Food lovers find their paradise in Hanoi’s dynamic food scene, where centuries-old recipes meet bustling street markets. Standout experiences include a well-paced 3-hour walking tour hitting five essential food spots – perfect for first-timers who want the classics. We love the family-run colonial restaurant in the Old Quarter for its authentic recipes passed down through generations.
The guided street food tours earn our highest recommendation, combining cultural insights with hard-to-find local specialties. For a complete evening, catch the traditional water puppet performance paired with a varied Vietnamese buffet. Local guides make all the difference on the neighborhood food walks, taking visitors to spots travelers rarely discover.
Check out these top food tours that showcase the best of Hanoi’s culinary treasures:
Key Points
- Immersive food tours that introduce iconic Vietnamese dishes and local markets, led by knowledgeable guides, with exceptional reviews.
- Homemade dining experience at a family-run restaurant in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, featuring special dishes from the French colonial period.
- Highly recommended street food walking tour that provides cultural insights and encourages participants to document their experience.
- Unique combination of a traditional water puppet show and a Vietnamese buffet dinner for a cultural experience.
- Authentic local street food experience that goes beyond typical dishes, with small group sizes and vegetarian options available.
Hanoi Food Lovers Walking Tour: Street Food Experience With 5 Food Stops
For those seeking an immersive culinary adventure in Hanoi, the Hanoi Food Lovers Walking Tour offers a compelling street food experience with stops at five distinct locations.
Priced at $29.19 per person, the tour features a lowest price guarantee, free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, and a maximum group size of 12 travelers.
Over the course of the 3-hour tour, guests can expect to sample iconic Vietnamese dishes like banh mi, bun cha, and banh cuon, as well as explore the local Hang Be market.
Guided by knowledgeable locals, the experience provides insights into Hanoi’s rich culinary heritage and cultural context, earning exceptional reviews from past participants.
Read our full review: Hanoi Food Lovers Walking Tour: Street Food Experience With 5 Food Stops Review
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Homemade Restaurant Dining
Tucked away in Hanoi’s vibrant Old Quarter, the family-run Homemade Restaurant Dining transports guests into a unique culinary experience that spans three generations.
Serving up special Vietnamese dishes from the French colonial period, the restaurant offers a 2-hour dining adventure filled with signature dishes like fresh fried crab, stuffed crab, and crispy spring rolls.
Priced at $49.16 per person, the dining experience can be booked with no upfront payment and a flexible 24-hour cancellation policy.
While photography fees may apply for commercial use, the restaurant maintains a family-oriented atmosphere, prohibiting alcohol, drugs, and bare feet.
Advance notice is required for any dietary restrictions or allergies.
Read our full review: Homemade Restaurant Dining Review
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Hanoi Street Food Experience by Walking
Though Hanoi’s bustling streets may seem overwhelming at first, the Hanoi Street Food Experience by Walking tour provides an immersive introduction to the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
Visitors can find assistance and inquiries through the Viator Help Centre, using the product code 165326P4. The tour features delicious local dishes, and travelers are encouraged to document their experiences through photos.
With an impressive 5.0 rating based on 42 reviews, the tour is highly recommended as a great way to explore Hanoi. Priced at $50.00, the experience includes food tastings and a knowledgeable guide to navigate the streets and provide cultural insights.
Read our full review: Hanoi Street Food Experience by Walking Review
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Hanoi Old Quarter Street Food Experience
Venturing beyond the bustling streets explored in the Hanoi Street Food Experience, the Hanoi Old Quarter Street Food Experience offers visitors a chance to enjoy the heart of the city’s culinary heritage.
This guided tour takes guests through the lively alleyways of the Old Quarter, where they can sample a variety of local delicacies, from steaming bowls of pho to fragrant banh mi sandwiches.
Along the way, the knowledgeable guide provides insights into the history and traditions that have shaped Hanoi’s vibrant food culture.
With a duration of 3.5 to 4 hours and a price of $17.92 per person, this experience is a must for foodies visiting the city.
Read our full review: Hanoi Old Quarter Street Food Experience Review
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Ha Noi Water Puppet Show With Buffet Dinner
The Ha Noi Water Puppet Show With Buffet Dinner offers visitors a captivating cultural experience that blends the centuries-old art of water puppetry with a delectable international buffet.
Priced from $78 per person, the 4-hour tour includes hotel pickup, a 50-minute water puppet performance, and a traditional Vietnamese buffet dinner.
The small-group experience, limited to 8 participants, provides an intimate setting to learn about the origins and significance of water puppetry.
Afterward, guests can sample a variety of local and global cuisine at the buffet.
While reviews are mixed, the tour provides an immersive introduction to Hanoi’s rich cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Ha Noi Water Puppet Show With Buffet Dinner Review
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Hanoi Local Street Food Experience
One of the best ways to take in Hanoi’s vibrant culture is through a local street food experience. Priced from just $26.42 per person, this 3-hour guided tour covers the Hanoi Old Quarter, allowing participants to sample over 5 local food and drink specialties.
The flexible, personalized itinerary focuses on authentic Vietnamese cuisine beyond typical dishes, with light appetizers, snacks, main courses, and desserts included. Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour provides insights into Hanoian life, culture, and food preparation.
Small group sizes are recommended for an optimal experience. Vegetarian options are available upon request, and the tour can be tailored to accommodate dietary needs.
Read our full review: Hanoi Local Street Food Experience Review
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Trang an Hoa Lu Mua Cave Tour [Japanese Guide, Limousine Bus, Lunch and Dinner Included]
![Trang an Hoa Lu Mua Cave Tour [Japanese Guide, Limousine Bus, Lunch and Dinner Included]](https://travel-buddies.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/1_trang-an-hoa-lu-mua-cave-tour-japanese-guide-limousine-bus-lunch-and-dinner-included.jpg)
Embarking on the Trang an Hoa Lu Mua Cave Tour is an immersive way to explore the natural wonders and cultural heritage of Vietnam.
At a starting price of $57.23 per person, the tour offers a Lowest Price Guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Travelers can expect a comprehensive itinerary, with pick-up and drop-off from select hotels, a Japanese guide, and transportation via limousine bus.
Lunch and dinner are provided, catering to a maximum capacity of 100 participants.
The overall rating is an impressive 5.0 out of 6 reviews, making it a top choice for those seeking an enriching cultural experience in Hanoi.
Read our full review: Trang an Hoa Lu Mua Cave Tour [Japanese Guide, Limousine Bus, Lunch and Dinner Included] Review
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Hanoi: Street Food Experience With 5 Food Stops
Amidst the vibrant energy of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, this 3-hour street food experience immerses travelers in the city’s rich culinary heritage. Priced from €21.76, the tour offers 5 food stops, including exploring Dong Xuan Market and sampling classic dishes like banh cuon and bun cha.
Guided by an English-speaking local, visitors will learn about traditional Vietnamese ingredients and food culture. With a rating of 4.7/5 from 61 reviews, the tour is praised for its friendly guides and unique food experiences.
Catering to small groups of up to 12, the carbon-neutral experience provides a flexible booking policy and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Hanoi: Street Food Experience With 5 Food Stops Review
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From Hanoi: Guided 2-Day Tour of Sa Pa With Lunch & Dinner
Travelers seeking to explore the enchanting landscape of Sa Pa can embark on a guided two-day tour from Hanoi.
This small-group tour, limited to 10 participants, offers an immersive cultural experience. The itinerary includes trekking through rice terraces and valleys, visiting Black Hmong and Dzay ethnic villages, and enjoying a homestay with a local family.
Included in the price are round-trip bus tickets, an English-speaking guide, meals, and entrance fees.
Travelers should pack appropriate hiking gear and be aware of the tour’s restrictions on age and physical ability.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5, this tour promises a memorable journey through the stunning natural beauty and vibrant cultural heritage of Sa Pa.
Read our full review: From Hanoi: Guided 2-Day Tour of Sa Pa With Lunch & Dinner Review
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Hanoi: Night Market Tour, Water Puppet Show and Dinner
Immersing oneself in Hanoi’s vibrant nightlife, this 3.5-hour tour offers a captivating exploration of the city’s cultural tapestry.
Start with a guided tour of the Phố Cầu Gỗ night market, where visitors can observe the lively trading and shopping habits of local Hanoians.
Next, witness the captivating water puppet show at the Lotus Water Puppet Theater, a unique art form that showcases rural Vietnamese life and folklore.
The experience concludes with a sumptuous buffet dinner featuring a wide range of North Vietnamese cuisine.
With convenient transfers, inclusive of all fees and gratuities, this tour provides a well-rounded introduction to Hanoi’s enchanting cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Hanoi: Night Market Tour, Water Puppet Show and Dinner Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Food Photos During the Tour?
Taking food photos during dining tours is generally permitted, though it’s best to be respectful and avoid disrupting the meal experience for other guests. Check with the tour operator for any specific guidelines or restrictions on photography.
Do I Need to Bring Cash for the Experience?
It’s generally best to bring some cash for most dining experiences, as many restaurants may not accept credit cards. However, it’s always a good idea to check with the specific hotel beforehand to confirm their payment options.
What Happens if I Have Dietary Restrictions?
When dining with dietary restrictions, it’s best to notify the restaurant in advance. Many establishments in Hanoi are accommodating and can work with you to provide suitable menu options that cater to your needs.
Is There a Dress Code for the Activities?
There’s typically no strict dress code for most dining experiences in Hanoi. However, it’s best to dress comfortably and respectfully, avoiding overly casual or revealing attire. Many upscale restaurants may prefer guests to be in smart casual or formal wear.
Can I Book Private or Customized Tours?
Yes, many tour operators in Hanoi offer private and customized tours. Travelers can work with the company to design a personalized itinerary that fits their interests and schedule. This allows for a more intimate and flexible sightseeing experience.
The Sum Up
Hanoi offers a diverse range of dining experiences, from traditional street food to high-end restaurants. Visitors can explore the city’s vibrant food culture through walking tours, culinary classes, and cultural performances. Whether seeking an authentic local experience or a more elevated dining setting, Hanoi caters to a variety of tastes and preferences, providing a memorable gastronomic journey.