Lunch FoodStreet FoodTraditional Dish

    Bun Dau Mam Tom

    Bún Đậu Mắm Tôm

    4.6₫30k-80kTypically enjoyed at lunch; most traditional spots only open 10am–2pm.
    FOX ^.ᆽ.^= ∫
    Overview

    Hanoi's iconic rice vermicelli platter with crispy fried tofu and pungent shrimp paste

    Bun Dau Mam Tom is one of Hanoi's most beloved street dishes — a communal platter of soft rice vermicelli clumps, golden deep-fried tofu, and a small bowl of mam tom (shrimp paste) as the dipping sauce. Common accompaniments include cha com (young rice flake sausage), boiled pork, pork intestines, and fresh herbs. Born from humble origins as a mobile street vendor dish in the outskirts of Hanoi, it has become a lunchtime staple across the city.
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    Photos

    What's in it

    • rice vermicelli
    • fried tofu
    • shrimp paste
    • cha com sausage
    • boiled pork
    • fresh herbs
    • lime
    • chili
    When to eat

    Best moments to enjoy it

    Lunch

    Typically enjoyed at lunch; most traditional spots only open 10am–2pm.

    The story

    Origin & history

    Originating from the outskirts of Hanoi, bun dau mam tom was created by a resourceful home cook who turned simple pantry staples into a street food sold from bamboo carrying baskets. The dish spread through Hanoi's alleys and became a beloved lunchtime ritual.

    At the stall

    How to order & pay

    Ordering

    Most spots serve a set platter — just specify the size (1 or 2 people). Ask for 'khong long' if you want the sauce less pungent, or request fish sauce as an alternative if shrimp paste is too strong.

    Paying

    Cash only at most street stalls; bring small bills.

    Good to know

    Allergens, nutrition & health

    Allergens

    Contains shrimp (shrimp paste); soy (tofu); pork

    Nutrition & benefits

    Good source of plant protein from tofu, carbohydrates from rice vermicelli, and probiotics from shrimp paste.

    Health notes

    Shrimp paste is high in sodium. Those with shellfish allergies should avoid entirely.

    How to eat it

    Dip rice vermicelli, tofu, and meat into the shrimp paste sauce. Squeeze a little lime and add chili into the sauce to balance the pungent flavor. Wrap with fresh herbs for extra freshness.

    Where to eat it

    Best spots in Hanoi

    • Bún Đậu Mắm Tôm Cô Hoa 25 Ấu Triệu

      4.5

      25 P. Ấu Triệu, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 10000, Vietnam

      Hours
      7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
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    • Bún đậu Thanh Hằng

      4

      5 Mã Mây, Phố cổ Hà Nội, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam

      Hours
      10:30 AM – 4:30 PM
      View on map