Vietnamese cuisine is surprisingly vegetarian-friendly thanks to a strong Buddhist tradition, and Hanoi has a growing plant-based scene. Here's a trail of the best meat-free eating in the city.
1. Buddhist Temple Restaurants (Com Chay)
Vegetarian 'com chay' eateries, often near pagodas, serve inventive dishes that mimic meat using tofu, mushrooms and gluten — flavourful, cheap and authentic.
Best Seller
⏱️ 4 Hours
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2. Plant-Based Pho & Noodles
Many spots now offer vegetable or mushroom pho with a fragrant meat-free broth, plus vegetarian bun and spring rolls. Comfort food, no compromise.
Best Seller
⏱️ 4 Hours
Best Seller
⏱️ 4.5 Hours
3. Tofu Done a Hundred Ways
Fried, steamed, in broth or with lemongrass — Vietnamese tofu is a revelation. Seek out bun dau (skip the shrimp paste) and lemongrass tofu.
New
⏱️ 2 Hours
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4. Fresh, Naturally Vegan Bites
Fresh spring rolls, sticky rice, fruit, and many che sweet soups are naturally plant-based — easy wins between meals.
Best Seller
⏱️ 4.5 Hours
Popular
⏱️ 4.5 Hours
5. Ordering Tips
Learn 'an chay' (vegetarian) and 'khong thit' (no meat), and check that broths and sauces are meat-free, since fish sauce is common. A guide smooths the way.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it easy to eat vegan in Hanoi?
A: Increasingly so — Buddhist com chay restaurants and modern plant-based spots make it easy, though you should check broths and sauces.
Q: What's the Vietnamese for vegetarian?
A: 'An chay' means vegetarian; 'khong thit' means no meat. Watch out for fish sauce and shrimp paste in sauces.
Q: Can you find vegan pho?
A: Yes — many places serve vegetable or mushroom pho with a fragrant meat-free broth.
