Of all the places I’ve been to, I consider Hanoi as one of the major foodie destination. Once you get here, you will learn that street food is a way of life so just be ready to try almost anything (except dog) in every corner of the street of Hanoi. In fact, just this year, Vietnam’s capital city of Hanoi together with other famous destinations worldwide, was listed in the top 10 walking tours for globetrotting foodies by lonelyplanet.com.
At any time of the day, you will notice crowds of people crouched on street corners eating sunflower seeds or slurping away on fresh pho.
Aside from the typical stall selling variety of foods at a street’s corner, You will also see street foods being sold on “quang ganh” (two baskets slung from each end of a wooden or bamboo pole) or on a bicycle.
Trying foods on the street of Hanoi is a very wonderful experience. I remember when I was in Hanoi, I make sure that I try something new everyday. Just make sure that you eat newly and well-cooked dishes and if you’re eating uncooked food like vegetables, be sure that they’re washed carefully.
Here’s my tips on eating street food safely:
- Eat where the locals eat! Obviously, if street vendor is completely being avoided by the locals, there must be something not good about it. Know the dishes you want to try and look for a place where many locals are also digging in. This is often a great way to find the best food in town and sometimes the best price.
- A reliable places are the ones where there are small stoves and will cook it up or give it a good heat upon your order right there and then.
- When you want to buy dishes on sticks, choose the pieces you want yourself. Pick the ones still on the grill or those that are just been taken off.
- Wash your hands.
- Sterilize your utensils by putting it on a hot boiling water before using them.
Like Vietnamese food too? What are your favorite Vietnamese dishes?
Food on the Street 