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Discover Local in Hanoi

Traditional Vietnamese desserts often contain nuts, beans and coconut milk, served hot or cold to match the seasons. Many of them originate from rural communities, where people used ingredients like rice, coconut, mung beans and tropical fruits. Over time, these evolved into desserts that are now enjoyed across Vietnam. 

Some desserts, like “chè” (a sweet soup or pudding), are served during family gatherings or festivals, with each region adding its own twist. Others, like “bánh chuối” (banana cake) or “chè ba màu” (three-colour dessert), often carry meanings tied to prosperity or good fortune. 

Che Thap Cam 1976 is a longstanding dessert shop with dozens of variations of sweet soups. Choose your toppings and settle onto a simple stool to enjoy this filling dessert.

Traditional Vietnamese desserts at Che Thap Cam 1976

This humble wartime dish traces its roots to the mid-20th century. It was invented by a family that lived in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, whose home was used as a secret meeting place for fighters. The dish proved so popular that the street their house was on was eventually renamed Cha Ca Street.  

It’s made with chunks of snakehead fish or catfish, which are marinated and charcoal-grilled. They’re then transferred onto a cast-iron skillet and brought sizzling to your table, where you can add the herbs and choose how crispy you want the fish to be. It’s served with noodles, peanuts and shrimp paste.

For the real thing, head to Cha Ca La Vong in the Old Quarter, based in the home where the dish was invented. If the tiny eatery is packed, don’t worry. You’ll find lots of other restaurants nearby serving the same dish – just follow the delicious aroma.

Try herby grilled fish at Cha Ca La Vong

Bun cha features charcoal-grilled pork slices and patties served with rice noodles. There’s also a savoury fish sauce dip and plenty of fresh herbs. You can trace the roots of bun cha back to the streets of 20th-century Hanoi, and to the Old Quarter in particular, where street vendors perfected their recipes over the years. The dish gained international fame when former US President Obama enjoyed it with celebrity chef and author Anthony Bourdain back in 2016 – making it even more popular among visitors.

At 33 Hang Giay road, you’ll find a typical, no-frills eatery with a bustling atmosphere. You can also stop by Bun Cha Tuyet at 34 Hang Than street or Bun Cha Dac Kim at 1 Hang Manh street. Both places are favourites among locals and serve up fantastic versions of this traditional dish.

Discover bun cha noodles on Hang Giay road

A classic bowl of pho is made of rice noodles in a beef broth, topped with thin slices of beef and crunchy veggies. These delicious noodles can be eaten at any time of day, from breakfast through to a late-night supper. 

Located at 49 Bat Dan Street, Pho Gia Truyen has been serving delicious pho since the 1960s, and is a beloved Hanoi institution. What makes it special? The option to add crispy fried dough sticks and a golden egg yolk for an extra treat. These additions bring a nice crunch and creaminess to the dish. The restaurant's atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with locals often lining up outside for a bowl of their favourite pho.

Dive into a bowl of pho noodles at Pho Gia Truyen

This dish, often enjoyed as a street food staple, has deep roots in Vietnamese culture. It originated as a simple meal enjoyed in northern Vietnam. Over time, it has evolved with various regional variations. Some versions include additional proteins like boiled pork or fried spring rolls. Modern versions add pork, rice nuggets and more. 

The shrimp paste, known as "mam tom", has a bold and pungent taste that may seem intimidating at first, but it’s what makes this dish truly special. You'll find that each bite offers a wonderful mix of textures and flavours, especially when combined with fresh herbs. At Trung Huong, expect a no-frills, down-to-earth setting to match the dish. You can also find these classic noodles at street stalls across Hanoi.

Taste bun dau mam tom noodles at Trung Huong

Founded in 2007, this popular chain started on Trieu Viet Vuong Street in Hanoi and has since expanded to over 50 locations, including branches beyond Vietnam's border. The design pays homage to the country's past, featuring vintage decor, including propaganda posters and retro furniture reminiscent of the post-war era.

The clientele ranges from locals enjoying a casual catch-up to tourists on the lookout for an authentic taste of Vietnamese culture. We recommend trying the café's signature drinks like the creamy coconut coffee and various smoothies, all of which offer a delightful twist on traditional flavours. Take your pick, then find a spot on the terrace or balcony and watch the world go by.

Discover Local in Hanoi

Try herby grilled fish at Cha Ca La Vong

Step into Cong Caphe for a retro coffee experience

Taste bun dau mam tom noodles at Trung Huong

Discover bun cha noodles on Hang Giay road

Traditional Vietnamese desserts at Che Thap Cam 1976

Dive into a bowl of pho noodles at Pho Gia Truyen