Imperial Citadel of Thang Long and Its Culinary Heritage

The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Hanoi, Vietnam, is not only known for its historical and cultural importance but also for its unique and rich food history that dates back a millennium. The capital city's cuisine has been influenced by various factors ranging from the royal culinary preferences of the dynasties that resided within the citadel to the street food culture that evolved around it over the centuries.

Within the walls of the Citadels and the courts of ancient Vietnam, the culinary arts were highly regarded, and the best chefs were often employed to create exquisite dishes to please the royalty. Over time, these practices filtered down to the common people, resulting in a diverse food culture that includes a blend of flavors, ingredients, and techniques both unique to Vietnam and influenced by Chinese and French cuisines.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Hanoi

For tourists visiting the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long and Hanoi, the following dishes are essential for a complete culinary experience:

1. Pho (Non-Veg) – Vietnam's signature noodle soup, typically made with rice noodles, herbs, and chicken or beef.
2. Banh Mi (Non-Veg/Veg) – A Vietnamese sandwich that can be prepared with various fillings, including vegetables and tofu for a vegetarian option.
3. Bun Cha (Non-Veg) – Grilled pork served over a bed of rice vermicelli noodles, often accompanied with greens and dipping sauce.
4. Goi Cuon (Non-Veg) – Fresh spring rolls wrapped in rice paper with shrimp, pork, vegetables, and herbs.
5. Banh Cuon (Non-Veg) – Steamed rice rolls typically stuffed with ground pork and wood ear mushrooms.
6. Che (Veg) – A traditional Vietnamese sweet dessert soup or pudding that comes in many varieties.
7. Banh Xeo (Non-Veg/Veg) – A crispy crepe bulging with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts, plus the garnish of fresh herbs that are characteristic of most Vietnamese dishes.
8. Cha Ca (Non-Veg) – Grilled fish seasoned with turmeric and dill, served with rice noodles and peanuts.
9. Xoi (Veg/Non-Veg) – Sticky rice that can be mixed with a variety of different ingredients, such as corn, beans, or meat.
10. Nom hoa chuoi (Veg) – A salad made from banana flowers and often includes crisp, shredded vegetables and is sometimes topped with tofu or seitan.

Top Famous Restaurants Near Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

A visit to Hanoi would not be complete without dining at some of its famous restaurants:

1. Quan An Ngon
   Address: 18 Phan Boi Chau, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
   Famous for: A variety of street food dishes from all over Vietnam
   Food Type: Non-Veg/Veg options available
2. Green Tangerine
   Address: 48 Hang Be, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
   Famous for: French-Vietnamese fusion cuisine
   Food Type: Non-Veg/Veg options available
3. Nha Hang Xuan Xuan
   Address: 47 Ma May, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
   Famous for: BBQ specialties
   Food Type: Non-Veg
4. Banh Mi 25
   Address: 25 Hang Ca, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
   Famous for: Banh Mi sandwiches
   Food Type: Non-Veg/Veg options available
5. KOTO - A training restaurant for disadvantaged youth
   Address: 59 Van Mieu, Dong Da, Hanoi
   Famous for: Contemporary Vietnamese cuisine
   Food Type: Non-Veg/Veg options available

These dishes and restaurants offer a small taste of the extensive and vibrant food scene in Hanoi, centered around the historical Imperial Citadel of Thang Long. Whether you're seeking a rich cultural experience or simply longing for exciting new flavors, Hanoi's culinary offerings are sure to satisfy.