# Discovering Vegetarian Delights in Hanoi: A Food Lover’s Paradise
Vietnam is celebrated for its rich culinary traditions, and Hanoi, the capital city, is a gastronomic treasure trove with a wide array of delectable dishes and drinks. While meat features prominently in Vietnamese cuisine, vegetarians and vegans have plenty of options to savor. Hanoi offers a delightful selection of vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes that are both delicious and fulfilling. Whether you are a local or a visitor, exploring Hanoi’s vegetarian food offerings is an adventure not to be missed.
## The Key Word: “Chay”
To find vegetarian options in Hanoi or elsewhere in Vietnam, remember the word “chay.” Pronounced like “tea,” “chay” means without meat. By adding “chay” to your order (for example, “bahn mi chay”), you can request a vegetarian variant of popular Vietnamese dishes. Seeing “chay” on a menu means the dish is meatless, though it may not be entirely vegan.
## Vegetarian Dining Spots – Old Quarter
### Xôi xéo
Xôi xéo is a traditional dish comprising sticky rice and corn with mung beans. While some may consider it bland, its simplicity and flexibility have earned it many fans. Enhance its taste with toppings like eggs, pickled cucumber salad, and pair it with a cold beer.
– [Location](https://g.co/kgs/LqVnTN8)
### Bánh mỳ chay
This vegetarian Vietnamese sandwich includes an egg omelette, green papaya, cucumber, carrots, coriander, chili, and mushroom sauce. Despite the long lines, the wait is worthwhile.
– [Location](https://g.co/kgs/Xmw3msZ)
## Sweet Treats
### Cốm and Côm xào
Cốm is sticky green rice with lotus seeds and coconut, similar to a sweet coconut gummy bear. Côm xào is green rice stir-fried with coconut, served with coconut dipping sauce.
– [Location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/evgaMJbkcp5QpM3W6)
### Che chuoi nuong
This dessert features grilled banana inside sticky rice with coconut milk, fresh coconut, peanuts, and tapioca. It’s a warm dish enjoyed throughout the year.
– [Location](https://g.co/kgs/8EApbS9)
### Che khuc bach
A cold sweet soup made with jasmine flower, condensed milk, chocolate, green tea jelly, and almonds. Available at the same place as che chuoi nuong.
### Coconut ice cream
Crafted from fresh coconut water and condensed milk with coconut cream, this ice cream is a refreshing treat for hot days.
– [Location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/At6HAQ8mahUP1G4JA)
## Classic Hanoi Vegetarian Dishes
### Bánh xèo chay
A crispy pancake made from flour, turmeric, coconut milk, green onions, mung beans, and filled with bean sprouts, eggs, and tofu. A perfect snack anytime.
– [Location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/LnYK9j4jKtE9scNEA)
### Banh cuôn chay
Featuring rice rolls with shallots and soy dipping sauce with chili and lime, this dish offers unique and memorable flavors and textures.
– [Location](https://g.co/kgs/JGwNazA)
## Must-Try Coffee
No visit to Hanoi is complete without tasting egg coffee. This distinctive beverage blends strong Robusta coffee with cream and egg yolk. One recommended spot for this treat is C.O.C., noted for superb coffee and a charming atmosphere.
– [Location](https://g.co/kgs/VdeXBjM)
## Conclusion
Like other countries where vegetarian options might initially seem limited, such as Turkey, Vietnam’s abundant use of fresh ingredients makes it relatively straightforward to find or adapt dishes to be meat-free. Remember to check that sauces aren’t meat or fish-based if strictly following a vegetarian diet. Enjoy your culinary journey in this wonderful travel destination!
For more insights into Hanoi’s vegetarian cuisine, watch [this video](https://youtu.be/fO7bJ0b1JL4) or explore through the provided links.
Happy eating!