BEST LOCAL DISHES IN HANOI & HO CHI MINH CITY

BEST LOCAL DISHES IN HANOI & HO CHI MINH CITY

If you're planning a trip to Vietnam, make sure you don't miss out on the incredible cuisine. It's safe to say that you haven't truly experienced a country until you've tasted its specialties, even the more unusual ones. 
Hanoi is famous for its nuanced flavours that have been perfected over generations, while Saigon in the South is known for its innovative approach to traditional dishes. The food choices in Ho Chi Minh City alone are enough to fill a library, and the delicacies found in Hanoi are truly one-of-a-kind. 
Whether you're a seasoned foodie or just looking to try something new, Vietnam has endless delicious options to satisfy your cravings. Every day can be a new food adventure, with so many standout dishes to try. And the best part? These culinary delights are often very affordable. 
So, if you're wondering where to start, Grand Vietnam Tours has compiled a list of must-try dishes that are worth every penny. Get ready to indulge in some of the most delicious food you'll ever taste!

TASTY HANOI STREET FOODS.
When you visit Hanoi, there's an experience you simply can't miss. As you stroll through the Old Quarter, taking in the chill of the north, make sure to stop and sit on one of those iconic blue chairs. From there, you can enjoy the maze-like surroundings and the tantalizing aroma of steaming pots. And don't forget to try whatever the lady serving you recommends - it's sure to be a treat! These moments are truly gifts that you'll remember for a lifetime. So, make sure to check out the dishes on this list and savour every bite. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you!

BUN CHA HANOI.
You're in for a treat with this incredible bowl of minced pork, grilled to perfection over hot coals and served with a delectable salty sauce. The dish is beautifully garnished with fresh herbs and noodles, creating a symphony of flavours that will leave a lasting impression. For those who love a bit of spice, feel free to add extra chilies to enhance the already amazing taste. And here's a little insider tip: if you really want to take your culinary experience to the next level, try adding some Nem cua be (crab spring rolls) as a side dish. Trust me, this combination will linger in your dreams long after you've savoured every last bite.
Recommend:
Bun Cha Huong Lien
Add: 24 Le Van Huu Street, Hanoi
Opening hour: From 08.00 AM – 20.00PM
Price range: From 60.000VND

Bun Cha Tuyet
Add: 34 Hang Than Street, Hanoi
Opening hour: From 08.30 AM – 17.30PM
Price range: From 35.000VND

PHO GANH HANG CHIEU.
Have you heard of the long-standing stall in Hanoi that sells the best signature of Vietnam culinary? It's a staple for generations of locals who crave the authentic taste of Pho Ganh. Unlike the fancy Pho restaurants advertised on travel blogs, this stall offers a simple but flavourful broth filled with thin layers of beef and flawless white noodles. 
Despite its ordinary image, people in Hanoi wouldn't mind waiting in line from 04.30 AM to 9 AM just to grab a bowl of this delicious dish before starting their day. And honestly, who wouldn't want to start their day with a warm bowl of Pho like a true local? 
So, if you're up for an adventure and want to experience the real taste of Hanoi, why not spare your bed of ease and wake up early to try this amazing dish?
Add: 7 Cho Gao Street, Hanoi
Opening hour: From 04.30 AM – 10.30AM
Price range: From 45.000VND

BANH CUON - ROLL CREPES.
Hanoi locals have a special fondness for this delightful native dish, which they often choose for their breakfast alongside the famous Pho. Prepare to be pleasantly surprised by the unique way they create this culinary masterpiece. Picture delicate, paper-thin crepes enveloping a delectable mixture of minced pork, jelly-ear mushroom, and finely chopped onion, all seasoned to perfection. To add even more flavour and texture, some variations of this dish include eschalot, beansprout, and succulent steamed pork.
However, the true essence of this dish lies in its irresistible nuoc cham sauce. This ubiquitous sauce is an essential accompaniment and will be served to you with a sprinkling of fragrant fried onion and fresh cilantro stems. The combination of these aromatic toppings elevates the dish to new heights, tantalizing your taste buds with every bite.
Whether you are a local or a visitor, indulging in this traditional breakfast dish is a must-do in Hanoi. The locals' love for it is evident in the care and attention they put into its preparation. Each bite is a delightful symphony of flavours, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of this vibrant city.
So, if you find yourself in Hanoi, make sure to treat yourself to this exquisite dish. It is a perfect way to start your day, filling you with warmth and satisfaction. And who knows, you might just discover a new favorite breakfast item that will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.
Add: 16 Hoe Nhai Street, Hanoi
Opening hour: From 07.00 AM – 00.30AM
Price range: From 40.000VND

TAO PHO – TOFU.
If you're wandering through the streets of Hanoi, keep an ear out for the sweet sound of a lady calling out about her steaming pots of tofu. This dessert has a special place in the hearts of many Hanoians, reminding them of their childhood. Don't hesitate to give it a try - order a small bowl filled with silky tofu, hot sugar syrup, and delicious puddings. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you as soon as the first spoonful hits your mouth.
Recommend
Add: 28P Quang Trung Street, 
Opening hour: From 10.00 AM – 19.00PM
Price range: From 12.000VND

FRIED SPRING ROLL.
Fried spring rolls are a beloved part of Vietnamese cuisine, and they can be found all over Hanoi. Whether you're dining in a fancy restaurant or grabbing a quick bite on the street, you're bound to come across these delicious treats. Traditionally, fried spring rolls are served with vermicelli and grilled meat balls, creating a satisfying and flavorful combination. However, there are also places that specialize in serving spring rolls alone, each with their own unique secret recipe for the dipping sauce. It's this variety and individuality that makes Vietnamese spring rolls so special.
When people think of Vietnam and Hanoi, it's often the image of these crispy, golden rolls that comes to mind. The combination of crunchy exterior and savory filling is simply irresistible. And let's not forget about that sweet and sour dipping sauce! Each establishment has their own special blend of flavors that sets their spring rolls apart from the rest. It's no wonder that tourists from all over the world seek out this iconic dish when they visit Vietnam.
Whether you're a food enthusiast or just looking to try something new, fried spring rolls should definitely be on your list of must-try dishes. The vibrant flavors and textures will leave you wanting more. So next time you find yourself in Hanoi, be sure to seek out these delectable treats and experience the true essence of Vietnamese cuisine.
Recommend
Huyen Nem Ran
Add: 21Hang Be Street, 
Opening hour: From 10.00 AM – 19.00PM
Price range: From 7.000VND

FRIED PILLOW CAKE – BANH GOI.
The pillow cake is an absolute must-try when visiting Hanoi. This delectable street food dish boasts a crunchy crust that encases a soft, yellow filling made of fungus, vermicelli, and pork. Served alongside fresh vegetables and sauce, the fried pillow cake can also be wrapped in rice paper for an even more impressive presentation.
If you're looking for the best places to indulge in this culinary delight, look no further than the renowned Doi Can fried pillow cake and the ever-popular Ton Duc Thang pillow cake. These establishments are known for their delicious offerings and are perfect for introducing this local delicacy to your foreign friends.
In fact, the fried pillow cake is considered one of the top street foods in Hanoi, and it's not hard to see why. With its irresistible combination of textures and flavors, it's a treat that will leave your taste buds begging for more. So, make sure to add this mouthwatering dish to your list of must-try foods when exploring the vibrant streets of Hanoi.
Whether you're a food enthusiast or just someone looking to savor the local flavors, the fried pillow cake is an experience that should not be missed. So, grab a friend, head to one of the famous inns in Hanoi, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure like no other.
Recommend
Banh Goi Hien Hao
Add: 9 Hoe Nhai Street, 
Opening hour: From 08.00 AM – 19.00PM
Price range: From 10.000VND

STICKY RICE – XOI.
Travelling to Hanoi and looking for a delicious meal, you're in luck! There are so many sticky rice dishes to choose from, including steamed sticky rice, black bean sticky rice, peanut sticky rice, corn sticky rice, crab pie sticky rice, chicken sticky rice, braised meat sticky rice, braised eggs sticky rice, salted shredded meat sticky rice, and more. No matter what time of day or year it is, you can always satisfy your cravings with these mouth-watering dishes. The fat, fleshy, and sticky particles of the rice make for a full and satisfying taste that you won't want to miss. So come on down and try some of Hanoi's best sticky rice dishes today!
Recommend
Xoi May
Add: 31 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, 
Opening hour: From 05.00 AM – 13.00PM
Price range: From 10.000VND

FRIED SWEET POTATO CAKE, FRIED BANANA CAKE.
Just like Fried Pillow Cake and Tofu, fried banana cake and fried potato cake are two irresistible treats that everyone in Hanoi adores when winter arrives. It may seem strange that these cakes are drenched in oil, sugar, and powder, but the truth is, they are loved by many. In fact, it wouldn't feel like winter without the delightful sight of small mobile fried banana and potato cake vendors lining the sidewalks. These tasty treats bring warmth and joy to our hearts during the chilly season. So, if you find yourself in Hanoi during winter, be sure to indulge in these delicious cakes that have captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike.

BEST LOCAL DISHES FROM HO CHI MINH CITY.
In contrast to the ancient charm of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, exudes a vibrant and prosperous energy. The people of Saigon embrace change and eagerly incorporate creativity into their culinary art.
It comes as no surprise that Saigon is a hub of innovation. You'll find a diverse range of cuisines from around the world gathered here, creating a beautiful fusion of cultures that can be tasted in every spoonful.
Saigon is a city that welcomes new ideas and embraces the ever-changing world. Its open-hearted residents are always eager to explore and adapt, making it a truly dynamic and exciting place to be.
Whether you're craving traditional Vietnamese dishes or seeking out international flavours, Saigon has it all. From street food stalls to upscale restaurants, the food scene in this city is a testament to its cosmopolitan nature.
So come and indulge in the culinary delights of Saigon. Let your taste buds embark on a journey of discovery as you savour the unique blend of flavours and cultures that this vibrant city has to offer. 

BROKEN RICE – COM TAM.
Let us tell you about the amazing rice dish that is a must-try! The southern region of this land is blessed with a generous paddle field that produces a special kind of rice. This rice, when broken, has a unique softness and scattered texture that is unmatched. And the fragrance? Oh, it's simply divine! 
The dish is made even more exceptional when served with grilled pork and garnished with scallion oil. The combination of flavours is simply out of this world! But wait, there's more! You can add other ingredients like pork skin or fried egg to make it even more delicious. 
And here's a pro tip: before digging your spoon in, make sure to souse the rice with a specific fish sauce. Trust me, it takes the flavour to a whole new level! 
This dish is not just a meal, it's an experience. The aroma, the texture, and the taste will leave an unforgettable impression on your taste buds. 
Recommend
Com Tam Bui Saigon
Add: 100 Thach Thi Thanh Street, Ho Chi Minh
Opening hour: From 06.30 AM – 23.30PM
Price range: From 30.000VND

BANH MI.
Saigon is well known for serving up some of the most delectable Banh Mi sandwiches in the world. This delightful all-day indulgence consists of a crusty baguette brimming with a medley of tantalizing ingredients such as cold cuts, zesty pepper salt, tangy pickles, refreshing cucumber, and fragrant cilantro.
The best part? You can easily find Banh Mi stalls scattered all across the city, offering this culinary delight for a mere fraction of the price. For less than $1, you can savour the symphony of flavours that awaits you between two slices of bread. However, it's worth noting that the heartier and more generously filled the sandwich is, the slightly higher the price may be.
Saigon's Banh Mi scene is truly a feast for the senses. As you wander through the bustling streets, the aroma of freshly baked baguettes wafts through the air, drawing you towards these humble yet heavenly stalls. Each bite reveals a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, creating a culinary experience that is simply unforgettable.
Whether you're a local or a curious traveller, indulging in Saigon's Banh Mi is an absolute must. It's not just a meal; it's an adventure for your taste buds. So, don't hesitate to join the locals in their love affair with this iconic street food. With every bite, you'll understand why Saigon's Banh Mi is hailed as one of the world's most delicious culinary creations.
So, next time you find yourself in Saigon, be sure to seek out one of these Banh Mi stalls and treat yourself to a mouth-watering experience like no other. Your taste buds will thank you, and you'll leave with memories that will linger long after you've savoured the last bite.
Recommend
Banh Mi Huynh Hoa
Add: 26 Le Thi Rieng Street, Ho Chi Minh
Opening hour: From 14.00 AM – 21.00PM
Price range: From 20.000VND

NAM VANG KWAY TEOW NOODLES – HU TIEU NAM VANG.
You'll be pleasantly surprised to learn that this delectable soup is a delightful fusion of Chinese and Khmer cuisine. Originally introduced to the southern region of Vietnam from Cambodia, this dish has been greatly influenced by Chinese culture throughout the country.
No matter what, Nam Vang noodles always feature pork organs, with a few succulent shrimps delicately placed on top of the pork bone broth, which has been simmering for hours. And that's not all! The addition of various other ingredients further enhances the flavours of this delightful bowl of soup.
So why not treat yourself to a bowl of Nam Vang noodles and experience the harmonious blend of Chinese and Khmer flavours? It's a culinary journey that will leave your taste buds craving for more.
Recommend
Hu Tieu Nam Vang Thanh Dat
Add: 34 Co Bac Street, Ho Chi Minh
Opening hour: All day
Price range: From 35.000VND

CRAB NOODLES – BANH CANH CUA.
I will tell you something about Banh canh cua, a soup that's sure to warm your heart and fill your belly. It's similar in thickness and heartiness to Japanese Udon, but with a twist. The noodles in this dish are made with more tapioca starch, giving them a chewier texture than traditional Udon. 
While Banh canh cua may be a bit pricier than other Vietnamese meals like hu tieu and com tam, it's worth every penny. The soup is chock-full of fresh crab nuggets, plump shrimp, and even quail eggs. Every regular-sized bowl is brimming with toppings in a gravy chowder swirled with noodles. 
Recommend
Add: 87 Tran Khac Tran Street, Ho Chi Minh
Opening hour: 11.00 – 20.00
Price range: From 30.000VND

GRILLED PORK NOODLES – BUN THIT NUONG.
If you're looking for a dish that brings together contrasting flavours and textures, noodles without soup might just be the answer. One popular option is Bun Thit Nuong, which features skewers of grilled pork, pickles, oily chives, peanuts, and green onions on top. But what really takes this dish to the next level is the sweet and sour fish sauce - it's truly a wonder for the taste buds.
And if you want to take things up a notch, there are plenty of ways to customize your meal. Adding some fried crunchy spring rolls can give you that extra crunch you're craving, while pork cracklings are another delicious option. Don't be shy about asking the vendor lady for your preferred toppings - she's sure to have plenty of tasty suggestions.
Recommend
Bun Thit Nuong Cu Kieu
Add: 338 Nguye Cong Tru Street, Ho Chi Minh
Opening hour: 13.00 – 18.00
Price range: From 35.000VND

VIETNAMESE FRIED CRISPY PANCAKE.
Vietnamese crispy fried pancake, also known as "Banh Xeo," is a delicious treat that is popular in both the Central and Southern regions of Vietnam. However, it has gained immense popularity in Ho Chi Minh City, where it is now served in both humble eateries and high-end restaurants. 
When you indulge in Banh Xeo in Southern Vietnam, you are in for a treat! The dish is typically served with a variety of fresh, crunchy vegetables, such as silk leaves and green mango. This adds a delightful texture and flavour to the already delicious pancake. 
Whether you are a local or a tourist, Banh Xeo is a must-try dish when visiting Ho Chi Minh City. Its crispy texture and savoury filling will leave you craving for more. And when paired with the fresh veggies, it becomes an explosion of flavours that will tantalize your taste buds. 

SAIGON SWEETENED PORRIDGE – CHE SAIGON.
Nowhere else in the world can you find a greater variety of sweetened porridge/soup than in Saigon. This vibrant city, known for its diverse population, offers a delightful array of flavors, colors, and styles when it comes to sweetened porridge. Food enthusiasts have often remarked that Hanoi sweetened porridge is all about flavor, while Hue sweetened porridge focuses on the finest ingredients. However, Saigon sweetened porridge stands out for its unique blend of colors, creating a truly mesmerizing culinary experience. So, if you're looking for a bowl of porridge that not only satisfies your taste buds but also pleases your eyes, Saigon is the place to be!
Recommend
Che Co Giang
Add: 85 Co Giang Street, Ho Chi Minh
Opening hour: 17.00 – 22.30
Price range: From 15.000VND

MIXED SHREDDED RICE PAPER.
If you're looking for a simple yet delicious rustic dish, look no further than mixed shredded rice paper - also known as "Banh Trang Tron". This dish is made up of shredded rice paper rolled with dried shrimp, marinated squid and quail eggs. But it's the addition of soy sauce and laksa leaves that really brings out the unique and delicious flavour. What's great about this dish is that it doesn't leave you feeling greasy or overly full, making it a top snack choice for the youth in Saigon. While it may not be the most nutritious option out there, sometimes you just need a tasty treat to satisfy your cravings. Give mixed shredded rice paper a try and see why it's so popular!

FRIED FISH BALL.
Perhaps there is no other street snack in Saigon more popular than fried fish balls. Whether you find yourself in a bustling downtown area or a quiet alley, the sight of carts selling these delectable treats is almost guaranteed. Picture this: skewers adorned with 4-5 fish balls, sizzling away on a hot pan filled with oil. It's a sight that will surely make your mouth water. And when you finally decide to indulge, you'll be rewarded with piping hot skewers of fried fish balls, perfectly complemented by a side of chili sauce. Trust me, this addictive street food is something you simply must try when visiting Saigon. So, why not treat yourself to this tasty delight and experience a true culinary gem of the city?

FRIED DOUGH.
Many people are drawn to the irresistible taste of fried dough, also known as "followers," due to its unique blend of cassava flour, rice flour, and eggs. This delightful dish consists of rectangular pellets that are fried to perfection and then mixed with scrambled eggs, scallions, and shredded papaya and cassava. If you find yourself in Saigon, be sure to visit the numerous diners that serve this traditional treat, such as the ones located on Vo Van Tan Street in District 3 and Pham The Hien Market in District 8. Trust me, this street food is a must-try for anyone visiting Saigon.

IN GENERAL.
Vietnam is a country that has so much to offer, but it's the cuisine that truly steals the show. In fact, many people consider Vietnam to be one of the top food destinations in the world. If you're a serious foodie, then you won't want to miss out on the incredible dishes and flavors that this country has to offer. From savory soups to spicy stir-fries, there's something for everyone in Vietnam. So why not book your ticket today and indulge in the extraordinary food and more? Trust us, your taste buds will thank you for it!