Phở Cuốn: Hanoi’s Beef Noodle Roll Guide & Eco Tours

A Fresh and Flavorful Hanoian Specialty

Phở Cuốn, Hanoi’s delightful beef noodle rolls, is a refreshing street food that reimagines the iconic phở noodle soup as a portable, hand-held treat. Pronounced “fuh kwoon” (noodle roll), these rolls are a northern Vietnamese gem found across Hanoi, from Hoan Kiem Ward’s bustling Old Quarter to Trúc Bạch Ward’s serene lakeside, priced at $0.80–$1.50 (20,000–37,500 VND for 2–3 rolls). Encased in a soft, uncut sheet of rice noodle (phở), each roll combines stir-fried beef, lettuce, cucumber, cilantro, mint, and basil, served with a tangy nước chấm dipping sauce of fish sauce, lime, sugar, garlic, and chili. The result is a burst of textures—crisp vegetables, tender beef, and chewy noodles—in every bite, perfect for Hanoi’s vibrant food scene.

Originating in Hanoi’s Trúc Bạch area, Phở Cuốn transforms the soup’s ingredients into a lighter, snackable form, reflecting Vietnam’s culinary creativity. Vendors use fresh, locally sourced beef and herbs, often with eco-friendly reusable trays, aligning with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative. Unlike gỏi cuốn (fresh spring rolls) or fried nem rán, Phở Cuốn’s wider noodle sheet and beef focus make it uniquely Hanoian, ideal for the city’s tropical monsoon climate (dry season: November–April, 15–28°C or 59–82.4°F; rainy season: May–October, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F). Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly food tours guide travelers to savor Phở Cuốn across Hanoi, ensuring a sustainable, immersive experience. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Update

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has reclassified Hanoi’s districts as wards or communes, with former Hoan Kiem District now Hoan Kiem Ward under Hanoi City’s administration. This streamlines navigation to Phở Cuốn hotspots using ward-based maps.

Legend Travel Group excels in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering guided eco-friendly food tours across Hanoi, tailored for travelers seeking authentic culinary experiences. Our tours use low-impact transport like cyclos, led by English-speaking guides who share Phở Cuốn’s cultural roots, preparation techniques, and sustainable dining practices, ensuring a safe, enriching journey. Supporting local vendors, we align with Hanoi’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we make planning effortless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and savor Phở Cuốn responsibly! TripAdvisor Reviews

Phở Cuốn, a Hanoi innovation, likely originated in Trúc Bạch Ward, where locals repurposed phở noodle sheets into rolls inspired by gỏi cuốn. The dish uses fresh rice noodle sheets, made by steaming rice batter into thin, uncut layers, wrapped around stir-fried beef seasoned with garlic and soy sauce, paired with crisp lettuce, cucumber, and aromatic herbs like mint, cilantro, and basil. Served with nước chấm—a fish sauce blend with lime, sugar, garlic, and chili—it balances sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. Some vendors add bean sprouts or peanuts for crunch, keeping the dish light yet satisfying.

In Hanoi, vendors source beef and herbs from markets like Dong Xuan, using reusable trays to reduce waste. Unlike phở noodle soup, which requires a steaming broth, Phở Cuốn is a quick, portable snack, popular for breakfast, lunch, or evening strolls. Its fresh, healthy ingredients and vibrant presentation make it a cultural favorite, reflecting Hanoi’s knack for transforming rice-based staples into creative, accessible dishes. Compared to southern Vietnamese rolls, Hanoi’s Phở Cuốn emphasizes beef and wider noodles, showcasing northern subtlety.

Phở Cuốn shines across Hanoi, with top stalls and restaurants serving rolls for $0.80–$1.50 (20,000–37,500 VND for 2–3 rolls). Below are five standout spots, selected for quality, eco-friendly practices, and recent reviews, covering various wards:

1. Phở Cuốn Hương Mai (25 Nghĩa Hưng, Trúc Bạch Ward)

A Trúc Bạch pioneer, famous for tender beef Phở Cuốn with minty nước chấm, best at 6:00 PM. Uses reusable trays and local herbs, with a lakeside vibe.

• Cost: $1–$1.50 (25,000–37,500 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 4:00 PM–10:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; minimal waste.

• Tip: Scenic Trúc Bạch Lake setting; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

2. Phở Cuốn 31 (31 Nghĩa Quý, Trúc Bạch Ward)

A bustling stall with herb-heavy Phở Cuốn, best at 5:00 PM. Sustainable ingredients and reusable trays, near West Lake.

• Cost: $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND); lime juice $0.40 (10,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 3:00 PM–9:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local beef; biodegradable packaging.

• Tip: Lively atmosphere; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

3. Quán Bánh Cuốn Kỳ Đồng (11 Tống Duy Tân, Hàng Bông Ward)

A Hoan Kiem gem offering Phở Cuốn alongside bánh cuốn, best at 12:00 PM. Local herbs and reusable trays, near Train Street.

• Cost: $1–$1.50 (25,000–37,500 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM–8:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local produce; minimal plastic.

• Tip: Try with bánh cuốn; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

4. Phở Cuốn Hưng Bền (28 Ngũ Xã, Trúc Bạch Ward)

A lakeside favorite with juicy beef Phở Cuốn, best at 1:00 PM. Reusable trays and local greens, with a relaxed setting.

• Cost: $1–$1.50 (25,000–37,500 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–9:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local herbs; eco-packaging.

• Tip: West Lake views; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

5. Quán Phở Cuốn Bà Hanh (26B Tô Ngọc Vân, Quảng An Ward)

A Tay Ho Ward spot with aromatic Phở Cuốn, best at 7:00 PM. Sustainable sourcing and reusable trays, near West Lake.

• Cost: $1–$1.50 (25,000–37,500 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 5:00 PM–10:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local beef; minimal waste.

• Tip: Tranquil setting; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

To savor Phở Cuốn authentically, follow these Hanoian practices:

1. Dip Generously: Dunk the roll in nước chấm, coating each bite for a tangy, spicy kick.

2. Eat Fresh: Consume immediately to enjoy the noodle’s softness and herb crispness.

3. Customize: Request extra chili or herbs for bolder flavors; some stalls offer vegetarian versions with tofu.

4. Pair with Trà Đá: Sip iced tea ($0.20 or 5,000 VND) to complement the rolls’ freshness. Eco-Friendly Tip: Choose stalls with reusable trays; bring a reusable napkin to reduce waste, supporting Hanoi’s sustainability efforts.

Enhance your Phở Cuốn adventure with these sustainable activities across Hanoi:

1. Phở Cuốn Tasting Tour

Join a 2–3-hour eco-friendly cyclo tour, tasting Phở Cuốn at Hương Mai at 6:00 PM, exploring Hanoi’s street food culture.

• Cost: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND) per person.

• Hours: Daily, 4:00 PM–9:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Low-impact transport; supports vendors.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

2. Visit Dong Xuan Market (Hoan Kiem Ward)

Explore Hanoi’s largest market for fresh herbs at 10:00 AM, a 1–2-hour sustainable activity.

• Cost: Free entry; purchases $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; reusable bags.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

3. Street Food Cooking Class

Learn Phở Cuốn rolling in a 2-hour eco-friendly class at 11:00 AM, using local ingredients.

• Cost: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND) per person.

• Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Sustainable sourcing; compostable waste.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150).

4. Stroll West Lake (Tây Hồ Ward)

Walk around West Lake post-rolls at 5:00 PM, a 1–2-hour low-impact activity near Trúc Bạch stalls.

• Cost: Free; Tran Quoc Pagoda entry $0.40 (10,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–10:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Pedestrian-friendly; supports local culture.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

5. Explore Old Quarter Night Market (Hoan Kiem Ward)

Visit the Weekend Night Market at 7:00 PM, a 1–2-hour sustainable activity for souvenirs and street food.

• Cost: Free entry; purchases $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Hours: Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM–11:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Supports local vendors; walkable.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150).

Phở Cuốn spots, like 25 Nghĩa Hưng in Trúc Bạch Ward, are accessible in 5–20 minutes from central Hanoi:

• By Bus: Routes 01, 09, or 14 to Hoan Kiem Lake (5–10 min, $0.30–$0.50 or 7,000–12,000 VND); transfer to Trúc Bạch via Route 33 (10 min). Walk 5 minutes. Every 10–20 minutes, 5:00 AM–9:00 PM.

• By Cyclo or Electric Cart: From central Hanoi (5–15 min, $2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).

• By Bicycle or Walking: Bicycle rental ($1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND); walk 5–10 minutes in Hoan Kiem Ward or cycle to Trúc Bạch (15 min).

• By Taxi or Grab: To Nghĩa Hưng, $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND) one-way; round-trip $4–$12 (100,000–300,000 VND). Mai Linh (0438,222,666), Hanoi Taxi (0438,535,353).

• By Private Car (Legend Travel Group): $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND round-trip for up to 4 people).

• By Air (to Hanoi): Noi Bai Airport (HAN), 25 km. Flights: Ho Chi Minh City ($80–$150 or 2,000,000–3,750,000 VND), Da Nang ($60–$120 or 1,500,000–3,000,000 VND), Bangkok ($200–$600). Airport Bus No. 86 ($1.40 or 35,000 VND); taxi/Grab ($12–$15 or 300,000–375,000 VND). Navigation Tip: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with addresses (e.g., “25 Nghĩa Hưng, Trúc Bạch Ward”).

Pack these essentials for a sustainable Hanoi visit:

• Clothing: Lightweight, casual outfits; comfortable shoes for walking. Waterproof jackets for rainy season.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.

• Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with offline maps (Maps.me), portable charger.

• Documents: Passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag, napkin, tray to minimize waste.

• Extras: Notebook for dining notes; cash for stalls. Tip: Carry small VND notes; request reusable trays at stalls.

Costs for Phở Cuốn Experience

Food and Drink Fees

• Phở Cuốn: $0.80–$1.50 (20,000–37,500 VND for 2–3 rolls).

• Sides (trà đá, lime juice): $0.20–$0.40 (5,000–10,000 VND).

• Guided Food Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

• Market Purchases (herbs): $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Night Market Food (bánh mì): $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Tran Quoc Pagoda Entry: $0.40 (10,000 VND).

Transportation (Round-Trip, from Central Hanoi)

• Bus: $0.60–$1 (14,000–24,000 VND).

• Cyclo/Electric Cart: $4–$10 (100,000–250,000 VND).

• Bicycle: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Walking: Free (Hoan Kiem Ward).

• Taxi/Grab: $4–$12 (100,000–300,000 VND).

• Private Car: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND).

• Airport Bus No. 86 + Taxi: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).

Accommodation (Per Night, Double Occupancy)

• Homestays: $20–$50 (500,000–1,250,000 VND).

• Hotels: $30–$80 (750,000–2,000,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $10–$25 (bus, Phở Cuốn, homestay).

• Mid-range: $35–$55 (cyclo, food tour, hotel).

• Luxury: $75–$110 (private car, premium hotel). Tip: Order 2–3 rolls per person; book tours early for Tet or dry season.

• Timing: Dry season for outdoor stalls; rainy season for covered spots. Afternoon (4:00–7:00 PM) or evening (6:00–9:00 PM) for freshest rolls.

• Booking: Reserve tours 3–5 weeks ahead for peak seasons.

• Sustainability: Walk or cycle ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND); choose reusable trays. Buy local herbs ($0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND) at markets.

• Navigation: Use offline maps with addresses like “25 Nghĩa Hưng, Trúc Bạch Ward.”

• Safety: Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas; secure valuables. Carry a first-aid kit.

• Weather: Dry season for open-air dining; rainy season needs waterproof gear ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND). Check AccuWeather.

• Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn”; tip vendors $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND). Respect stall etiquette by sharing tables.

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); ensure beef is fresh. Apply mosquito repellent.

Our sustainable tours showcase Hanoi’s Phở Cuốn culture:

• Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Cyclo ride to Phở Cuốn Hương Mai at 6:00 PM, tasting beef noodle rolls, visiting Dong Xuan Market. Includes guide, cyclo.

• Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Phở Cuốn at Quán Bánh Cuốn Kỳ Đồng, Night Market, cooking class, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.

• Hanoi & Ninh Binh Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Phở Cuốn at Hưng Bền, Trang An Grottoes, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links! TripAdvisor Reviews

Phở Cuốn, Hanoi’s fresh beef noodle rolls, is a culinary treasure savored for $0.80–$1.50 at iconic spots like Phở Cuốn Hương Mai in Trúc Bạch Ward, where tender beef, crisp herbs, and tangy nước chấm create a textural delight. With local ingredients, reusable trays, and eco-friendly practices, it reflects Hanoi’s innovative food culture across wards like Hoan Kiem and Tay Ho. Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours guide you to Phở Cuốn’s cultural heart, ensuring a sustainable Hanoi Travel experience blending flavor, tradition, and sustainability. Whether dipping rolls in sauce or exploring Hanoi’s streets, Phở Cuốn promises an unforgettable adventure. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your culinary journey today!
Ready to savor Hanoi’s iconic Phở Cuốn? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable adventure!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights and guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.