The culinary scene in Hanoi is steeped in history and reflects a blend of influences from Chinese cuisine, French colonial past, and local flavors. The city's street food culture is particularly renowned. During the 1000 years of Chinese rule, Vietnamese cuisine adopted many of Chinese cooking techniques and ingredients. Later, the French colonial period introduced ingredients such as onions, coffee, and baguettes to the local palate.
Traditional Hanoian cuisine is known for its balance of flavors and usage of fresh herbs. The emphasis is on the freshness of the ingredients and the meticulous preparation methods. Hanoi is particularly famous for its noodles and soups, with pho being the most iconic dish. The unique combination of spices and expert craft required to prepare these dishes speaks to the culinary prowess of Hanoi's chefs, both past and present.