The 13 Best Banh Mi in Hanoi (With Vegan Options) - YESD Authentic Responsible Tours

Banh mi is one of the most widely-known street foods in the world, especially in Hanoi. Banh mi in Hanoi has the most varieties when it comes to flavors, ingredients, and textures. Whether you’re searching for the best banh mi in Hanoi, or just want to have a quick food tour around the city, this guide has got you covered. In this guide, we have listed out 5 common types of banh mi in Hanoi, as well as 13 best banh mi spots, from traditional flavors to vegan variations, in the capital city.

1. Characteristics of Banh Mi in Hanoi

Banh mi (also known as Vietnamese Sandwich) is a must-try street food in Hanoi. It is typically made of a special Vietnamese baguette, made from rice flour mixed with wheat flour, creating a crispy crust and a soft, pillowy inside. Traditionally, the fillings of Hanoian banh mi are pate, Vietnamese sausages, fried eggs, grilled pork, fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and chili sauce. Of course, there are no stable recipes – each vendor in Hanoi has their own twist to their banh mi, creating a variety that you cannot find in any other city!

2. Types of Banh Mi in Hanoi

Due to the dense population, banh mi in Hanoi has various types, from the bread to the fillings. Each type is greatly different from the other but will guarantee to surprise you on your street food tour.

2.1. Traditional Banh Mi

The most common type of banh mi in Hanoi features classic fillings such as pate, pork, fried eggs, and Vietnamese sausages. However, some vendors offer creative variations with fish cake, beef jerky, fermented pork, and even French fries. Each banh mi stall provides a unique flavor, making it exciting to try different versions across the city.

2.2. Banh Mi Chao (Pan-fried fillings with baguette on the side)

Unlike the typical grab-and-go banh mi, banh mi chao is served in a sizzling cast iron skillet alongside a fresh baguette. The fillings, which include fried eggs, Vietnamese sausages, and canned fish, are covered in a thick, flavorful sauce. Diners can either dip their bread into the sauce or assemble their own sandwich by placing the fillings inside the baguette.

2.3. Banh Mi Dan To (Banh mi of the motorcyclists)

This special type of banh mi is famous for being served exclusively at one location in Hanoi. The fillings are stir-fried together in a pan before being placed into the baguette, giving it a rich and unique flavor. Despite its late-night opening hours, long queues start forming as early as 2:30 AM, making it a favorite among night-time motorcyclists and food lovers.

2.4. Banh Mi Thit Xien (Banh mi with skewered meat)

This variation is often spotted at street vendors where skewered meat is grilled over open flames. The banh mi is usually filled with one or two skewers of grilled pork, along with fresh cucumbers and pickled vegetables. Some vendors even brush the baguette with honey before grilling it, adding a smoky sweetness to the sandwich.

2.5. Banh Mi Sot Vang (Banh mi with beef bouignon)

Originally inspired by French cuisine, this dish features Vietnamese-style beef bourguignon served alongside a crispy baguette. The slow-cooked beef is rich and flavorful, making it a hearty meal rather than just a snack. This banh mi variation is perfect for those looking for a warm and filling dish, especially on a chilly evening.

3. Best Spots for Banh Mi in Hanoi

3.1. Banh Mi Dinh Liet

Address: 38 Dinh Liet, Hoan Kiem District
Opening hours: 7 AM – 11:45 PM
Price: 25.000VND – 45.000VND

Located in the heart of the Old Quarter, Banh Mi Dinh Liet is one of the most famous Banh mi in Hanoi. It offers an extensive menu, including traditional banh mi, beef, cheese, chicken, pork, and even pan-fried banh mi. With its central location and delicious options, this spot is a must-visit for any banh mi lover.

3.2. Banh Mi Nguyen Sinh

Address: No. 17 Ly Quoc Su Street, Hoan Kiem District
Opening hours: 7 AM – 8:30 PM
Price: 50.000VND – 120.000VND

As one of the first banh mi shops in Hanoi, Banh Mi Nguyen Sinh has a long-standing reputation for serving high-quality sandwiches. It is best known for its pate, smoked meat, cold cuts, and butter, offering a more refined take on banh mi. While it is significantly more expensive than other banh mi shops, its rich flavors and premium ingredients make it worth the price.

3.3. Banh Mi Tram

Address: No. 30 Dinh Ngang Street, Hoan Kiem District
Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 10 PM
Price: 35.000VND – 60.000VND

With over a decade of history, Banh Mi Tram is well-loved for its version of Banh Mi Chao. The dish is served on a dish with a distinctive red sauce, accompanied by a variety of toppings such as pate, Vietnamese sausages, and char siu. This spot is perfect for those looking to try a more indulgent and unique take on banh mi.

3.4. Banh Mi Dan To

Address: No. 32 Tran Nhat Duat Street, Hoan Kiem District
Opening hours: 3 AM – 6 AM
Price: 15.000VND – 25.000VND

Banh Mi Dan To is a one-of-a-kind experience, as it features all stir-fried fillings stuffed into a baguette for a rich and savory flavor. Despite its unusual opening hours from 3 AM to 6 AM, the shop draws massive crowds, especially among late-night workers and motorcyclists. Its popularity speaks volumes about its unforgettable taste.

3.5. Banh Mi Ba Nga

Address: No. 31 Quang Trung Street, Hoan Kiem District
Opening hours: 2 PM – 8 PM
Price: 10.000VND – 30.000VND

This shop specializes in Banh mi Thit Xien, where customers can buy grilled meat skewers individually or as part of a sandwich. Each banh mi includes one or two flavorful skewers, complemented by pickles and sriracha for an extra kick. The smoky aroma and tender meat make it one of the best street food experiences in Hanoi.

3.6. Banh Mi Gio Cha Dung Hanh

Address: 20 Le Dai Hanh, Hai Ba Trung District
Opening hours: 5 AM – 9 PM
Price: 25.000VND – 35.000VND

Banh Mi Gio Cha Dung Hanh is known for its simple yet delicious banh mi, featuring only pate, pork cake (gio cha), pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. What makes this place special is that all the ingredients are homemade, ensuring a rich and nostalgic flavor. The fillings are so well-loved that customers often buy them separately to take home, making it a go-to spot for traditional banh mi lovers.

3.7. Banh Mi Ngoc Hieu

Address: No. 52 Le Ngoc Han Street, Hai Ba Trung District
Opening hours: 9:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Price: 100.000VND – 150.000VND

With over 30 years of history, Banh Mi Ngoc Hieu started on Hoa Ma Street and now has multiple locations across Hanoi. The shop specializes in banh mi chao, serving sizzling steak, eggs, French fries, and salad in a cast iron skillet alongside a fresh baguette. Its hearty portions and high-quality ingredients make it an ideal choice for families looking for a satisfying meal rather than just a quick snack.

3.8. Banh Mi Pho Hue

Address: No. 118 Pho Hue Street, Hai Ba Trung District
Opening hours: 6 AM – 2 PM
Price: 30.000VND – 40.000VND

With over 40 years of history, Banh Mi Pho Hue is regarded by many as the best banh mi in Hanoi. Even renowned chef Geoffrey Deetz has praised its distinct flavors, which include homemade chili sauce and carefully selected spices. Offering nearly every type of filling available in Hanoi, this shop is a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic banh mi experience.

3.9. Banh mi 35

Address: No. 35 Thai Thinh Street, Dong Da District
Opening hours: 6:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Price: 25.000VND – 90.000VND

Since its establishment in 1997, Banh Mi 35 has been a favorite among Hanoi locals for its variety of banh mi options. It is particularly famous for being the first shop to create banh mi chao without sauce, as well as its delicious banh mi sot vang (Vietnamese beef bourguignon banh mi). With its long-standing reputation and unique flavors, this shop remains a must-visit for banh mi enthusiasts.

4. Best Vegan Options for Banh Mi in Hanoi

4.1. Banh mi Chay Vegan

Address: No. 66B Tran Hung Dao Street, Hoan Kiem District
Opening hours: 8 AM – 7 PM (closed on Sunday)
Price: 20.000VND – 30.000VND

Tucked inside a quiet alley, Banh Mi Chay Vegan offers a variety of plant-based dishes beyond just a Banh Mi. Customers can enjoy vegan sandwiches, fried spring rolls, pho noodles, and even traditional Vietnamese sweet desserts (che). This spot is perfect for those seeking a diverse selection of vegan street food in Hanoi.

4.2. Banh Mi 25

Address: No. 25 Hang Ca Street, Hoan Kiem District
Opening hours: 7 AM – 9 PM
Price: 30.000VND – 45.000VND

One of the most popular vegan-friendly banh mi in Hanoi, Banh Mi 25 offers both traditional and plant-based options. Their sandwiches are packed with flavorful ingredients, ensuring that even non-vegans will enjoy them. In addition to banh mi, they also serve fresh fruit juices and beverages, making it a great stop for a light meal.

4.3. Banh mi Vegan

Address: No. 15 Tho Nhuom Street, Hang Bong, Hoan Kiem District
Opening hours: 7 AM – 10 PM
Price: 30.000VND – 40.000VND

This small but cozy shop provides a wide selection of vegan banh mi, including tofu, mushroom, and plant-based meat alternatives. Their ingredients are carefully chosen to provide the same rich and satisfying taste as traditional banh mi. It’s a great spot for those looking to enjoy a cruelty-free version of Hanoi’s favorite sandwich.

4.4. Banh Mi Thuan Chay Vegan

Address: No. 324 Kham Thien Street, Tho Quan, Dong Da District
Opening hours: 9 AM – 10 PM
Price: 30.000VND – 40.000VND

Located just 2 kilometers away from Hoan Kiem Lake, this spot is ideal for those exploring the city center. Their menu features a variety of vegan banh mi, including a special version of banh mi sot vang made with plant-based ingredients. With its convenient location and diverse menu, it’s a top choice for vegan travelers in Hanoi.

Conclusion

Whether you’re after the most delicious banh mi or the widest variety of choices, Hanoi offers a banh mi experience like no other. From the bustling streets of the Old Quarter to local vegan spots, these top 13 banh mi in Hanoi will guarantee a delicious adventure!

Explore the Hanoi Old Quarter Map for your next Hanoi trip here!

Aside from banh mi, Hanoi offers so many other dishes that travelers should not be missed out such as Pho, Bun Rieu, Cha ca, Bun Dau, and many more! Ready to take a bite? Plan your Hanoi food tour now with YESD Travel and experience the best Hanoi cuisine!