PACKAGEASIA: TOP FOODS SHOULD NOT MISS IN OLD QUARTER HANOI

Hanoi is one of the world’s greatest street food cities and there’s no better way to unlock the hidden secrets of the Old Quarter and its cuisine than through joining us to explore what it has. This is the list of most popular local foods that should not be missed in Old Quarter, let's take a look and find out what they are!

1. Xoi xeo

You will encounter this dish in almost every outdoors market. There are even two restaurants dedicated fully to this dish in the Old Quarters. Xoi xeo is sticky rice topped with ground de-hulled mung bean and fried onion.

: "Xoi Xeo" - The Specialty of Vietnam with unique taste

Sometimes it can be served with eggs or steamed chicken breast on request. The serving is really filling and it is good for any time of the day but most Vietnamese have it for breakfast or lunch.

Where to try:

Xoi Yen is an all-time local favourite sitting just North of Sword Lake (Hoan Kiem lake) on Nguyen Huu Huan street, few steps from Meracus Hotel. Please do not mind to ask our front desk if you want a try. The price varies, without chicken a bowl of Xoi xeo costs you about 1 USD. Have it with a glass of soy milk and you have more energy boost than a box of granola bars!

2. Banh cuon

Banh cuon is a Northern Vietnamese dish that migrated to Hanoi. Thin steamed rice flour pancakes filled with minced pork and cloud ear mushrooms are served with nuoc cham, a fish-sauce-based dipping sauce, fried shallots and fresh herbs.

: You will be impressed by "Banh Cuon" from just the first time

Slightly goopy in texture, banh cuon are often eaten for breakfast or as an evening pick-me-up.

Try it at: Thanh Van Banh Cuon, 14 Hang Ga, Old Quarter, Hanoi

3. Bun rieu cua

Freshwater crabs flavor this tangy tomato soup that's made with round rice vermicelli and topped with pounded crabmeat, deep-fried tofu and, often, congealed blood. An odoriferous purple shrimp paste is offered on the side -- it tastes delicious.