Hanoi Vegan Street Food Tour and Train Street

Discover Hanoi’s Vegan Flavors and Train Street Thrills

Imagine strolling through Hanoi’s lively Old Quarter, tasting delicious vegan dishes, and watching a train chug past just inches away on a narrow street. For $35 per person, this 3-hour tour offers an immersive look into Hanoi’s street food scene—focused on plant-based delights—and a visit to the famous Train Street. Led by knowledgeable guides like Chip and Emely, the experience promises authentic bites, local stories, and a glimpse of daily life in Vietnam’s bustling capital.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines culinary exploration with a touch of adrenaline—standing on a street where trains pass mere feet from your feet is unforgettable. Plus, the chance to sample locally-loved vegan delicacies makes it a standout for plant-based travelers. That said, one consideration is the small group size—max 10 people—which means a more intimate experience but also requires advance booking, often 28 days ahead.

This tour is perfect for food lovers eager for authentic flavors and cultural insights, as well as vegans or vegetarians looking for tasty, plant-based options in Hanoi. If you enjoy guided walks that blend history, local stories, and culinary surprises, you’ll find much to love here.

Key Points

• Authentic Vegan Cuisine: Savor six to seven carefully curated vegan dishes, from rice pancakes to sweet soups.
• Cultural Insights: Guides share captivating stories behind Hanoi’s food and local life.
• Unique Train Street Visit: Experience the thrill of watching trains pass through a narrow alley only steps away.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Personal interaction with guides and fellow travelers enhances the experience.
• Comprehensive Experience: Includes tastings, drinks, and visits to hidden culinary gems.
• Advance Booking Needed: Typically booked 28 days ahead, ideal for planning.

An In-Depth Look at What You Can Expect

Starting off with a Classic: Bánh Cuốn Chay

Your journey begins at 128 Trần Nhật Đức, where you’ll try Bánh Cuốn Chay, a vegan twist on the traditional steamed rice roll. As you bite into this delicacy, you’ll notice the delicate rice skin filled with mushrooms and tofu, giving it a savory, satisfying flavor. This dish is a gentle way to ease into Hanoi’s street food scene, and guides often share stories behind its ingredients and history. Travelers like Ramya mention that their guide, Chip, took them to underrated spots they wouldn’t have found alone, enriching the experience.

Exploring the Old City Gate’s Vegan Bun Cha

Next, the tour visits the Old City Gate, where you’ll try Bún Chả Chay, a vegan rendition of Hanoi’s renowned grilled pork noodle dish. Instead of meat, grilled tofu takes center stage, paired with rice noodles and fresh herbs in a tangy, slightly sweet sauce. If you’re used to the classic version, this offers a delightful plant-based alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor. According to reviews, guides like Emely provide background info, making the tasting more meaningful than just eating.

Fresh and Light: Mien Tron Chay

At the vibrant Hanoi Old Quarter Vietnam, you’ll sample Mien Tròn Chay, a vegan glass noodle salad packed with vegetables and tofu. It’s a light, refreshing dish that provides a perfect contrast to the previous heavier bites. Many guests appreciate the flavorful yet light nature of this dish, making it a great lunch option. Guides often share tips on local ingredients and how this dish fits into Hanoi’s daily food culture.

The Crispy Delight: Bánh Xèo Chay

On Hang Dậu Street, you’ll get to try Bánh Xèo Chay, a vegan version of the famous crispy Vietnamese pancake. Filled with tofu and vegetables, this dish offers a satisfying crunch with every bite. The guide may explain how this pancake is traditionally made, giving you a peek into Vietnam’s culinary techniques. Several reviewers praise the crispiness and generous fillings—a real highlight.

Sweet Endings to Satisfy Your Cravings

For dessert, your choices include Kem Xôi—a sticky rice ice cream—or Chè Xoài, a mango sweet soup. Both are refreshing and flavorful, ideal for cooling down after the savory dishes. It’s a delightful way to end the food portion of the tour, with guides often sharing local dessert stories or tips for enjoying these treats on your own.

The Exciting Train Street Experience

Finally, the tour culminates at Hanoi Train Street, one of the city’s most iconic sights. This alley features an active train track where, twice daily, a train passes extremely close to the buildings and viewers. Visitors love the adrenaline rush of watching these trains glide through, sometimes just inches from where you’re standing. Reviews highlight the excellent seats and the fascinating view, making it a once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity and cultural spectacle.

Authenticity and Value

This tour’s value lies in its combination of culinary tastings, local stories, and visual spectacle. With all food and drinks included, and guided visits to hidden gems, you’re getting a comprehensive look into Hanoi’s vegan street scene for just $35. The small group size ensures personalized attention and richer conversation.

Guides like Chip and Emely are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. Numerous reviews attest to the quality of the food, noting that the dishes are delicious, authentic, and carefully prepared—not just generic tourist fare.

A potential drawback is the limited number of tastings—some guests, like Anton, felt their experience was over-promised in terms of food variety, implying that the tour might not be suitable for those expecting a full-blown feast. However, most find the quality and uniqueness of the dishes more than enough for a satisfying lunch and cultural experience.

Practical Considerations

• Booking: Usually booked 28 days in advance, so plan ahead.
• Duration: About 3 hours, making it a manageable addition to your Hanoi itinerary.
• Meeting Point: Near public transportation, easy to find.
• Group Size: Max 10 travelers, fostering intimacy but requiring early reservation.
• Weather: The tour relies on good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for vegans or vegetarians who want to enjoy authentic Hanoi street food in a small, guided setting. It’s also great for foodies interested in exploring local culinary culture while enjoying stories from knowledgeable guides. If you’re comfortable with small group tours and appreciate a mix of culinary delights and cultural sights, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

People who enjoy thrilling sights like Train Street will love the unique vantage point it offers. However, if you’re expecting a large group or a full-day tour, you might want to look for other options.

Final Thoughts

The Hanoi Vegan Street Food & Train Street Tour offers a well-balanced mix of delicious plant-based dishes, local storytelling, and the thrill of train passing. It’s a fantastic way to get a taste of Hanoi’s street food culture while discovering some of its most iconic sights. The small-group setting and knowledgeable guides like Chip make it both personal and educational.

For vegans and food lovers, this tour provides a superb value, combining authentic flavors with unique experiences. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate local insights and are eager to see a side of Hanoi often missed in guidebooks.

Ultimately, if you’re after a fun, flavorful, and authentic way to spend a few hours in Hanoi, this tour delivers—making it a highlight of any Vietnam trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it’s designed around vegan dishes, but vegetarians are also welcome. The focus on plant-based foods makes it ideal for those avoiding animal products.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 3 hours, including visits to multiple eateries and the Train Street.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes 1-2 drinks along with the six to seven tastings of vegan dishes.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Most travelers book about 28 days in advance; last-minute bookings might be difficult due to limited spots, especially during peak season.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour typically accommodates up to 10 travelers, making for a more personalized experience.

Is the Train Street visit safe?
Yes, guided visits are carefully managed; the trains pass only twice daily, and guides ensure safety during the viewing.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as the tour involves outdoor walking and street visits.