Northern Vietnam is not only a land of stunning landscapes and rich history but also a paradise for food lovers. The region’s cuisine reflects its diverse culture, with each area offering unique flavors and culinary traditions. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene mountains of Sapa and the rustic charm of Ninh Binh, Northern Vietnam’s food scene is a journey in itself. In this guide, we’ll explore the must-try foods in Northern Vietnam, highlighting iconic dishes and where to find them.
1. Hanoi: A Food Lover’s Paradise
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is renowned for its street food culture. The city’s cuisine is a delightful blend of fresh herbs, bold flavors, and aromatic broths, making it a must-visit destination for any foodie.
Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)
- Description: No trip to Hanoi is complete without trying Pho, the most famous Vietnamese dish worldwide. Pho is a hearty soup consisting of rice noodles, a flavorful broth, and either beef or chicken, topped with fresh herbs, lime, and chili. The secret to a great bowl of Pho lies in its broth, which is simmered for hours with bones, star anise, cinnamon, and other spices.
- Where to Try: Some of the best spots to try Pho in Hanoi include Pho Bat Dan and Pho Thin, where locals line up for their morning bowl.
Bun Cha (Grilled Pork with Noodles)
- Description: Bun Cha is another iconic Hanoi dish that has gained international fame, especially after President Obama famously enjoyed it during his visit to Vietnam. It features grilled pork patties and slices served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce made from fish sauce, vinegar, and sugar.
- Where to Try: Visit Bun Cha Huong Lien (often referred to as the “Obama Bun Cha”) to experience this dish at its best.
Cha Ca La Vong (Grilled Fish with Dill and Turmeric)
- Description: Cha Ca La Vong is a Hanoi specialty that dates back more than a century. The dish consists of white fish marinated in turmeric and grilled, served with fresh dill, vermicelli noodles, peanuts, and dipping sauce. It’s typically cooked at the table, allowing diners to enjoy the aroma and watch the preparation process.
- Where to Try: The best place to enjoy this dish is at the Cha Ca La Vong Restaurant in Hanoi, where the recipe was first created.
Banh Cuon (Steamed Rice Rolls)
- Description: Banh Cuon are delicate steamed rice rolls filled with a mixture of minced pork and mushrooms, served with a side of dipping sauce and often topped with fried shallots. This dish is a popular breakfast item in Hanoi and is loved for its light, yet flavorful taste.
- Where to Try: Banh Cuon Ba Hanh is known for its authentic preparation of this traditional dish.
Egg Coffee (Ca Phe Trung)
- Description: Egg Coffee is a unique Hanoi specialty that combines strong Vietnamese coffee with a rich, creamy egg yolk foam. The drink was invented in the 1940s when milk was scarce, and egg yolk was used as a substitute. The result is a smooth, sweet coffee that’s more like a dessert than a beverage.
- Where to Try: Cafe Giang is the birthplace of egg coffee and remains the best place to try this delightful drink.
2. Sapa: Mountain Flavors and Ethnic Delicacies
Sapa, located in the northern mountains of Vietnam, offers a culinary experience that reflects the region’s diverse ethnic groups and rugged landscape. The food here is hearty, flavorful, and deeply connected to the local culture.
Thang Co (Horse Meat Stew)
- Description: Thang Co is a traditional dish of the H’mong people, made from horse meat, bones, and organs, simmered with a variety of spices and herbs. It’s a dish that has been enjoyed by ethnic minorities for centuries, often served during festivals and gatherings. The strong, rich flavor of Thang Co is not for everyone, but it’s a must-try for those looking to experience the authentic flavors of Sapa.
- Where to Try: Thang Co is best enjoyed at local markets in Sapa or at homestays in ethnic minority villages, where the recipe has been passed down through generations.
Com Lam (Bamboo Sticky Rice)
- Description: Com Lam is a popular dish among the ethnic minorities in Sapa, consisting of sticky rice cooked inside bamboo tubes. The rice absorbs the bamboo’s natural flavor, giving it a unique taste. It’s often served with grilled meat or vegetables and is a staple for travelers exploring the mountains.
- Where to Try: You can find Com Lam at street vendors or local restaurants throughout Sapa town.
Cap Nach Pork
- Description: Cap Nach Pork is a specialty of the Sapa region, known for its tender and flavorful meat. The pigs, which are raised free-range in the mountains, produce lean, delicious pork that is often grilled or roasted to perfection. It’s a must-try for meat lovers visiting Sapa.
- Where to Try: Enjoy Cap Nach Pork at Sapa’s local markets or traditional eateries, where the meat is cooked fresh.
Grilled Dishes (Thit Nuong Sapa)
- Description: Grilled meats and vegetables, known as Thit Nuong, are a common sight in Sapa, especially at the night markets. Marinated in a mixture of spices and grilled over charcoal, these skewers are a popular street food that offers a taste of the region’s robust flavors.
- Where to Try: Visit Sapa’s night markets, where you’ll find an array of grilled skewers, from pork and chicken to mushrooms and corn.
Salmon Hotpot (Lau Ca Hoi)
- Description: Thanks to its cooler climate, Sapa is one of the few places in Vietnam where salmon is farmed. Salmon Hotpot is a dish that features this fresh, local salmon cooked in a flavorful broth with vegetables, tofu, and herbs. It’s a comforting dish, perfect for Sapa’s chilly evenings.
- Where to Try: Local restaurants in Sapa offer Salmon Hotpot, making it a popular choice for groups and families.
3. Ninh Binh: Rustic and Unique Flavors
Ninh Binh, often referred to as “Halong Bay on land,” is not just famous for its stunning landscapes but also for its unique local dishes that reflect the rural charm of the region.
Goat Meat (De Nui)
- Description: Goat Meat is the signature dish of Ninh Binh, with goats raised on the rocky mountains of the region. The meat is tender and flavorful, often prepared in various ways such as grilled, stir-fried, or in hotpot. Grilled goat, in particular, is a must-try, often served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.
- Where to Try: You can find this delicacy in local restaurants near Tam Coc and Trang An, where it’s prepared fresh from locally sourced goats.
Com Chay (Crispy Rice)
- Description: Com Chay is a famous snack in Ninh Binh, made from crispy rice cakes. The rice is cooked until it forms a crust, then deep-fried until crispy and golden. It’s often served with a savory sauce made from pork or beef, making it a delicious and crunchy treat.
- Where to Try: Com Chay is available at Ninh Binh’s local eateries or from street vendors. It’s also a popular souvenir, with packages of Com Chay available for purchase.
Eel Vermicelli (Mien Luon)
- Description: Mien Luon is a dish that features stir-fried eel with vermicelli noodles, herbs, and a rich broth. The eel is tender and full of flavor, complemented by the fresh herbs and the savory broth. It’s a dish that showcases the local ingredients of Ninh Binh.
- Where to Try: Traditional restaurants in Ninh Binh that specialize in eel dishes offer the best Mien Luon.
Snail Dishes (Oc Nui)
- Description: Mountain Snails, or Oc Nui, are a unique delicacy in Ninh Binh, often stir-fried with lemongrass, chili, and other spices. The snails are collected from the limestone mountains, giving them a distinct flavor and texture.
- Where to Try: Local restaurants around the Cuc Phuong National Park area are known for their snail dishes, offering a taste of this unusual but flavorful delicacy.
Fermented Pork Roll (Nem Chua)
- Description: Nem Chua is a popular snack in Ninh Binh, made from fermented pork, garlic, and chili, wrapped in banana leaves. It has a tangy flavor with a hint of spiciness, making it a favorite appetizer or snack.
- Where to Try: Nem Chua can be found at Ninh Binh markets and local eateries, often served as an appetizer or bought as a snack to go.
Conclusion
The must-try foods in Northern Vietnam offer a culinary journey that’s as diverse as the region’s landscapes. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the mountain flavors of Sapa and the rustic dishes of Ninh Binh, each area provides a unique taste of Vietnamese culture and tradition. Whether you’re enjoying a bowl of Pho in Hanoi, savoring grilled meats in Sapa, or trying the distinctive goat dishes in Ninh Binh, these culinary experiences are sure to be a highlight of your trip.
For a comprehensive food tour that covers these regions and more, consider booking a Vietnam food tour with Vietlong Travel. This tour will take you through the culinary delights of Hanoi, Sapa, and Ninh Binh, ensuring you don’t miss any of the must-try dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the must-try foods in Hanoi? A: Some of the must-try foods in Hanoi include Pho, Bun Cha, Cha Ca La Vong, Banh Cuon, and Egg Coffee. These dishes reflect the rich culinary heritage of the city.
Q: What is the most famous dish in Sapa? A: Thang Co, a traditional H’mong dish made from horse meat, is one of the most famous dishes in Sapa. Other popular dishes include Com Lam (bamboo sticky rice) and Cap Nach Pork.
Q: What food is Ninh Binh known for? A: Ninh Binh is renowned for its Goat Meat dishes, especially grilled goat, as well as Com Chay (crispy rice) and Mien Luon (eel vermicelli).
Q: Where can I find the best street food in Hanoi? A: The Old Quarter in Hanoi is the best place to find a variety of street food. This area is famous for its vibrant food scene, offering everything from Pho to Banh Mi.
Q: Is there a food tour available that covers Hanoi, Sapa, and Ninh Binh? A: Yes, you can book a Vietnam food tour with Vietlong Travel. This tour covers the culinary highlights of Hanoi, Sapa, and Ninh Binh, providing a comprehensive food experience.
