Food History of Temple of Literature (Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam), Hanoi, Vietnam

The Temple of Literature, also known as Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam, is a historic site of academic excellence and a symbol of Hanoi's heritage. While not directly associated with a specific culinary tradition, it is embedded in the fabric of Hanoi's ancient culture, which encompasses a rich and diverse food history. As a Confucian temple, it once served as Vietnam's first national university and has been a place where scholars and literati would gather. Throughout the years, these intellectuals and students likely contributed to Hanoi's evolving culinary scene by bringing their regional flavors and influences to the city.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes at Temple of Literature (Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam), Hanoi, Vietnam

1. Pho (Non-Veg) - Vietnam's iconic noodle soup, often served with chicken or duck.
2. Banh Mi Chay (Veg) - A vegetarian version of the classic Vietnamese sandwich.
3. Bun Cha (Non-Veg) - Grilled pork served over rice vermicelli noodles, typically accompanied by herbs and dipping sauce.
4. Cha Ca (Non-Veg) - Hanoi's famous turmeric-grilled fish, served with dill and peanuts.
5. Banh Cuon (Non-Veg) - Steamed rice rolls filled with mushrooms and minced pork.
6. Nom Bo Kho (Non-Veg) - A refreshing salad made with green papaya and dried beef.
7. Chao (Can be Veg or Non-Veg) - A savory rice porridge that can be made with a variety of toppings, including mushrooms for vegetarians.
8. Xoi (Can be Veg or Non-Veg) - Sticky rice that can come with a range of toppings such as green beans or fried onions.
9. Banh Xeo (Can be Veg or Non-Veg) - Crispy rice pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and herbs.
10. Che (Veg) - A traditional Vietnamese sweet dessert soup or pudding with various ingredients.

Top Famous Restaurants near Temple of Literature (Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam), Hanoi, Vietnam

• Koto Van Mieu
  Address: 59 Van Mieu, Dong Da, Hanoi, Vietnam
  Famous Food: Grilled Chicken and Mango Salad (Non-Veg)
  
• Net Hue
  Address: 25 Van Mieu, Dong Da, Hanoi, Vietnam
  Famous Food: Bun Bo Hue (Non-Veg), a spicy Vietnamese beef noodle soup.
  
• Quan An Ngon
  Address: 18 Phan Boi Chau, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
  Famous Food: Pho Cuon (Non-Veg), rice noodle rolls with beef and herbs.
  
• The Hanoi Social Club
  Address: 6 Hoi Vu, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
  Famous Food: Vegetarian and Vegan Dishes (Veg), including their Tofu Burger.
  
• Madame Hien Restaurant
  Address: 15 Chan Cam, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
  Famous Food: Cha Ca La Vong (Non-Veg), another variant of Hanoi's traditional grilled fish dish.