Best Places to Eat in Hanoi That Aren’t Just for Tourists
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When we first arrived in Hanoi, we were overwhelmed in the best way. The food scene? It’s everywhere. Literally stacked on top of itself. One doorway might lead to three restaurants, and others are so tucked away you’d never find them unless you were wandering the streets or asking locals where the best places to eat in Hanoi are.
As a family traveling with two young kids, we weren’t up for endless food tours or trying five places a day—but we still wanted the good stuff. The local stuff. The kind of places locals actually eat at, not the overpriced joints built around Train Street photo ops.
So after eating our way through the city for a couple of weeks, here’s what we learned—and our favorite, family-friendly, budget-friendly places to eat in Hanoi that aren’t just for tourists.
How We Found the Best Places to Eat in Hanoi
We did what most travelers do: a mix of online sleuthing (blogs, food tour reviews, Google Maps), tips from locals we chatted with, and following the crowds (if locals are lining up, it’s probably worth it). One of the best tricks? Don’t try to sit and eat a huge meal at every stop—locals snack and move on, and it helped us try more without the food coma.
Also, don’t judge a place by its menu. We found gems with laminated photo menus which honestly just makes it easier to order food if you and the waiter don’t speak the same language, and some of the most unassuming-looking spots had the best food. The one thing we did avoid? Anything directly across from the big tourist stops—prices were always inflated, and the food just didn’t feel as thoughtfully made.
What Eating Out in Hanoi with Kids Is Really Like
Honestly? Eating out in Hanoi as a family was way easier than we thought it would be. Coming from places where dining with toddlers can feel like walking into a museum with a squeaky balloon, we were ready for the stares, the sighs, or the general feeling of not belonging. But in Hanoi? Not once.
Eating in Vietnam is a very casual experience, and that worked in our favor. Most restaurants—from street food stalls to sit-down spots—welcomed us without blinking. People were kind, patient, and often genuinely delighted to see our kids trying new foods.
Here’s what worked well for us:
- We usually shared adult meals.
One dish for my husband and me, and one for the kids. Vietnamese food portions tend to be generous and easy to split. We didn’t waste food, and no one went hungry. - Noodles saved the day.
Whether it was phở, bún, or stir-fried options, noodles were everywhere. Our kids slurped them up at nearly every meal. Even the broths—flavorful but not overly spicy—were a hit. - We didn’t bring our own utensils.
Most places had chopsticks and soup spoons right on the table (often in communal containers). To be safe, we used lime wedges (which often came with the food) to wipe down the utensils. The acidity helps clean off surfaces, and it’s a local trick that gave us peace of mind. - Baby wipes = non-negotiable.
Between soups, sticky sauces, and grabby toddler hands, things got messy fast. Baby wipes were a lifesaver. - Bathrooms were available, but… quirky.
Even the smallest food stalls usually had a bathroom. Many looked like combo shower-bathrooms or utility rooms, but they were functional and often had soap. Bring your own tissues or travel-size TP just in case, as toilet paper wasn’t always provided. - Seating was kid-sized by default.
Many local places use tiny plastic stools and low tables—which honestly worked great for our 2- and 5-year-old. No need for booster seats or high chairs. At one spot, they even stacked stools to help our youngest sit higher at the table. - No kid menus? No problem.
While there weren’t kid-specific menus, many dishes are naturally kid-friendly. Grilled meats, rice, noodles, spring rolls—all easy wins. We simply avoided dishes labeled “spicy” and asked for chili on the side when we weren’t sure. - People were relaxed—even when our kids weren’t.
Spilled noodles? No big deal. Tantrum over chopsticks? No side-eyes. In fact, people smiled, helped, or just carried on. In Vietnamese culture, children are often adored and fussed over in public, and our kids were frequently greeted with big smiles or gentle waves.
A few extra tips for parents:
- Bring hand sanitizer—especially if you’re eating at street food stalls where handwashing might be limited this is the best way to prevent food poisoning anyways.
- Keep some dry snacks handy—crackers, nuts, or a familiar bar can be a great backup if your child is tired while you’re waiting for your meal or picky about what they’re eating.
- Watch your change. In crowded or high-turnover places like Kem Tràng Tiền (the ice cream spot), it’s easy to get short-changed if you’re distracted with kids or have your hands full.
- Don’t feel like you have to find a “kid restaurant.” Many playground cafés or indoor play spaces (like Babiland or Wolfoo World) offer Westernized options, but we found that our kids genuinely enjoyed traditional Vietnamese dishes.
The Best Places to Eat in Hanoi (That We Actually Tried and Loved)
These are real places we ate at, with our two kids in tow—complete with prices, what we ordered, and what made each one work for families.
1. Ngoi CTR – Lau Thai Tom Yum (Thai Hot Pot)
If you’re in Hanoi and craving something a little different from the usual phở, Ngoi CTR serves up one of the most satisfying, family-friendly meals we had—Lẩu Thái (Thai-style hot pot) that you cook right at your table.
What We Ordered
We got the 2-person Tom Yum Thai hot pot set, which came with a generous platter of raw ingredients: shrimp, squid, oysters, thinly sliced beef and pork, tofu, mushrooms, greens, and noodles. Everything is cooked in a simmering pot of broth right at your table.
You simply choose your spice level, drop the ingredients into the pot, and fish them out as they cook.
Why We Loved It
- It was interactive, which kept the kids engaged and curious.
- The broth wasn’t too spicy—perfect balance of flavor and heat.
- It felt like a splurge but was still incredibly affordable by Western standards.
- Everyone got to eat exactly what they wanted.
- It was super filling!
Price
350,000 VND (roughly $14 USD) for two adults, and it easily fed all four of us with leftovers. No extra charge for seating, no service fee, just pay at the end.
Family-Friendly Details
- Seating: The restaurant spills out across several storefronts onto the sidewalk. You can sit indoors or outside on small plastic tables and stools. We chose the outdoor seating which gave our kids a little more room to wiggle.
- Utensils: Chopsticks and spoons are provided. We wiped ours down with lime as usual, since they’re stored on the table.
- Bathrooms: Yes, there’s a bathroom inside, but like many Hanoi spots, it might feel like you’re walking through a hallway kitchen to get there.
- Noise + Space: Very casual setting—your kids can talk, fidget, and no one will care. No high chairs, but the plastic stools are toddler-height anyway.
- Service: Don’t expect much follow-up once you’re seated. When you’re done eating, go up and pay—they won’t automatically bring the bill.
Kem Tràng Tiền (Ice Cream by the Lake)
If you’re wandering near Hoàn Kiếm Lake and need a quick break from the heat (or your kids are getting cranky and need a pick-me-up), this is the spot. Kem Tràng Tiền is kind of a local legend—it’s been around since the 1950s and still pulls crowds every single day. It’s fast, cheap, and fun in a slightly chaotic way that somehow works.
What We Ate
We went with the classics: one vanilla cone and one chocolate cone. Nothing fancy, but they were cold, creamy, and hit the spot after a long walk. You can also try more “local” flavors like green bean, coconut, or sticky rice (cốm)—but we stuck to what we knew the kids would go for.
Why We Loved It
- It’s affordable—cones cost between 12K and 15K VND (about $0.50 USD), which means no one’s upset if the kids drop one halfway through.
- It’s got a fun, old-school vibe. Locals stand around chatting and licking their cones, and it feels very Hanoi.
- It’s super quick and easy if you need a treat without committing to a full sit-down stop.
Heads Up for Families
- There are several counters inside, and each one kind of sells different things—cones, ice cream on a stick, different flavors. It’s a bit confusing at first, but you’ll figure it out.
- It gets crowded, especially in the evenings and on weekends. There are also scooters inside the shop (yeah, seriously), with people driving in to grab a cone. It’s a vibe.
- Check your change. They short-changed us and we didn’t catch it until we walked away. It wasn’t a ton, but still—keep an eye on your cash.
- No seating. You either stand or walk with your cone. We tried sitting near the front but got eaten alive by mosquitoes, so maybe take your ice cream to-go and wander back toward the lake.
3. Bún Chả Đắc Kim
If you’re anywhere near Hanoi’s Old Quarter and want to try something truly local (and totally worth the hype), head to Bún Chả Đắc Kim. This place is a Hanoi staple, and yes—it’s even been mentioned in the Michelin Guide. It’s busy, it’s chaotic, and it’s one of those “you just have to try it” kind of spots.
What We Ate
We ordered the classic bún chả—grilled pork served in a sweet-savory broth with pickled veggies, vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and on the side, crispy crab spring rolls. It all comes separately so you can build bites your own way (which the kids actually loved).
Why We Loved It
- The flavor was next level—a little sweet, a little tangy, and super fresh.
- The portions were huge. One order could’ve fed one adult and one kid easily.
- It was busy but felt like a real Hanoi experience—no fluff, just great food.
Price
Around 90,000 VND per person (about $3.50 USD), which is a steal for the amount of food you get—and for something Michelin-rated.
Kid Tips
- Group seating is the norm, and you might be sitting with strangers. Our kids didn’t care, and honestly, no one else did either.
- Narrow stairs—we had to carry our toddler up to the top floor because that’s where they had space. Just be aware if you’re dealing with a stroller or squirmy kids.
- Our daughter was a little low at the table, so the staff stacked stools to help her sit higher. Super sweet of them and surprisingly effective.
- The place was very full during lunch—so either go early or prepare to wait a few minutes for a table.
4. Phở Thìn Bờ Hồ
If you’re looking for that classic Hanoi pho experience, this is the spot. Phở Thìn Bờ Hồ has been around for decades, and the locals clearly love it—we saw people lining up the second the doors opened.
We ended up eating here twice during our time in Hanoi because it was just that good. The broth was deep and rich, full of flavor but not overpowering. It’s the kind of pho that makes you want to finish every last sip.
What We Ate
We got the Phở Tái Chín, which is a mix of half-cooked and fully cooked beef in one bowl. The kids had the noodles and broth—we just pulled the meat aside and they slurped up the rest. The noodles were soft, the broth wasn’t spicy, and the portion was perfect for splitting.
Why We Loved It
- The flavor was amazing, easily one of the best broths we had in Hanoi.
- It was a fast, no-fuss kind of place—exactly what we needed with kids.
- It felt super local and busy, but still very doable as a family.
Price
50K VND per bowl (about $2 USD), which made this one of the most affordable and satisfying meals we had.
Kid Tips
- There’s both indoor and outdoor seating. If you want AC, head upstairs. That’s what we did the first time—as it was so busy.
- There’s a bathroom tucked between the second and third floors. It’s basic, but it worked.
- The chopsticks and spoons are on the tables. If you’re unsure about cleanliness, we used the lime trick again—rub the acidic part of a lime slice on the utensils to clean them.
- No high chairs, but the little stools work well enough for toddlers.
Pro Tip
Go early. When we got there just before opening, the place was calm. Fifteen minutes later, people were packed in and ordering fast. It’s definitely a popular spot for locals starting their day.
5. Bún Bò Nam Bộ – Bách Phương
This was one of those quick meals that surprised us—in a good way. If you’re in the Old Quarter and need something fast, fresh, and not soup-based, Bún Bò Nam Bộ – Bách Phương totally delivers.
What We Ate
We had the classic bún bò nam bộ, which is basically warm, stir-fried beef served over a pile of cold vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, crunchy bean sprouts, and crispy fried shallots. It’s topped off with a sweet fish sauce-based dressing that pulls it all together. The flavors were super balanced—fresh, slightly sweet, savory—and easy for our kids to get into.
Why We Loved It
- It came out really fast, which is gold when your kids are already hungry.
- It wasn’t messy like soup—no broth to spill, which made feeding a toddler way easier.
- It felt clean, fresh, and well-prepared. We didn’t hesitate to eat the herbs and veggies.
- Bonus: They take credit cards, which not all small spots do.
Price
Each bowl was 65K–70K VND, so about $2.50–$3 USD. For the quality and speed, this was one of our favorite quick meals.
Kid Tips
- No kid’s menu, but it’s easy to pull out parts your kids will like—ours loved the noodles and beef.
- There’s plenty of seating, but it can get crowded around lunch.
- If you’re not sure your kids will like the fish sauce dressing, ask for it on the side. Ours did fine with it, but it’s good to have the option.
Pro Tip
This is a turn-and-burn type of place—people come in, eat, and leave. It’s not a slow, sit-and-linger meal, but it’s perfect for when you just want to eat something good and get moving again
6. Pizza 4P’s (Hang Trong)
After several days of noodles, rice, and street food, we decided it was time for something familiar—pizza. We ended up at Pizza 4P’s near Hoàn Kiếm Lake, which is a super popular spot that comes up everywhere online. It’s a Japanese-Italian fusion place known for its wood-fired pizzas and beautiful presentation. The vibe is very polished and modern, and it definitely feels more like a restaurant you’d find in a big city back home.
What We Ate
We ordered three pizzas to share:
- Teriyaki Chicken Pizza – This one came topped with seaweed, which we didn’t notice on the menu. Honestly, the seaweed totally threw off the flavor for us. None of us liked it, including the kids.
- Margherita Pizza – Simple and classic. This one was a win for the kids.
- Spicy Garlic Shrimp Pizza – Flavorful and unique, but it had a bit of heat, so probably better for adults or adventurous eaters.
Why We Went
We wanted to try out this restaurant that have 20K plus reviews and immediately realized we should have made reservations we we ended up sitting on the rooftop terrace and were told to please be out at a certain time for the next guest. The place is known for its wood-fire oven. The atmosphere is very family-friendly, but definitely more upscale than most other places we ate.
Price
Each pizza was between 200K–300K VND (about $8–$12 USD), so it’s definitely on the pricier side for Vietnam—but still cheaper than what you’d pay for the same meal back home. With drinks and a shared dessert, it adds up quickly though.
Kid Tips
- No high chairs, but the seating is comfy and fine for most kids who can sit on their own.
- The menu is huge, so stick to the basics if you’re unsure. The Margherita is a safe bet.
- They do have some pasta and other kid-friendly options too, though we didn’t try them.
Pro Tip
Make a reservation. It gets really busy, especially on weekends. Also—read the menu carefully if you’re ordering something like Teriyaki Chicken. The seaweed wasn’t mentioned clearly, and it really changed the flavor in a way we didn’t love.
7. Naco Taco Hanoi
After several days of Vietnamese food, we were in the mood for something totally different—so we went searching for tacos. Naco Taco Hanoi popped up as a highly rated spot, especially among expats, and it turned out to be a great pick for a low-key family dinner.
What We Ate
We ordered the chicken pastor mini burritos for the kids—they were the perfect size, not spicy at all, and super easy for them to eat without making a huge mess. For us, we got a mix of pork pastor and chicken pastor tacos. The tortillas were soft, the meat was juicy and flavorful, and the toppings added just the right amount of crunch.
Why We Loved It
- The atmosphere was relaxed and casual—open-air seating, chill music, and friendly staff.
- The food came out fast, which is always a huge win when dining with kids.
- The flavors were solid. Not overly spicy, but still really tasty.
- The portion sizes were reasonable—not tiny, but not huge either—so we didn’t feel overly stuffed walking out.
Price
Everything we ordered was between 60K–90K VND (about $2.50–$3.50 USD) per item. Not the cheapest meal in Hanoi, but totally fair for what you get, especially since it’s more of a niche food option in the area.
Kid Tips
- The mini burritos were great for little ones—mild, manageable, and filling.
- There’s a kid menu, which is a major win!
- No high chairs, but the bench seating was fine for our kids.
Bonus for Parents
They serve cocktails, beers, and mezcal-based drinks if you’re in the mood to relax a bit longer. It’s the kind of place where you don’t feel rushed—you can hang out and enjoy the space if your kids are content.
8. Bánh Mì Mama
This was hands-down one of the best bánh mì sandwiches we had in Hanoi. Bánh Mì Mama is tucked into a busy little street right near the St. Joseph Cathedral in the Old Quarter. It’s easy to miss—except for the line of people standing outside, which is usually your clue you’re in the right place.
What We Ate
We ordered both the chicken and pork bánh mì. The bread was crispy on the outside, soft on the inside—exactly how it should be. The fillings were packed with flavor: perfectly marinated meat, pickled veggies, fresh herbs, and a touch of chili if you want it. It all comes together with their homemade sauce, and I swear it just works.
Why We Loved It
- The flavor is incredible—simple ingredients, done right.
- Ridiculously cheap. At 35K–50K VND (about $1.50–$2 USD), it’s easily one of the best-value meals we had in Hanoi.
- The process runs like a well-oiled machine. Even with a crowd, they move quickly.
- You can customize your sandwich—add spice, skip the chili, you get it.
Heads Up
This place gets busy, and we’re talking 30–45 minute wait times if you show up during lunch or dinner. They take a bunch of orders at once and then work through them. We found it best to go around 2:30–4:00 PM when it was less hectic. Also, there’s no seating—you’ll eat it on the curb, on the go, or while wrangling your kids somewhere nearby.
Kid Tips
- The sandwich is easy to split if your kids don’t want to eat a full one.
- You can ask them to go light on spice or leave off ingredients.
- It’s great grab-and-go food, so if your kids are hungry and don’t want to sit down for a full meal, this is a solid win.
Cafes & Places to Let Kids Be Kids
- Always Café (Harry Potter theme): This place is literally right across from Phở Thìn Bờ Hồ, and has books, games, and a chill vibe. It can get busy at times and there is limited seating so keep that in mind.
- Babi Land Kids Café: Indoor playground + café. 180K VND per kid on weekends, adults free with 1:1.
- Wolfoo World (Vincom Mall): Large underground play area in the Vincom mall which is very large as well and well maintained. 150K VND per kid on weekdays, unlimited time.
- Street snacks: Try the grilled sausage-on-a-stick for 15K VND—kids loved it and its an easy on the go snack!
Coconut Coffee & Sweet Treats
We tried coconut coffee (a must), egg coffee, and salted iced coffee. All amazing.
Pro tip: Check out my Best Cafes in Hanoi post for more.
Our Food Budget in Hanoi (Family of 4)
- Average daily spend: ~$14 USD for eating out.
- Best budget meals: Phở Thìn and Bánh Mì Mama—just a few dollars each.
- Biggest splurge: Pizza 4P’s—not really worth it for us with two hungry kids and a long wait.
- Most surprising: No pricing surprises. Everything was straightforward.
Final Tips for Finding Non-Touristy Food in Hanoi
- Don’t just follow Google ratings—follow the locals.
- Walk a block or two away from major attractions for better food and better prices.
- Use blogs, social media, and food tour recaps to find hidden gems.
- Don’t argue prices—walk away and ask someone else. Prices are usually fair.
