Top 10 Best Bun Rieu in Hanoi Recommended by Locals

In the bustling streets of Hanoi, where culinary traditions meet the vibrant pulse of Vietnamese life, discovering the best bun rieu is a flavorful adventure not to be missed. This iconic crab noodle soup features a rich tomato-based broth and delicate rice noodles, topped with fresh herbs and tangy minced crab or pork. It’s as much a sensory delight as it is a cultural experience. Travelers often find themselves overwhelmed with options in this dynamic city, each bowl seemingly more tempting than the last. Understanding where to find exceptional bun rieu can elevate your gastronomic journey in Hanoi significantly. In this article by GTrip, we bring clarity to your quest for culinary excellence by exploring standout establishments that promise an authentic taste of Vietnam's beloved dish.

1. Bun Rieu Huyen Thu

Hidden away on Quang Trung Street, Bun Rieu Huyen Thu has become a culinary landmark for locals and food-savvy travelers seeking authentic Hanoi flavors. What sets this establishment apart is their perfectly balanced broth, rich with tomato sweetness yet delicately tangy. They also use a generous amount of freshwater crab paste, giving the soup its distinctive rustic depth. What sets this establishment apart is their perfectly balanced broth, rich with tomato sweetness yet delicately tangy. They also use a generous amount of freshwater crab paste, giving the soup its distinctive rustic depth.

Huyen Thu’s take on bun rieu stays true to tradition, focusing on simplicity and authenticity. The noodles are perfectly cooked, springy enough to hold their shape yet tender enough to soak up the broth's depth without falling apart. Their crab meat mixture forms delicate, flavorful dumplings that melt in your mouth, delivering rich, oceanic notes with every bite. For over 20 years, locals have trusted Huyen Thu for its unwavering quality, even as Hanoi’s food scene continues to evolve.

What truly distinguishes their bun rieu is the meticulously arranged garnish basket. It includes shredded banana blossoms, water morning glory, Vietnamese balm, perilla leaves, and fresh lime wedges. Each component adds unique layers of aroma, texture, and brightness to the bowl.

• Address: 2F Quang Trung Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM - 2:00 PM
• Price range: about 65,000 VND | $2.49
• Best time to visit: Before 11:00 AM to avoid lunch crowds

Many connoisseurs of Hanoi cuisine consider this modest eatery to serve among the most authentic versions of bun rieu in the Hanoi Old Quarter. This is an essential stop for culinary explorers searching for genuine northern Vietnamese flavors.

Bun Rieu Huyen Thu has become a culinary landmark for locals and food-savvy travelers seeking authentic Hanoi flavors

2. Mantis shrimp Bun Rieu - Lac Long Quan

Nestled in Hanoi's Tay Ho District, an area famous for the scenic West Lake, this unassuming eatery specializes in a unique variation that has captivated locals and travelers alike, the mantis shrimp bun rieu. What distinguishes this version is the delicate balance of flavors achieved through high-quality mantis shrimp, which infuses the broth with a distinctive sweetness. The restaurant meticulously prepares its stock by simmering for over six hours, resulting in a clear, aromatic base that allows the natural seafood flavors to shine through without overwhelming spices. Each bowl comes generously topped with fresh tomatoes, herbs, and perfectly cooked rice noodles that maintain their texture throughout the meal.

The mantis shrimp adds both textural contrast and a uniquely sweet flavor profile that separates this establishment from other bun rieu vendors across Hanoi. Tourists frequently note the restaurant's commitment to consistent quality and the perfect balance between the sour tomato base and the rich seafood elements. The family-run business has preserved its recipe for generations, refusing to compromise on ingredient quality despite its reasonable pricing.

• Address: 608 Lac Long Quan Street, Tay Ho Ward, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 6:30 AM - 9:00 PM
• Price range: about 100,000 VND | $3.83
• Best time to visit: Before 11:00 AM to avoid the local lunch rush
• Special options: Extra mantis shrimp topping (+30,000 VND)

During peak hours, expect to share tables with locals, a perfect opportunity to observe how Hanoians customize their bun rieu with various herbs and condiments.

This eatery specializes in a unique variation that has captivated locals and travelers alike - the mantis shrimp bun rieu

3. Bun Rieu Quang Nhat

Nestled on the bustling Doi Can Street, Bun Rieu Quang Nhat has earned a reputation among locals and visitors alike for their exceptional take on this beloved Vietnamese soup. What distinguishes this establishment is their perfect balance of flavors. The tomato-based broth achieves an ideal harmony between sourness and sweetness while maintaining remarkable clarity. Their crab paste is noticeably fresher than most competitors', creating delicate yet flavorful meat patties that float temptingly in each bowl. The restaurant's commitment to quality extends to their homemade shrimp paste, which adds an aromatic depth that elevates the entire dish.

Unlike many other bun rieu venues that focus solely on the soup, Quang Nhat pays special attention to their noodles. They use slightly thicker rice vermicelli that maintains its texture throughout the meal, absorbing the rich flavors without becoming mushy. This textural element creates a more satisfying eating experience that regulars have come to appreciate.

• Address: 216 Doi Can Street, Ba Dinh Ward, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 7:30 AM - 10:00 PM
• Price range: about 100,000 VND | $3.83

What sets Quang Nhat apart is their generous portion of crispy fried tofu that soaks up the broth while maintaining a satisfying outer crunch. Their condiment tray is particularly impressive, featuring house-fermented shrimp paste, freshly chopped bird's eye chilis, and lime wedges cut to order. For those seeking an authentic experience, the restaurant offers an optional add-on of congealed pig blood cubes (tiet) prepared in the traditional northern style.

Bun Rieu Quang Nhat has earned a reputation among locals and visitors alike for their exceptional take on bun rieu

4. Trang's Bun Rieu with pork ribs and cartilage

Trang's humble eatery on Nguyen Sieu Street has carved out a unique niche in Hanoi's bun rieu scene with its distinctively rich version featuring tender pork ribs and cartilage. Unlike traditional preparations, Trang adds these succulent meat elements that infuse the broth with a deep, collagen-rich flavor profile that transforms the classic tomato-crab base into something extraordinary. The soup achieves a remarkable balance, maintaining the signature tangy-sweet tomato foundation while incorporating the hearty, savory notes from the slow-cooked pork components.

What makes Trang’s bun rieu stand out is the careful preparation: pork ribs are simmered until tender, with cartilage cooked to a soft, chewy texture beloved by locals. Each bowl is topped with fresh herbs, crisp banana blossoms and bean sprouts, and a rich mix of crab paste, pork ribs, and cartilage. House-made shrimp paste, lime, and chili sauce let diners customize to taste. The noodles are perfectly springy, holding their texture in the flavorful broth.

• Address: 23 Nguyen Sieu Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
• Price range: about 50,000 VND | $1.92
• Seating: Traditional low stools with limited space, a familiar sight reminiscent of the bustling atmosphere at Bia Hoi Corner. (Arrive early during peak lunch hours).
• Special note: They often sell out by early afternoon, especially on weekends

Trang's humble eatery on Nguyen Sieu Street has carved out a unique niche in Hanoi's bun rieu scene with its distinctively rich version featuring tender pork ribs and cartilage

5. Bun Rieu Hang Bac

Nestled in Hanoi's historic Old Quarter, Bun Rieu Hang Bac offers a unique interpretation of this beloved Vietnamese soup. What sets this establishment apart is their perfectly balanced tomato broth, noticeably tangier and more aromatic than most competitors. The crab paste here is handmade daily, resulting in exceptionally fresh, chunky meat portions that float atop their signature crimson broth. Their special touch includes a subtle hint of fermented shrimp paste (mam tom) that's integrated so skillfully that even those typically averse to strong flavors find it addictively delicious.

The restaurant's dedication to quality extends to their housemade fried tofu, which absorbs the broth's flavors while maintaining a satisfying crispy exterior. Unlike many quick-service eateries, Bun Rieu Hang Bac simmers their broth for over six hours, creating remarkable depth that locals and tourists alike seek out.

• Address: 11 Hang Bac Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
• Price range: about 45,000 VND | $1.72
• Wait time: 5-10 minutes during peak hours

The strategic location on Hang Bac Street makes this eatery particularly convenient for tourists exploring Hanoi's silver-making district and nearby attractions like Hoan Kiem Lake. Though small and sometimes crowded during lunch hours, the quick service and authentic flavors make Bun Rieu Hang Bac well worth seeking out for anyone wanting to taste bun rieu Hanoi.

Nestled in Hanoi's historic Old Quarter, Bun Rieu Hang Bac offers a unique interpretation of bun rieu - beloved Vietnamese soup

6. Bun Rieu Co Dao

For night owls and late-night food hunters, Bun Rieu Co Dao offers a truly unique experience, a perfect late-night stop after exploring the vibrant energy of the Hanoi Night Market. This establishment stands out for serving one of the city's most flavorful bowls of bun rieu during unconventional hours. What makes their version special is the rich, tomato-based broth that achieves perfect balance between sour, sweet, and savory notes. The crab paste is particularly fresh and abundant, creating a distinctive depth of flavor that locals seek out after midnight.

Unlike daytime vendors, Co Dao's bun rieu features a slightly thicker broth with extra crab fat that creates a silky, luxurious mouthfeel. Each bowl comes generously topped with fried tofu that absorbs the flavorful broth, alongside perfectly cooked rice vermicelli that maintains ideal texture. The addition of fresh herbs and a slight chili kick makes this a standout choice for authentic late-night Vietnamese cuisine.

• Address: 189 Hong Ha Street, Ba Dinh Ward, Hanoi
• Opening Hours: 10:00 PM - 4:00 AM
• Price Range: 30,000 - 50,000 VND | $1.15 - 1.92
• Seating: No reservations required (plenty of seating available)

For night owls and late-night food hunters, Bun Rieu Co Dao offers a truly unique experience in Hanoi's culinary landscape

7. Bun Rieu Co Bong

Located in the modern Vinhomes Ocean Park Urban Area, Bun Rieu Co Bong stands out as a culinary oasis that brings traditional flavors to Hanoi's newest district. What distinguishes this establishment is its meticulously prepared crab paste, rich, chunky, and vibrant orange-red. This creates a broth that strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and tanginess. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh lake crabs sourced daily, resulting in a distinctively clean yet complex flavor profile that many consider the most authentic representation of Northern Vietnamese bun rieu. Their noodles maintain the ideal consistency, neither too soft nor too firm, expertly complementing the robust broth.

Unlike many central Hanoi establishments, Bun Rieu Co Bong offers a spacious, air-conditioned dining environment that provides welcome relief during Vietnam's hot summers. The restaurant has quickly become a favorite among expatriates and locals in this developing area, offering consistent quality despite its relatively recent opening.

• Address: S2 - 17, Vinhomes Ocean Park Urban Area, Gia Lam, Hanoi
• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
• Price Range: About 100,000 VND | $3.83
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning (6:00-7:30 AM) for the freshest batch of the day

While slightly pricier than some central Hanoi options, the generous portion sizes, premium ingredients, and comfortable setting more than justify the cost. The restaurant's location makes it an ideal breakfast stop for travelers staying in the Vinhomes Ocean Park area or those exploring the eastern outskirts of Hanoi, perhaps after crossing the historic Long Bien Bridge.

Bun Rieu Co Bong stands out as a culinary oasis that brings traditional flavors to Hanoi's newest district

8. Bun Rieu Ba Kieu

Bun Rieu Ba Kieu has established itself as one of Hanoi's most beloved destinations for authentic tomato and crab soup noodles. What sets Ba Kieu's bun rieu apart is their perfectly balanced broth, neither too sour nor too sweet, with a rich depth that comes from simmering crab shells and pork bones for hours. Their signature touch includes generous portions of freshly made crab meat paste formed into delicate, cloud-like dumplings that float atop the vibrant red broth. The restaurant is particularly noted for their exceptionally fresh herbs and vegetables, allowing diners to customize their bowls with abundant greens according to personal preference.

• Address 1: 349 Lacasta, Ha Dong Ward, Hanoi
• Address 2: 74 Vuong Thua Vu, Khuong Trung, Thanh Xuan Ward, Ha Noi
• Address 3: 68A Tran Nguyen Dan, Dinh Cong, Hoang Mai Ward, Ha Noi
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
• Price range: 25,000 - 50,000 VND | $0.96 - 1.92

Unlike many establishments, Ba Kieu maintains early morning hours, making it a popular breakfast in Hanoi for locals before work. The reasonable pricing makes it accessible for budget travelers, while premium options with additional toppings are available for those wanting a more substantial meal. Though the Ha Dong location tends to be less crowded than the others, all three branches maintain the same recipe and quality standards.

Bun Rieu Ba Kieu has established itself as one of Hanoi's most beloved destinations for authentic tomato and crab soup noodles

9. Mantis Shrimp Bun Rieu Tien Huan

Mantis Shrimp Bun Rieu Tien Huan has earned a devoted following among Hanoi locals and adventurous tourists for its exceptional seafood-focused soup. The restaurant's distinct version features generous portions of mantis shrimp (tom tit), delivering a sweet oceanic flavor that elevates the traditional tomato-based broth. Unlike many competitors, Tien Huan ensures their soup maintains remarkable clarity while delivering intense depth of flavor. They are achieved through a meticulous 8-hour simmering process using only freshwater crabs and premium seafood.

What sets this establishment apart is their homemade spicy satay condiment, crafted daily using a closely-guarded family recipe that dates back three generations. The broth carries subtle notes of lemongrass and Vietnamese coriander (rau ram), creating a harmonious balance between acidity and richness. Each bowl comes garnished with fresh water spinach, split water mimosa, and banana blossoms that provide textural contrast against the tender mantis shrimp and silky rice vermicelli.

• Address: A19, 66 Dich Vong Hau Street, Cau Giay Ward, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 6:30 AM - 9:30 PM
• Price range: about 50,000 VND | $1.92
• Best time to visit: 7:00 AM for the freshest morning batch

The restaurant maintains a humble, no-frills atmosphere typical of authentic Hanoi eateries. Their commitment to quality has kept prices remarkably reasonable despite using premium ingredients, making this spot a true hidden gem for travelers.

Mantis Shrimp Bun Rieu Tien Huan has earned a devoted following among Hanoi locals and adventurous tourists for its exceptional seafood-focused soup

10. Bun Rieu Cua 41 Quang Trung

Bun Rieu Cua 41 Quang Trung stands out for its perfectly balanced crab broth that strikes the ideal harmony between sweet and tangy flavors. What distinguishes this establishment is their generous portions of tofu that absorb the savory broth while maintaining a delightful firmness. Their version features exceptionally fresh crab meat that's meticulously picked and formed into delicate, flavorful patties that dissolve in your mouth with each spoonful.

The restaurant has perfected its tomato-based broth through decades of experience, achieving a distinctive light orange hue that signals the perfect cooking time. Their attention to detail extends to the accompanying herbs, with each bowl arriving with a mountain of fresh ingredients, a nod to the quality produce found in major hubs like Dong Xuan Market.

• Address: 41 Quang Trung, Tran Quoc Toan, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM - 7:30 PM
• Price range: about 50,000 VND | $1.92
• Best time to visit: Early morning for the freshest ingredients

Bun Rieu Cua 41 Quang Trung stands out for its perfectly balanced crab broth that strikes the ideal harmony between sweet and tangy flavors

Exploring Hanoi's vibrant street food scene and discovering the best bun rieu is more than just savoring a meal. It's about immersing yourself in the city's rich culinary tapestry. As you relish each spoonful of this deliciously tangy and savory broth, you connect with Hanoi’s culture in a deeply personal way. Our list provides essential stops for this culinary journey, ensuring that your taste adventure is both rewarding and authentic. Armed with these recommendations, you're now equipped to dive into Hanoi’s bustling streets with confidence, ready to uncover even more hidden gems along your travels. You can book Hanoi tours of GTrip - Vietnam Travel Agency to try this local food in Hanoi.