Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia’s most exciting cities. With its harmonious blend of ancient beauty and modern vitality, preserving the nostalgic charm of the Old Quarters, lakeside tranquility, historic relics, and architectural works, and incredible food, it draws visitors from all over the world. Notably, Hanoi has been recently picked among its top 15 must-visit food cities in the world by TripAdvisor, the world’s largest travel guidance platform. From steaming bowls of phở to fragrant street food stalls and elegant fine dining, the city truly has something for every traveler.

But what about Israeli and Jewish visitors? With dietary restrictions and kosher rules, where can you find kosher food in Hanoi? The answer is: while strictly certified kosher food is limited, there are plenty of kosher-friendly options, from Chabad House to vegetarian and vegan restaurants, and even carefully chosen street foods. And this article will show you the best Hanoi street food tour to try.

1. Are There Kosher Foods in Hanoi?

For Israeli and Jewish travelers, the Chabad of Hanoi is the number one destination for authentic kosher food and community connection. It’s located in the Tây Hồ (West Lake) area. It’s the go-to spot for Israelis, Jewish tourists, and even business travelers.

The Chabad Hanoi: 

• Address: No. 4, Alley 11, To Ngoc Van Street, Tay Ho District, Hanoi.​
• Website: https://www.jewishhanoi.com/
• Google map: Chabad of Hanoi
• Tel: +84 838728225​
• Opening Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 12:00pm – 7:00pm – Friday: Closed

It offers a welcoming, cozy atmosphere that feels like home, making it a favorite spot not only for tourists but also for Hanoi’s small local Jewish community. The kitchen at Chabad serves meticulously prepared kosher meals from hearty Israeli breakfasts to Shabbat dinners filled with warmth and tradition. 

Moreover, if you’re looking for Kosher food, tourists can stop by supermarkets around Tây Hồ, like Veggy, L’s Place, or Winmart, which sometimes stock imported kosher-certified items like cereals, snacks, wine, and pasta sauces.

2. List of Friendly Kosher Food in Hanoi

The good news is that while fully certified kosher food is limited, so there is no Vietnam kosher tour, however, there are plenty of Friendly Kosher food options in Hanoi walking street food tours that make your trip enjoyable.

2.1. What Does “Friendly Kosher” Mean in Hanoi?

Hanoi does not yet have officially certified kosher restaurants (except Chabad). However, “friendly kosher” options are widely available in the form of vegetarian, vegan, and carefully chosen local dishes, that can make tourists have various choices for food.

For many Israeli travelers, that means eating:

• Vegetarian/vegan food, which naturally avoids pork and shellfish.
• Fish with scales (like tilapia) rather than seafood.
• Avoiding dishes with fish sauce or shrimp paste (common in Vietnamese cooking so always ask).

This way, you can enjoy Hanoi’s food culture while still keeping close to kosher principles.

2.2. Vegetarian/Vegan Restaurants (Kosher-Friendly Style)

Katze vegan & Vegetarian

Katze Vegan & Vegetarian is a cozy restaurant located in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, offering a variety of vegan and vegetarian Vietnamese dishes. The menu features traditional favorites like fried spring rolls and vegan ‘chicken’ dishes, with generous portions and complimentary sides such as rice, tofu, salad, and green soup. The owner, a former street child turned social entrepreneur, shares his inspiring story with guests. The restaurant is situated in an alleyway, requiring patrons to ascend a staircase to reach the dining area.

Tourists can walk to this restaurant, following the address:  28-30 P. Cầu Gỗ, Hàng Bạc, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội

• Price:100.000-200.000vnd/ pax 
• Time: 11:00- 23:30 p.m

Sadhu Vegetarian Buffet restaurant

This restaurant is also  located in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, so tourists can visit easily by foot or by grab. Unlike traditional buffets, at Sadhu Chay the buffet comes to your table. Guests can enjoy unlimited dishes from the menu, all freshly prepared and beautifully presented. The restaurant’s design creates an immediate sense of calm. Built in the style of a traditional Vietnamese house, the space features a skylight at its center, soft rounded window frames, and nostalgic architectural touches. Natural light pours in, highlighting the warm tones and graceful details, making Sadhu Chay not only a place to eat, but a retreat of peace and serenity.

The menu at Sadhu Chay takes inspiration from the cuisines of Hoa Lu and Hue, two historic capitals of Vietnam. Each dish carries the essence of traditional royal and local flavors from spicy, sweet, and aromatic notes, everything carefully balanced to bring out the natural freshness of the vegetables.

Address

• 87 Lý Thường Kiệt, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
• Price: 228.000vnd/ pax
• Time: 10:30- 22:00 p.m

 Veggie Castle

If you’re a traveler exploring Hanoi and craving something healthy, flavorful, and a little different from the usual street food, Veggie Castle is a perfect stop. This popular vegan buffet chain has earned a loyal following for its cozy atmosphere and creative plant-based dishes that highlight the very best of Vietnamese and international flavors.

With several branches across the city, you can choose one place to eat. Veggie Castle makes it easy to enjoy a generous variety of dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From Vietnamese classics reimagined with vegetables to global favorites like pastas, curries, and salads, every plate is designed to bring out the natural richness of plant-based cuisine.

The buffet style lets diners enjoy unlimited choices at an affordable price, making Veggie Castle a popular spot for both locals and travelers seeking healthy, sustainable dining. 

Address: 

• No 7 Yên Ninh, Ba Đình – 0868237117
• No 19 Alley 275 Âu Cơ, Tây Hồ- 0393363903
• No 38 Ngọc Khánh, Ba Đình- 0836918338
• No 29 Alley 2 Trần Kim Xuyến, Cầu Giấy district- 0816353388
• No 284 Bà Triệu, Hai Bà Trưng – 0898558858

Time: 11.00-14.00 và 18.00-21.30 p.m

Price of buffet: 99,000vnd/pax

2.3. Local Street Food Options (With Care)

Hanoi street food tour is the heart of Hanoi’s culinary culture, and you don’t have to miss out completely. With some attention, you can find “kosher-friendly” dishes:

Sticky Rice 

This is a traditional Vietnamese dish that locals can enjoy at any time of the day, though it’s most commonly eaten for breakfast. The base is sticky rice, soft and fragrant, topped with peanuts, mung beans, or corn. For Israeli tourists or anyone following a vegetarian diet, it’s best to ask the vendor to skip the meat-based toppings and stick to the plant-based ones. That way, you can still experience the authentic taste of this comforting Vietnamese breakfast while keeping it suitable to your diet.

Stir-Fried Morning Glory with Garlic

A Vietnamese stir-fry made with morning glory and garlic, has earned a spot on TasteAtlas’s list of the world’s top 100 vegetable dishes, coming in at number 24. This dish features morning glory (also known as water spinach) blanched and stir-fried with garlic and salt, very easy to cook, however it has great taste.

The dish is typically served hot as the first course in a traditional Vietnamese three-part meal, followed by a boiled or steamed dish and then soup.

Tofu Dishes

Tofu is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, making it one of the easiest kosher-friendly choices in Hanoi. From crispy fried tofu with dipping sauce to tofu in tomato sauce, these simple, hearty dishes are found at street stalls and family kitchens alike.

Sweet Soup 

Are you looking for dessert? Vietnamese sweet soups are refreshing, light, and often vegan. They’re made from beans, coconut milk, tapioca pearls, and seasonal fruits. With so many variations, you can enjoy a different chè every day of your trip.

Tilapia Fish with Rice Noodles 

For travelers who eat fish, tilapia (a fish with scales) is a safe and kosher-friendly option. In Hanoi, it’s often served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a light broth, creating a dish that truly reflects the city’s culinary identity. Made with crispy fried tilapia and rice noodles, it’s a flavorful and suitable choice for tourists looking to enjoy local food within their dietary preferences

Vietnamese Coffee 

No trip to Hanoi is complete without Vietnamese coffee. For kosher travelers, stick to black coffee (cà phê đen) for a strong, rich flavor. If you’re okay with dairy or eggs, try the famous egg coffee, a creamy and sweet specialty unique to Hanoi.

Vegan Pho Vietnam

Pho is Vietnam’s most iconic dish – a fragrant bowl of steaming rice noodles served in a flavorful broth and topped with fresh herbs. Traditionally, pho is prepared with beef or chicken broth, making it rich and hearty. But for vegetarians, vegans, or kosher-conscious travelers, many restaurants and street vendors now offer “phở chay” (vegetarian pho). 

This dish is the lighter, meat-free version of Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup. Instead of beef or chicken, the broth is made from fragrant vegetables or mushrooms, creating a naturally sweet and aromatic base. It’s served with tofu, mushrooms, fresh herbs, and soft rice noodles, offering a balance of flavors that is both delicate and satisfying. This is the perfect choice for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone who wants to enjoy a healthier, plant-based take on traditional pho.

3. Michelin-Recognized Friendly Kosher Restaurants in Hanoi

In 2023 to now, Hanoi proudly entered the Michelin Guide, which showcases some of the city’s finest dining destinations. While there are currently no official kosher-certified restaurants in Hanoi, several Michelin-listed vegetarian and plant-forward restaurants offer excellent “kosher-friendly” experiences for Jewish travelers and anyone seeking mindful, high-quality meals without meat.

3.1. La Badiane

La Badiane is a Michelin Guide Selected restaurant (2023-2025) that beautifully blends French sophistication with Vietnamese freshness. Located at 10 Nam Ngư, Cửa Nam Ward, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, it offers a refined yet welcoming atmosphere, it’s perfect for a romantic night out or a special meal.

The restaurant is open Monday to Saturday, serving:

• Lunch: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM
• Dinner: 6:00 PM -9:30 PM (Closed on Sundays)

With its creative menu and elegant setting, La Badiane has become one of Hanoi’s most celebrated dining spots and a great choice for travelers seeking a kosher-friendly fine dining experience in the city.

3.2. Cồ Đàm

Cồ Đàm is a vegetarian restaurant listed in the Michelin Guide (2023–2025), known for its elegant design inspired by Buddhist and Champa culture. Located at 68 Trần Hưng Đạo, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Cồ Đàm’s eye-catching architecture boasts an ornate exterior inspired by Buddhist and Champa culture and a striking arched entrance of terracotta bricks. Four floors are open for dining, but the ground floor stands out for its tranquil pond and terracotta Buddha.

In the restaurant, you’ll find inventive vegetarian dishes that combine traditional Vietnamese flavors with a contemporary twist – many of which can be enjoyed kosher-friendly.

 Opening hours:

• Lunch: 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM
• Dinner: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM (Open daily)

3.3.  Ưu Đàm Chay

One of Hanoi’s most beloved vegetarian restaurants, Ưu Đàm Chay is also Michelin Guide Selected (2023–2025). The space feels like a tranquil sanctuary, decorated with calming elements that reflect Buddhist philosophy.

Located at 34 Hàng Bài, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, the restaurant is a favorite for both locals and travelers. Its menu blends Vietnamese, Western, and Thai influences, rooted in tradition while mindful of balance and nutrition. Every dish is beautifully presented, showcasing vibrant flavors that are as nourishing as they are delicious.

Opening hours: Daily: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM

3.4.Senté – The Flavor Of Lotus

Senté, another Michelin Guide Selected (2023–2025) restaurant, celebrates Vietnam’s national flower- the lotus- both in its design and in its menu. Located at 20 Nguyễn Quang Bích, Cửa Đông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, this known for its creative, healthy, and lotus-focused modern Vietnamese cuisine. These dishes are inspired by lotus seeds, roots, and flowers, alongside other creative vegetarian and vegan plates.

Moreover, the restaurant has a cozy ambiance, which is perfect for those seeking a unique and kosher-friendly dining experience.

Opening hours:

• Lunch: 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM
• Dinner: 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM (Open daily)

3.5.Ngon Garden

Ngon Garden transforms Vietnamese street food into a fine dining experience, earning a spot in the Michelin Guide (2023–2025). The restaurant is set in a stylish garden courtyard at 70 Nguyễn Du, Hai Bà Trưng, Hanoi, giving it a lively yet refined vibe.

The menu is broad, with plenty of vegetarian and plant-based options that can be adapted to kosher-friendly dining. The menu features specialities from all over Vietnam, from the century-old Bat Dan phở recipe from Hanoi and bún bò huế grilled beef from Nha Trang to fresh veggies from Dalat. It’s an excellent place to experience the spirit of Hanoi’s street food in a more comfortable, elegant setting.

 Opening hours:

• Daily: 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM

4. Tips for Israeli/Jewish Travelers

Traveling in Vietnam can be an incredible experience, but keeping kosher-friendly can take a bit of planning. Here are some helpful tips:

• Plan with Chabad: Best option for kosher meals, especially Shabbat.
• Use vegetarian as a keyword: In Vietnam, “ăn chay” means vegetarian and is widely understood.
• Pack some essentials: Bring along dried fruit, crackers, or other packaged kosher snacks from home. They’ll make traveling between cities much easier.
• Check sauces: Many Vietnamese dishes contain fish sauce or shrimp paste-ask before ordering.
• Book Michelin in advance: Popular restaurants like La Badiane and Cồ Đàm need reservations.

 

Conclusion

Hanoi might not be overflowing with kosher-certified restaurants, but Israeli and Jewish travelers have plenty of ways to eat well here. From Chabad’s warm hospitality to Michelin-level vegetarian fine dining, and even street food snacks with care, you can balance tradition with adventure.

If you’re looking for a Vietnam tour including  Kosher meals and/or  Shabbat restrictions, feel free to contact us – Asia Viva Travel, we’re available to send you free and unlimited proposals.