Crispy on the outside, savory on the inside, Banh Xeo Hanoi is a must-try Vietnamese dish that captures the essence of Hanoi’s street food culture. Its name literally means “banh xeo”, referring to the sound it makes when hitting the hot pan. Let Sanhotelseries show you the top places to find the best banh xeo in Hanoi, making your culinary journey in this vibrant city even more special.
What is Banh Xeo?
Although its exact origin remains unclear, banh xeo is believed to have been created in the central region of Vietnam. The dish became so popular that, during the Tay Son Dynasty, it was often enjoyed instead of rice on special lunar days, such as the 2nd and 16th of each month. Over time, its popularity spread across the country, and each region has since developed its own version.
The batter for banh xeo is simple yet full of flavor. Rice flour, cornstarch, ground turmeric, salt, water, coconut milk, and sliced green onions are mixed to create the golden, crispy base. This mixture is fried in a hot pan until the bottom is crispy, while the interior remains slightly soft, creating that perfect texture balance.
What makes Banh Xeo special?
The key to the appeal of banh xeo lies in its simplicity. The main ingredients include rice flour for the crispy shell, coconut milk for a touch of sweetness, and a savory filling of pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. These ingredients combine to create a dish that’s both satisfying and light, making it perfect for a quick meal or an indulgent snack.
One of the secrets to making the perfect banh xeo is frying it in a hot pan. The batter must be spread thin and even, ensuring that the edges turn crispy and golden, while the center remains slightly tender. The filling is then added, typically consisting of pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts, though some variations may also include squid or mushrooms. After a few minutes of frying, the pancake is folded in half, ready to be served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.
Banh xeo is traditionally served with a plate of raw vegetables such as lettuce, cilantro, and mint, along with a bowl of sweet and sour fish sauce. Some diners prefer to roll their banh xeo with rice paper, herbs, and vegetables before dipping it into the sauce for an extra layer of flavor. The combination of crispy pancake, fresh greens, and tangy dipping sauce is what makes this dish so enjoyable.
Top Places to Find the Best Banh Xeo in Hanoi
Now that you know what makes banh xeo so special, here are some of the best spots to try it in Hanoi. Each of these restaurants offers its own unique take on the dish, with varying prices and opening hours to fit your schedule.
Banh Xeo Sau Phuoc
One of the oldest and most famous banh xeo restaurants in Hanoi, Sau Phuoc is known for its traditional Central Vietnamese cooking style. Located on To Hieu Street, this restaurant has gained a loyal following thanks to its crispy crust and fresh shrimp filling.
The banh xeo here is made with a thin, crispy crust and packed with savory fillings, including pork and shrimp. The Central region-style cooking makes it stand out in the crowded Hanoi food scene.
- Price Range: VND 20,000 – 50,000 per serving
- Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Address: 74 Cau Dat, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Banh Xeo 29 Ton Duc Thang
Located in the heart of Hanoi, this restaurant not only serves banh xeo but also offers nem lui (grilled lemongrass skewers), adding variety to your meal. The cozy atmosphere and quick service make it a great place for a casual dinner.
A blend of flavors from grilled spring rolls and crispy banh xeo, combined with fresh vegetables and dipping sauce. Try the combination of banh xeo and nem lui for a richer culinary experience.
- Price Range: VND 30,000 – 60,000 per serving
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Address: 29 Ton Duc Thang, Quoc Tu Giam, Dong Da, Hanoi
Banh Xeo 107 E5 Ta Quang Buu
Located on a small but bustling street, this restaurant offers a more laid-back atmosphere with traditional Central Vietnamese pancakes. Locals love the family recipe for the dipping sauce, which adds a special touch to the meal. The sauce here is a family secret, and the service is always friendly and welcoming.
- Price Range: VND 20,000 – 45,000 per serving
- Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Address: 2A Ta Quang Buu, Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi
Banh Xeo Ham Long
For fans of Southern Vietnamese banh xeo, Ham Long is the go-to spot. Though the restaurant is small and often crowded, the pancakes are thin, crispy, and full of filling, making them a favorite for takeout.
Thin, crispy pancakes with generous fillings, served with plenty of fresh herbs and dipping sauce. Due to limited seating, many diners opt to take their meals to go.
- Price Range: VND 25,000 – 50,000 per serving
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Address: Lane 3 Ham Long, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Banh Xeo Zon Pancake
Zon Pancake stands out for its airy dining space and Southern-style banh xeo, making it perfect for groups of friends or families. The portions are generous, with large pancakes stuffed with shrimp, meat, and squid.
This is the place to go for large, filling banh xeo, making it ideal for sharing. The restaurant’s open, airy space is a bonus for group dining.
- Price Range: VND 35,000 – 65,000 per serving
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Address: 25 Lo Su, Ly Thai To, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Tips for enjoying Banh Xeo like a local
To truly enjoy banh xeo like a local, there are a few tips you should keep in mind. The best way to enjoy banh xeo is to roll it in rice paper with fresh herbs and vegetables before dipping it into the sweet and sour fish sauce. This enhances the flavor and makes for a more enjoyable dining experience.
Banh xeo is best enjoyed in the evening when the shops are bustling, and the pancakes are freshly fried and hot. Pair your meal with side dishes such as grilled spring rolls or drinks like sour plum juice or iced tea to enhance the flavors and balance out the richness of the dish.
=> See more: Where to Find the Best Banh Mi in Hanoi: Top Picks for 2024
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Hanoi local, banh xeo offers a delightful glimpse into Vietnamese street food culture. From crispy, savory pancakes to fresh herbs and tangy dipping sauces, each bite is a celebration of flavor and texture. Be sure to visit the restaurants mentioned above for the best banh xeo hanoi has to offer, and immerse yourself in this unforgettable culinary experience.
Here are the “Where to Find the Best Banh Xeo in Hanoi: A Local’s Guide” Wishing you a delightful trip to Vietnam! If you visit Vietnam and the capital Hanoi, you can book a room at San Hotel for the best prices here!
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