Must-Try Foods In Joseph's Cathedral (Hanoi) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Joseph's Cathedral, Hanoi, Vietnam

St. Joseph's Cathedral in Hanoi, situated in the heart of the city's Old Quarter, is not just a religious landmark but also a central point around which a vibrant food culture has developed. Although the Cathedral itself, which was completed in 1886, is a beautiful representation of French Gothic architecture and a place of worship, the surrounding streets are pulsating with Hanoi's food scene.

The food culture around the cathedral has been influenced significantly by the French colonial period, which introduced ingredients such as pâté, baguettes, and a variety of pastries. Over time, these influences melded with traditional Vietnamese flavors and ingredients, creating a unique culinary scene that pays homage to both Vietnamese and French cuisines.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Joseph's Cathedral, Hanoi for Tourists

1. Bánh mì - A Vietnamese sandwich that embraces French baguette stuffed with a variety of fillings, including vegetables. (Veg/Non-Veg Options Available)
2. Phở cuốn - These are fresh rolls made with rice paper and stuffed with vermicelli noodles, herbs, and usually, beef but can be found in vegetarian options in some places. (Veg/Non-Veg)
3. Spring Rolls (Gỏi cuốn) - Fresh spring rolls filled with greens, usually shrimp and pork but vegetarian versions can be found with tofu or just vegetables. (Veg/Non-Veg)
4. Nộm bò khô - A zesty salad made with dried beef (look for vegan versions which substitute beef with tofu or seitan). (Veg/Non-Veg)
5. Chè - A traditional Vietnamese sweet beverage, dessert soup or pudding. Varieties of Chè are made with mung beans, black-eyed peas, kidney beans, tapioca, jelly (clear or grass), fruit, and coconut cream. (Veg)
6. Bánh cuốn - Steamed rice rolls often filled with minced pork and wood ear mushrooms; however, vegetarian versions are available using mushrooms and tofu. (Veg/Non-Veg)
7. Bún chả - Includes grilled pork over noodles, but look for veggie alternatives where tofu replaces the pork. (Veg/Non-Veg)
8. Bánh xèo - Sizzling pancakes made from rice flour, water, and turmeric powder, filled with ingredients such as shrimp, bean sprouts, and onions, with vegetarian options available. (Veg/Non-Veg)
9. Xôi - Sticky rice with a variety of toppings ranging from sweet (with sugar and crushed peanuts) to savory (with vegetarian pâté or cooked beans). (Veg)
10. Phở - The quintessential Vietnamese noodle soup usually made with beef or chicken but vegetarian broth with mushrooms and tofu can be found. (Veg/Non-Veg)

Top Famous Restaurants in Joseph's Cathedral, Hanoi with Address and Famous Food

Madame Hien Vietnamese Restaurant

Address: 15 Chân Cầm, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội

Famous Food: Traditional Vietnamese dishes with both veg and non-veg options.

La Badiane Hanoi

Address: 10 Nam Ngư, Cửa Nam, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội

Famous Food: French cuisine with a Vietnamese twist, offering vegetarian options.

Banh Mi 25

Address: 25 Hàng Cá, Phường Hàng Đào, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội

Famous Food: Renowned for their Bánh mì with veg and non-veg fillings.

Noodle & Roll

Address: 39c Hàng Hành, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội

Famous Food: Offers a range of spring rolls and noodle dishes with vegetarian options.

Green Tangerine

Address: 48 Hàng Bè, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội

Famous Food: French-Vietnamese fusion cuisine with several vegetarian dishes.