Hanoi Street Food Tour: Discover the Flavors of the Old Quarter

Hanoi is a paradise for lovers of street food. The city’s best dishes are found on its bustling sidewalks, where the air is filled with the fragrant aroma of lemongrass, chili, cilantro, and fresh ginger. Beyond the taste, a Hanoi Street Food Tour offers deep insights into the traditions of Vietnamese food culture, from secret family ingredients to the historical origins of northern specialties.

Taste Traditional Appetizers in the Labyrinthine Streets

Your culinary adventure begins by strolling through the maze-like alleys of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. To eat like a local, we start with Nom Kho Bo—a refreshing green papaya salad topped with savory beef jerky. The magic of this dish lies in the crunch of the papaya balanced by a zesty dressing of lime and premium fish sauce.

Following the scent of fragrant steam, we visit a rustic venue specialized in Banh Cuon (steamed rice rolls). Here, you can watch the skilled chefs demonstrate the delicate art of spreading thin layers of rice batter over a steaming cloth—a technique perfected over decades.

Savor the Iconic Bun Cha and Local Desserts

No Hanoi Street Food Tour would be complete without visiting a family-run eatery to enjoy Bun Cha. This quintessential Hanoian meal features rice noodles served with flame-grilled pork patties cooked over hot coals for a smoky finish. This dish famously gained global fame after being enjoyed by world leaders visiting the capital. For a deeper look at the global influence of Vietnamese cuisine, you can explore resources from the James Beard Foundation.

To conclude the journey, we venture down a hidden alley in search of seasonal sweet treats. Whether it is a bowl of colorful Che or a traditional fruit specialty, these desserts provide the perfect end to your gastronomic exploration.

Tour Information & Tips

• Operating Hours: Morning (09:30 – 13:00) or Evening (16:30 – 20:00).

• Capacity: Small groups for an intimate experience (Max 8 pax).

• Inclusions: Expert English-speaking guide, all food and drinks mentioned, and mineral water.

• Traveler Tip: We recommend coming with an empty stomach! Please note that street food venues offer basic facilities to maintain their authentic, local charm.

Check out our Hanoi Private Jeep Tour for more city adventures