What to Eat in Hanoi Besides Pho and Bun Cha?

1. Bun Thang

This elegant noodle soup is a lesser-known Hanoi specialty, made with shredded chicken, Vietnamese sausage, thin egg strips, and mushrooms served over vermicelli in a light, aromatic broth. Bun thang is delicate in flavor but rich in tradition, often enjoyed as a refined breakfast.

📍 Where to try: Bun Thang Cau Go, Bun Thang Hang Hanh

2. Chao Suon

A bowl of chao suon (pork rib congee) is the ultimate comfort food. Silky rice porridge is topped with fall-off-the-bone pork ribs, crispy dough sticks (quẩy), pork floss, and a touch of pepper. It's warm, filling, and especially popular on chilly Hanoi evenings.

📍 Where to try: Hang Bo Pork Rib Congee, Dong Xuan Market

3. Banh Cuon

Made fresh to order, banh cuon consists of steamed rice rolls filled with minced pork and wood-ear mushrooms. Served with Vietnamese sausage, crispy shallots, and a tangy dipping sauce, this dish is light yet deeply flavorful — a classic Hanoi breakfast.

📍 Where to try: Banh Cuon co Nguyet (117 Ba Trieu), Banh Cuon Thanh Tri

4. Kem Trang Tien

A taste of childhood for many Hanoians, Kem Trang Tien is the city's most iconic ice cream. Since 1958, it's been served in simple cones or sticks, with flavors like coconut, chocolate, and green rice (cốm). Best enjoyed while strolling around Hoan Kiem Lake.

📍 Where to try: 35 Trang Tien Street

5. Kem xoi 

A unique Hanoi treat, kem xoi combines creamy coconut ice cream with sticky green rice (xoi com) and shredded coconut. The contrast between cold, rich ice cream and warm, chewy xoi creates a flavor and texture experience you won’t forget. It’s sweet, fun, and full of local charm.

📍 Where to try: Kem 29 Lo Duc, Kem xoi Kim Ma

Beyond pho and bun cha lies a Hanoi full of everyday food treasures — humble, hearty, and full of character. Whether you're starting your morning with bun thang or ending your day with a cup of kem xoi, these dishes offer a true taste of the city's heart.