1. What are some must-try local dishes around Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi?
There are several must-try local dishes to try around Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi. Some of these include:1. Pho: This iconic Vietnamese noodle soup is a must-try, and you can find many variations at the numerous street food stalls around Dong Xuan Market.
2. Bun Cha: A popular dish featuring grilled pork served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a sweet and tangy dipping sauce.
3. Banh Mi: A Vietnamese sandwich filled with pate, various meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. You can find some delicious banh mi stalls near Dong Xuan Market.
4. Cha Ca: Fried fish marinated in turmeric and served on a sizzling hot plate with dill, peanuts, and fragrant herbs.
5. Banh Cuon: Steamed rice rolls filled with minced pork or shrimp and served with a side of dipping sauce.
6. Nem Ran: Crispy fried spring rolls filled with minced pork or seafood. These are often served as an appetizer at local restaurants near the market.
7. Thit Kho Trung: Braised pork belly and eggs slow-cooked in a clay pot for hours, creating a flavorful and tender dish.
8. Bun Dau Mam Tom: A popular lunch dish consisting of rice vermicelli served with fried tofu, shrimp paste dip (mam tom), herbs, and crispy pork belly.
9. Chao Suon Heo: Pork rib congee that is slow-cooked for hours until it becomes creamy and hearty.
10. Che Chuoi: A refreshing dessert made of banana cooked in coconut milk and topped with crushed peanuts or sesame seeds.
2. Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available at restaurants near Dong Xuan Market?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan restaurants located near Dong Xuan Market. Some options include:1. “Jiuhuashan Vegetarian Restaurant” – located at 86 Ma May Street, about a 5-minute walk from the market. This restaurant offers a wide variety of Chinese-inspired vegetarian dishes.
2. “Sen Vegetarian Restaurant” – located at 50 Dao Duy Tu Street, less than a 10-minute walk from the market. This restaurant serves a mix of Vietnamese, Asian, and Western-style vegetarian dishes.
3. “Loving Hut Vegan Restaurant” – located at 192 Pho Hue Street, about a 15-minute walk from the market. This restaurant specializes in plant-based versions of Vietnamese favorites like pho and banh mi.
4. “The Veggie Table” – located at 484 Duong Thanh Street, about a 10-minute walk from the market. This cozy cafe offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes including salads, sandwiches, and desserts.
Of course, these are just a few options and there may be more vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants in the area worth exploring. It is always best to check with individual restaurants for their menu options before visiting.
3. How is the seafood selection around Dong Xuan Market?
The seafood selection around Dong Xuan Market is generally good and varied. There are many street vendors and small restaurants in the area that offer a wide range of fresh seafood, including fish, shrimp, crab, clams, and more. Some popular dishes include grilled fish, spicy clams, seafood stir-fry, and seafood hotpot. It is recommended to try one of the many local restaurants in the market for an authentic dining experience.
4. Are there any popular street food stalls or markets near Dong Xuan Market?
Near Dong Xuan Market, there are several popular street food stalls and markets that offer a variety of tasty dishes at affordable prices. Here are some options:1) Hang Chieu Night Market: Located just a few minutes’ walk from Dong Xuan Market, this bustling market is lined with street food stalls selling traditional Vietnamese dishes such as banh mi, pho, spring rolls, and more.
2) Luong Van Can Street: This street is known for its wide selection of street food vendors and eateries. Visitors can try local delicacies like bun cha (grilled pork with noodles) and bun thang (rice vermicelli soup).
3) Quang Trung Street Food Alley: Situated right behind Dong Xuan Market, this alley is packed with street food vendors serving up delicious specialties like bun oc (snail noodle soup), banh cuon (steamed rice rolls), and fried banana cakes.
4) Hoan Kiem Lake Night Market: Located near the famous Hoan Kiem Lake, this night market offers a great selection of traditional Vietnamese street food such as grilled meats, fresh fruits, and desserts.
5) Bui Huu Nghia Street: Just a short walk from Dong Xuan Market, this narrow street is home to numerous sidewalk food carts where visitors can find popular snacks like grilled skewers, fried tofu, and sticky rice treats.
5. Is there a specific time of day that is recommended to visit Dong Xuan Market for food options?
Dong Xuan Market is open from 7:00am to 6:00pm every day. The best time to visit for food options would be in the morning or afternoon when the market is busiest and there are more food vendors open. However, some vendors may start closing up as early as 4:00pm, so it is recommended to go earlier in the day rather than later.
6. How do prices for dining around Dong Xuan Market compare to other areas in Hanoi?
Prices for dining around Dong Xuan Market can vary depending on the type of food and restaurant. Generally, they tend to be more affordable compared to other areas in Hanoi such as the Old Quarter or Hoan Kiem Lake. Local eateries and street food stalls near Dong Xuan Market offer cheap and delicious meals for as low as $2-3 USD. However, there are also upscale restaurants and cafes in this area that can be more expensive. Overall, dining around Dong Xuan Market is a good option for budget travelers looking for tasty and affordable meals.
7. Can you recommend any traditional Vietnamese restaurants near Dong Xuan Market?
Sure, here are some traditional Vietnamese restaurants near Dong Xuan Market:
1. Dong Xuan Center Restaurant – This restaurant is known for its traditional Vietnamese dishes served in a spacious and elegant setting. It’s located just a few minutes’ walk from Dong Xuan Market.
Address: 16 Cao Ba Quat Street, Hoan Kiem District
2. Cha Ca La Vong – This restaurant has been serving the iconic Hanoi dish, cha ca (grilled fish with herbs and noodles), since the 1870s. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Address: 14 Pho Cha Ca Street, Hoan Kiem District
3. Bun Bo Nam Bo – Located in the bustling Old Quarter, this restaurant serves bun bo nam bo (beef noodles with herbs) along with other classic Vietnamese dishes.
Address: 67 Hang Dieu Street, Hoan Kiem District
4. Quan An Ngon – This open-air restaurant offers a wide selection of authentic Vietnamese dishes from different regions in Vietnam.
Address: 18 Phan Boi Chau Street, Hoan Kiem District
5. Bia Tham Tam’s Restaurant – If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, this place is perfect for trying out bia hoi (fresh beer) and simple but delicious street food dishes.
Address: 6B Nguyen Huu Huan Street, Hoan Kiem District
Enjoy your meal!
8. What are some must-visit cafes near Dong Xuan Market for a quick break from shopping?
1. Cong Cafe – a popular chain known for its Vietnamese coffee and cozy atmosphere
2. Cau Dat Farm Coffee – offers a tranquil, garden-like setting with excellent coffee and pastries
3. Cafe Pho Co – located in a historic house with an old-world charm, serving traditional Vietnamese coffee and snacks
4. Hanoi Legend Coffee – offers a wide selection of delicious drinks and light bites along with a rooftop terrace overlooking the market area.
5. Nola Café – known for its specialty drinks like egg coffee and yogurt coffee, as well as tasty bites like banh mi sandwiches.
6. Cosa Nostra Coffee & Roasters – a stylish café with comfortable seating and artisanal coffee blends.
7. Nhac Xua Cafe & Gallery – features live traditional music performances while you enjoy your food or drink.
8. The Note Coffee Hanoi – decorated with colorful sticky notes and famous for their drip coffee, cheesecake, and smoothies.
9. Banyan Tree Café – specializes in freshly brewed tea blends sourced from local farms.
10. Tue Tinh Cafe – boasts an outdoor balcony with views of the bustling market below, serving refreshing iced teas and fruit juices.
9. Are there any rooftop bars or restaurants with views of the market and surrounding area?
Yes, there are several rooftop bars and restaurants in Seattle with views of the market and surrounding area, including:1. The Nest at Thompson Hotel: Located in downtown Seattle, this stylish rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the city skyline and Elliott Bay, including Pike Place Market.
2. Hard Rock Cafe: This popular chain restaurant is located right across from Pike Place Market and has a rooftop deck with views of the market and waterfront.
3. Six Seven Restaurant & Lounge: Located at the Edgewater Hotel, this upscale restaurant features floor-to-ceiling windows and a deck for outdoor dining with stunning views of Elliott Bay and Pike Place Market.
4. Frolik Kitchen + Cocktails: This trendy rooftop bar in downtown Seattle offers beautiful views of the city, including Pike Place Market.
5. MBar: This contemporary Mediterranean restaurant in South Lake Union has a rooftop lounge with sweeping views of the downtown skyline and Pike Place Market.
10. Is it safe to eat street food around Dong Xuan Market, or should I stick to sit-down restaurants?
Eating street food around Dong Xuan Market can be safe, but it is always important to use caution and be mindful of your choices. The hygiene standards of street food vendors may not always meet the same standards as sit-down restaurants. However, there are many popular and well-known street food stalls around the market that are crowded with locals and tourists alike, indicating that they have a good reputation for quality and safety. To reduce any potential health risks, choose stalls that look clean and busy with a high turnover of food. It is also a good idea to watch how the food is prepared and cooked. If you have concerns, stick to sit-down restaurants where you can see the kitchen and verify the cleanliness standards yourself. Ultimately, trust your instincts and if something doesn’t seem right or safe, it’s better to find an alternative option.
11. How is the coffee culture around Hanoi’s Old Quarter, including near Dong Xuan Market?
The coffee culture around Hanoi’s Old Quarter, including near Dong Xuan Market, is vibrant and diverse. There are numerous small cafes, street stalls, and traditional coffee shops scattered throughout the area.
Many of these places serve strong Vietnamese-style coffee, often made using a traditional phin filter and sweetened with condensed milk. Aside from the classic drip coffee, you can also find iced and blended versions as well as other variations like egg coffee.
These cafes are popular gathering spots for locals and tourists alike, offering a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy a cup of coffee while observing the bustling streets of the Old Quarter.
Near Dong Xuan Market, there are also several cafes that cater to the market crowd with affordable prices and simple yet tasty drinks. These places tend to be more casual and may not have seating or extensive menus, but they offer a quick caffeine fix for those exploring the market.
Overall, Hanoi’s Old Quarter has a lively coffee culture that is deeply ingrained in daily life. From traditional cafes to trendy modern spots, there is always a place to sit down and savor a cup of coffee in this historic district.
12. Are there any fusion restaurants that combine Vietnamese flavors with other cuisines near Dong Xuan Market?
Yes, there are a few fusion restaurants near Dong Xuan Market that combine Vietnamese flavors with other cuisines. These include:
1. The Hanoi Social Club – This trendy cafe and restaurant offers a fusion of Vietnamese and Western dishes, as well as some Korean-inspired options.
2. Maison de Tet Decor Cafe & Restaurant – This restaurant specializes in modern Vietnamese cuisine with a French twist.
3. Le Danang Fusion Cuisine – Located in the Old Quarter, this restaurant serves up a mix of Vietnamese and Western dishes with a focus on fresh seafood.
4. Madame Hien – Part of chef Didier Corlou’s empire of restaurants, Madame Hien offers a fusion of Vietnamese and French cuisine.
5. Risotto Viet Kitchen + Bar – This restaurant combines Italian risotto with traditional Vietnamese ingredients for a unique fusion dining experience.
6. Lemongrass House – Known for their creative twists on classic Vietnamese dishes, Lemongrass House also incorporates Thai and Indian flavors into their menu.
7. Soul Burger & Salad Bar – This casual eatery offers burgers with Asian-inspired toppings, such as lemongrass chicken or banh mi beef.
13. What type of dessert options can I find around Dong Xuan Market?
Around Dong Xuan Market, you can find a variety of dessert options including local Vietnamese sweets such as Che (sweet pudding), Banh flan (Vietnamese caramel custard), and Banh trang nuong (grilled rice paper with toppings). You can also find international desserts like cakes, pastries, and ice cream at nearby cafes and bakeries. Some popular dessert spots near Dong Xuan Market include Giang Cafe for egg coffee, Kiem Bien Bakery for French-style pastries, and Givral Bakery for mille-feuille.
14. Is it customary to tip at restaurants around Dong Xuan Market? If so, how much?
It is customary to tip in restaurants around Dong Xuan Market, but the amount varies depending on the quality of service. A tip of 5-10% of the total bill is considered appropriate. However, some restaurants may include a service charge in the bill, in which case a tip is not necessary. It is always best to check with the restaurant beforehand or ask a local for their recommendations on tipping.
15. Can you recommend any cooking classes or food tours in the area around Dong Xuan Marker?
1. Hanoi Cooking Center: This cooking school offers a variety of classes and food tours that explore the local cuisine around Dong Xuan Market.
2. Hanoi Street Food Tour: This tour takes you through the streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, including Dong Xuan Market, to sample delicious street food and learn about its history.
3. Off the Beaten Path Street Food Tour: Explore the alleys and hidden corners around Dong Xuan Market with a knowledgeable guide and try out some authentic Vietnamese dishes.
4. Tropical Cooking Class: Learn how to cook traditional Vietnamese dishes using fresh ingredients from Dong Xuan Market in this hands-on cooking class.
5. Urban Adventures Hanoi Food & Beer Tour: Spend an evening exploring Hanoi’s culinary scene with stops at Dong Xuan Market and local restaurants to try different dishes and beers.
6. Hidden Gems Food Tour with Vespa Adventure: Hop on a vintage Vespa scooter and embark on a food tour that takes you to lesser-known spots around Dong Xuan Market for unique flavors and experiences.
7. Red Bean Restaurant & Cooking Class: Located near Dong Xuan Market, this restaurant offers cooking classes where you can learn how to make popular Vietnamese dishes before enjoying them for lunch or dinner.
8. XO Tours’ Vietnam Secret Forbidden City Night Tour by Motorbike: Visit secret spots around Dong Xuan Market on a thrilling motorbike tour, while trying out delicious street food along the way.
9. Taste of Vietnam Evening Culinary Walk: Stroll through the lively streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, including Dong Xuan Market, and savor mouth-watering Vietnamese specialties on this guided walking tour.
10. Made In Vietnam Cooking Classes: Join skilled chefs at this cooking school near Dong Xuan Market to learn traditional techniques for creating classic dishes, followed by a group lunch or dinner.
16. How accessible are international cuisine options such as Italian or Japanese near Dong Xuan Market?
There are many international cuisine options available near Dong Xuan Market, including Italian and Japanese restaurants. Some popular restaurants include La Place Hanoi (Italian), Orchid Japanese Restaurant, and Rakuda Kitchen and Bar. These options are within a 5 to 10-minute walk from the market. Overall, international cuisine is easily accessible in this area of Hanoi.
17. Do you have any recommendations for a romantic dinner spot near the market area?
One option would be The French Room at the Adolphus Hotel, which offers a luxurious and intimate dining experience with classic French cuisine. Another romantic spot near the market area is Lucia, a cozy and charming Italian restaurant with a romantic atmosphere and delicious food. Both of these restaurants are highly rated for their food, service, and overall ambiance.
18 .Are there any local street markets where I can purchase fresh produce and ingredients to cook my own meals near Dong Xuan market?
Yes, there are several local street markets near Dong Xuan market where you can purchase fresh produce and ingredients to cook your own meals. Some popular options include:1. Hang Be Market: Located just a five-minute walk from Dong Xuan market, Hang Be Market offers a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood.
2. Cho Hom Market: This large market is about a 15-minute walk from Dong Xuan market and is known for its selection of affordable meat and seafood.
3. Cho Hapulico Market: This bustling market is about a 20-minute walk from Dong Xuan market and offers a diverse range of local produce, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices.
4. Nghia Tan Market: Situated in the West Lake area, this market has a great selection of organic fruits and vegetables at reasonable prices.
5. Quang Ba Flower Market: While not necessarily for cooking meals, this flower market offers beautiful flowers and plants that can add some freshness to your meals.
It’s always recommended to explore these markets in the morning when they are most lively and have the freshest produce available. Happy shopping!
19 .What are some must-try drinks in Hanoi and where can I find them near the market area?
1. Egg coffee (ca phe trung) – This unique and delicious drink can be found at Cafe Giang, just a few blocks from the market area.
2. Bia hoi – A refreshing and inexpensive local beer that can be found at any of the bia hoi (fresh beer) stalls scattered around Hanoi, including near the market area.
3. Lotus tea (tra sen) – Made from dried lotus flowers, this fragrant drink can be found at most tea shops in the Old Quarter near the market area.
4. Milk tea (tra sua) – A sweet and creamy alternative to traditional Vietnamese coffee, try this popular drink at Tranquil Books & Coffee, a short walk from the market area.
5. Fresh coconut (nuoc dua) – Cool off with a fresh coconut straight from the market area’s street vendors.
6. Lemon tea soda (chanh muoi soda) – A refreshing and slightly sour drink made from salted lemons, you can find this specialty at street stalls near Dong Xuan Market.
7. Sugarcane juice (nuoc mia) – For something sweet and refreshing, head to one of the many sugarcane juice stands near the market area.
8. Che – A type of traditional Vietnamese dessert soup made with beans, fruits, and jelly pieces in a sweet syrup, try che at one of the street food vendors around Dong Xuan Market.
9. Coconut coffee (ca phe cot dua) – Enjoy your ca phe sua da (Vietnamese iced coffee with milk) with a twist by adding some fresh coconut juice to it at Cong Caphe near Hoan Kiem Lake.
10. Kem Trang Tien ice cream – This iconic ice cream brand has been around for over 50 years and is known for their delicious flavors such as durian and mung bean. You can find their shop in the Old Quarter near Hoan Kiem Lake.
20 .How is the overall dining experience around Dong Xuan Market? Is it a lively and bustling atmosphere or more laid-back and relaxed?
The overall dining experience around Dong Xuan Market is considered to be lively and bustling. The area is known for its street food stalls, seafood restaurants, and traditional Vietnamese eateries which are popular among locals and tourists alike. There is a lot of hustle and bustle with customers haggling for food prices and vendors preparing and cooking dishes in front of you.
However, there are also some restaurant options where you can sit down in a more relaxed atmosphere to enjoy your meal. Overall, the atmosphere around Dong Xuan Market is vibrant and energetic, with the aroma of various cuisines filling the air.