Top 15+ Best Noodles in Hanoi You Must Try

Noodles in Hanoi are more than just a dish. They are a vibrant part of the city's rich culinary tapestry, captivating taste buds with distinct flavors and textures. Understanding where to find the best noodles can elevate your travel experience. This article by GTrip highlights unique noodle spots that promise not only delicious meals but also an authentic slice of Hanoi culture. Prepare to embark on a savory journey through hidden gems and iconic eateries that reveal why noodles hold such enduring fascination here.

Top noodles in Hanoi served with rich, flavorful broth

Hanoi's culinary landscape is dominated by soul-warming noodle soups that showcase the delicate balance of flavors perfected over generations. These broth-based noodle dishes represent the heart of northern Vietnamese cuisine, where complex broths simmered for hours create depth of flavor that's unmatched elsewhere.

Pho

Pho is Vietnam's national dish and Hanoi's most iconic noodle soup. This aromatic beef broth is simmered for hours with charred ginger, onions, star anise, cinnamon, and other spices, then served with flat rice noodles, tender slices of meat, and fresh herbs. The Hanoi version is distinct for its clearer broth and focuses on the pure flavor of beef rather than heavy garnishes.

Traditional variations:

• Pho bo (beef pho): Featuring various cuts like rare beef (tai), brisket (nam), flank (ve don)
• Pho ga (chicken pho): More delicate broth with tender chicken pieces
• Pho sot vang: Influenced by French cuisine, made with wine-braised beef
• Vegetarian pho: Using mushroom or vegetable-based broth

Some suggested places to enjoy:

• Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su: 10 Ly Quoc Su Street, Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi | 50,000 VND - 100,000 VND ($1.91 - 3.83)
• Pho Bat Dan: 49 Bat Dan Street, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi | 50,000 - 60,000 VND ($1.91 - 2.30)
• Pho Thin Lo Duc: 13 Lo Duc Street, Ngo Thi Nham, Hai Ba Trung Ward, Hanoi | 60,000 - 100,000 VND ($2.30 - 3.83)

Pho is Vietnam's national dish and Hanoi's most iconic noodle soup

Read more: Top 12+ Places to Try Delicious and Authentic Pho in Hanoi

Bun oc (Snail noodle soup)

Bun oc is a beloved Hanoi specialty featuring river snails in a tangy tomato broth with rice vermicelli noodles. The soup balances sour, sweet, and savory notes with the distinctive texture of tender snail meat. The broth gets its signature tartness from fresh tomatoes, rice vinegar, and sometimes tamarind, complemented by aromatic herbs like perilla, banana flowers, and water morning glory.

Some suggested places to enjoy:

• Bun Oc Giang: 36 Luong Ngoc Quyen, Hang Buom, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi | 35,000 - 70,000 VND ($1.34 - 2.68)
• Bun Oc Co Hue: 43 Nguyen Sieu, Hanoi Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi | 30,000 - 100,000 VND ($1.15 - 3.83)
• Bun Oc Co Lan: No. 26, Alley 139, Khuong Thuong, Nga Tu So, Dong Da Ward, Hanoi | 35,000 - 60,000 VND ($1.34 - 2.30)

Bun oc is a beloved Hanoi specialty featuring river snails in a tangy tomato broth with rice vermicelli noodles

Bun rieu (Crab noodle soup)

Bun rieu is a rustic yet sophisticated noodle soup centered around freshwater crab meat. The hallmark of this dish is the vibrant red-orange broth flavored with tomatoes and the distinctive crab paste made from pounded crab roe and meat. Rice vermicelli noodles provide the foundation for this comfort food that captures the essence of northern Vietnamese home cooking.

Some suggested places to enjoy:

• Bun Rieu Huyen Thu: 2F Quang Trung Street, Tran Hung Dao, Hoan Kiem Ward | About 65,000 VND ($2.49)
• Mantis Shrimp Bun Rieu - Lac Long Quan: 608 Lac Long Quan Street, Tay Ho Ward, Hanoi | About 100,000 VND ($3.83)
• Bun Rieu Hang Bac: 11 Hang Bac Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi | About 45,000 VND ($1.72)

Bun rieu is a rustic yet sophisticated noodle soup centered around freshwater crab meat

Read more: Top 10 Best Bun Rieu in Hanoi Recommended by Locals

Mien luon (Eel cellophane noodles)

Mien luon showcases the unique texture of cellophane noodles (mien) paired with crispy or stir-fried eel. This specialty represents Hanoi's resourceful approach to cuisine, transforming the humble eel into a delicacy. The broth is often lighter than other noodle soups but packed with umami from dried mushrooms, eel bones, and aromatic herbs.

Serving styles:

• Mien luon nuoc: soup version with clear broth
• Mien luon kho: "dry" version with minimal broth
• Both feature crispy fried eel or stir-fried eel pieces
• Accompanied by bamboo shoots, mushrooms, and fresh herbs

Some suggested places to enjoy:

• Mien Luon Chan Cam: 1 Chan Cam, Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi | 20,000 - 50,000 VND ($0.77 - 1.91)
• Mien Luon Thai Ha: 42 Thai Ha, Trung Liet, Dong Da Ward, Hanoi | 20,000 - 50,000 VND ($0.77 - 1.91)
• Mien Luon Huong Beo: 46 Nguyen Tu Gian, Phuc Tan, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi | 20,000 - 40,000 VND ($0.77 - 1.53)

Mien luon showcases the unique texture of cellophane noodles (mien) paired with crispy or stir-fried eel

Bun ngan (Muscovy duck noodle soup)

Bun ngan highlights the rich, gamey flavor of Muscovy duck (ngan) in a warming noodle soup. This specialty is particularly popular during Hanoi's cooler months when locals seek heartier fare. The broth gains its complex flavor profile from slow-simmered duck bones and meat, creating a naturally sweet foundation enriched with aromatic spices.

Some suggested places to enjoy:

• Bun Ngan Minh Thu: 31 Ly Quoc Su, Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi | 50,000-150,000 VND ($1.92 - 5.75)
• Bun Ngan Huyen Anh: No. 39 Nguyen Du Street, Hai Ba Trung Ward, Hanoi | 35,000 - 50,000 VND ($1.34 - 1.92)
• Bun Ngan Nhan: 11 Trung Yen, Hang Bac, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi | 30,000 - 50,000 VND ($1.15 - 1.92)

Bun ngan highlights the rich, gamey flavor of Muscovy duck (ngan) in a warming noodle soup

Bun thang (Chicken combo noodle soup)

Bun thang is considered one of Hanoi's most sophisticated noodle soups, traditionally prepared during Tet (Lunar New Year) celebrations. This elegant dish features a delicate chicken broth layered with meticulously arranged toppings that create a harmony of flavors, textures, and colors. The name "thang" refers to the traditional Vietnamese medicine cabinet with many drawers, much like the many ingredients in this complex soup.

Traditional components:

• Clear, aromatic chicken broth
• Thin rice vermicelli noodles
• Shredded chicken and Vietnamese ham (cha lua)
• Egg strips cut into thin ribbons
• Dried shrimp floss and shiitake mushrooms
• Topped with Vietnamese coriander (rau ram) and a drop of shrimp paste

Some suggested places to enjoy:

• Bun Thang Co Binh: 29 Cau Go, Hang Bac, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi | 30,000 - 55,000 VND ($1.15 - 2.11)
• Bun Thang Hang Hanh: 29 Hang Hanh, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi | 40,000 VND ($1.53)
• Bun Thang Lan Ong: 16 Lan Ong, Hang Dao, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi | 25,000 - 35,000 VND ($0.96 - 1.34)

Bun thang is considered one of Hanoi's most sophisticated noodle soups

Bun doc mung (Colocasia gigantea noodle soup)

Bun doc mung features the unique ingredient of Colocasia gigantea stems (doc mung), a vegetable related to taro that grows abundantly in Vietnam's northern provinces. This lesser-known noodle soup showcases the Vietnamese talent for transforming humble ingredients into memorable dishes. The distinctive crisp texture of doc mung provides a refreshing contrast to the savory broth.

Some suggested places to enjoy:

• Bun Doc Mung Co Cham: 39/4 Hai Ba Trung, Tran Hung Dao, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi | 25,000 - 45,000 VND ($0.96 - 1.72)
• Bun Doc Mung Bat Dan: 18 Bat Dan, Hang Bo, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi | 30,000 - 50,000 VND ($1.15 - 1.92)
• Bun Doc Mung Nguyen Che Nghia: 15 Nguyen Che Nghia, Hang Bai, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi | 30,000 - 50,000 VND ($1.15 - 1.92)

Bun doc mung features the unique ingredient of Colocasia gigantea stems (doc mung)

Bun moc (Pork ball noodle soup)

Bun moc offers a hearty, rustic flavor profile centered around handmade pork and mushroom meatballs. This comforting soup represents the more subtle side of Hanoi's noodle soups, with a clean, light broth that allows the natural sweetness of pork to shine through. The dish balances protein, vegetables, and aromatics in perfect harmony.

Some suggested places to enjoy:

• Bun Moc Thuy: 10 Dao Duy Tu, Hang Buom, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi | 25,000 - 50,000 VND ($0.96 - 1.92)
• Bun Moc Huong: Alley 294 Doi Can Street, Cong Vi Ward, Ba Dinh Ward, Hanoi | 25,000 - 50,000 VND ($0.96 - 1.92)

Bun moc offers a hearty, rustic flavor profile centered around handmade pork and mushroom meatballs

Bun long (Noodle soup with pork intestine)

Bun long represents Hanoi's nose-to-tail eating tradition, featuring pork intestines as the star protein. This dish might challenge some visitors but is beloved by locals for its rich, complex flavors. The intestines are meticulously cleaned and prepared to create a dish that's both flavorful and texturally interesting.

Notable components:

• Clear pork broth with aromatic herbs and spices
• Cleaned and stir-fried pork intestines (long)
• Rice vermicelli noodles
• Often includes other offal like liver or heart
• Accompanied by fresh herbs, lime, and chili
• Sometimes served with mam tom (fermented shrimp paste)

Some suggested places to enjoy:

• Long Beu: Area A, TSQ Shopping Mall, 56 Nguyen Van Loc Street, Mo Lao Ward, Ha Dong Ward, Hanoi
• Long 84 Truong Dinh: 84 Truong Dinh, Hai Ba Trung Ward, Hanoi

Bun long represents Hanoi's nose-to-tail eating tradition, featuring pork intestines as the star protein

Banh da cua (Crab red rice noodle soup)

Banh da cua originated in nearby Hai Phong but has become a cherished part of Hanoi's noodle scene. The dish's signature is the distinctive brown-red flat rice noodles (banh da) that give a nutty flavor and heartier texture than white rice noodles. The crab-infused broth strikes a perfect balance between sweet and savory notes.

Distinctive elements:

• Reddish-brown flat rice noodles (thicker than pho noodles)
• Crab meat and sometimes crab roe
• Pork bone broth enhanced with tomatoes
• Often includes fried fish cakes and morning glory
• Topped with fresh herbs and optional chili

Some suggested places to enjoy:

• Banh Da Cua Phung Hung: 6A Phung Hung, Hang Ma, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi | 30,000 - 45,000 VND ($1.15 - 1.72)
• Banh Da Cua Hang: 32 Hang Bun Street, Truc Bach, Ba Dinh, Hanoi | 40,000 - 50,000 VND ($1.53 - 1.92)

Banh da cua originated in nearby Hai Phong but has become a cherished part of Hanoi's noodle scene

Hanoi seafood noodles

Hanoi seafood noodles showcase the bounty of Vietnam's coastline and freshwater resources in a luxurious soup. Unlike many traditional Hanoi noodle dishes, seafood noodles represent a more contemporary addition to the city's culinary landscape, combining local noodle traditions with premium seafood ingredients.

Common seafood ingredients:

• Fresh prawns, squid, and fish slices
• Sometimes includes crab meat or shellfish
• Light, clear broth with subtle seafood sweetness
• Rice noodles (either thin vermicelli or flat noodles)
• Often garnished with tomatoes, herbs, and fried shallots
• Usually accompanied by lime and chili for adjusting flavors

Some suggested places to enjoy:

• Seafood Noodles Lo Duc: 45 Lo Duc, Pham Dinh Ho, Hai Ba Trung Ward, Hanoi | 55,000 - 150,000 VND ($2.11 - 5.75)
• Seafood Noodles 62 Hang Cot: 62 Hang Cot, Hang Ma, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi | 30,000 - 50,000 VND ($1.15 - 1.92)

Hanoi seafood noodles showcase the bounty of Vietnam's coastline and freshwater resources in a luxurious soup

Read more: Top 9 Best Seafood Noodles in Hanoi You Must Try

Best dry noodles in Hanoi with dipping sauce or toppings

Hanoi's culinary landscape extends beyond soup-based noodles to include an impressive array of dry noodle dishes. These specialties feature perfectly cooked noodles served with flavorful dipping sauces or savory toppings that create a delightful contrast of textures and tastes. Often enjoyed by locals throughout the day, these dishes represent some of Hanoi's most authentic street food experiences.

Bun cha

Bun cha, arguably Hanoi's most famous dish, consists of grilled pork served with rice vermicelli, fresh herbs, and a sweet-sour dipping sauce. The dish gained international fame when Anthony Bourdain and President Obama shared a meal at Bun Cha Huong Lien in 2016. The perfectly charred pork patties and belly slices swim in a fish sauce-based broth with pickled vegetables, creating a smoky-sweet flavor profile that perfectly complements the plain rice noodles served alongside.

Some suggested places to enjoy:

• Bun cha Hang Quat: 74 Hang Quat Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi | 30,000 - 65,000 VND ($1.15 - $2.49)
• Bun cha Binh Minh: 23 Bat Su, Hoan Kiem Ward, Ha Noi | 35,000 - 80,000 VND ($1.35 - $3.10)
• Bun cha Chan: 114 Mai Hac De Street, Hai Ba Trung Ward, Hanoi | 40,000 - 65,000 VND ($1.53 - $2.49)

Bun cha, arguably Hanoi's most famous dish, consists of grilled pork served with rice vermicelli, fresh herbs, and a sweet-sour dipping sauce

Read more: Best Bun Cha in Hanoi: Top 10 Must-Try Spots for Authentic Flavor

Bun dau mam tom (Noodles with fermented shrimp paste)

Bun dau mam tom represents Hanoi street food at its most authentic. This simple yet bold dish features rice vermicelli cut into squares, served with deep-fried tofu, boiled pork, Vietnamese herbs, and the star component, mam tom (fermented shrimp paste). While the pungent aroma of mam tom might initially surprise visitors, its complex umami flavor creates a uniquely satisfying experience when balanced with the other ingredients.

The dish typically arrives as a platter with all components arranged separately, allowing diners to customize each bite. For those sensitive to the strong flavor of mam tom, many vendors offer alternative dipping options like fish sauce with lime.

Some suggested places to enjoy:

• Bun dau mam tom Goc Da: No. 4 Gach Alley, Hoan Kiem Ward | 25,000 - 50,000 VND ($0.96 - 1.92)
• Bun dau mam tom Trung Huong: 49 Phat Loc Alley, Hoan Kiem Ward | 20,000 - 50,000 VND ($0.77 - 1.92)
• Bun dau mam tom Quan Giang: B4 Trung Tu Street, Dong Da Ward, Hanoi | 30,000 - 150,000 VND ($1.15 - 5.75)

Bun dau mam tom represents Hanoi street food at its most authentic

Read more: Top 20 Places To Eat Bun Dau Mam Tom In Hanoi

Bun oc nguoi (Rice noodles with cold snail)

Bun oc nguoi offers a refreshing alternative to its hot soup counterpart. This distinctive dish features rice vermicelli topped with pre-cooked snails, fresh herbs, fried shallots, and roasted peanuts, all dressed with a tangy fish sauce vinaigrette. The snails are carefully prepared to maintain their tender texture while removing any unwanted earthy flavors, resulting in a clean, slightly chewy protein that absorbs the surrounding seasonings.

The magic of bun oc nguoi lies in its balance of textures and its harmonious blend of sour, sweet, and savory notes. It's particularly popular during Hanoi's sweltering summer months when locals seek light, refreshing meals.

Some suggested places to enjoy:

• Bun oc nguoi O Quan Chuong: 1 Hang Chieu Street, Hoan Kiem Ward | 35,000 - 40,000 VND ($1.34 - 1.53)
• Bun oc nguoi Co Thuy: 30 Cua Nam, Hoan Kiem Ward | 35,000 - 45,000 VND ($1.34 - 1.72)

Bun oc nguoi offers a refreshing alternative to its hot soup counterpart

Mi/Bun vit quay (Dry noodles with roasted duck)

Mi or bun vit quay combines the richness of roasted duck with either egg noodles (mi) or rice vermicelli (bun). This creates a satisfying meal that highlights Chinese culinary influences in Hanoi's food scene. The star is perfectly roasted duck with crispy skin and tender meat, typically served over noodles with a side of rich duck broth and pickled vegetables to cut through the richness.

What distinguishes authentic mi vit quay is the quality of the duck and the accompanying sauce, often a complex blend of five-spice, soy sauce, and other seasonings that complement the natural flavors of the meat. The dish exemplifies how Hanoi's cuisine has absorbed regional influences while maintaining its distinctive character.

Some suggested places to enjoy:

• Gia Phat Ky Noodle Shop: 57 To Hien Thanh, Hai Ba Trung Ward | 45,000 - 75,000 VND ($1.72 - $2.87)
• Hung Phat Noodles: 7 Dien Bien Phu, Ba Dinh Ward | 50,000 - 80,000 VND ($1.92 - $3.07)

Mi or bun vit quay combines the richness of roasted duck with either egg noodles (mi) or rice vermicelli (bun)

Read more:

• Top 30 Famous Foods in Hanoi You Must Try For Your Unforgettable Trip
• Top 15 Dishes For The Best Breakfast In Hanoi You Must Try
• Top 15 Places For The Best Banh Cuon In Hanoi

Exploring the world of noodles in Hanoi offers a glimpse into the soul of Vietnam's vibrant culinary heritage. By immersing yourself in this flavorful journey, you satisfy your palate and gain a rich appreciation for Hanoi's cultural tapestry. Your time spent uncovering these noodle delights is an investment in unforgettable memories and deeper connections to this lively city. Remember there's always another taste waiting around the corner, ready to be discovered and enjoyed anew. You can consider booking Hanoi tours of GTrip - Vietnam Travel Agency to try all the best noodles in this capital.