Top 10 best Hanoi specialties in Da Nang, Reviews by Hanami

At Hanami Hotel Danang, we take pride in providing our guests with an authentic Vietnamese experience, and that includes introducing you to the incredible culinary delights this country has to offer. As a hotel located in the heart of Da Nang, we are perfectly positioned to help you explore not just the local specialties, but also the best dishes from other regions of Vietnam.

One cuisine that holds a special place in our hearts is that of Hanoi, the vibrant capital city known for its rich history, charming streets, and of course, its mouthwatering food. Over the years, we’ve had the pleasure of serving many guests from Hanoi, and their passion for their hometown dishes is truly infectious. It’s no wonder that many of these specialties have found their way to Da Nang, where locals and visitors alike have embraced them with open arms.

We believe that food is more than just sustenance; it’s a window into a culture, a way to connect with people, and a source of endless joy and comfort. That’s why we’re excited to share with you our top 10 best Hanoi specialties in Da Nang. From the comforting warmth of a bowl of pho to the crispy goodness of banh goi, each dish tells a story and offers a unique glimpse into the heart and soul of Hanoi.

Top 10 best Hanoi specialties in Da Nang

Pho Hanoi

Pho Hanoi is a dish that embodies the essence of the capital’s gastronomy. The flavor of the broth, the chewiness of the noodles, and the fragrance of the accompanying herbs come together to create a bowl of Pho that stands out as truly special.

Pho Hanoi is characterized by its clear, sweet broth made from beef or buffalo bones. Enjoying a bowl of pho with springy noodles, scallions, chili, and fresh herbs, you get to savor a distinct beef flavor that’s truly unparalleled. This might be what has etched Pho Hanoi into the culinary memory of Vietnam and ignited a passion among many foreign travelers.

Nowadays, Pho Hanoi has spread worldwide, becoming famous and available in many countries including China, Japan, the US, and Australia. You can easily find delicious traditional pho joints in various cities, including Da Nang.

The taste of pho may vary from region to region, but it retains the original flavor of Pho Hanoi. Most pho restaurant owners in Da Nang are originally from the North, so they understand the unique taste of this dish. If you’re looking to experience authentic Hanoi pho, don’t miss out on the places mentioned below.

Address:

• Pho Thin: 60 Pasteur, Hai Chau, Da Nang.
• Pho Bac 63: 203 Dong Da, Hai Chau District, Da Nang.
• Pho Ha Thanh – Ham Nghi: 129 Ham Nghi, Thanh Khe, Da Nang.
• Pho 139: 139 Ngu Hanh Son, Da Nang

Nem chua ran Hanoi

The list of Hanoi specialties available in Da Nang would certainly include Nem chua ran Hanoi, a favorite snack among the youth. These fermented pork rolls are made by marinating pork and fat with simple spices such as onions, garlic, and fish sauce, then wrapping them in a layer of frying batter.

Deep-fried until golden, the crispy outer layer of the batter contrasts beautifully with the soft, chewy inside filled with meat and pork skin. The more crispy the rolls are fried, the tastier they become, especially when served hot, dipped into chili sauce and accompanied by slices of cucumber to cut through the richness.

They’re gaining popularity among the young crowd as a deliciously fatty and aromatic snack option. Enjoying these famous Nem chua ran Hanoi in Da Nang while sipping on a glass of lemon tea and chatting with friends at one of the recommended eateries mentioned below, is truly an experience.

Each steaming hot spring roll emerges from the fryer with a crunchy exterior and a tender, slightly chewy interior, perfectly seasoned and full of flavor. Despite their fragrant aroma and rich taste, these bite-sized fried spring rolls are surprisingly not heavy. Additionally, the eatery offers various other snacks like sausages, fish cakes, stuffed snails, and more, catering to a wide range of preferences.

• Address: 08 Dong Giang, An Hai Trung, Son Tra, Da Nang

Bun Cha Hanoi

Bun Cha, Vietnam’s culinary gem, stands as a testament to the nation’s rich food heritage. Originating from the Northern regions, this dish perfectly encapsulates the essence of Hanoi’s gourmet landscape. Despite the evolution of Vietnamese cuisine over the years, Bun Cha continues to be cherished, securing its place as a quintessential Hanoi delicacy that captivates people from all walks of life.

Similar to the Central region’s grilled meat noodle dish, Bun Cha carries its unique flair with succulently grilled pork served alongside sweet and savory fish sauce. This delightful combination marks a remarkable difference and adds depth to the dining experience.

Nowadays, regardless of where you are in Vietnam, including the bustling city of Da Nang, Bun Cha is readily accessible, inviting everyone to immerse themselves in its aromatic and savory world. The meticulous marination of the pork, shaped into perfect spheres and charred over charcoal, imparts an unforgettable flavor profile dominant in every bite. The nuanced blend of sour, spicy, sweet, and salty flavors in the accompanying fish sauce ensures a well-rounded tasting journey.

The addition of shredded carrots and green papaya to the salad component, paired with fresh herbs, elevates the overall experience. As you delve into this dish, the harmonious interplay of grilled meat, soft rice noodles, crisp vegetables, and the intricate fish sauce culminates in a burst of truly irresistible flavors.

Bun Cha not only offers a delicious meal but also a meaningful insight into Vietnam’s cultural complexity and gastronomical excellence, making it a must-try for anyone yearning for an authentic culinary adventure.

Address:

• Bun Cha Anh Tu: 50 Pasteur, Hai Chau, Da Nang.
• Quan Khoi: 19 Ong Ich Khiem, Hai Chau,  Da Nang.
• Tay Ho restaurant: 80 Quang Trung, Hai Chau, Da Nang.

Bun dau mam tom

Bun dau mam tom, a Hanoi delicacy, beautifully captures the soul of Vietnam’s capital through its simple yet profound culinary composition. At its heart lies the humble yet iconic pairing of tofu and fermented shrimp paste, embodying the richness of Hanoi’s food culture in every bite. A typical serving brings together golden-fried tofu, pork trotters, crispy spring rolls, sausages, pork offal, and green rice cake, presenting an array of textures and flavors that delight the senses.

This dish’s magic lies not only in the crispiness of the tofu and the softness of the vermicelli but also in the aromatic allure of the fermented shrimp paste. While the pungent aroma of mam tom might not initially appeal to everyone, especially international visitors, those who dare to try it often find themselves enamored by its complexity and depth.

Bun dau mam tom is more than just food; it’s a cultural emblem, epitomizing the Vietnamese ethos of simplicity and authenticity in its culinary practices. The eye-catching presentation of the dish further enhances its appeal. Vermicelli cut into bite-sized pieces, arranged on a banana leaf-lined platter alongside the perfectly fried tofu and a selection of meats and fresh herbs, invites a feast for the eyes as much as for the palate.

The tofu is fried to a golden brown, achieving the perfect balance between crispy and moist, maintaining its rich, creamy flavor. The shrimp paste stands out for its balanced taste, striking a harmony between salty and umami. The exquisite pairing of vermicelli and tofu offers a masterclass in texture and flavor, creating a dining experience that is both visually appealing and gastronomically satisfying. This dish not only feeds the stomach but also nourishes the soul, representing a culinary tradition that is deeply intertwined with the Vietnamese way of life.

Address:

• Bun Dau Ha Noi Xua: 143/1 Nguyen Chi Thanh, Hai Chau, Da Nang.
• Bun Dau Nha Cuoi: 164 Ly Tu Trong, Hai Chau, Da Nang.
• Bun Dau Hang Khay: 104 Hoang Dieu, Hai Chau District, Da Nang.

Banh tom Hanoi

Banh tom, with its simple ingredients, has won the hearts of many food enthusiasts in Hanoi. Southern tourists find themselves enamored with this dish during their visits to Hanoi, captivated by the sweet and sour fish sauce, the crunchiness of the fried batter, and the savory sweetness of the minced shrimp.

As society progresses, introducing a plethora of novel dishes from abroad into Vietnam, certain traditional foods like Banh tom deeply embed themselves into the Vietnamese psyche.

Banh tom are made from thin-shelled shrimp that are firm, sweet, and rich. The crispy fried batter boasts a creamy and sweet richness, perfectly complemented by fresh vegetables dipped in spicy sour fish sauce. The best way to enjoy Banh tom is hot, where the shell and batter are crispy, the shrimp meat is sweet, and the dipping sauce balances the flavors beautifully.

The ingredients for Banh tom are surprisingly straightforward, comprising mainly three components: shrimp, wheat flour, and eggs. This delicacy is prepared by marinating whole shrimp with spices for 15 to 20 minutes, rather than crushing them into a mushy paste.

The shrimp are then dipped into a mixture of wheat flour and egg before being fried in oil until they achieve a uniform golden brown color. When pouring the batter into the mold, carefully place the shrimp. Once fried, the shrimp cakes are deliciously fragrant, boasting an appealing golden brown color and a satisfying crunch.

To fully savor Banh tom, they must be enjoyed with sweet and sour dipping sauce and pickled vegetables and fruits, alongside aromatic fresh herbs. Nowadays, many restaurants add shredded potatoes to the mix, enhancing the cake’s fluffiness. If you’re looking to indulge in the distinctive flavor of Hanoi’s Banh tom, head over to the highlighted location below in Da Nang to taste this unique Hanoi specialty right in the heart of Da Nang.

Address:

• Banh tom ba Phuc: 464/11 Trung Nu Vuong, Hoa Thuan Dong, Hai Chau, Da Nang

Xoi Xeo

When it comes to the culinary treasures of the capital, many people immediately think of Hanoi’s famous dishes like bun cha, bun dau mam tom, and pho. Alongside these, Hanoi’s sticky rice with mung beans, known as Xoi Xeo, stands out as a popular breakfast choice for many.

This dish involves a harmonious blend of simple ingredients: mung beans, sticky rice, pork fat, and fried shallots, seasoned with a hint of aromatic spices. The rich, creamy mung beans combined with the fragrant fried shallots create a truly unique flavor profile. Cooking sticky rice is an art form, requires experience to achieve the perfect balance between softness, fragrance, and chewiness. The process begins the night before, soaking the rice overnight and mixing it with something that enhances its richness.

Once cooked to the desired doneness, a spoonful of fat is mixed through, evenly distributing before the heat is turned off. The mung beans are also soaked overnight, and then steamed until tender. Afterward, they are mashed into a fine paste, tightly held in hand, and shaped into balls. Traditionally, the mung beans are then sliced into thin pieces.

Served hot and wrapped in fresh banana leaves, layers of sticky rice are paired with aromatic mung beans, crispy fried shallots, and a touch of fat. Its sweet and rich taste becomes more with each bite. This dish is delightful at any time of the year but tastes best on chilly days, offering comfort and warmth with every spoonful.

Address:

• 24 Phan Dang Luu, Hai Chau, Da Nang.
• 43 Ngu Hanh Son, Ngu Hanh Son, Da Nang.
• 53 Han Thuong Lake, Son Tra, Da Nang.

Bun rieu cua Hanoi

Hanoi’s Bun Rieu Cua has long stood as a traditional dish deeply ingrained in the capital’s culinary ethos. Across various regions, this noodle dish takes on many forms, offering a spectrum of flavors that speak to its diversity. The essence of Bun Rieu lies in its crab-based broth, rich and flavorful, providing a distinct seafood richness balanced with a subtle tang from vinegar. It’s said that its allure is not merely in the hearty, savory sauce but also in the unique addition of shrimp paste, elevating its taste to new heights.

This robust and sweet soup is crafted with ingredients like shrimp, stewed bones, tomatoes, and fried onions. The bowl brims with a variety of toppings including tofu, crab cakes, sausage, snails, and beef. Accompaniments often include fresh vegetables, rice paper, and fried rice, making each bite a discovery.

Bun Rieu Cua features thin vermicelli in a broth sweetened with pork bone and colored naturally red by tomatoes, making the soup visually appealing. Tofu and tomatoes are added for an extra layer of complexity.

To truly savor authentic Hanoi-style Bun Rieu, one must visit the recommended dining spots to fully immerse in its rich flavors. The broth’s deep richness, coupled with its slight sourness and a gentle heat that tingles the palate, makes each bowl unforgettable. In a single serving of Bun Rieu, diners have the luxury of customizing their meal with an assortment of toppings ranging from meatballs, fried tofu, small snails, beef, to crab cakes, crafting a personalized gastronomic experience.

Address:

• Bun rieu – bun oc Hanoi: 17 Dang Tat, Lien Chieu, Da Nang City.
•  Bun oc Tran Phu: 259 Tran Phu, Hai Chau, Da Nang City.
• Bun oc Quang Loi: 72 Ninh Ton, Lien Chieu, Da Nang City.

Banh gio Hanoi

Banh gio, a humble yet deeply ingrained part of Hanoi’s daily life, serves as a go-to breakfast, midday snack, or late-night comfort food. Simple in preparation and enjoyment, it has captivated travelers and stands as a culinary symbol of the capital alongside dishes such as Bun Rieu, Pho Bo, and Com.

Hanoi’s Banh Gio reveals its true deliciousness when savored hot. The gentle steam rising as you bite through the translucent, soft dough to discover the tender, flavorful filling within is a moment of pure culinary bliss. Accompany this dish with a dab of chili sauce or a side of pickled vegetables, and the flavors intensify, blending the spice of the chili and the crunch of the pickles with the warm dough in an irresistible convergence of textures and tastes.

Though simple, Banh Gio allows for endless variations, accommodating a wide range of accompaniments while ensuring a delightful taste that aligns with Vietnamese preferences.

In Hanoi, Banh Gio is traditionally enjoyed with sausages and spring rolls. Each serving is meticulously composed, layering grilled meat, sausages, and pickled condiments atop the unwrapped leafy parcel, then generously drizzled with a specially prepared sauce. The experience of unwrapping and indulging in this delicacy is unparalleled: the cake’s hot, tender exterior gives way to a rich and savory core, creating an unforgettable flavor journey.

Having made its way to Da Nang, Banh Gio offers locals and visitors alike a must-try culinary adventure. Here, it adopts a unique twist with the addition of beef sausage, distinguishing the Da Nang iteration of Banh Gio from its Hanoi counterpart and providing a new way to appreciate this beloved traditional dish.

Address:

• Banh Gio co Thuy: 32 Ly Thuong Kiet, Thach Thang, Hai Chau, Da Nang.

Banh Com

Hanoi’s Banh Com is a treat interwoven with the childhood memories of its locals, embodying the unique and refined culture of the capital’s residents. For those in search of an authentic and delicious green rice cake, consider visiting the recommended address below.

Each autumn, the scent of Banh Com fills the air, stirring the hearts of visitors and evoking nostalgia. This ancient Hanoian delicacy, often featured in weddings, feasts, and ancestral offerings, holds a special place in the hearts and traditions of Hanoi’s people.

Nowadays, Banh Com has also captured the affection of Da Nang’s residents. Crafted from natural ingredients, its chewy exterior infused with the aroma of rice, encases a filling of mung bean slightly rich with coconut flavor, sweetened by sugar. Enjoying Banh Com from Hanoi with a cup of hot tea is an exquisite pleasure.

As a Hanoi specialty now available in Da Nang, Banh Com serves as a meaningful gift for friends and loved ones, particularly appreciated by the elderly. Upon tasting it, one can savor the chewiness of the rice flakes, the sweet richness of mung bean and coconut milk, and the distinctive fragrant aroma that defines this remarkable confection. This delicacy offers more than just taste; it’s a bridge to cherished memories and a heartfelt ode to Vietnamese culinary artistry.

Address:

• Da Nang specialty store: Lot 13 Tran Bach Dang, Da Nang.

Oc cay Hanoi

Hanoi Oc Cay is a signature dish that captures the essence of Vietnam’s capital. It’s not just a delicious meal; it conveys the cultural, spiritual, and culinary values of the country.

Known for its rich and unique flavor, Hanoi Oc Cay has become an indispensable part of Vietnamese cuisine. This dish is prepared from a variety of common snails like sweet snails, rice snails, coconut-fried mud creepers, and periwinkle snails. With a plethora of choices available, Hanoi Oc Cay are cooked in diverse methods ranging from grilling, frying, and deep-frying, to boiling, catering to all palates.

However, upon reaching Da Nang, locals have creatively adapted this dish to better suit the Central palate. The snails are often served with pickled vegetables, green papaya salad, and rice crackers, enhancing the dish’s richness. The striking spicy flavor invigorates the taste buds and draws diners in. For those wishing to experience this renowned Hanoi Oc Cay dish in Da Nang, visiting the recommended spots is a must.

This delicacy not only offers a savory feast but also serves as a cultural bridge, bringing together the traditional taste of Hanoi and the distinctive flavors of Central Vietnam. It’s a gastronomic journey that promises to awaken your senses and leave you longing for more.

Address:

• Oc Cay Hanoi: 176 – 178 Ong Ich Khiem, Tam Thuan, Thanh Khe, Da Nang.
• Oc Thanh: 22 Hoang Hoa Tham, Thanh Khe, Da Nang.
• Oc Cay Hanoi: 757 Ngo Quyen, An Hai Bac, Son Tra, Da Nang.

A brief overview of Hanoi City

Hanoi’s Old Quarter

Hanoi’s Old Quarter is the pulsating heart of Vietnam’s capital. This labyrinth of narrow, winding streets is a fascinating maze that any visitor can eagerly get lost in. When you visit the Old Quarter, you could spend an entire day meandering through its 36 streets, each historically dedicated to a different trade or craft.

Here, you can also marvel at the majestic beauty of ancient folk houses that have retained their 19th-century facades. A visit immerses you in the tranquil essence of Hanoi. You’ll feel the city’s soul through the simple yet profoundly welcoming behavior and attire of its people. Moreover, the area preserves a wealth of historical and cultural relics visible in its venerable architectural structures.

The most iconic symbol is the Turtle Tower at Hoan Kiem Lake, an exquisite blend of Western Gothic architecture and ancient Vietnamese design. Walking through Hanoi’s Old Quarter isn’t just about exploring a destination; it’s about stepping into a living narrative that whispers tales of past trades, everyday life, and the enduring spirit of Hanoi. It’s a place where every street corner, traditional costume, and ancient building tells a story, inviting you to pause and listen, to truly connect with the heartbeat of this city.

The distinctive scent of milk flowers

The distinct fragrance of milk flowers cascades through the streets of Hanoi, especially during autumn, as if nature itself adorns the city with its finest perfume. The arrival of the milk flower season brings with it an overwhelming aroma that fills the air every time the wind stirs. Like the demure elegance of Hanoi’s women, the pristine white milk flowers add an element of sophisticated, unblemished beauty and simplicity to the cityscape. This transformation renders Hanoi’s streets not just pathways of concrete and cobblestones but rather poetic avenues veiled in a romantic mist, more enchanting than ever before.

The scent of milk flowers is not merely a scent; it’s a cultural imprint, a reminder of the changing seasons and the timeless allure of Hanoi. Walking through these fragrant lanes, one is transported into a world where every breath is a reminder of the city’s enduring charm and the delicate balance between nature and urban life. It is in these moments, amidst the intoxicating sweetness of milk flowers, that Hanoi truly reveals her heart – pure, serene, and ever so inviting.

Diverse cuisine

Hanoi is renowned for its vibrant food culture, offering a rich tapestry of flavors that captivate both locals and travelers. Within the bustling streets of Hanoi, one can indulge in the quintessence of Vietnamese cuisine at an affordable price, from the world-famous Pho to the savory delights of Bun Cha and the crispy, hearty Banh Mi. Notably, Hanoi’s culinary diversity has garnered international acclaim, with prestigious publications like The Telegraph lauding it as one of the world’s most varied and fascinating food cities.

The distinct seasons in Hanoi contribute to its unique and impressive culinary scene. Summer brings with it the unforgettable experience of sipping on sweet and sour crocodile ice drinks, a refreshing respite from the heat. Come autumn, the air is filled with the subtle fragrance of milk flowers, emanating from street vendors and captivating many pedestrians. Winter nights in Hanoi are made cozier with the aroma of grilled corn and baked sweet potatoes, emanating warmth from the charcoal stoves.

Street food here might not always be crafted by professional chefs, but it embodies the essence of accessibility, simplicity, and distinctive flavors that resonate deeply with anyone who tries it. International visitors are particularly charmed not only by Hanoi’s gastronomic offerings but also by the warm hospitality and cheerful demeanor of the service staff who welcome every guest with open arms.

Many quintessences of Vietnamese traditional handicraft villages

Vietnam’s artisan villages are a testament to the country’s deep-rooted heritage and cultural richness. Among roughly 5,400 craft villages spread across the nation, Hanoi proudly hosts about 1,350 of these, making up a quarter of the total. This includes over 300 exemplary traditional craft villages.

Notably, Bat Trang pottery village boasts the highest number of craftsmen in the country, with 75 artisans. Hanoi’s craft villages represent 47 out of the 52 traditional trades found nationwide, spanning all craft groups. These include the art of lacquerware, porcelain, silver and gold smithing, embroidery, bamboo and rattan weaving, fabric weaving, papermaking, and fine arts. There’s even a folk tradition of cultivating ornamental plants and flowers.

These traditional villages, nestled in the outskirts of Hanoi, do more than just enrich the homeland of old; they serve as a vibrant cultural feature.

We hope this culinary journey through the best Hanoi specialties in Da Nang has delighted your taste buds and shown you just how diverse and flavorful Vietnamese cuisine can be.

I sincerely hope this blog has sparked your curiosity to explore more of the fantastic flavors this beautiful country has to offer. And when you’re ready, my team and I enthusiastically welcome you to stay with us at Hanami Hotel Danang.

Nestled in the heart of Da Nang’s vibrant An Thuong expat neighborhood, we take pride in offering modern 3-star accommodations blended with warm Vietnamese hospitality. Our cozy rooms feature free high-speed WiFi, mini-bars, balconies and 24/7 front desk service – perfect for digital nomads, long-term travelers, or anyone seeking an authentic local experience.

Within walking distance, you’ll find western cafés, restaurants spanning TexMex to Indian cuisine, and popular expat bars where you can meet other globetrotters. We’re also just a quick drive from My Khe Beach, Marble Mountains, and Son Tra Peninsula – not to mention major attractions like the iconic Golden Bridge.

At Hanami Hotel Danang, come as a guest and leave as a family. To reserve your stay or customize a long-term rental package, visit https://hanamihotel.com. We can’t wait to welcome you!

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