Bun Ngan Ha Noi
When exploring traditional food in Hanoi, bun cha and pho are often mentioned first. However, bun ngan (duck noodle soup) is a true local favorite that deserves equal attention.
Light, aromatic, and deeply satisfying, bun ngan reflects the subtle elegance of Northern Vietnamese cuisine.
Bun Ngan – Hanoi’s Traditional Duck Noodle Soup
Bun ngan. Photo: Bui Thuy
Bun ngan is made with:
- Tender boiled duck slices
- Soft rice vermicelli noodles (bun)
- Clear duck broth
- Fresh herbs
- Garlic vinegar (dam toi)
- Ginger fish sauce
The duck is boiled with crushed ginger to remove any strong smell and enhance fragrance. The broth is light and clean, slightly sweet from duck bones, and never greasy.
Unlike heavier noodle soups, bun ngan feels refined and balanced.
How locals eat bun ngan
- Taste the broth first.
- Add a spoonful of garlic vinegar.
- Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper.
- Adjust chili if desired.
- Dip duck slices into ginger fish sauce for stronger flavor.
Garlic vinegar is essential — it brightens the broth and cuts through the richness of the duck.
Bun ngan is typically eaten for lunch, though many shops serve it into the evening.
Beyond Bun Ngan – Other Delicious Duck Dishes
In Hanoi, duck restaurants (quan ngan) rarely serve only bun ngan. Most places prepare one whole duck and turn it into several different dishes.
Two of the most popular additions are ngan luoc and ngan chay toi.
Ngan Luoc – Classic Boiled Duck
Ngan luoc is the foundation of many duck dishes.
Ngan luoc. Photo by Bui Thuy
The duck is:
- Boiled with ginger
- Cooled to keep the skin smooth and glossy
- Chopped into bite-sized pieces
- Served on a plate
It is eaten with:
- Ginger fish sauce
- Fresh herbs
The flavor is clean, slightly sweet, and highlights the natural taste of the duck.
Many locals order a bowl of bun ngan and share a plate of ngan luoc at the same time.
Ngan Chay Toi – Garlic Fried Duck
If you prefer something richer and more aromatic, try ngan chay toi.
Preparation usually involves:
- Boiling the duck first
- Deep-frying until the skin becomes lightly crispy
- Stir-frying with generous amounts of golden fried garlic
The result is:
- Crispy skin
- Tender meat
- Strong garlic aroma
This dish is usually ordered separately and shared among the table. It is especially popular for dinner and pairs well with beer.
Where To Eat Bun Ngan in Hanoi
Here are some well-known duck spots in Hanoi:
Bún ngan Nhàn
Address: 39 Hàng Thiếc
Price: 50,000 – 70,000 VND per bowl
Very popular for tender duck and balanced broth.
Bún ngan Bà Thông
Address: 56 Hàng Cân
Price: 45,000 – 65,000 VND per bowl
Known for generous portions and strong garlic vinegar flavor.
Bún ngan Hàng Bông
Address: Hàng Bông Street
Price: 40,000 – 60,000 VND
Simple, affordable, and authentic local experience.
Price Guide
Typical prices in Hanoi:
- Bun ngan: 40,000 – 70,000 VND
- Ngan luoc (small plate): 120,000 – 200,000 VND
- Ngan chay toi: 150,000 – 250,000 VND
Prices vary depending on portion size and location.
Final Thoughts
Bun ngan may not be as internationally famous as bun cha, but it represents another essential layer of Hanoi’s food culture.
From light duck noodle soup to crispy garlic duck, these dishes show how one ingredient can be transformed into multiple flavors and textures.
If you want to explore authentic Northern Vietnamese cuisine beyond the usual tourist favorites, bun ngan and its accompanying duck dishes are a perfect place to start.
