Story: Nguyen Ngoc Tien
Photos: Vu Minh Quan

It’s well known that Hanoi’s cuisine boasts a rich history. Despite sharing many dishes with other regions, Hanoi has its own unique delicacies that stand out.

Bun cha

Hanoi’s culinary offerings span a wide spectrum, ranging from humble street food to intricate dishes served in upscale restaurants. People from far and wide come to this city, bringing familiar flavors from their hometowns, which local vendors skillfully transform into delightful and renowned delicacies.

Many agree that bun cha and pho are a quintessential pair that represents the capital’s culinary identity. Once confined to street stalls, these dishes have now become staples on the breakfast menus of luxury hotels and are even served to visiting heads of state. Pho, whether made with rare beef, brisket, fatty flank, or Hanoi-style chicken, has found its way to many corners of the globe. After more than half a century of frequenting Hanoi’s eateries, my memories of pho are unforgettable, especially during the tough subsidy period, when just the aroma of pho would lead my feet to the nearest street stall.

Banh ran

Thang Long – Hanoi is the oldest capital in Vietnamese history, so it is no surprise that a wealth of ingredients and specialties from various regions have converged here. The culinary scene in this historic city has evolved beyond mere sustenance; it reflects opulence, emphasizing visual appeal through careful presentation and the harmonious combination of flavors. Over generations, new dishes have emerged, influenced by cultural exchanges and growing in complexity, expanding the list of “Hanoi delicacies” to include bun thang, bun oc nguoi, xoi xeo, banh ran luc lac, egg coffee, nem ran, and more. Today, Hanoi’s rich and distinctive culinary foundation has become a cultural hallmark, attracting travelers from all directions.

Visiting Hanoi, especially this autumn during the 70th anniversary of the capital’s liberation, offers not only the chance to explore the city’s streets and admire historic and cultural sites but also the opportunity to savor a variety of simple yet delicious street foods. Visitors can embark on a journey through Hanoi’s unique culinary landscape. As the saying goes, seeing is believing; accompany Heritage Guide to Hanoi and discover what we mean by “street delicacies”.