Clam soup (Vietnamese: súp nghêu or súp ngao) is a soup dish made with shellfish that is widely consumed especially in northern Vietnam. In Hanoi, it is particularly established as one of the traditional culinary cultures, characterized by the use of fresh clams as the main ingredient and a simple cooking method that brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients. It is enjoyed in a variety of settings, from street stalls and bia hơi (local beer halls) to festive banquets, and is beloved not only by locals but also by tourists.
Mint ice cream is a type of ice cream characterized by its refreshing mint aroma and light taste. It is one of the frozen desserts enjoyed around the world, and in recent years, it has increasingly been served as rolled ice cream, especially in Hanoi, Vietnam. In the local area, alongside traditional ice cream culture, various visually appealing and convenient versions are popular at street stalls and cafes, attracting both tourists and young people.
Bánh mì is one of Vietnam's most representative sandwiches, typically served as a dish in which a French-style baguette is filled with uniquely Vietnamese ingredients. Various regional variations can be found throughout Vietnam, and it is widely enjoyed as both a breakfast and a light meal. Its origin dates back to the French colonial period, emerging as a result of the fusion between Western and Eastern food cultures. Today, bánh mì is well known outside of Vietnam and has gained global popularity as a multicultural street food.
Vietnamese coffee is a beverage characterized by unique extraction methods and flavorings native to Vietnam, and is widely enjoyed both domestically and internationally. It typically uses robusta coffee beans and is commonly brewed with a metal filter called a ""phin,"" which allows for a slow extraction process. There are various ways to enjoy Vietnamese coffee, including versions with condensed milk or egg yolk. Vietnam is also one of the world's leading coffee producers, and coffee culture is deeply rooted in the nation's history and cuisine.
Phở is a traditional Vietnamese rice noodle dish, recognized as one of the country's signature foods. It is characterized by flat rice noodles served in a clear broth, typically made with beef or chicken. The modern form of phở emerged between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and it is believed to have particularly developed in the capital, Hanoi. Often accompanied by a variety of herbs and condiments, phở is widely enjoyed both within Vietnam and internationally, where its distinctive flavor and healthy qualities are highly regarded.
Iced coffee is a beverage made by chilling brewed coffee and serving it with ice. It is widely enjoyed around the world, especially in warm climates and during the summer season, with variations in coffee beans, brewing methods, and arrangements reflecting regional characteristics. In Vietnam, a unique iced coffee culture known as ""cà phê đá"" has developed and is enjoyed daily in urban cafes and lakeside venues. At establishments such as Fountain Cafe on the shores of Hanoi’s West Lake (Hồ Tây), visitors can enjoy Vietnamese-style iced coffee along with scenic views, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Hanoi Beer (Vietnamese: Bia Hà Nội) is a representative beer brand of Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, and is a widely enjoyed lager both locally and internationally. It is produced by the Hanoi Beer Alcohol and Beverage Joint Stock Corporation (Habeco) and has a history of over 100 years since its establishment. Known for its light and crisp taste, moderate bitterness, and balanced carbonation, Hanoi Beer is recognized as a traditional flavor embedded in Vietnamese food culture and everyday life.
Mantis shrimp (scientific name: Stomatopoda) is a type of marine crustacean known for its keen eyesight and unique predatory behavior. It is widely distributed in warm coastal regions around the world and has long been valued as a food ingredient, particularly in Asia. In places such as Hanoi, Vietnam, mantis shrimp is a staple in local seafood dishes and is commonly found at markets, street stalls, and home kitchens. Characterized by its distinctive appearance, rich umami flavor, and delicate texture, mantis shrimp is prepared in a variety of ways according to regional culinary traditions.
Wonton noodles (Mi Wonton) is a soup noodle dish that combines wontons—dumplings wrapped in thin wheat flour skins—with egg noodles. Originally developed in the Guangdong region of southern China, it is widely consumed across East and Southeast Asia. In Vietnam, it is known as ""Mi Wonton"" and has undergone unique development, especially in the northern regions such as Hanoi. The choice of fillings, broth, and toppings varies by region and restaurant, resulting in a wide range of variations from traditional styles to modern interpretations. In recent years, it has become popular at local specialty shops and street stalls alike, and it is considered one of the noodle dishes that symbolize the everyday food culture of the area.
Trúc Bạch beer is a type of lager widely enjoyed in Hanoi, Vietnam. Named after Truc Bach Lake located in the city, it has established itself as one of Hanoi's representative beer brands since its launch in 1958. It is mainly produced by the Hanoi Beer Alcohol Beverage Joint Stock Corporation (HABECO). Characterized by its pale golden color and refreshing taste, Trúc Bạch beer is commonly served at local street stalls and eateries in the Old Quarter. As a symbol of Hanoi's traditional beer culture, it is widely appreciated by both local residents and tourists.
