Warm and Comforting: 5 Must-Try Congee Spots in Hanoi
Congee (Vietnamese-style rice porridge) is one of those dishes that carries a sense of comfort – it’s easy to eat, easy to love, and has a way of soothing the soul. For Hanoians, congee isn’t just a dish for sick days. It’s a light breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or a warm late-night meal after a long day. If you're in search of an authentic Hanoi-style bowl of congee – smooth, flavorful, and satisfying, here are 5 beloved spots that you definitely shouldn’t miss in this capital.
1. Cháo sườn sụn Huyền Anh – A Legendary Nighttime Spot in Đồng Xuân Market
Located right across from one of the Old Quarter’s busiest markets, Huyền Anh is a long-time favorite for night owls. The congee is prepared in traditional style: finely ground rice cooked into a thick, hot porridge. Tender rib cartilage adds a delightful bite, paired with savory shredded pork floss, crunchy fried dough sticks, and a dash of pepper – a true midnight comfort.
📍 Address: 14 Dong Xuan, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
🕒 Opening hours: 6:00 PM – 2:00 AM
2. Cháo ngon Hà Nội – Cô Là Lý Quốc Sư
A staple among Hanoi congee lovers, this small sidewalk stall often draws long lines of loyal customers waiting for a bowl. Here you’ll find traditional rib congee with a rich and silky texture, topped with fried dough, pork floss, and tender rib cartilage. The flavor is well-balanced – mildly sweet from the rice, savory from the floss, and gently spicy with pepper. One taste, and you’ll likely come back for more.
📍 Address: 2A Ly Quoc Su, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
🕒 Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM & 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
3. Quán Nhất Cháo – Famous Taiwanese Rib Congee
Nhất Cháo is one of the best spots for congee in Hanoi. It’s best known for its Taiwanese-style rib congee – a rich combination of long-simmered porridge and tender, flavorful marinated pork ribs. Try it with sweet and sour stir-fried liver and the house’s signature sauce for the best experience. In addition to rib congee, the menu features other options like chicken liver & corn congee, beef congee, and three-flavor congee. You’ll also find popular Taiwanese snacks like shrimp dumplings, siu mai, black bean chicken feet, and lava buns.
📍 Address: 8A Hang Tre, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
🕒 Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 2:00 AM
4. Cháo Cô Hồng – A Local Gem with Quail Egg Rib Congee
Tucked in a small alley on Lương Sử C Street, Cô Hồng’s shop is always buzzing with regulars. A full bowl comes with rib cartilage, minced pork, fried dough, crispy shallots, shredded pork floss, herbs, and quail eggs. What sets this place apart is the addition of finely sliced perilla leaves, which, when paired with the eggs, give the congee a unique and unforgettable flavor.
📍 Address: 37 Luong Su C, Dong Da, Hanoi
🕒 Opening hours: 6:30 AM – 9:30 AM | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
5. Cháo sườn sụn Bà Lai – Flavorful and Budget-Friendly
Hidden in a small alley near Chợ Mơ Market, Bà Lai’s congee shop is famous for its affordability and surprisingly high quality. The congee is well-simmered with pork ribs, achieving a consistency that’s neither too thick nor too watery. A full bowl includes rib cartilage, minced meat, mushroom floss, and homemade pork floss – all prepared fresh daily, ensuring a clean and tasty meal.
📍 Address: 452 Bach Mai, Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi
🕒 Opening hours: 3:30 PM – 10:00 PM
