How Much Does Food Cost in Hanoi? (2025 Guide for Tourists)

Looking to explore Vietnamese cuisine without breaking the bank? Good news! Hanoi is one of the best cities in the world to eat well on a budget. How much is food in Hanoi? In 2025, prices remain incredibly affordable for tourists, with meals starting from as low as $1. From iconic street food like pho and banh mi to upscale fine dining, the capital offers a wide range of delicious, authentic, and budget-friendly culinary experiences.

Price Range Overview

From cheap eats to gourmet indulgence, there’s something to suit every palate and budget. Let’s break it down below.

1. Street Food & Local Eateries (25,000 – 75,000 VND / $1 – $3 per dish)

Hanoi’s street food culture is vibrant, flavorful and extremely affordable. Dishes are often cooked to order and served at plastic tables on bustling sidewalks - a unique experience in itself. The affordability comes from low overheads and the use of fresh, local ingredients.

Hanoi offers a full meal for under $3 at local eateries. 

Overview of Some Signature Dishes:

Best places for street food:

• Hanoi Night Market (Old Quarter)

• Pho Gia Truyen

• Banh Mi 25

• Bun Cha Huong Lien

2. Casual Vietnamese Restaurants (75,000 - 250,000 VND / $3 - $10 per dish)

For those seeking comfort, ambiance and a wider menu selection while still enjoying authentic Vietnamese cuisine, casual restaurants are a fantastic choice. These spots often offer air-conditioned seating, bilingual menus and attentive service - ideal for first-time visitors looking for a stress-free dining experience.

Enjoy authentic flavors without the high price tag.

Overview of Some Signature Dishes:

Best places for casual dining:

• Cơm Niêu Thúy Nga (clay pot rice)

• Quán Ăn Ngon (modernized traditional dishes)

• Cau Go Vietnamese Cuisine

• Home Hanoi Restaurant

3. Western & International Cuisine (125,000 - 375,000 VND / $5 - $15 per dish)

Hanoi’s food scene isn’t limited to Vietnamese dishes - there’s a growing selection of international restaurants offering everything from burgers and pasta to sushi and Mediterranean plates. These venues cater largely to expats, tourists and locals craving global flavors.

Overview of Some Popular Dishes:

Top spots for international cuisine:

• Pizza 4P’s (Japanese-Italian fusion)

• El Gaucho (Argentinian steakhouse)

• Cousins Hanoi (French bistro)

• Sushibar or iSushi (Japanese)

• Hanoi Social Club (vegetarian-friendly brunch)

4. Fine Dining & Luxury Restaurants (500,000 - 2,500,000 VND / $20 - $100 per meal)

If you're in the mood for a premium culinary experience, Hanoi offers a range of fine dining options that combine world-class service, exquisite presentation and luxurious ambiance. Many high-end restaurants feature set menus, wine pairings and innovative fusions of Vietnamese and international flavors. Prices vary depending on the course, imported ingredients and restaurant location.

Hanoi offers a range of fine dining options that combine world-class service, exquisite presentation and luxurious ambiance. 

Overview of Some Signature Experiences:

Top Fine Dining Venues in Hanoi:

• T.U.N.G Dining – Modern Vietnamese tasting menu with global techniques.

• Chapter Dining & Grill – Creative plates and fine wine in a serene setting.

• Hibana by Koki (Capella Hanoi) – High-end Japanese teppanyaki experience.

• Home Hanoi – Elegant Indochine-style villa with upscale Vietnamese cuisine.

• La Badiane – French fine dining with a tropical twist.

6. Supermarket & Convenience Store Prices (10,000 - 100,000 VND / $0.50 - $4 per item)

For budget-conscious travelers or those staying in Hanoi longer-term, shopping at supermarkets or convenience stores like VinMart, Circle K and Aeon is a smart and economical choice. These places offer a wide variety of local snacks, bottled drinks, basic groceries and quick meals.

Hanoi’s food scene is a paradise for budget travelers.

Overview of Common Items:

Where to Shop:

• VinMart / WinMart – Widespread and well-stocked with local and imported goods.

• Aeon Mall Supermarkets – More variety, especially fresh food and Japanese items.

• Circle K / 7-Eleven / FamilyMart – Ideal for quick late-night bites and drinks.

7. FAQs - Food Prices in Hanoi

Is food in Hanoi cheap?

Yes! Street food and local meals are very affordable, with meals costing as little as $1 – $3 (25,000 – 75,000 VND).

How much do you need per day for food in Hanoi?

Budget travelers can eat well for $5 – $10/day (125,000 – 250,000 VND), mid-range travelers around $10 – $30/day (250,000 – 750,000 VND) and fine dining enthusiasts $50+ per meal (1,250,000+ VND).

Enjoy authentic flavors without the high price tag.

Where can I eat for under $5 in Hanoi?

Street food stalls and casual eateries like Banh Mi 25, Pho Gia Truyen and Xoi Yen offer delicious meals for under $5 (125,000 VND).

How much is beer in Hanoi?

Local beers like Bia Hơi (Fresh Beer) cost only $0.30 – $1 (7,500 – 25,000 VND), while bottled beers in restaurants range from $1 – $3 (25,000 – 75,000 VND).

What is the most expensive dish in Hanoi?

Luxury seafood (lobster, premium steak, imported sushi) in fine dining restaurants can cost $50 - $100+ (1,250,000 - 2,500,000+ VND) per meal.

Savor Hanoi’s street eats - flavorful, fast and budget-friendly.

From hearty street-side phở for under a dollar to refined dishes at cozy restaurants, Hanoi offers something for every taste and budget. Whether you're a backpacker on a shoestring or a foodie seeking unique bites, the city’s food scene is as diverse as it is affordable. The best part? Every meal comes with a story – from generations-old family recipes to street vendors who’ve mastered their craft over decades. 

Join Joytime’s Hanoi Food Tour and experience the city's flavors like a local. Our expert guides will take you through hidden alleys, introduce you to must-try dishes and share the culture behind every bite.