The Top 10 Best Local Foods in Vietnam’s Northern Region

Vietnam’s Northern Region is renowned for its diverse and tantalizing culinary landscape. From aromatic street food to delicious delicacies, this area is a haven for food lovers. Here’s a list of the top 10 best local foods you must try when visiting Northern Vietnam.

1. Phở
Perhaps the most iconic dish in Vietnamese cuisine, Phở is a fragrant noodle soup made with beef or chicken, fresh herbs, and spices. Each bowl is typically served with lime, chili, and bean sprouts, providing a refreshing twist to the savory broth.

2. Bánh Mì
This Vietnamese sandwich combines a crispy baguette with various fillings, such as grilled pork, pate, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. The blend of flavors and textures makes Bánh Mì a perfect on-the-go meal.

3. Chả Cá Lã Vọng
If you’re in Hanoi, Chả Cá Lã Vọng is a must-try dish. This grilled fish, marinated with turmeric and dill, is served with rice noodles and peanuts. The unique preparation method and presentation make it a delightful culinary experience.

4. Bún Thang
Bún Thang is a unique Hanoi specialty made from rice vermicelli topped with slices of chicken, egg, and fragrant herbs. The delicate broth, seasoned with fish sauce and lime, adds depth to this simple yet exquisite dish.

5. Xôi Xéo
This sticky rice dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. Xôi Xéo is made with glutinous rice and topped with mung beans, fried shallots, and sometimes served with a side of boiled chicken or Vietnamese pork sausage.

6. Nem Cua Bể
Northern Vietnamese spring rolls, known as Nem Cua Bể, are a delightful treat. Made with crab meat, ground pork, and fresh vegetables wrapped in rice paper, these rolls are then fried to a golden crisp and often served with a tangy dipping sauce.

7. Bánh Cuốn
These steamed rice rolls are filled with minced pork and mushrooms, creating a soft and savory dish. Often served with fried shallots and a side of fish sauce, Bánh Cuốn is a popular choice for brunch or lunch.

8. Lòng Lợn
For adventurous eaters, Lòng Lợn, or pig intestines, is a local delicacy worth trying. Prepared with herbs and spices, this dish is typically grilled or stir-fried and served with rice or noodles, offering a unique and authentic taste of Northern Vietnamese cuisine.

9. Bánh Tôm Hồ Tây
This dish consists of shrimp fritters made with a crispy batter and is a popular snack in Hanoi. Bánh Tôm Hồ Tây, often served with a delicious dipping sauce and fresh herbs, captures the essence of the region's flavors.

10. Cà Phê Trứng
No meal is complete without a good cup of coffee. Cà Phê Trứng, or egg coffee, is a sweet and creamy beverage made with egg yolks, sugar, condensed milk, and robust Vietnamese coffee. It’s a perfect blend of textures and flavors and a must-try when in the North.

Exploring Northern Vietnam’s local foods offers an unforgettable culinary journey filled with unique flavors and cultural richness. Be sure to indulge in these delicacies for a truly authentic experience.