From here, you could have the best view, with this modern restaurant serving one of the traditional Vietnamese delicacies, Cha Ca La Vong, made of fresh fish and different herbs. Its interior is spaciously inviting in style for a meal in comfort.
- Address: 4th floor, 19 Phan Boi Chau, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 120,000 per serving
- Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Cha Ca La Vong Phan – Ha Hoi
A very casual restaurant in the heart of the Old Quarter of Hanoi has a local atmosphere and serves delicious Cha Ca La Vong, the best food in Hanoi Old Quarter; a big dish with huge portions of fish and flavored dipping sauce.
- Address: 20 Xom Ha Hoi, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 100,000 – 200,000 per serving
- Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Toan Thang
Cha Ca La Vong is made of the best quality ingredients in a modern setting offering food with a view over the Red River. Rich surroundings combined with a great view make this restaurant a unique experience.
- Address: 445 Bach Dang Street, Chuong Duong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 150,000 – 300,000 per serving
- Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
The Best Places to Enjoy Egg Coffee in Hanoi Old Quarter
Hanoi is known for its egg coffee, a unique drink made with coffee, egg yolk, and condensed milk. Here are some of the most famous cafe that are highly recommended by the locals:
Lermalermer
Lermalermer is the little coffee shop tucked away in the quiet alley offering creative twists to the much-appreciated egg coffee. You can enjoy creamy and flavorful cups of coffee with a slight hint of rum for an utterly memorable experience. The views are peaceful and intimate, and the beautiful interior design creates just the right escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
- Address: 16 Ngo Yen The, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 45,000 – 50,000
- Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Giang Cafe
The Giang Cafe, known as the birthplace of the famous Vietnamese egg coffee, is indeed a real-deal experience. Sipping a rich, creamy cup of coffee with a touch of sugar is already being made according to the very old recipe. This historic cafe has to be included on any list of a coffee aficionado for the reason of its traditional feel inside.
- Address: 39 Nguyen Huu Huan Street, Ly Thai To Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 25,000 – 50,000
- Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Blackbird Coffee
Blackbird Coffee gives a modern twist to conventional egg coffee; beautifully presented and unparalleled in flavor, it gives a new meaning to this iconic Vietnamese beverage. This stylish place boasts a minimalistic design, making it cozy.
- Address: 5 Chan Cam Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 60,000 – 65,000
- Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Yen Cafe
Yen Cafe is a traditional Vietnamese coffee shop that sells everything, from a cup of fresh coffee to different kinds of salty breakfast dishes. Begin with the famous egg coffee, fragrant and smooth, made of high-quality Arabica. Mellow surroundings place this spot on the list of recommended places to enjoy your coffee in peace.
- Address: Quan Thanh Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 35,000 – 45,000
- Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
All Day Coffee
All Day Coffee transformed this simple drink into something special, offering far-out variations like coconut milk egg coffee and cold egg coffee, creatively reimagining this Vietnamese icon. The spacious and modern cafe exudes a unique design with a stylish, inviting atmosphere.
- Address: 37 Quang Trung Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 65,000 – 75,000
- Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Neo Cafe
Neo Cafe is one of the favorite options for both locals and tourists serving an exquisite experience of egg coffee. Savor the richness and creaminess of the drink with an impeccably balanced flavor profile. The modern and chic interior of this trendy cafe welcomes coffee aficionados.
- Address: 47 Nguyen Du Street, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi.
- Price range: VND 40,000 – 45,000
- Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Street Food Tour of Hanoi Old Quarter – What You Should Know
Discover Hanoi with an amazing Hanoi Old Quarter food tour. Generally speaking, all kinds of street food dishes cost from cheap to moderate prices, and you can experience different kinds of grilled skewers or spring rolls that will satisfy your appetite. Some of the street foods include late night food Hanoi Old Quarter that you should not miss:
- Banh Mi: Vietnamese-style baguette sandwich with so many types of fillings
- Nem Ran: Fried spring roll
- Goi Cuon: Fresh spring roll
- Che: Sweet soup desserts
- Xoi: Sticky rice with some toppings
When consuming street foods, you should be cautious and choose vendors that are clean and reputable.
Read more: What Makes Quan Su Pagoda Special?
Local Market Bites – Sampling Traditional Foods in Hanoi’s Markets
Hanoi’s culture and food can be tasted in its markets. Fresh vegetables, meat, seafood, and prepared food are sold at every little available space. Following is a rundown of a portion of the most well-known business sectors of Hanoi’s Old Quarter:
Dong Xuan Market
Dong Xuan Market is an ancient commercial and cultural hub, a manifestation of Vietnamese life in vivid color and action. Dating back to 1889, this busy marketplace has certainly stood the test of time, changing into a very effective cultural icon without losing its traditionality.
- Historical value: The market in Hanoi is one of the oldest ones; it very strongly points out the rich history of the city and its architectural heritage.
- Diverse offerings-from fruits and vegetables to textiles, from handicrafts to souvenirs-cater for almost all tastes and needs.
- Gastronomic Delights: Snacks of bánh mì and substantial phở-the foodie dreamland continues with a taste from every street food vendor.
Insider’s Tip: Visit very early in the morning to see the market at its busiest and most authentic.
Long Bien Market
A Nighttime Feast for the Senses Long Bien Market is an original, unforgettable experience hidden beneath the iconic Long Bien Bridge. The night transforms the place into an operating center.
- Seafood: Long Bien Market is taken over by the abundance of fresh seafood, which is any seafood lover’s dream.
- Local specialties: A set of regional specialties and unusual ingredients which can hardly be found elsewhere.
- Lively atmosphere: You get to experience the way of life among the people by interacting with very friendly vendors and everyday activities.
Tips: A reusable bag should be carried to cut down on plastic waste and promote sustainable usage.
Read more: Hotels in Hanoi Old Quarter: Your Guide to the Best Accommodations
Hang Be Market
A dream for food lovers, A Culinary Journey Through Hanoi Hang Be Market is just a treat with its array of traditional Vietnamese dishes. The freshness and authenticity of the ingredients and flavors make this market very famous among locals and tourists alike.
- Street Food Heaven: Try street food delicacies like bánh cuốn, bún chả, and nem nướng.
- Local delicacies: A wide range of local specialties that are not readily available elsewhere outside of Hanoi.
- Quick and affordable food: Enjoy a delicious meal in a vibrant, lively atmosphere.
Tip: If you can, try to go at off-peak times so that you can beat the crowds and eat in a more leisurely manner.
Hanoi Old Quarter comprises many iconic dishes and some culinary secrets that may take one aback. From well-known dishes such as Pho and Bun Cha to the unique Bun Dau Mam Tom and Cha Ca La Vong, there is something to satisfy every palate. A foodie or just a curious traveler, you’re going to have a blast exploring the best food in Hanoi Old Quarter. Now, book a tour from Lily’s Travel, pack your bag, and get ready to enjoy the vibrant culinary scene of Hanoi!
