Discover Hanoi’s top 9 noodle soups for breakfast, from Phở Bò to Bún Riêu Cua! Explore flavors, prices, eco-friendly spots, and Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours. Book now!
Start your Hanoi Travel with a flavorful bowlHanoi’s noodle soups are a morning ritual that defines the city’s vibrant street food culture, offering steaming bowls of rice or glass noodles, fragrant broths, and fresh herbs that awaken the senses. Found at bustling sidewalk stalls across Hoan Kiem Ward’s Old Quarter to Ba Đình Ward’s quieter alleys, these dishes, priced at $1.20–$4 (30,000–100,000 VND), are a breakfast staple for locals and a must-try for travelers. From iconic Phở Bò (beef noodle soup) to lesser-known Bún Đốc Mùng (elephant ear stem noodle soup), each soup blends fresh ingredients with time-honored recipes, delivering a balance of savory, sour, and spicy flavors perfect for Hanoi’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).
Rooted in Vietnam’s agricultural traditions, Hanoi’s noodle soups evolved from rural ingenuity, with broths simmered overnight and herbs sourced daily from markets like Dong Xuan. Vendors often use reusable bowls, aligning with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative. Unlike Western breakfasts, these light yet hearty soups fuel the day, served on tiny plastic stools amid the city’s motorbike hum, creating an immersive dining experience. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly food tours guide travelers to Hanoi’s best breakfast noodle spots, ensuring a sustainable, authentic adventure. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!
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 noodle soup stalls 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 the history, preparation, and sustainable practices of Hanoi’s noodle soups, 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 Hanoi’s breakfast soups responsibly!
Capture the savory essence of Hanoi’s breakfast gem (Source: Source: Internet)Hanoi’s breakfast noodle soups, a cornerstone of Vietnamese cuisine, reflect the city’s resourcefulness and love for fresh, balanced flavors. Originating from northern Vietnam’s rural traditions, these dishes use rice or glass noodles, slow-simmered broths (beef, chicken, pork, or seafood), and local ingredients like herbs, lime, and chili. Each soup, from Phở’s clear beef broth to Bún Riêu Cua’s crimson crab base, tells a story of regional adaptation and family recipes passed down generations. Vendors prepare broths overnight, sourcing ingredients from markets, often using reusable bowls to reduce waste, embodying Hanoi’s sustainable street food ethos. Served piping hot with customizable condiments, these soups are a communal ritual, inviting diners to slurp loudly on sidewalk stools, immersing them in Hanoi’s vibrant morning culture.
Dive into the vibrant flavors of Hanoi Travel (Source: Source: Internet)Hanoi’s breakfast noodle soups, priced at $1.20–$4 (30,000–100,000 VND), are best enjoyed at iconic street stalls. Below are the top nine, with recommended spots selected for authenticity, eco-friendly practices, and recent reviews, featuring ward-based addresses:
Description: Hanoi’s iconic beef noodle soup, featuring rice noodles, clear beef broth simmered with star anise and cinnamon, and cuts like rare steak (tái) or brisket (nạm). Served with basil, lime, chili, and bean sprouts, it’s a breakfast classic.
Best Spot: Phở 10 Lý Quốc Sư (10 Lý Quốc Sư, Hoan Kiem Ward), a Michelin Bib Gourmand winner, best at 7:00 AM. Reusable bowls and local beef, with a bustling sidewalk vibe.
Cost: $1.50–$3 (37,500–75,000 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; minimal plastic.
Tip: Order Phở Tái Nạm; add chili sauce for spice.
Description: A lighter alternative with chicken broth, shredded free-range chicken, and rice noodles, garnished with green onions and cilantro. Its subtle, aromatic broth is ideal for morning refreshment.
Best Spot: Phở Gà Nguyệt (5B Phú Doan, Hoan Kiem Ward), Michelin-recognized, best at 8:00 AM. Local chickens and reusable bowls, near Hoan Kiem Lake.
Cost: $1.20–$2 (30,000–50,000 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM–8:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; minimal waste.
Tip: Request extra lime; pair with bánh quẩy ($0.20 or 5,000 VND).
Description: A spicy, lemongrass-infused soup from Huế, adapted in Hanoi, with rice vermicelli, beef shank, pork knuckles, and optional congealed pig’s blood. Served with lime, cilantro, and banana blossoms.
Best Spot: Bún Bò Huế Bà Cụ (22B Lý Thường Kiệt, Hoan Kiem Ward), best at 7:30 AM. Local ingredients and biodegradable trays, with a cozy alley vibe.
Cost: $1.50–$2.50 (37,500–62,500 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–9:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; eco-packaging.
Tip: Add chili for heat; try with mung bean sprouts.
Description: A sweet-sour fish noodle soup with fried tilapia, fish broth, dill, tomatoes, and perilla. Its crispy fish and tangy broth make it a refreshing breakfast choice.
Best Spot: Bún Cá Sâm Cây Si (14 Trung Yên Alley, Hoan Kiem Ward), best at 9:00 AM. Reusable bowls and local fish, in a lively Old Quarter alley.
Cost: $1.20–$2 (30,000–50,000 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–8:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; minimal waste.
Tip: Add vinegar for tang; pair with herbs.
Description: A savory soup with rice noodles, pork meatballs, sliced pork hock, and giant elephant ear stems in a tomato-rich broth, offering a mix of soft and crunchy textures.
Best Spot: Bún Dọc Mùng Bà Hồng (47B Hàng Bông, Hoan Kiem Ward), best at 8:30 AM. Local produce and reusable trays, near Hanoi’s Train Street.
Cost: $1.20–$2.50 (30,000–62,500 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–7:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; eco-friendly service.
Tip: Stir in chili sauce; enjoy the meatballs’ umami.
Description: A hearty soup replacing duck creole with goose, featuring rice noodles, boiled goose, bamboo shoots, and a rich goose broth, garnished with spring onions.
Best Spot: Bún Ngan Cô Hà (12 Hàng Bè, Hoan Kiem Ward), best at 7:00 AM. Local geese and reusable bowls, in the Old Quarter’s heart.
Cost: $1.50–$3 (37,500–75,000 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–8:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; minimal waste.
Tip: Add bamboo shoots for crunch; pair with bia hơi ($0.20 or 5,000 VND).
Description: A tangy snail noodle soup with rice noodles, stir-fried snails, fried tofu, and a light red broth from tomatoes and rice wine vinegar, served with perilla and chili jam.
Best Spot: Bún Ốc Phố Cổ (36 Lương Ngọc Quyến, Hoan Kiem Ward), best at 8:00 AM. Reusable bowls and local snails, with a vibrant alley vibe.
Cost: $1.20–$2 (30,000–50,000 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; minimal plastic.
Tip: Add tamarind paste for zest; slurp loudly.
Description: A crimson crab noodle soup with rice vermicelli, brayed freshwater crab, fried tofu, and optional beef, flavored with tomato paste and annatto oil, served with lettuce and banana blossoms.
Best Spot: Bún Riêu Cua Phố Cổ (16B Hàng Bạc, Hoan Kiem Ward), best at 9:00 AM. Local crabs and biodegradable trays, near Dong Xuan Market.
Cost: $1.20–$2.50 (30,000–62,500 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–7:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; eco-packaging.
Tip: Add chili for spice; pair with herbs.
Description: A fragrant eel soup with glass noodles, deep-fried or stir-fried eel, bean sprouts, and a broth made from eel bones, garnished with cilantro and fried shallots.
Best Spot: Miến Lươn Chân Cầm (6 Phùng Hưng, Hoan Kiem Ward), a Michelin Bib Gourmand, best at 8:00 AM. Local eels and reusable bowls, in the Old Quarter.
Cost: $1.50–$3 (37,500–75,000 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–9:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; minimal waste.
Tip: Add lime juice for freshness; try stir-fried eel.
Photograph the fragrant allure of Hanoi’s noodle soups (Source: Source: Internet)To savor Hanoi’s breakfast noodle soups authentically, follow these practices:
Customize Your Bowl: Add lime, chili sauce, garlic vinegar, or herbs (basil, cilantro, perilla) to balance flavors, adjusting for sour, spicy, or savory preferences.
Slurp Loudly: Use chopsticks for noodles and meat, and a spoon for broth, slurping to show appreciation—a Hanoian norm.
Eat Hot: Consume immediately for the best flavor; cold broth dulls the experience.
Pair with Sides: Enjoy with trà đá ($0.20 or 5,000 VND), bánh quẩy ($0.20 or 5,000 VND), or bia hơi ($0.20 or 5,000 VND) for refreshment.
Eco-Friendly Tip: Bring a reusable spoon or chopsticks; request reusable bowls to reduce waste, supporting Hanoi’s sustainability efforts.
Experience Hanoi Tours with sustainable dining (Source: Source: Internet)Enhance your breakfast adventure with these sustainable activities in Hanoi:
Join a 2–3-hour eco-friendly cyclo tour, tasting Phở Bò at Phở 10 Lý Quốc Sư at 7:00 AM, exploring Hanoi’s street food culture.
Cost: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND) per person.
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–9:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Low-impact transport; supports vendors.
Tip: Included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Explore Hanoi’s largest market (500 m from Hàng Bạc) for noodle soup 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).
Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake (200 m from Phú Doan) post-soup at 8:00 AM, a 30–60-minute low-impact activity.
Cost: Free; Ngoc Son Temple entry $1.20 (30,000 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).
Learn Phở or Bún Riêu broth-making 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).
Visit the Weekend Night Market (500 m from Lương Ngọc Quyến) at 7:00 PM, a 1–2-hour sustainable activity for souvenirs and snacks.
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).
Start your Hanoi Travel with a flavorful bowl (Source: Source: Internet)Noodle soup stalls, like 10 Lý Quốc Sư in Hoan Kiem 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 Ba Đình 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 Ba Đình (15 min).
By Taxi or Grab: To Lý Quốc Sư, $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., “10 Lý Quốc Sư, Hoan Kiem Ward”).
Learn Hanoi’s food heritage with expert insights (Source: Source: Internet)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, spoon, chopsticks to minimize waste.
Extras: Notebook for dining notes; cash for stalls.
Tip: Carry small VND notes; request reusable bowls at stalls.
Seize the vibrant spirit of Hanoi Travel (Source: Source: Internet)Food and Drink Fees
Noodle soups (Phở, Bún Bò Huế, etc.): $1.20–$4 (30,000–100,000 VND per bowl).
Sides (trà đá, bánh quẩy, bia hơi): $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 Snacks (bánh mì): $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Ngoc Son Temple Entry: $1.20 (30,000 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, noodle soup, homestay).
Mid-range: $35–$55 (cyclo, food tour, hotel).
Luxury: $75–$110 (private car, premium hotel).
Tip: Budget for 1–2 bowls per person; inquire about prices to avoid overcharges.
Capture the authentic charm of Hanoi’s food culture (Source: Source: Internet)Timing: Dry season (November–April) for outdoor dining; rainy season (May–October) for indoor stalls. Morning (6:00–9:00 AM) for freshest broths; arrive early at popular spots like Phở 10 Lý Quốc Sư.
Booking: Reserve tours 3–5 weeks ahead for peak seasons; no reservations needed for stalls, but expect queues.
Sustainability: Walk or cycle ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND); use reusable utensils. Buy local herbs ($0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND) at markets.
Navigation: Use offline maps with addresses like “10 Lý Quốc Sư, Hoan Kiem Ward.”
Safety: Watch for pickpockets in crowded Old Quarter; secure valuables. Carry a first-aid kit.
Weather: Dry season for sidewalk seating; 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). Slurp loudly to show appreciation.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); ensure ingredients are cooked. Apply mosquito repellent.
Begin your Hanoi Tours with a savory adventure (Source: Source: Internet)Our sustainable tours showcase Hanoi’s noodle soup culture:
Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Cyclo ride to Phở 10 Lý Quốc Sư at 7:00 AM, tasting Phở Bò and Bún Ốc, visiting Dong Xuan Market. Includes guide, cyclo.
Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Bún Riêu Cua Phố Cổ, Night Market, noodle cooking class, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.
Hanoi & Ninh Binh Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Miến Lươn Chân Cầm, Trang An Grottoes, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers.
Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!
Embrace the vibrant spirit of Hanoi Travel culinary adventures (Source: Source: Internet)Hanoi’s top nine breakfast noodle soups—Phở Bò, Phở Gà, Bún Bò Huế, Bún Cá, Bún Đốc Mùng, Bún Ngỗng, Bún Ốc, Bún Riêu Cua, and Miến Lươn—offer a vibrant taste of the city’s street food heritage, priced at $1.20–$4 at iconic stalls across Hoan Kiem and Ba Đình wards. With fresh ingredients, fragrant broths, and reusable bowls, these dishes embody Hanoi’s culinary soul and sustainable ethos. Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours guide you to these morning delights, ensuring a sustainable Hanoi Travel experience filled with flavor and tradition. Whether slurping Phở in the Old Quarter or savoring Bún Riêu by Hoan Kiem Lake, these noodle soups promise an unforgettable Hanoi breakfast adventure. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your culinary journey today!
Ready to savor Hanoi’s iconic noodle soups? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable adventure!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, 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, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
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