Our Favorite Street Foods in Vietnam

Let’s kick off our street food exploration in Hanoi with Dry Pho. You’ve probably had regular Pho, and if not, definitely give it a shot in Hanoi. But here, let’s talk about Dry Pho – it’s like the classic Pho but without the soup. Instead, you get perfectly cooked rice noodles mingling with herbs, beef slices, and dressing. Now, here’s the trick: they serve the broth on the side. So, you take a bite, and if you’re feeling fancy, dip it into the broth. It’s a textural adventure that adds a whole new layer to the Pho experience and is great to eat on a hot, humid Hanoi day.

Next up on our street food tour is the Vietnamese Shrimp Cake – a street snack that’s sure to captivate your taste buds. Imagine a crispy exterior giving way to a burst of flavors as you bite into a savory mix of shrimp, herbs, and spices. These bite-sized wonders are not just tasty; they’re a convenient street food delight and are surprisingly sweet. Perfect for a quick snack on the go, the Vietnamese Shrimp Cakes are meant to be consumed with the shrimp tail and head still on, adding a nice crunch to the otherwise soft cake. One of my favorite snacks in Hanoi!

Now, let’s talk about Banh Mi – a Vietnamese go-to street food that’s both practical and delicious. Banh mi is the perfect example of the French occupation’s influence on Vietnamese food — the French brought the baguette, the Vietnamese brought everything else, with most ingredients sourced locally from around Hanoi.

When you’re in Hanoi, go for the one with pâté. Pâté is a spread made from liver – might sound fancy, but it adds this rich and savory kick to your sandwich. Locals love it because it brings a unique flavor that perfectly complements the crispy baguette and the medley of meats and veggies inside. These banh mi stalls often offer a variety with pâté, pork, and other meats, creating a flavor-packed experience that’s not just a sandwich; it’s a tasty, practical delight that locals swear by and can often be found on at street vendor stalls for ~$1 USD.

Let’s shift gears to a unique Vietnamese delight – Hanoi Egg Coffee. Forget everything you know about traditional coffee; this one’s a game-changer. Picture a velvety blend of strong coffee, condensed milk, and a surprising twist – a frothy egg yolk topping. It’s not your typical cup of joe, but that’s what makes it special. When in Hanoi, sip on this creamy concoction at one of the local cafes. The egg coffee craze began during a milk shortage caused by the French War, and locals improvised with eggs. Today, it’s a beloved treat that combines the richness of coffee with the delightful creaminess of eggs.

One thing to note — coming from the US with a self-admitted problematic caffeine addition, I found the Robusta coffee beans used in Northern Vietnam to produce a weaker blend than I was used to. While my caffeine addiction might have met its match, the silver lining was the opportunity to savor multiple cups throughout the day without the usual intensity. It turns out, the gentler caffeine kick of Northern Vietnamese coffee allowed me to fully embrace the coffee culture, indulging in leisurely moments at local cafes and appreciating the distinct charm of each cup and location.

Last up is Bun Cha – a widely available and delicious street food in Vietnam (and my favorite street food dish). Imagine grilled pork patties, crispy pork belly, and a bunch of fresh herbs served with rice vermicelli. The magic happens when you assemble a bite: dip the vermicelli and herbs into the broth, scoop up a piece of the grilled goodness, and experience a symphony of textures and tastes. It’s a simple yet satisfying experience. The smoky aroma and sweet-savory taste of the grilled meats make it a Vietnamese street food favorite. So, when you’re out and about in Hanoi, grab a bowl of Bun Cha for a tasty and practical street food experience.