Noble Home near Train Street

As its name suggests, this long-standing family-run spot specialises in bánh cuốn, keeping alive a craft passed down through generations. Everything is made from scratch using traditional methods, resulting in rice rolls that are thin, delicate and soft. The family-recipe dipping sauce strikes a pleasing balance of salty, sweet and sour. Fillings include pork, shrimp and chicken, with extra toppings available. The bún thang, a Hanoi-style noodle soup with assorted toppings, is also worth trying.

Khôi Hói means bald head, referring to the owner’s hairstyle. Come here for phở – beef noodle soup. There are many cuts to choose from, including rare cuts like beef heel muscle. You can also specify how you like your beef cooked.

Early risers delight in this beef phở haven, open from 5:30am until mid‐morning, when beef cuts and broth are sold out. Fresh ingredients shine in the signature beef heel muscle, which boasts tender meat and gelatinous tendon with a pleasant chew. Order phở with eggs and fried dough, just like the locals.

Built on devotion, this kitchen pays homage to the traditional home cooking of Vietnamese mothers. The chef brings a decade of experience to bear in a repertoire of nearly 100 dishes covering Southern, Central and Northern specialities, each gently cooked with authentic seasonings that preserves their rustic character. In the clam broth, brightened with tomato and pineapple, the clams are deliciously tender, and sweet and sour flavours are expertly balanced.

Gia đình, meaning "family", is a reference to chef Sam Tran and partner Long Tran's longing for their homeland during their years working abroad. The restaurant decor draws inspiration from the Temple of Literature just across the road. A single tasting menu is offered, showcasing the finest seasonal ingredients and drawing inspiration from the rich heritage of traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Deceptively complex, the beautifully crafted dishes showcase well-judged combinations of subtle flavours, with acidity and texture playing prominent roles.

One of Hanoi's most iconic eateries, Phở Gia Truyền exemplifies the Northern approach to phở with three options: rare flank, medium rare round or well-done brisket. Each delicious bowl is made to order at the counter, and diners can add crispy quẩy or a golden egg yolk for richness.

This stall is famous for its bún chả (rice noodles with fresh herbs and pork), chargrilled to order. Dip the noodles in the flavoursome broth and feel free to order an extra spring roll for added crunchiness.