Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam, is a city that tantalizes the senses year-round with its diverse and delectable cuisine. Each season brings a unique array of flavors and dishes that reflect the changing weather and local ingredients. Embark on a food tour through Hanoi’s four seasons and discover the culinary treasures that await you.
Spring: A Celebration of Fresh Flavors
Chả Cá Lã Vọng (Lã Vọng Grilled Fish)
Spring in Hanoi is the perfect time to indulge in Chả Cá Lã Vọng. This iconic dish features tender pieces of fish marinated in turmeric and galangal, then grilled to perfection. Served with a medley of fresh herbs, rice noodles, and a dipping sauce made from shrimp paste, this dish is a true celebration of Hanoi’s culinary heritage.
Where to Eat: Chả Cá Lã Vọng Restaurant at 14 Chả Cá Street is the birthplace of this dish and a must-visit for an authentic experience.
Bánh Trôi, Bánh Chay (Floating Rice Cake)
Celebrate the arrival of spring with Bánh Trôi and Bánh Chay, traditional Vietnamese sweets enjoyed during the Hàn Thực festival. Bánh Trôi are small, glutinous rice balls filled with palm sugar, while Bánh Chay are similar but served with a sweet mung bean filling and a fragrant jasmine syrup. These delicate treats symbolize the joy and renewal of spring.
Where to Eat: Look for street vendors around the Old Quarter during the Hàn Thực festival in early April.
Bánh Giầy (Round Sticky Rice Cake)
Bánh Giầy is a simple yet meaningful dish enjoyed during spring festivals. These round sticky rice cakes, often paired with Giò Lụa (Vietnamese pork sausage), are a symbol of unity and prosperity. Their chewy texture and subtle flavor make them a delightful snack or accompaniment to other dishes.
Where to Eat: The best Bánh Giầy can be found in Quán Gánh Village, located in the outskirts of Hanoi.
Summer: Refreshing and Cooling Delights
Bún Ốc Nguội (Rice Noodle with Cold Snail)
As the temperatures rise, cool down with Bún Ốc Nguội. This refreshing dish features rice noodles topped with tender snails and a tangy, spicy broth served cold. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a perfect choice for a hot summer day.
Where to Eat: Bún Ốc Nguội Cô Báu at 17/136 Tây Sơn lane is famous for its delicious and refreshing version of this dish.
Kem Tràng Tiền (Tràng Tiền Ice Cream)
No summer food tour in Hanoi is complete without a visit to Kem Tràng Tiền. This iconic ice cream parlor, located near Hoàn Kiếm Lake, has been serving delicious ice cream since 1958. Choose from a variety of flavors, including coconut, green bean, and chocolate, and enjoy a sweet, cooling treat.
Where to Eat: Kem Tràng Tiền at 35 Tràng Tiền Street.
Bún Thang (Ladder Soup)
Bún Thang is a beautifully complex soup that showcases the best of Hanoi’s culinary artistry. Made with chicken, pork, and a variety of herbs and vegetables, this soup is both light and flavorful, making it an ideal dish for summer. The name “bún thang” refers to the ladder-like arrangement of ingredients in the bowl.
Where to Eat: Bún Thang Bà Đức at 48 Cầu Gỗ Street offers an authentic taste of this classic dish.
Fall: Rich and Earthy Flavors
Cốm (Vietnamese Green Rice)
Autumn in Hanoi is synonymous with Cốm, young green rice that is harvested and toasted while still tender. This seasonal delicacy is often enjoyed on its own, as a snack, or used in various dishes, such as sweet rice cakes or stir-fried with other ingredients. The nutty, slightly sweet flavor of Cốm captures the essence of fall.
Where to Eat: The best Cốm comes from Vòng Village, located in the outskirts of Hanoi. You can find it around Hanoi’s old streets during the fall.
Chả Rươi (Sandworm Omelet)
For a truly unique autumn experience, try Chả Rươi. This omelet is made with sandworms, a seasonal delicacy harvested in the Red River Delta. Combined with eggs, dill, and various spices, Chả Rươi offers a rich, savory flavor that is a true taste of Hanoi’s culinary traditions.
Where to Eat: Chả Rươi Hàng Bè at 1 Hàng Bè Street is a popular spot to savor this delicacy.
Bánh Tôm (Fried Shrimp Cake)
Crispy and delicious, Bánh Tôm are fried shrimp cakes that make for a perfect fall snack. Made with shrimp and sweet potato, these golden fritters are best enjoyed hot, dipped in a tangy fish sauce. The combination of textures and flavors makes Bánh Tôm a beloved street food in Hanoi.
Where to Eat: Bánh Tôm Hồ Tây at 1 Thanh Niên Road is renowned for its tasty fried shrimp cakes.
Winter: Warm and Comforting Classics
Cháo Sườn (Pork Bone Congee)
As the weather cools, warm up with a bowl of Cháo Sườn. This hearty congee, made with rice and simmered pork bones, is a comforting dish that is both nourishing and delicious. Topped with green onions, pepper, and sometimes crispy fried dough sticks, Cháo Sườn is a perfect winter meal.
Where to Eat: Cháo Sườn Hàng Bồ at 32 Hàng Bồ Street is famous for its rich and creamy congee.
Bánh Đúc Nóng (Hot Plain Rice Flan)
Bánh Đúc Nóng is a hot, savory rice flan that provides a comforting warmth during the chilly winter months. Made from rice flour and lye water, this dish is often topped with minced pork, wood ear mushrooms, and a flavorful sauce. The soft, silky texture of Bánh Đúc Nóng is sure to warm you from the inside out.
Where to Eat: Bánh Đúc Nóng Lê Ngọc Hân at 8 Lê Ngọc Hân Street offers a delicious version of this winter favorite.
Phở Bò, Phở Gà (Beef Pho, Chicken Pho)
No discussion of Hanoi’s winter cuisine would be complete without mentioning Phở. Whether you prefer Phở Bò (beef pho) or Phở Gà (chicken pho), these steaming bowls of noodle soup are the ultimate comfort food. Rich, aromatic broth, tender meat, and fresh herbs come together to create a dish that warms both body and soul.
Where to Eat:
- Phở Thìn at 13 Lò Đúc Street is renowned for its flavorful beef pho.
- Phở Gà Nguyệt at 5B Phủ Doãn Street is a great spot for a delicious bowl of chicken pho.
Conclusion
A food tour in Hanoi is a journey through the city’s rich culinary traditions, each season offering its own unique flavors and experiences. From the fresh and vibrant dishes of spring to the hearty and comforting meals of winter, Hanoi’s cuisine is a testament to the city’s cultural and culinary diversity. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring Hanoi’s food scene is an adventure that will leave you craving more.
You can contact us for a fascinating food tour through every corner of Hanoi at https://caocaoadventures.com/customized-tour/
For culture buffs looking to dive deeper into Hanoi’s sights, don’t miss our blog, “Hanoi Highlights: Iconic Sites to Explore.” It’s your go-to resource for discovering the city’s rich history and vibrant landmarks.