When it comes to breakfast in Hanoi Old Quarter, the vibrant streets offer a variety of delicious options. From traditional pho to savory banh mi, each corner reveals a taste of Hanoi’s rich culinary heritage. In this article, Vietnam Travel Tips will take you through the top 10 breakfast spots in the Old Quarter, each with a unique flavor, perfect for a morning exploration. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, these are must-visit places for a memorable breakfast when traveling Hanoi Old Quarter.
1. Chao suon in Hang Bo Street
For over 30 years, the chao suon stall at 32 Hang Bo has been serving hungry patrons in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. This small roadside eatery offers a simple yet profoundly comforting breakfast: a bowl of thick, savory congee made from pork bones that have simmered for hours. The broth’s flavor is rich and soothing, making it a perfect start to your day if you’re looking for a classic breakfast in Hanoi Old Quarter.
- Address: 32 Hang Bo, Hang Bo, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 6:30 AM – 9:00 AM
2. Bun Cha in Hang Quat Street
Tucked away in the narrow alley of 74 Hang Quat, this bun cha spot has been a fixture in the Old Quarter for decades. Bun cha is a classic breakfast in Hanoi Old Quarter, known for its grilled pork patties and slices served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce. The grilled pork here is cooked over charcoal, giving it a distinct smoky flavor, while the accompanying pickled papaya adds a refreshing contrast.
- Address: 74 Hang Quat, Hang Gai, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
3. Fried Fermented Pork Roll in Hang Gai Street
Highly recommend: Fried Fermented Pork Roll at 36 Tam Thuong Alley
If you’re craving something savory and crispy for breakfast in Hanoi Old Quarter, the fried fermented pork roll stall at 36 Tam Thuong Alley is an excellent choice. The nem chua ran here is fried to perfection, crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and served with cucumber and green mango for a refreshing crunch. Perfect for a light breakfast, this spot embodies Hanoi’s vibrant street food culture.
- Address: 36 Tam Thuong, Hang Gai, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 9 AM – 11 PM
4. Mien luon in Hang Dieu Street
At Dong Thinh, located on Hang Dieu Street, the signature eel vermicelli (mien luon) has made this eatery a top choice for a satisfying breakfast in Hanoi Old Quarter. With its tender eel, flavorful broth, and perfectly cooked noodles, this breakfast dish provides the perfect balance of textures and flavors to start your day.
- Address: 87 Hang Dieu, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 6:30 AM – 9:30 PM
5. Pho in Hang Tre Street
Highly recommended: Pho Thin
Pho is an undeniable part of breakfast in Hanoi Old Quarter, and Pho Thin at 1 Hang Tre Street offers an unforgettable version of this iconic dish. Known for its clear, fragrant broth and tender slices of beef, this place has been serving locals and visitors alike for years, making it a must-visit when you’re in the Old Quarter for breakfast.
Explore more pho restaurants in Hanoi Old Quarter
- Address: 1 Hang Tre, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
6. Bun Moc in Hang Luoc Street
Bun moc, a noodle soup made with pork balls, mushrooms, and a delicate broth, is another popular choice for breakfast. The small eatery at 57 Hang Luoc has been serving this traditional dish for over 30 years, and its long-standing popularity is a testament to the quality of the food. The light, refreshing flavors make it a perfect breakfast for those looking for something filling yet not too heavy.
- Address: 57 Hang Luoc, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 11:00 AM
7. Bun Oc in Nguyen Sieu Street
For a different take on breakfast in Hanoi Old Quarter, bun oc (snail vermicelli soup) is a refreshing option. The dish is served with a tangy tomato broth, tender snails, and various herbs, creating a delicious and unique breakfast experience. The stall at 43 Nguyen Sieu is a favorite among locals for this traditional morning meal.
- Address: 43 Nguyen Sieu, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM
8. Banh Mi at Hang Ca Street
Highly recommend: Banh Mi 25 and other best banh mi in Hanoi Old Quarter
One of the best places to grab a quick and tasty breakfast in Hanoi Old Quarter is the banh mi stall at 25 Hang Ca. Whether you prefer the classic Vietnamese sandwich filled with pate, cold cuts, and pickled vegetables or are in the mood for an English breakfast in Hanoi Old Quarter twist, the banh mi here will hit the spot. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, it’s a satisfying meal to enjoy as you explore the streets of Hanoi.
- Address: 25 Hang Ca, Hang Bo, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
9. Bun rieu cua on Hang Bac Street
For seafood lovers, bun rieu cua, a crab-based noodle soup, offers a bold and flavorful option for breakfast in Hanoi Old Quarter. The tangy tomato broth is paired with chunks of crab, crispy tofu, and fresh herbs, making it a light yet filling breakfast. The stall at 11 Hang Bac is renowned for serving one of the best versions of this dish in the Old Quarter.
- Address: 11 Hang Bac, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
10. Xoi Xeo in Hang Bai Street
Highly recommended: Xoi xeo Chi May
Regarding traditional Vietnamese sticky rice, xoi xeo Chi May is an iconic breakfast in the Hanoi Old Quarter. The sticky rice is topped with mashed mung beans, crispy fried shallots, and a drizzle of fragrant chicken fat, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. This modest stall has been serving the dish for decades, and the quality of the ingredients makes it stand out from other xoi xeo vendors in the area.
- Address: 48 Cau Go, Hang Bai, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Exploring breakfast in Hanoi Old Quarter offers a delightful journey through the city’s rich culinary heritage. From hearty bowls of pho to crispy banh mi and comforting xôi xéo, there is no shortage of delicious options.
At Vietnam Travel Tips, we believe that these traditional breakfast spots reflect the true essence of Hanoi’s vibrant street food scene. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, the Old Quarter’s breakfast offerings are a must-try. Make sure to include these local favorites in your itinerary for an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
