Discover Trứng Vịt Lộn, Hanoi’s bold fertilized duck egg delicacy! Explore top spots, flavors, costs, and eco-friendly tours with Legend Travel Group. Book now!
Trứng Vịt Lộn, Hanoi’s iconic fertilized duck egg, is a daring street food delicacy that captivates adventurous eaters with its unique texture and rich flavor. Pronounced “troong vit lone” (duck egg turned), this Vietnamese specialty is found across Hanoi, from Hoan Kiem Ward’s bustling Old Quarter to Ba Đình Ward’s lively streets, priced at $0.20–$0.40 (5,000–10,000 VND per egg). Boiled to preserve a soft embryo (18–21 days old), it’s served with Vietnamese coriander (rau răm), ginger, salt, pepper, and optional lime or chili, offering a savory, gamey taste with a creamy yolk and tender fetus. A cultural staple, it’s a protein-packed snack beloved by locals for its bold, umami punch.
Rooted in Vietnam’s resourceful street food culture, Trứng Vịt Lộn, also known as balut in the Philippines, reflects Hanoi’s love for affordable, nutrient-rich dishes. Vendors source fresh duck eggs locally, using eco-friendly reusable bowls, aligning with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative. Unlike boiled chicken eggs or quail eggs, Trứng Vịt Lộn’s embryonic texture and herbal garnish make it a unique Hanoian experience, ideal in 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 this bold delicacy, ensuring a sustainable, immersive 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 Trứng Vịt Lộn 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 Trứng Vịt Lộn’s cultural significance, preparation methods, and sustainable 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 Trứng Vịt Lộn responsibly! TripAdvisor Reviews
Trứng Vịt Lộn, a fertilized duck egg incubated for 18–21 days, is a cultural icon in Hanoi, valued for its high protein and bold flavor, often consumed as a late-night snack or energy booster. Vendors select eggs shortly after laying, allowing the embryo to develop a soft, edible texture before boiling for 20–30 minutes to halt gestation, preserving a creamy yolk and tender fetus without crunchy bones or feathers. Served warm, the egg is cracked open, revealing a savory broth sipped first, followed by the embryo eaten with Vietnamese coriander (rau răm), ginger, salt, pepper, and optional lime or chili for balance.
In Hanoi, vendors source eggs from local farms, using reusable bowls to reduce waste. Unlike southern Vietnam, where eggs are eaten from ceramic cups like soft-boiled eggs, Hanoi’s style involves breaking the egg into a bowl, mixing with herbs and spices for a communal, hands-on experience. Despite its controversial reputation among some travelers, Trứng Vịt Lộn is a beloved local dish, reflecting Hanoi’s adventurous street food ethos and resourcefulness in using every edible resource.
To savor Trứng Vịt Lộn authentically, follow these Hanoian practices:
Sip the Broth: Crack the flatter end, sip the warm, savory embryonic broth first, then peel the shell.
Mix with Garnishes: Combine the embryo with rau răm, ginger, salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lime or chili for balanced flavor.
Eat Warm: Consume immediately after boiling for the best texture; avoid cold eggs to prevent toughness.
Pair with Trà Đá: Sip iced tea ($0.20 or 5,000 VND) to refresh the palate after the rich egg. Eco-Friendly Tip: Choose vendors with reusable bowls; bring a reusable spoon to minimize waste, supporting Hanoi’s sustainability efforts.
Trứng Vịt Lộn is widely available across Hanoi, with top stalls serving eggs for $0.20–$0.40 (5,000–10,000 VND each). Below are five standout spots, selected for quality, eco-friendly practices, and recent reviews, covering various wards:
A bustling Old Quarter stall with perfectly boiled Trứng Vịt Lộn and rau răm, best at 8:00 PM. Uses reusable bowls and local eggs, with a vibrant street vibe.
Cost: $0.20–$0.30 (5,000–7,500 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 6:00 PM–11:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; minimal waste.
Tip: Try with extra lime; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
A nightlife hub with Trứng Vịt Lộn served with chili, best at 9:00 PM. Sustainable eggs and reusable trays, set in a lively alley.
Cost: $0.20–$0.40 (5,000–10,000 VND); lime juice $0.40 (10,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 7:00 PM–1:00 AM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Local herbs; biodegradable packaging.
Tip: Energetic street scene; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
A local favorite with ginger-spiced Trứng Vịt Lộn, best at 7:00 PM. Reusable bowls and local eggs, with a casual nhậu (drinking) vibe.
Cost: $0.20–$0.30 (5,000–7,500 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 5:00 PM–10:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; minimal waste.
Tip: Pair with beer; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
A lakeside stall with fresh Trứng Vịt Lộn and rau răm, best at 6:00 PM. Sustainable eggs and reusable trays, near West Lake.
Cost: $0.20–$0.40 (5,000–10,000 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 4:00 PM–9:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Local produce; eco-packaging.
Tip: Scenic setting; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
A Tay Ho Ward spot with spicy Trứng Vịt Lộn, best at 10:00 PM. Local eggs and reusable bowls, with a tranquil lakeside ambiance.
Cost: $0.20–$0.30 (5,000–7,500 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 8:00 PM–12:00 AM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Local herbs; minimal waste.
Tip: Quiet night spot; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Enhance your Trứng Vịt Lộn adventure with these sustainable activities across Hanoi:
Join a 2–3-hour eco-friendly cyclo tour, tasting Trứng Vịt Lộn at Hàng Bông at 8:00 PM, learning its cultural roots.
Cost: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND) per person.
Hours: Daily, 6:00 PM–11:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Low-impact transport; supports vendors.
Tip: Included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Explore Hanoi’s largest market 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).
Learn Trứng Vịt Lộn prep 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).
Walk around West Lake post-egg at 7:00 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).
Visit the Weekend Night Market at 8:00 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).
Trứng Vịt Lộn spots, like 204B Hàng Bông 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 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 Ba Đình (15 min).
By Taxi or Grab: To Hàng Bông, $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., “204B Hàng Bông, Hoan Kiem 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, spoon, bowl to minimize waste.
Extras: Notebook for dining notes; cash for stalls. Tip: Carry small VND notes; request reusable bowls at stalls.
Food and Drink Fees
Trứng Vịt Lộn: $0.20–$0.40 (5,000–10,000 VND per egg; 2–3 per serving).
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, Trứng Vịt Lộn, homestay).
Mid-range: $35–$55 (cyclo, food tour, hotel).
Luxury: $75–$110 (private car, premium hotel). Tip: Order 2–3 eggs per person; book tours early for Tet or dry season.
Timing: Dry season for outdoor stalls; rainy season for covered spots. Evening (7:00–10:00 PM) for freshest eggs and nightlife vibe.
Booking: Reserve tours 3–5 weeks ahead for peak seasons.
Sustainability: Walk or cycle ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND); choose reusable bowls. Buy local rau răm ($0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND) at markets.
Navigation: Use offline maps with addresses like “204B Hàng Bông, Hoan Kiem Ward.”
Safety: Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas; secure valuables. Carry a first-aid kit.
Weather: Dry season for street 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 eggs are freshly boiled. Apply mosquito repellent.
Our sustainable tours showcase Hanoi’s Trứng Vịt Lộn culture:
Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Cyclo ride to Quán Trứng Vịt Lộn Hàng Bông at 8:00 PM, tasting fertilized duck eggs, visiting Dong Xuan Market. Includes guide, cyclo.
Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Trứng Vịt Lộn at Tạ Hiện, Night Market, cooking class, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.
Hanoi & Ninh Binh Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Trứng Vịt Lộn at Ngũ Xã, 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
Trứng Vịt Lộn, Hanoi’s bold fertilized duck egg, is a street food gem savored for $0.20–$0.40 at vibrant stalls like Quán Trứng Vịt Lộn Hàng Bông, where creamy yolks, tender embryos, and rau răm create a daring delight. With local eggs, reusable bowls, and eco-friendly practices, it reflects Hanoi’s adventurous culinary spirit across wards like Hoan Kiem, Ba Đình, and Trúc Bạch. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly Hanoi Tours guide you to Trứng Vịt Lộn’s cultural essence, ensuring a sustainable Hanoi Travel experience blending flavor, tradition, and sustainability. Whether sipping the broth or exploring Hanoi’s night markets, Trứng Vịt Lộn promises an unforgettable adventure. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your culinary journey today!
Ready to savor Hanoi’s iconic Trứng Vịt Lộn? 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, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
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