
Xoi Yen
Iconic Hanoi eatery serving hearty, customizable sticky rice bowls with a vast array of savory toppings. A local favorite for decades.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid the morning rush

Xoi Yen
Best Time
Avoid the morning rush
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Hanoi eatery serving hearty, customizable sticky rice bowls with a vast array of savory toppings. A local favorite for decades.
"If you want a genuine, filling Vietnamese breakfast, you have to stop here!! "

🎯 Go early to beat queues
Expect lines, especially during peak hours. Arrive before opening or during off-peak times for a quicker experience. :clock10:
📝 Try the 'Mix Meat Set'
A highly recommended option with a variety of delicious toppings. :forkandknifewithplate:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Signature Xoi Yen Bowl
All locations
A generous portion of sticky rice piled high with a diverse array of savory toppings. A true taste of Hanoi.

Mix Meat Set
All locations
A popular choice featuring a combination of meats, fried egg, and other savory additions.

Sticky Rice Variety
All locations
Choose from different types of sticky rice, including white and green bean options, to customize your meal.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for the Best Xoi Yen Experience
Navigating the Menu at Xoi Yen
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go early to beat queues
Expect lines, especially during peak hours. Arrive before opening or during off-peak times for a quicker experience. :clock10:
📝 Try the 'Mix Meat Set'
A highly recommended option with a variety of delicious toppings. :forkandknifewithplate:
💰 Generous portions, great value
One serving can often feed two people, making it an affordable and filling meal. :moneybag:
🥤 Soya milk can be sweet
Some find the accompanying soya milk a bit too sweet; consider ordering it separately. :cupwithstraw:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go early to beat queues
Expect lines, especially during peak hours. Arrive before opening or during off-peak times for a quicker experience. :clock10:
📝 Try the 'Mix Meat Set'
A highly recommended option with a variety of delicious toppings. :forkandknifewithplate:
💰 Generous portions, great value
One serving can often feed two people, making it an affordable and filling meal. :moneybag:
🥤 Soya milk can be sweet
Some find the accompanying soya milk a bit too sweet; consider ordering it separately. :cupwithstraw:
🚶♀️ Enjoy the local vibe
Experience a bustling, authentic eatery with many locals frequenting the spot. :peopleholdinghands:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Xoi Yen is celebrated for its generous portions, delicious sticky rice, and wide array of flavorful toppings, offering excellent value for money. While some find the sticky rice a bit dense or the accompanying drinks too sweet, the overall experience is highly praised for its authenticity and popularity among locals. It's a must-try for an affordable and satisfying taste of Hanoi.
"22k VND for sticky rice, 45k VND for mix meat set. Subject to 8% VAT, bringing total of 72,360 VND (2025). I paid 72k in cash.
They have English Menu.
I saw it is big shop, established, but still has Vietnamese tiny chair and tiny table, so I want to try.
I love sticky rice.
The mix comes with one fried Boiled egg (I know), a piece of Cha (meat), pork floss, a few pieces of lap-cheong (chorizo) and a sprinkle of fried onion flake. And a bowl of pickled cucumber.
Yummy.
So the bowl is small, so eat it patiently.
The sticky rice is chewy. I heard it is not so good for digestion, so I eat it even more slowly.
The food is a good combination, I wish it has more green, but it is okay.
Many local visits so the quality is approved.
After this meal I also ventured into other Xoi stalls, but this one is on par to my expectation."
KeoneEwe Yummy
"Arriving in Hanoi, this sticky rice spot was the first place I hit up, and wow, what a way to kick off the food tour! Seriously, the portion was massive, and they load it up with so many different, delicious toppings—it’s super diverse and totally filling. Being from Chicago, I’ve never tasted sticky rice this good or this authentic; the flavors here just blew me away. I absolutely loved every single spoonful! If you want a genuine, filling Vietnamese breakfast, you have to stop here!!"
Henry Smith
"Well managed stall: waiting staff and food preparers wear company T-shirts, with clear division of work. Modern setting, with plenty of seating available. On a corner stall, it has red flags on the walkway.
You can choose from three types of sticky rice, and then add a topping from the list. Ordered one with omelette, and a soya milk drink for about VND 50,000. The drink was a little too sweet for me. The sticky rice was alright."
biyan tt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Xoi Yen has several locations, with the most famous one being at 35B Nguyen Huu Huan Street in the Old Quarter. You can easily reach it by taxi, Grab (ride-sharing app), or by walking if you're staying nearby. Many TikTok videos show the journey through Hanoi's streets to reach the restaurant.
Yes, Xoi Yen is generally accessible by public transport. Buses frequently run through the Old Quarter, and the nearest stops are usually a short walk away. Checking local bus routes upon arrival is recommended.
Yes, Xoi Yen also has popular branches in Bien Hoa, as highlighted in several TikTok videos. These locations offer the same sticky rice experience for those in that region.
Using GPS on your phone with the address '35B Nguyen Huu Huan, Hanoi' is the most reliable method. Many travelers also use Google Maps or local ride-sharing apps which will direct you accurately.
Parking in Hanoi's Old Quarter can be challenging. It's often easier to use ride-sharing services or public transport. If you drive, look for designated parking areas, though they may be limited and come with a fee.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Xoi Yen is a casual eatery, not an attraction requiring tickets. You simply walk in and order your food at the counter or from a server.
Xoi Yen typically opens early in the morning for breakfast and stays open through lunch. Hours can vary slightly by location, but generally, they are open from around 6 AM to 2 PM.
There is no entrance fee. You only pay for the food and drinks you order. Prices are very reasonable, with sticky rice bowls starting around 22,000 VND.
Reservations are generally not needed or accepted at Xoi Yen, as it's a popular spot for walk-in customers. Be prepared for a potential wait during busy times.
There is no dress code. Xoi Yen is a casual dining spot, so wear whatever is comfortable for exploring Hanoi.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Xoi Yen is renowned for its delicious and generously topped sticky rice bowls. It's a classic Hanoi street food experience that locals and tourists alike rave about.
Popular toppings include chicken, fried egg, pork floss, lap cheong (Chinese sausage), and crispy fried shallots. The 'mix meat set' is a great way to try a variety.
Meals are very affordable. A basic sticky rice bowl can cost around 22,000 VND, while a mixed meat set might be around 45,000 VND, plus a small VAT.
While the focus is on meat toppings, you can likely customize your bowl with just the sticky rice and vegetable accompaniments like pickled cucumber and fried shallots. It's best to inquire directly.
Common drinks include soya milk, Vietnamese iced coffee, and bottled water. Some reviewers found the soya milk a bit too sweet.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant colors of the sticky rice bowls piled high with toppings. The bustling atmosphere and the preparation process also make for great shots.
Yes, it's generally acceptable to take photos of your food and the general ambiance. Be mindful of other diners and avoid intrusive photography.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer lighting. However, the lively daytime atmosphere also provides a unique photographic opportunity.
The 'mix meat set' with its variety of colorful toppings is particularly photogenic. The sheer abundance of ingredients makes for an impressive visual.
It's best to avoid using flash, especially during busy periods, as it can be disruptive. Natural light is usually sufficient for capturing the deliciousness of the food.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🍜 Foodies & Culinary Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring Appeal of Xoi Yen
The popularity of Xoi Yen is evident in the constant stream of customers, even during heavy rain. This enduring demand highlights its status as a go-to spot for a satisfying and authentic Vietnamese breakfast or meal. The establishment's well-managed operations, with staff in company t-shirts and a clear division of labor, contribute to a smooth dining experience despite the crowds.
For many, Xoi Yen represents a taste of home and tradition. The sticky rice, described as chewy and flavorful, is a canvas for a generous array of toppings that create a complex and satisfying dish. It's a testament to how a simple dish can become a beloved icon through dedication to quality and flavor.
Crafting Your Perfect Xoi Yen Bowl
Next comes the exciting part: choosing your toppings. The 'mix meat set' is a crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Expect to find ingredients like fried boiled eggs, cha (Vietnamese meatloaf), pork floss, lap cheong (Chinese sausage), and a sprinkle of crispy fried shallots. The variety ensures there's something for every palate, making each bowl a unique creation.
Beyond the popular meat options, Xoi Yen also offers accompaniments like pickled cucumbers, which add a refreshing tang to cut through the richness of the sticky rice and toppings. While some reviewers mention the green bean paste not being a personal highlight, the overall consensus is that the generous portions and the quality of ingredients make for a highly satisfying and value-for-money meal.
Navigating the Xoi Yen Experience: Tips from Travelers
When it comes to ordering, while some locations may offer English menus, it's helpful to know a few key terms or simply point to what looks appealing. The 'mix meat set' is a safe and popular bet for a comprehensive taste. Don't be surprised by the Vietnamese-style low tables and chairs, which are typical of many casual eateries in Hanoi.
For those concerned about portion sizes, many reviewers note that a single serving of Xoi Yen is quite substantial and can easily be shared, offering excellent value for money. While the sticky rice is generally praised for its chewiness and flavor, some find it a bit dense. Overall, the experience is about enjoying a hearty, authentic, and affordable meal that's a true Hanoi staple.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit