Disclaimer: Tour taken and post written before I became vegan, sorry animals..
Hanoi Street Food Adventure with iBestTravel
Join iBestTravel for an unforgettable experience of Hanoi’s street food culture, where you can see and eat like a true Hanoian. This guided food tour allows you to indulge in authentic Vietnamese cuisine while exploring the bustling streets of Hanoi.
Our Journey Begins
Our journey started with our enthusiastic guide, Miss Moon, who ensured that everyone in our group felt welcome. With a group size of ten, comprised of diverse nationalities, the atmosphere was vibrant and engaging. To break any initial awkwardness, Miss Moon invited each of us to introduce ourselves, fostering camaraderie before we set off.
Crossing the Streets of Hanoi
Entering the heart of Hanoi can be intimidating, especially when it comes to crossing busy streets filled with cars and scooters. However, Miss Moon had a clever strategy: she encouraged us to be “sticky rice,” meaning to stick together and be bold in crossing the roads. This playful approach made the experience enjoyable and memorable. Before long, we arrived at our first food stop!
Delicious Vietnamese Street Food
- Deep Fried Vietnamese Doughnuts: We began with these delightful treats, often offered for free to tourists but, as Miss Moon advised, beware of the hidden costs. These doughnuts were crispy and delicious, setting a high bar for the rest of the tour!
- Bun Cha: Next was Bun Cha, a tantalizing combination of pork meatballs and noodle salad. It was one of our favorite dishes of the day, with a flavor profile that truly encapsulated Vietnamese cuisine.
- Dried Beef Papaya Salad: This dish featured delicious Vietnamese beef jerky and fresh papaya, adding a great twist to the salad experience.
- Banh Cuon: These thin pancakes filled with pork and vegetables were unlike any pancakes we’ve encountered, offering a unique taste and texture.
- Banh Goi: Also known as Pillow cake, these crispy pork dumplings were a highlight of the tour, often served at weddings.
- Fruit Salad in Coconut Milk: A refreshing end to our savory dishes, this fruit salad included avocado among tropical fruits, all swimming in sweet coconut milk.
- Banh Mi: No trip to Vietnam is complete without tasting Banh Mi. The combination of fresh bread and flavorful fillings is a must-try.
- Egg Coffee: Vietnam is famous for its coffee, and the unique Egg Coffee is something you can’t miss. It’s rich, creamy, and reminiscent of tiramisu.
Wrap-Up of Our Culinary Adventure
Our gastronomic journey concluded with a toast using local rice wine. While the rice wine may not be to everyone’s liking, it marked a perfect end to our delightful tour filled with laughter and delicious food.
Experiencing the Hanoi street food scene with iBestTravel was an absolute delight. Each dish offered a glimpse into the rich culinary traditions of Vietnam, and the friendly atmosphere made it all the more enjoyable. If you love food, prioritizing this tour on your Vietnamese travel itinerary is essential!
Stay Connected
There are countless adventures awaiting you in Vietnam! For more travel tips and insights, consider exploring the local food scene and cultural experiences.
