What to Eat to Beat the Hanoi Summer Heat

Che and Kem in Hanoi
Che and Kem in Hanoi

Hanoi’s summers can be intense, but the city offers a delicious array of cooling treats and dishes to help you beat the heat. From refreshing drinks to light and flavorful meals, Hanoi’s culinary scene has something for everyone looking to cool down during the scorching summer months.

Hanoi’s Refreshing Summer Drinks

Nothing quenches thirst quite like a traditional Vietnamese iced coffee. The strong, dark roast coffee combined with sweetened condensed milk and poured over ice is the perfect pick-me-up on a hot day. For a lighter option, try nước mía, freshly squeezed sugarcane juice. Its natural sweetness and refreshing taste are incredibly invigorating. Another popular choice is trà đá, iced tea, often served with lemon or kumquat for an extra citrusy kick. These readily available drinks provide quick relief from the sweltering heat.

Cooling Treats and Desserts

Hanoi boasts an impressive selection of sweet treats perfect for a summer cool-down. Chè, a Vietnamese sweet soup, comes in countless variations, featuring ingredients like mung beans, black beans, jelly, fruit, and coconut milk. It’s a light and satisfying way to beat the heat while enjoying a diverse range of flavors. Another must-try is kem, Vietnamese ice cream, often served in unique flavors like green bean, durian, and coconut. It’s a creamy and delightful treat that’s sure to cool you down.

Che and Kem in HanoiChe and Kem in Hanoi

Light and Flavorful Summer Meals

When the heat saps your appetite, opt for light and flavorful meals. Bún chả, vermicelli noodles with grilled pork and fresh herbs, is a quintessential Hanoi dish, perfect for a summer lunch. The light noodles and flavorful broth are easy on the stomach and incredibly refreshing. Another excellent choice is gỏi cuốn, fresh spring rolls filled with vermicelli noodles, shrimp, pork, and herbs. These healthy and flavorful rolls are a delightful way to enjoy a light and satisfying meal.

Where to Find Hanoi’s Summer Delights

Hanoi’s streets are lined with street food vendors, restaurants, and cafes offering these delicious summer treats. Exploring the city’s culinary scene is an adventure in itself. From bustling Old Quarter streets to hidden local gems, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. TRAVELCAR offers convenient car rental services, including 16-seater, 29-seater, and 45-seater vehicles, perfect for exploring Hanoi’s culinary hotspots and discovering your own favorite summer treats. We also provide airport transfers and guided tours, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.

Hanoi Summer Food FAQs

What are some other popular summer drinks in Hanoi? Besides the ones mentioned, nước sấu (salted plum drink) and sinh tố (smoothies) are also popular choices.

Where can I find the best bún chả in Hanoi? Many places serve excellent bún chả, but some popular spots include Bún chả Hương Liên and Bún chả Đắc Kim.

Is street food safe to eat in Hanoi? Generally, street food is safe to eat, but it’s always a good idea to choose vendors that look clean and hygienic.

What’s the average price of a bowl of chè? A bowl of chè typically costs between 20,000 and 50,000 VND.

What are some vegetarian options for summer meals in Hanoi? Many vegetarian versions of popular dishes are available, including bún chả chay (vegetarian bún chả) and gỏi cuốn chay (vegetarian gỏi cuốn).

In conclusion, Hanoi’s summer heat is no match for its diverse and delicious culinary offerings. From refreshing drinks to light and flavorful meals and sweet treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Beat the heat and explore Hanoi’s culinary scene with TRAVELCAR’s convenient car rental and tour services. Contact us at 0372960696, email TRAVELCAR[email protected], or visit our office at 260 Cầu Giấy, Hà Nội. Our 24/7 customer service team is ready to assist you.