Boiled snails

Boiled snails are a beloved street food treat in Hanoi, especially popular in the late afternoon or evening. Fresh snails are carefully cleaned, then boiled with lemongrass, lime leaves, ginger, and chili, creating an irresistible aroma. The dish is served with a flavorful dipping sauce that’s a perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy, often with thin slices of ginger. Enjoying hot snails while chatting with friends is a cozy, classic Hanoi experience. It’s a simple dish, but one that leaves a lasting impression.

Beyond the traditional boiling method, snails in Hanoi are also prepared in various creative ways like stir-frying with tamarind sauce, sautéing with coconut, steaming with herbs, or grilling with scallion oil. Each preparation offers its own unique flavor and is a hit with locals and visitors alike. These dishes are often enjoyed at small, bustling eateries or sidewalk stalls. More than just food, boiled snails bring people together, offering a reason to gather and unwind. Around a warm bowl of snails, life in Hanoi slows down just a little.

You can find great boiled snails all over the Old Quarter. The eateries are usually small and simple, but filled with warmth, conversation, and the enticing aroma of snails. A steaming bowl paired with the signature sauce in a lively, casual setting makes the experience even more memorable.

Recommended spots:

Ốc Luộc Đinh Liệt – 1A Dinh Liet Street ( a cozy and always-crowded place with excellent dipping sauce )

Ốc Trang – 55 Cua Bac Street (more spacious with a wide variety of snail dishes )