Food Reviews of Hanoi

Unlike back in the wonderful U.K., there doesn't seem to be any good fish & chips in Hanoi.  Then again, I really can't defend the fine culinary arts of a country that adds vinegar to improve matters.  So joining Kate and Chan as they ate their way through Hanoi was going to be an adventure.  

First, I can confidently report that street food reigns supreme here. Vendors serve patrons right on the sidewalks, reserving the valuable storefront for cooking. Everyone sits (or semi-squats, as it turns out) on small blue plastic stools and huddle over a tiny table that can't be more than 18" off the ground. It's perfect for my paws to jump up and see what is happening on the table. 

Kate and Chan had hot pot (steaming pot of goodness), banh cuon (light rice crepes of pork and shrimp), bun cha (noodle soup with grilled pork), pho bo (the iconic beef noodle soup), and more. There is a picture of me below with the fresh kumquats behind me and jar of pickled ginger to the left (Kate's a big fan of anything pickled).

Unfortunately, the one misstep by Kate and Chan was to go to a restaurant on their last night in Hanoi. Highway 4 ended up being the TGI Fridays of Hanoi. Overpriced, bland, and bad service (and no good flair to make up for it). They learned their lesson to stick to the street!

Cheers, Abby