Introduction
Hanoi’s greatest culinary attraction may well be its street food scene. It’s proving remarkably resilient in the face of other changes sweeping the city. Everyone from the elderly to the young, from the rich, to the less wealthy, seems to love to congregate around small tables on plastic stools, day or night, to dig in to the city’s street cuisine. The Hanoians prefer saltier flavours to their southern counterparts. Off the street, Hanoi's restaurant scene is evolving - though at a slower clip than Saigon in the south. The international culinary scene is evolving too - and if you're staying a few days, make sure you head out to the West Lake expat area for more international restaurants, cafes and bars.
This independent list of the best dining in Hanoi from the streets to upscale restaurants, was updated in September 2018. Everything is handpicked and no money changes hands for a listing.
