Travelling Tips

27.12.24

A Delicious Journey Through Best Banh Xeo in Hanoi

Hoai Trinh

Discover the top 5 spots for the best Banh Xeo in Hanoi! Dive into Vietnam’s culinary culture with crispy pancakes, authentic flavors, and must-visit locations. Perfect for foodies!

If you’re a foodie visiting Hanoi, one dish you absolutely can’t miss is Banh Xeo—the famous Vietnamese crispy pancake. This delicious street food offers a perfect combination of crispy, savory, and fresh flavors, and it’s deeply rooted in Vietnam’s culinary traditions. As you savor this dish, don’t forget that September is a great time to visit Hanoi; the temperature in Hanoi September is comfortable, making it perfect for exploring its vibrant food scene. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, exploring the best Banh Xeo in Hanoi is a must. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top 5 Banh Xeo spots in Hanoi, share what makes them special, and offer some tips on how to enjoy the dish like a local.

What is Banh Xeo?

Before diving into the best spots, let’s quickly talk about what Banh Xeo actually is. This iconic Vietnamese dish consists of a crispy, golden pancake filled with a mix of shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and fresh herbs. The pancake itself is made from rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk, giving it a slightly sweet and fragrant flavor. It’s typically served with a side of nước mắm (fish sauce) and fresh lettuce leaves to wrap the pancake, making it a perfect blend of textures and tastes.

While enjoying Banh Xeo, consider pairing it with a visit to the Vietnam Military Museum Hanoi, located nearby many Old Quarter eateries. This way, you can combine exploring Hanoi’s history with its incredible street food culture.

Now, let’s discover where you can find the best Banh Xeo in Hanoi!

Top 5 Must-Try Banh Xeo Spots in Hanoi

1. Banh Xeo 25

Address:
25 Hàng Bạc, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam
Why it stands out:
Located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Banh Xeo 25 is a local favorite and one of the most famous spots for enjoying Banh Xeo. Known for its crispy edges and well-balanced filling, this place serves a classic version of the dish that never disappoints. The pancake is large, crunchy on the outside, and tender on the inside, offering the perfect bite every time.
What to try:
Their Banh Xeo with shrimp and pork is a must-try. It’s filled with generous portions of shrimp, pork, and fresh herbs, making it a flavor-packed meal. Don’t forget to dip it into the nước mắm (fish sauce) for that extra punch of flavor.
Tip:
This place tends to get crowded, especially during lunch and dinner hours, so be prepared for a bit of a wait. Pair this experience with exploring unique things to do in Hanoi, such as visiting the hidden alleys for authentic local desserts!

2. Banh Xeo Gia Lai

A man surrounding with many pans of banh xe

Address:
63A Lý Thường Kiệt, Phương Mai, Đống Đa, Hanoi, Vietnam
Why it stands out:
Banh Xeo Gia Lai brings something unique to the table by infusing flavors from the central and southern parts of Vietnam. This restaurant sources fresh ingredients directly from the Gia Lai region, and their commitment to authenticity shines through in each dish.
What to try:
Try their signature Banh Xeo with shrimp and pork for a crispy, satisfying meal. The fillings are well-seasoned, and the pancake itself is light yet crispy, creating a perfect balance of textures.
Tip:
If you're a fan of spicy food, try their chili dipping sauce for an extra kick that complements the pancake’s flavors.

3. Banh Xeo Bà Dưỡng

Address:
280 Đường Láng, Đống Đa, Hanoi, Vietnam
Why it stands out:
This family-owned spot has been serving Banh Xeo for years and has become a beloved institution in Hanoi. Banh Xeo Bà Dưỡng is famous for its simplicity and dedication to the traditional way of making the dish. The focus here is on quality ingredients, especially the freshness of the herbs and vegetables.
What to try:
Their Banh Xeo with shrimp and pork is a classic favorite, with a crispy pancake wrapped around tender meat and shrimp. The flavor is rich, and the addition of fresh herbs makes each bite refreshing and flavorful.
Tip:
If you're new to Banh Xeo, this is a great spot to try it for the first time. The family-friendly atmosphere makes it perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy the dish in a comfortable setting.

4. Banh Xeo Ngọc Mai

Address:
19B Lý Quốc Sư, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam
Why it stands out:
Ngọc Mai offers a twist on the traditional Banh Xeo by adding a vegetarian option that’s just as flavorful as the classic versions. Their use of mushrooms, tofu, and other fresh vegetables gives the pancake a light and earthy flavor while still maintaining the signature crispiness.
What to try:
Their vegetarian Banh Xeo is a standout dish. It’s packed with mushrooms, tofu, and bean sprouts, offering a fresh and satisfying alternative to the traditional meat-filled version.
Tip:
This is the perfect place for vegetarians or anyone looking to try something different. Pair it with their homemade dipping sauce for an even better flavor experience.

5. Banh Xeo Phan Bội Châu

Address:
47 Phan Bội Châu, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam
Why it stands out:
Located in the heart of Hanoi, Banh Xeo Phan Bội Châu specializes in seafood Banh Xeo, bringing the flavors of the ocean to this beloved dish. Known for its unique seafood fillings and flavorful broths, this restaurant adds a modern touch to the traditional Banh Xeo recipe.
What to try:
The seafood Banh Xeo is a must-try! Packed with fresh shrimp, squid, and scallops, the seafood version of this dish is loaded with flavors that make every bite a treat. The large, crispy pancakes are perfect for sharing.
Tip:
The seafood version of Banh Xeo here is one of the best you’ll find in Hanoi, so don’t miss it if you’re a seafood lover.

What Makes These Banh Xeo Spots Stand Out?

So, what sets these Banh Xeo spots apart from the rest? Here are a few common characteristics that make them top contenders in Hanoi:

Authenticity and Tradition
: Each of these restaurants stays true to the traditional preparation methods of Banh Xeo, ensuring that the dish retains its crispy texture and rich flavors.
Quality Ingredients
: From fresh shrimp and pork to locally sourced herbs and vegetables, the quality of the ingredients plays a big role in the taste of Banh Xeo. These spots pride themselves on using only the best ingredients.
Atmosphere
: Whether you're sitting at a bustling street food stall or a cozy restaurant, the atmosphere adds to the experience. Each of these places provides a great setting for enjoying this iconic dish.

How to Eat Banh Xeo in Hanoi Like a Local

When you’re in Hanoi, eating Banh Xeo isn’t just about the food—it’s about the experience. Here’s a simple guide on how to enjoy it like a local:

Grab a Lettuce Leaf
: Start by taking a fresh lettuce leaf and placing a piece of the crispy pancake inside it.
Add Herbs
: Add some fresh herbs like mint, basil, and cilantro. These herbs complement the rich flavors of the pancake and balance out the richness of the pork and shrimp.
Dip in Fish Sauce
: Next, dip the wrapped pancake into the nước mắm (fish sauce), which adds a tangy, savory flavor to the dish.
Enjoy the Crunch
: Take a big bite and enjoy the combination of the crunchy pancake, the fresh herbs, and the bold dipping sauce. Every bite should be a flavorful and textural delight!

Why You Should Try Banh Xeo in Hanoi

Banh Xeo is a must-try dish for anyone visiting Hanoi, and for good reason. This crispy Vietnamese pancake offers a satisfying mix of textures, flavors, and aromas that can’t be replicated elsewhere. Whether you’re a fan of seafood, pork, or vegetarian options, Hanoi’s best Banh Xeo spots have something for everyone.

After indulging in this culinary treat, consider exploring the

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology Hanoi

, which provides a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s diverse cultural heritage—a perfect complement to its diverse cuisine. From the bustling streets of the Old Quarter to quieter, hidden gems, these restaurants not only serve amazing food but also offer a glimpse into Hanoi’s vibrant street food culture. So, next time you’re in Hanoi, don’t miss the chance to indulge in this crispy, savory treat!

Conclusion: A Tasty Adventure Awaits You

Exploring the best Banh Xeo in Hanoi is an adventure that’s both delicious and fun. With so many spots offering their own take on this iconic dish, you’re guaranteed to find a version that suits your taste. Whether you stick to the classic pork and shrimp fillings or venture out with a vegetarian or seafood version, each bite of Banh Xeo will be a memorable experience.

So grab your friends, family, or fellow foodies, and head to one of these top spots for a crispy, flavorful journey through Hanoi’s street food scene. Bon appétit!

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To make the most out of your culinary journey through Hanoi, why not book a local guide to show you around? Tubudd allows travelers to book a local expert who can take you to the best Banh Xeo spots and help you dive deeper into the city’s vibrant street food culture. Our guides speak your language, provide personalized recommendations, and make your trip uniquely memorable.

👉 Book a local guide with Tubudd today and embark on a customized food tour of

Hanoi’s

best Banh Xeo!