Hanoi, VietnamThe benchmark for Hanoi-style pho - a narrow shophouse where locals queue from 6am. The broth is slow-cooked overnight: clear, deeply savoury, and subtly spiced. No menu, no frills, cash only. Eat standing up if needed. This is what pho was always meant to taste like.
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The most famous bun cha spot in Vietnam - this is where Barack Obama and Anthony Bourdain ate in 2016, sealed forever in a framed photo on the wall. Smoky charcoal-grilled pork patties in a sweet fish-sauce broth with vermicelli and herbs. Order the Obama combo.
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Operating since 1871 from the same building on Cha Ca Street (the street was named after this restaurant). They serve exactly one dish: turmeric-marinated catfish, sizzled tableside on a cast-iron pan with dill and spring onions. One of the most unique dining rituals in Hanoi.
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A stunning colonial villa courtyard turned open-air food court showcasing Vietnamese street food from all three regions. Each stall is run by specialists in a beautiful setting. Perfect for solo travelers wanting to try everything at once.