Best Banh Xeo in Hanoi: A Local’s Guide
Banh Xeo originated in Central Vietnam, but today it can be enjoyed throughout the country. If you’re unsure where to find the best place to enjoy this special dish in the capital, let us guide you to the top Banh Xeo spots in Hanoi and make your culinary journey even more memorable.
What is Banh Xeo?
The name “Bánh Xèo” comes from the cheerful sizzling sound — xèo! — that the rice batter makes the moment it hits a hot pan and begins to crisp. Over time, this sound became so iconic that it inspired the name of the dish itself. Across Vietnam’s regions, the Vietnamese pancake varies in size, fillings, and preparation methods, resulting in a wide range of flavorful, distinctive versions that locals proudly call their own.
When it comes to the origins of Banh Xeo, there are several viewpoints and even ongoing debates. Some historical accounts suggest the dish first appeared in Central Vietnam during the Tây Sơn dynasty, spreading southward as people migrated and culinary traditions blended. Others believe the pancake evolved from Huế’s famous bánh khoái, with the pancake gradually becoming larger and thinner as it traveled toward Southern Vietnam. Along the way, ingredients, dipping sauces, and cooking techniques adapted to local tastes — leading to today’s two main regional styles: the smaller, crispier Central-style Vietnamese “taco,” and the large, coconut-infused Southern-style version.
Regardless of which origin theory you follow, one thing is certain: the Vietnamese “sizzling” pancake remains one of Vietnam’s most enjoyable and iconic street-food experiences, beloved across the country.
What Makes Banh Xeo Special?
What makes this crispy Vietnamese pancake truly special is its beautiful simplicity. With just a few core ingredients — including rice flour for the crispy shell, coconut milk for subtle sweetness, and a savory filling of pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts — the dish achieves a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s satisfying yet light, making it equally fitting as a quick street snack or a full, comforting meal.
Another reason why the sizzling Vietnamese crepe stands out is the cooking technique that gives it its signature texture. The batter must be poured into a very hot pan and spread thin to achieve crisp, golden edges while keeping the center slightly tender. The filling — typically pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts, with regional variations adding squid or mushrooms — cooks directly on the crepe before it’s folded in half. Wrapped with fragrant herbs and paired with tangy dipping sauce, each bite becomes a playful, wrap-and-roll experience that sets this iconic Vietnamese street-food pancake apart from other dishes.
Best Banh Xeo Places in Hanoi
Now that you know what makes Banh Xeo special, here are some of the best spots in Hanoi — recommended by locals.
Banh Xeo Sáu Phước — Hanoi’s Oldest Banh Xeo
Banh Xeo Sáu Phước is one of Hanoi’s oldest and most beloved destinations for the Central-style version of the dish. Located on Cầu Đất Street, this shop is known for its authentic flavor and ultra-crispy golden crepes fully packed with fresh shrimp and pork.
Hours: 10:30 AM – 8:15 PM
Address: 74 Cầu Đất, Chương Dương, Hà Nội
Banh Xeo Ngọc Dương — Best Banh Xeo & Nem Lụi Combo
Known for its thin, ultra-crispy Central-style pancakes, Banh Xeo Ngọc Dương is especially loved for pairing the sizzling pancake with nem lụi, grilled lemongrass pork skewers that add a smoky, aromatic contrast. The pancakes are light, flavorful, and not greasy, creating a perfect balance when wrapped with fresh herbs and dipped in rich, savory sauce.
Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Address: 125 Đội Cấn, Ngọc Hồ, Ba Đình, Hà Nội
Mr. Bảy Miền Tây — Best Southern Banh Xeo
Officially highlighted in the Michelin Guide, Mr. Bảy Miền Tây is celebrated for its authentic Southern-style Banh Xeo — large, crispy, and generously filled — bringing true Mekong Delta flavors to Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Its consistent quality and rustic, rich flavor make it one of the city’s most notable destinations for the Vietnamese sizzling pancake.
👉 Link to Michelin’s Guide listing.
Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Address: 79 Hàng Điếu, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
Diên Vị Dining — Best Banh Xeo Dining Experience
Diên Vị Dining elevates traditional Vietnamese cuisine with refined plating, curated flavors, and a warm, contemporary atmosphere — offering Bánh Xèo alongside a thoughtful selection of regional dishes reimagined with a modern touch. It’s the perfect place for diners seeking a more immersive, elegant dining experience that honors Vietnam’s culinary heritage.
👉 Find out more about Dien Vi Dining.
Hours: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Address: 58–60–62 Đào Duy Từ, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
Tips to Enjoy Banh Xeo Like a Local
To fully enjoy Vietnam’s famous “sizzle cake” like a local, start by tearing off a piece of the crispy pancake and wrapping it with fresh herbs, lettuce, or even rice paper. One of the things that makes the dish special is how customizable it is: locals mix and match herbs, add more or fewer vegetables, and choose dipping amounts to create the perfect bite for their own taste. This freedom to adjust the wrapping is part of the fun, letting you balance flavors exactly the way you like.
For the best experience, eat Bánh Xèo when it’s freshly fried in the late afternoon or evening, when shops are busiest and the pancakes are hot and ultra-crispy. Pair your meal with side dishes like nem lụi (grilled lemongrass skewers), grilled spring rolls, or drinks such as iced tea or sour plum juice to refresh your palate and round out the flavors.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime Hanoi local, Vietnam’s golden crispy pancake offers a delicious window into the country’s vibrant street-food culture. Each bite tells a story of regional traditions, skilled cooking, and communal dining.
From rustic sidewalk eateries to elevated dining spaces, Hanoi’s Bánh Xèo scene is full of flavor and charm. This "Best Banh Xeo Places in Hanoi: A Local’s Guide" wishes you a delightful trip to Vietnam. If you visit the capital, you can book a room at La Mejor Indochine for the best prices here.
Find out more recommendations at our blog series and continue exploring Vietnam’s rich culinary landscape.
