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The Best Hanoi Street Food Tour + Runners Up 2024

by Kev Shepherd

Exploring a new city can be daunting. We explore why street food tours are amazing on day one and show you the best Hanoi street food tour in the whole city.

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Necessary Spacing

• If you want a more conventional Hanoi street food tour then go with ‘Hanoi Explore Travel’.
• If you’re looking for a little less conventional Hanoi street food tour and to experience where the locals go then check out ‘Crossing Vietnam Tour’.
• All of the Hanoi street food tours in this article are in Old Town so check out this budget accommodation or this nice hotel in Old Town for ultra convenience.

The Best Hanoi Street Food Tour (There’s 2…)

Hanoi Explore Travel: Guided Street Food Tour – Check Prices & Book Here

Crossing Vietnam Tour: Old Town Street Food Tour – Check Prices & Book Here

We went on 2 different street food tours in Hanoi to see if there was a big difference between them and we were actually very surprised about how different they were. You would imagine that the best food in Hanoi would be similar, meaning that the tours would also be similar.

However, between the two Hanoi street food tours we went on there was only one meal that was the same and even then it tasted quite different as it was in a different restaurant.

Read More: Like Food?! Then Check Out These Immense Cooking Classes In Hanoi

Not only that, the whole vibe of the tours was completely different. For example, the first tour (Hanoi Explore Travel) was quite a bit of walking, which included famous landmarks of the city and famous well-known places to eat.

Whereas the second street food tour (Crossing Vietnam Tour) was much more of a local experience with small restaurants which were mostly full of locals rather than tourists.

Either way, both were absolutely amazing and I am absolutely sure that you will have an incredible time on either tour. Keep reading though as I go into more detail on both tours individually so you can make your mind up on the best Hanoi street food tour for you.

Read More: Incredible 2-Night Halong Bay Cruises!

Hanoi Explore Travel – Guided Hanoi Street Food Tour

We chose to go on the afternoon Hanoi street food tour. Unlike other tours you may go on, choosing a time actually does alter the tour in some ways. Food in Hanoi is served at particular times and certain food is not served in the afternoon and some are not served in the mornings.

Either way, our guide arrived at our hotel (as we were in Old Town) and the tour started from there which was extremely convenient. We then proceeded to stop at 7 different venues plus a cheeky doughnut purchase as we were walking.

Stops & Food

• Stop 1 – Ban Xeo
• Stop 2 – Ban Pizza/Sticky Roll
• Stop 3 – Pillow Cake/Prawn Pancake/Rolling Pho
• Stop 4 – Bun Cha
• Stop 5 – Ban Mi
• Pit Stop – Street Doughnuts
• Stop 6 – Coconut Ice Cream With Sticky Rice
• Stop 7 – Egg Coffee

If you’re looking at this list and thinking ‘that’s a lot of food’ then you’re completely right! One thing I can say for certainty is you WILL NOT be hungry at the end of this Hanoi street food tour.

Read More: The Best Tailor In Hoi An To Visit

What really impressed me about this tour is how much information we learnt about the city and the food. I’ve always thought that street food tours are a brilliant way to get an introduction to the city but this one really went above and beyond what I was expecting.

Things To Know

A Lot Of Walking – I don’t see this as a negative as it’s a walking tour and you get to see so much of the city. However, if you are mobility impaired then my other top pick has a lot less walking which might be a better option.

Read More: How To Enjoy 1 Day In Hanoi

A Lot Of Food – Do not eat shortly before this tour. You don’t have to wait long until you are bursting at the seams!

Sweet & Savoury – You will be treated to both savoury and sweet dishes so you’ll be sure to find something that you love!

Book this exact tour for some great street food!

Final Thoughts About Hanoi Explore Travel

We thoroughly enjoyed this Hanoi street food tour and it was an absolutely fantastic introduction to the famous Old Town district in Hanoi (my favourite city in the world).

The tour was a very good length and had enough food to feed a whole army. The tour guide gave us so much information about the city and the food that we could comfortably order street food independently after this experience.

I highly recommend this tour and you can look at more reviews, availability and book here.

Read More: Check Out The Best Beaches In Hoi An!

Crossing Vietnam Tour – Old Quarter Food Tour

The very next day we were booked onto the Old Quarter Food Tour with Crossing Vietnam Tour. We were very much expecting this to be almost identical to the tour above but how wrong we were.

We had to walk to the company office to start the tour, however, this is in Old Town and was literally a 5-minute walk from our hotel so this is not an issue.

We started the tour immediately as we arrived and the first stop was literally on the other side of the road. One of the very first things we were told about this tour was how it was geared much more towards eating where the locals eat.

You could sense this immediately as we walked under tarpaulins to reach our first stop. I, personally, love this approach as these are the places that you always overlook. Tourists are well known to keep walking until a well-lit restaurant with English writing comes into view (ourselves included).

• Stop 1 – Crispy Pork/Mozerella Sticks
• Stop 2 – Fried Bread
• Stop 3 – BBQ Pork & Sausage
• Stop 4 – Dessert/Fruit/Yoghurt/Sticky Rice
• Stop 5 – Ban Xeo With Pork
• Stop 6 – Egg Coffee

So, nearly every single thing was different from the first tour we went on. This meant that we had a completely new experience. Not just in the type of restaurants we were going to but also in the food that we were trying.

Of course, the egg coffee was the same as this is so famous in Hanoi that no Hanoi street food tour would be complete without it! Definitely try this, by the way, I thought it was going to be horrible but actually, it was immense.

This was actually slightly less food than the previous tour BUT we wasted quite a lot of the first day as we couldn’t finish it all by stop 4 so do not think this is a disadvantage!

Not All Walking – There is a lot less walking on this tour and there is even a section in which you will be taken by motorbike or car to the next location. This means this tour is much more suited to people wanting to prioritise the food over the walking aspect of the tour.

Final Thoughts About Cross Vietnam Tour

I really enjoyed the more local approach of this Hanoi street food tour so if this is the kind of thing you are looking for then look no further.

You also get to try some of the less known/famous Hanoi street food which means you may have a more unique experience than others taking more conventional Hanoi street food tours.

Check out availability, reviews and book here.

Read More: How To Travel To Hoi An From Hanoi

Other Hanoi Street Food Tours

Walking tour of hanoi old quarter with food.

This 3-hour Hanoi street food tour tries to incorporate the walking side of the walking tour much more into the tour as a whole. They try to show you loads of the winding streets of Old Town as well as taste the amazing food that this area has to offer.

It’s another Hanoi street food tour with incredible reviews so check it out here.

Street Food Tour With Cyclo

If you don’t know what a cyclo is then it is basically a bike with a large carriage at the front to sit inside to taxi you around. This Hanoi street food tour starts with a 30-minute cyclo tour around the famous Hoan Kiem Lake!

If you are looking to do a cyclo tour whilst you are in Hanoi then this is a fantastic way to tick off two activities in one go. Check out this tour right here!

Read More: The Sticky Waterfall In Chiang Mai – Proper FUN!

Intrepid Urban Adventures Street Food Tour

This is a standard 3-hour Hanoi street food tour in a small group that takes you around the old town and samples the local food. There are a few incredible locations on this tour which you wouldn’t find by yourself.

Check out this very highly rated Hanoi street food tour right here.

Read More: All You Need To Know About The Phu Quoc Cable Car

Why Take A Street Food Tour?

If you are wondering if it is worth the price then here are some of the best reasons to take the plunge and book your tour today.

Introduction To The City – Jumping on a street food tour is a very good way to be introduced to any city you visit. You get to build your confidence talking to street vendors and not just the expensive westernised restaurants.

Hassle-Free – When you travel around cities like Hanoi you will be continuously hassled by sellers of various things. On a tour, it is clear you have a guide so you are left well alone.

Learn The Local Food Language – This seems small but in Hanoi nearly all of the writing is in Vietnamese with no English translation available. After our food tours, we realised that this food is literally available everywhere, we just didn’t know what we were looking for.

Find Hidden Gems – Quite a few times we found ourselves walking down small alleyways and into areas we would not even have seen if we were on our own. We would then find out that these places are the most famous in all the city for that particular food or drink.

Not Getting Ripped Off – Before we went on our Hanoi street food tour, we would usually go into restaurants with English translation which is always much more expensive. But even when we tried to go for street food we ended up getting much more food than we actually wanted because of the language barrier (and they do this on purpose sometimes) so we had to pay a lot more than we wanted to.

Finding Famous Landmarks – On some of these Hanoi street food tours, you may actually find yourself being shown some of the incredible landmarks in Hanoi. Just another bonus of the walking aspect of these tours.

Specific To Hanoi – Hanoi Old Town is hectic. I absolutely love it but it can be very daunting and quite intimidating to the new arrival. After one of these Hanoi street food tours, you’ll basically be a pro in Hanoi Old Town which is very important to make the most of this incredible city.

Read More: CAMBODIA – The Incredible Angkor Wat Sunrise

What To Expect On A Hanoi Street Food Tour

No Fancy Establishments – You will not be going into air-conditioned restaurants with chairs and tables. This is a street food tour and you will stay on the street. Be this on small plastic chairs on the pavement or not sitting down at all for the quick stops!

A Decent Amount Of Walking – Be prepared for at least 4km of walking. It can be less and more than this but it’s a walking tour as well as a food tour so I don’t recommend flip-flops.

Lots Of Food – These tours come with A LOT of food. Do not eat just beforehand as you will ruin your appetite…and you’re gonna need it.

Water Throughout – The guide will not order water for you but many of these restaurants offer free drinking water. Make sure you either bring water or tell your guide you need some as they will not order it without you asking.

Lots Of Information – You will get a lot of information about the town, the streets and the local food throughout your tour.

Read More: The Best Cooking Classes In Siem Reap

What To Bring For A Hanoi Street Food Tour

You don’t need anything particularly special for a Hanoi street food tour but here are the things that we think will make your tour that little bit more enjoyable and comfortable!

Jade has used this backpack throughout the world on our travels and we have both been very impressed with the design. It comfortably holds a 3L water reservoir in the specifically designed pouch and contours very nicely over your back to distribute the weight well. I have always had a full camera bag so Jade usually has to take enough for two people which it can do. It's a very reasonable price for a very good day pack.

The perfect travel companion! The Panasonic Lumix LX10 fits easily into your pocket, captures beautiful 20.1MP images, records gorgeous 4K footage, and does this all through the brilliant 24-72mm Leica lens. Level up your travel photography today!

Walking boots are good for some situations but sometimes you don't need heavy, warm, and waterproof shoes to get the job done. These walking shoes by Akk will keep your feet a nice temperature and comfortable for those long days sightseeing and partying in the sun!

We all know what sunscreen is and we all know how important it is but why go with Sun Bum? They are cruelty-free and are compliant with the Hawaii 104 Reef Act meaning that you will be helping decrease the amount of damage sunscreens have to the environment that you are swimming in. If that hasn't convinced you then click through to find out even more.

Do not let a brilliant experience be ruined by pesky insects biting you all over your body. Insect repellant is not expensive but not having it can affect much more expensive activities. Pick up a bottle of this Picaridin bug spray and enjoy your travel.

We all know the benefits of antibacterial hand spray, even before the pandemic. These are especially important for backpackers as you will find yourself in situations where soap and water might not be at hand. These small spray bottles have been specifically designed for travel and can easily fit into luggage and day packs.

This will probably be the last selfie stick you ever buy! It has a sturdy aluminum telescopic 40" range, a tripod for propping your phone up in better locations, a detachable wireless shutter button so you can control when all pictures are taken, and extends down to a brilliantly compact size making it perfect for any type of travel.

If you're into hiking, walking or general outdoor activities, then you need to grab this water reservoir for your backpack. It holds p to 3L of liquid and slides easily into the pouch in the Osprey backpacks. There's a bite valve on the straw part and has a wide opening for easy filling and cleaning.

Anywhere tourists travel to in high numbers will be hotspots for thieves. Having your personal documents, cards, and cash in one of these discreet travel wallets is a very good idea for peace of mind. This one also comes with RFID blocking so people will not be able to scan cards through your clothing.

We have been using Anker portable chargers for years and highly recommend their easy design and reasonable size. This super cool 10,000mAh battery pack has magnetic wireless charging capability to help minimise wires and hassle even further. This makes it extremely versatile and helpful for those long periods away from a socket. A must-buy for any backpacking traveller.

Other Things To Do In Hanoi

Tam coc, hoa lu & mua caves full-day trip.

Some people might find being in the Hanoi Old Town a bit too much after a couple of days. So, what better way to escape the hustle and bustle by taking a tour through the gorgeous and tranquil countryside surrounding Hanoi.

If this sounds like your kind of thing then check out the price and reviews here.

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is an absolute must-visit when you are in Hanoi. You can pre-book your tickets here or save some money and get them at the venue on the day.

Halong Bay has to be the most famous activity in Hanoi, even though it is a 2.5-hour drive away from the city. The most famous thing at Halong Bay has to be the cruises around the bay. You can get a single-day tour or a multi-day tour on a luxury boat.

I highly recommend at least checking out both options as it will be the highlight of your trip. Take a look at our review of an incredible luxury overnight cruise in Halong Bay . You can also take a look at these great hotel options in the area.

Read More: Our Review Of This 1 Day Halong Bay Tour

Hanoi Old Town

All of the Hanoi street food tours in this guide are situated in the Old Town so hopefully, you’ll be well acquainted after your Hanoi street food tour.

If you decide not to do a Hanoi street food tour then you simply must make sure to walk through these winding streets at least once whilst on your trip to Hanoi!

One minute you will have discovered a hip bar down a hidden alleyway and be sipping on cocktails overlooking the bustling street and the next you’ll be ordering 30cent beers on a plastic chair with karaoke and partying all around.

Hanoi Night Market

This is a great little market on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, however, I would highly recommend going on Saturday. Check out our full guide here or watch the video below!

Read More: Check Out The Phu Quoc Night Market Here & The Hoi An Night Market Here!

Where To Stay In Hanoi

There really is only one place to stay in Hanoi and that is the Old Town. This is where all of the main attractions are located (including all of these Hanoi street food tours).

Click on the hotel deals below to find the best accommodation in Hanoi!

Budget Accommodation – Old Quarter View Hostel

The best hostel in the whole of Hanoi has to be the Old Quarter View Hostel. It has everything you would expect from a seriously high-rated hostel, including; clean bathrooms, clean rooms, comfortable bunks and good facilities.

It only has mixed dorms so if you are looking for single-gender rooms then look here.

Hotel Accommodation – Hanoi Hotel Royal

There are so many hotels in Hanoi that it is difficult to choose the best one for this article. However, make sure to check out the Hanoi Hotel Royal as this is one of my absolute favourited available right now.

Boutique Acommodation – Oriana Boutique Hotel & Spa

Boutique? Spa? Need I say more? Check Out Oriana Boutique Hotel & Spa for the absolute pinnacle of comfort and style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a hanoi steet food tour worth it.

Absolutely. Not only do you get to learn about the incredible food of Hanoi but you also get a brilliant introduction to this incredible city which really set you up for the remainder of your stay.

How Much Is A Hanoi Street Food Tour?

Currently around $25 – $40. If it is more than that there are probably better options.

How Long Is A Hanoi Street Food Tour?

Nearly always 3 hours.

How Much walking Is On A Hanoi Street Food Tour?

I would say that they average around 4km but this can be much less and somewhat more than this depending on the tour.

How Much Food Do You Get On A Hanoi Street Food Tour?

If it’s a good tour (which the two in this article are) then absolutely LOADS! Always too much to actually eat, for me anyway.

That’s it, folks. Let me know if this article has been helpful and if you decided to take any of the tours discussed in this article. Also, let us know if you have taken a different one so we can add it to this list!

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Want help selecting the best food tours in Hanoi? I have got you covered! In this article, you will get information on the 10 best food tours and eating experiences of Hanoi all led by locals – so be assured of a great food experience without the risk of a tourist trap.

Don’t have time to read through the 10 Hanoi food tour options? No worries – Small-Group Hanoi Street Food Tour with a Real Foodie is the best Hanoi food tour with a smashing 5-star rating with over 1700 reviews!

My husband and I are crazy foodies and in our own different ways. My husband eats everything under the sun while I am a strict vegetarian. In fact, our research on traveling to any place begins with the food options there and we absolutely make it a point to try out local food on all our trips. In fact, we prefer starting off a new city adventure with a food tour as it’s the best way to directly connect with the soul of the city.

Plus because I am a vegetarian, it lets me figure out the availability of food options for those with dietary preferences while my husband gets to try the whole gamut of local food offerings!

In any case a win-win for you!

Let’s get started with exploring the best food tours in Hanoi – there are 8 on this list with brilliant ratings and offerings – so you can go ahead and book one right away!

#1 Top Pick

Small Group Hanoi Street Food Tour with a Real Foodie

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Best walking street food tour in the Hanoi Old Quarter Taste bun cha, pho, banh mi, coffee, finger foods and dessert

Hanoi By Night Foodie Motorbike Tours

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Experience the thrill of exploring Hanoi on a motorbike Taste the best Bun Cha, Pho, salty & sweet donuts and more

Private Hanoi Street Food Walking Tour With Real Foodie

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Best private tour Enjoy tastings of pho, bun cha, spring roll, coffee and more + load yourself with a full meal

Best Food Tours in Hanoi 2023 – Reviews and Recommendations

# 1 small group hanoi street food tour with a real foodie.

1701 reviews | 5 Star Rating | 3 hours | BOOK NOW

Go hungry as you will be eating all the way on your walk around the Old Quarter. It’s crazy how many different types of food you get to taste on this tour right from – the classic Vietnamse pho or bun cha ie. rice noodle soup with beef, chicken, grilled pork even a crazy taste of snail. You also try out staples like dry noodles and sticky rice with a sumptuous bites of donuts, steamed pancakes or Vietnamese sandwiches aka Banh Mi.

“Chung was one of the best tour guides we have ever had! We tried bun cha, sugar cane juice, banhi mi, rice pancakes, green papaya salad, egg drinks, and lots of finger food. Chung was so knowledgeable, had great interpersonal skills, and was kind and perceptive. We learned a lot about Vietnam and Hanoi and had a great time walking around even though it was super hot! Would recommend this tour to anyone coming to Hanoi.” – Elizabeth_D | Read more reviews

What makes the tour so popular is the guide’s love for food and an elaborate knowledge of the city.

If you are a vegetarian like me, you don’t have to worry as the tour can easily accommodate your dietary preferences. Just inform in advance!

The tour is also happy to welcome infants onboard and is usually conducted in a small group of 8 and operates twice a day.

This tour is easily the best Hanoi street food tour for someone who loves a deep dive into local cuisine coupled with a scenic walk around the Hoan Kiem Lake – that too, without feeling rushed.

Book Small Group Hanoi Street Food Tour with a Real Foodie

#2 Hanoi Old Quarter Walking Street Food – Small Group Tour

438 reviews | 5 Star Rating | 3 hours | BOOK NOW

This tour is a proper walking tour that takes you around all the small streets and lanes of the Hanoian Old Quarter while also delivering on its promise of excellent Hanoi street food.

The reason why this tour may suit you better than the tour above is that this tour operates 10 times a day so you can easily accommodate it in your Hanoi itinerary.

” The morning food tour was wonderful. Until this point we could not seem to find food we liked but the tour filled us in on what to order and where to find it. The chosen restaurants had delicious food and our guide was great…friendly, knowledgeable, and spoke good English. Part of the tour was an egg coffee making class….great fun and delicious” Catherine_D | Read more reviews

On this tour, you would be delighted to find the famous Vietnamese Bun Cha, Pho, Banh mi as well as fresh spring rolls from places that you would hardly know about or dare to try.

The guide also encourages you to make your own egg coffee to make your overall experience thrilling.

I think that if it’s your first time in Hanoi and you have no idea how to cross the streets, find your way or look for tasty satisfying local meals – start with this tour.

The guide is not only knowledgeable but also orients tourists on how to cross the streets, introduces the tourists on trade-specific 36 guilds of Hanoi Old Quarter, etc.

Book Hanoi Old Quarter Walking Street Food

#3 Private Hanoi Street Food Walking Tour With Real Foodie

460 reviews | 5 Star Rating | 3 hours | BOOK NOW

Hate group tours but still want to do a walking tour? Here’s the perfect find for you – a private food tour of Hanoi. So you can go with your partner, your kids or your parents and the guide will help you walk around at your own pace and comfort.

In fact, the guide may also be able to accommodate your specific ‘tastes’. The start time is also flexible. So book this private tour as per your schedule and convenience.

“Linh was a fantastic guide and took us to a huge variety of different food stops, even tailoring it to our specific tastes and considered what we had already tried. Very knowledgeable and gave us lots of information about Hanoi and the history of some of places we visited.” Will_S | Read more reviews

The private tour typically lets you taste Pho, Bun Cha, Banh Mi and plenty of other local dishes – savoury and sweet. After spending about 2.5 hours in the lanes and stalls of the Old Quarter, it takes you to Café Giang – the place that invented the famous egg coffee.

What’s amazing about this tour is that it not only includes tastings but a full proper meal (unlike the tours above!) Go hungry to do justice to this tour.

Book Private Hanoi Street Food Walking Tour with Real Foodie

#4 Hanoi By Night Foodie Motorbike Tours

289 reviews | 5 Star Rating | 4 hours | BOOK NOW

This motorbike-led tour is an excellent way to get a first-hand feel of riding through the crazy traffic of Hanoi, exploring all the major areas while also eating the diverse range of local Vietnamese food.

This tour lets you taste a wide variety of dishes like Banh Cuon (steamed roll cake), Bun Cha (grilled pork with vermicelli noodles), and Banh Ran Ngot (salty and sweet donuts).

But the real reason why you would love this tour is because it covers a much larger area than the Hanoi Old Quarter.

“Su and Linh were the best guides. We ate at the best places. Still thinking about all the delicious food to be honest. The tour on the motorbike was hands down one of the best experiences in Hanoi. Worth every penny for such an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss out. Recommending to anyone who will listen. So good. Thank you Linh and Su!” Belinda| Read more reviews

If you stay in the Old Quarter, you get a free pick-up else you can meet right outside the Hanoi Opera House.

The tour starts with you being provided high-quality helments with visor, face masks and even a raincoat if required.

The drivers are all professional and the bikes used are spacious and in great condition.

You will be provided with coffee or tea as well as alcoholic beverages which are otherwise not included in other tours.

The tour takes you through a large geographical area starting from

• a family-run restaurant
• busy lanes of the Old Quarter,
• Ba Dinh square (quick pass by)
• Long Bien (Across the red river)
• the famous train street.

The only downside is that infants and kids can’t be taken along on this tour.

But it is easily the best way to get the best overview of Hanoian food, culture, architecture and city highlights in just a few hours.

Book Hanoi By Night Foodie Motorbike Tours

#5 Hanoi Food Lovers Walking Tour: Street Food Experience with 5 Food Stops

412 reviews | 4.5 Star Rating | 3 hours | BOOK NOW

This Hanoi food tour adds some touristy attractions to its offerings. It combines food with a visit to the local attractions of Vietnam. It is conducted as part of a small group of up to 12 people.

If you are wondering where to eat in Hanoi, check out this tour as it lets you taste not only the famous dishes like Bun Cha and Banh Mi, but also try out seasonal fruits, shop for local spices etc.

“We started our trip with this food tour so that we could revisit foods we enjoyed. San was an amazing tour guide. Very clear, made sure we didn’t get left behind and made extra efforts to make sure we were comfortable and happy. Would strongly recommend! An amazing experience” Audric_S| Read more reviews

The tour as the name suggests takes you on 5 key stops.

The tour starts with you visiting the lanes around the famous wholesale indoor market – Dong Xuan. Here you sample street food delicacies while also trying out seasonal fruits.

Next, you enter the chaotic buzz of the Old Quarter where you stop for sumptuous tastings of the best Vietnamese food in Hanoi – a bun cha, a fermented pork roll, and a fresh fruit salad.

The Hanoi street food closes with egg coffee in a secret coffee house or a cold beer in one of the most happening areas of Hanoi.

An impressive highlight of this tour is that the entire street food tour of Hanoi is conducted in a carbon-neutral manner and runs twice a day.

Book Hanoi Food Lovers Walking Tour: Street Food Experience with 5 Food Stops

#6 Hanoi Old Quarter Vegetarian Food Tour

9 reviews | 4.4 Star Rating | 3-3.5 hours | BOOK NOW

Are you looking for Vegetarian food in Hanoi? Are you an Indian who generally only eats vegetarian food and doesn’t know where to look for vegetarian food in Hanoi old quarter?

This Vegetarian Food Hanoi tour is ideal for you.

The tour comes in two attractive options

• a tasting tour
• and a sightseeing tour concluding with a buffet meal in a restaurant in Hanoi.

Plus the tour only needs a minimum of two people. So if you are travelling with a family or as a couple – it can work like your very own private food tour around Hanoi.

“We had the best time doing the vegetarian tour with Hoàng! He showed us the hidden spots of Hanoi and ended the tour in a lovely local café to have the best egg coffee. This tour can be done as a non-vegetarian too, you always have the option to choose between the vegetarian meal and the non-vegetarian. Definitely a recommendation for every food lover!” – Anonymous traveller on GetYourGuide | Read more reviews

This vegetarian food tour of Hanoi would open you up to the vast number of options you enjoy even as a vegetarian in Hanoi.

The first option – i.e. the vegetarian food tour in Hanoi Old Quarter lets you taste vegetarian Banh Mi, Spring rolls cooked with delicious mango, papaya, carrots, etc, Vietnamese vegetarian fried dumplings, Vietnamese traditional desserts, egg coffee and lovely unique steamed rice roll cake. Love the options! So do I!

The second option, on the other hand, lets a guide walk you around the Hanoi Old Quarter for about 1.5 hours with a stop on the way for egg coffee followed by a visit to a restaurant with a massive vegetarian buffet.

Keep lots of space in your tummy to be able to stuff everything from salads, soups, main dishes, rolls, fruit and coconut milk deserts – the menu literally changes every day to reflect Vietnamese cuisine’s diversity and seasonality in cooking.

The first option is suitable for those who want to walk around the town while exploring its food scene.

But if you hate multiple stops, and hate walking around for 3 hours, the second option of the vegetarian buffet meal is far more suitable.

Book Hanoi Old Quarter Vegetarian Food Tour

#7 Family Vietnamese Lunch

This option is a little different from all the options stated above because this tour is not about hopping around the town trying local food.

Instead, this tour lets you eat a local’s. home. The experience doesn’t involve walking. But it is still private and very insightful.

This option is excellent for those travelling to Vietnam with kids or for older couples, senior citizens, etc.

“Had a wonderful evening with Ngoc. She is such a really nice host – the food was lovely prepared and also she gave me the chance to interact with her in the kitchen. Had great time and nice conversations. Totally recommend!” – Florian | Read more reviews

In this option, a local host cooks a local, delicious Vietnamese lunch for you. Most of the products used in the preparation of the lunch are homegrown.

This experience is also a little more personal and deep in terms of getting to know local Vietnamese culture.

The lunch is not just about food but also about chitchatting with the host (who by the way can speak English and French fluently!) and also trying out food items like pickles which you would otherwise not find on a Hanoi walking food tour.

Book Family Vietnamese Lunch

#8 Book Hanoian Dinner on Your Table

Don’t find dining with a local over lunch convenient? No problem, head out for dinner at this fun host’s place.

The menu is so elaborate that you are served the best food in Hanoi on your table. No need to walk around the crazy, loud town. Instead you can understand local cultures and customs while being hosted by a chatty, food-loving local.

“Thank you so much Viet for the lovely, generous and delicious dinner 🙏🏻 Our best dinner in Hanoi, being welcome by you and your beautiful family. We felt very privileged 😍 The food cooked by your wife was so tasty, many dishes we never tried before ! The conversation was so interesting, we learned a lot about Vietnamese culture and you have given us so many recommendations in Hanoi and Vietnam. It always feels special to meet like minded people around the world and be welcome like old friends 💕. A night we will remember ! A Must Do for sure!” Camille | Read more reviews

The menu is a lavish mix of typical Hanoian dishes like

Spring Rolls with pork and rice paper, Fried Tofu, Mix Boiled Vegetables, Omelette, pork skin and sour soup.

In addition to the delicious taste, personal experience and hospitality, the food served here is far more hygienic than the street food in Hanoi. So if you want to avoid tummy troubles, this is a far better yet equally engaging experience.

Book Hanoian Dinner on Your Table

Frequently Asked Questions – Famous food in Hanoi

What food is hanoi famous for.

The famous food in Hanoi is – Bun Cha i.e. rice vermicelli with barbequed pork, – pho – Vietnamese noodle soup, – Banh Mi – Vietnamese sandwich with baguette – Banh Cuon – rice rolls – Egg coffee

In addition to this you can also find classic Vietnamese spring rolls, a variety of soups, hotpots and fruit jelly desserts in Hanoi.

What is a typical breakfast, lunch and dinner in Vietnam?

Banh Cuon, Banh Mi, Pho or sticky rice forms are the most common breakfast options in Vietnam. For lunch and dinner, Vietnamese have noodles or sticky rice with meat or seafood with a side of stir-fried vegetables, sauce and soup. Bun Cha is a famous lunch option in Hanoi.

A typical Vietnamese meal is served in a family-style set-up. So all the preparations are put on the table and then the family members serve small portions into their own bowls or plates. Vietnamese meals also don’t comprise courses served in chronological order.

Is it safe to eat street food in Hanoi?

Street food in Vietnam is probably as safe or unsafe as street food in other developing countries. It may also be said that street food is probably no less safe than the food cooked in restaurants. If you have a sensitive stomach, it is best to avoid spicy food, food that doesn’t look hygienic or food that you are allergic to. Get a doctor’s advice to clear your doubts and protect yourself against an upset tummy.

But street food in Hanoi is enjoyed by thousands of tourists visiting Hanoi every single day. Its variety and flavour is the primary reason why it is so popular even amongst tourists and it is definitely worth trying. Of course, practice basic precautions like avoiding food that looks obviously unhygienic, allergic substances etc. Always drink bottled water.

Final Thoughts: Best Hanoi Street Food Tours

I hope that this guide on the best food tours in Hanoi helped you. To get the most for your money’s worth I recommend that you book Small Group Hanoi Street Food Tour with a Real Foodie . which has over 1700 stellar reviews.

Pro Tip: Before you book the tour, go through the details and the reviews by fellow travellers to see than the Hanoi tour company you go with meets your needs.

Each of the Hanoi street food tour companies mentioned in this post including the private Hanoi meals listed above are conducted by locals who speak excellent English.

To have the best experience, go with an open mind and an empty stomach! 🙂

Visiting Vietnam? Read more helpful articles

1 day in Hanoi – what to do, see and eat

What to do in Hanoi Old Quarter – A perfect guide

28 must-have apps for traveling to Vietnam

Saigon Skydeck – Is it worth it?

Vrushali Ketkar is a lawyer turned travel blogger. She has travelled to 14 countries. She travels like a regular working woman with family. Her lawyer-level research skills make her a destination expert and help her get the most out of my trips. Today, her travel articles and videos help thousands of people across the world plan their trips to various parts of the world.

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Hanoi Street Food Tour

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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

HANOI STREET FOOD TOUR - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

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Travel is all about the street food these days, and why not? It's fresh, fast, cheap and a great way to crack into the local scene. Join this Hanoi tour to source the best street eats from markets, food carts, street cafes and other hard-to-find-but-totally-worth-the-effort secret spots.  

• Sample delicious Vietnamese cuisine just like the locals do — on the street
• Stroll through the hidden alleyways and bustling markets of Hanoi’s charming old quarter
• Learn more about Hanoi’s unique food culture and try local specialties
• Take in a spectacular view of Hoan Kiem lake from a secret café

Local English-speaking guide, all food samples as per itinerary, and one Vietnamese coffee/drink. Please note that this tour visits independent, family-owned businesses whose operating schedules and menus may change. Therefore, street food venues and local dishes often vary; your local guide will make any final adjustments on the spot.

Additional food and drinks, tips/gratuities for a local guide

In front of the Memorial Statue next to Dong Xuan market (at the intersection of Hang Khoai street and Dong Xuan street)

Café Pho Co – 11 Hang Gai St, Hoan Kiem

The maximum number of people on this tour will be 12 passengers.

While we strongly recommend that all travellers are vaccinated against COVID-19 to reduce the risk of transmission and avoid putting undue strain on healthcare services, vaccinations are not a requirement to join an Urban Adventures tour. For further information, please review COVID-19 Health & Safety at https://www.urbanadventures.com/en/about-us/covid-19-customer-info

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before activity.

If you have any issues on the day of your tour, please call + 84 90 419 33 08

Meet up with your local guide, then dive straight into Hanoi’s culinary scene with a visit to Dong Xuan, the largest covered market in the city. Along the perimeter of the market, dozens of street hawkers sell a staggering variety of produce, from live seafood to exotic fruits and spices. Your expert English-speaking local guide will give you an insight into the intricacies and traditions of Vietnamese food culture including details on ingredients and historical backgrounds of popular northern dishes. We eat as we go, trying seasonal fruits and sampling a banh mi, a famous Vietnamese baguette, with your choice of fillings – one of the most beloved combos is pate, ham, sliced cucumber and chili sauce. After exploring the market, walk through the maze of bustling streets that make up Hanoi’s Old Quarter, tempting your tastebuds with the famed Hanoi dish banh cuon at a local eatery. Watch in awe as the skilled chefs demonstrate for you how this tasty dish is put together. Continuing into the atmospheric heart of the Old Quarter, we wander past street stalls and quiet residential lanes where you can observe local life that has changed little since Hanoi was founded over 1000 years ago.  Your next stop is a stall selling bun cha, a classic Vietnamese dish served with grilled fatty pork (chả) over a plate of white rice noodles (bún) and herbs with a flavoursome dipping sauce. Be sure to save some room as you’ll soon be tucking into grilled nem chua, a fermented pork roll, and a fresh fruit salad, two of the most well-known snacks in the city. Your local guide will then take you to one of Hanoi’s best-kept secrets, a hidden café with stunning views over the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake. This hard-to-find café is one of the few left in the city that still serves egg coffee, a scrumptious local delicacy that we will sample whilst admiring the hustle and bustle of the city centre below. Or, if coffee is not your style, a cold beer awaits! At the end of our Hanoi tour, you are free to continue exploring the area or your guide will assist you with directions or a taxi back to your hotel.

+84 90 4193308 [email protected]

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