Hanoi Old Quarter

It’s a cute place with modern yet warm design reminiscent of those small eateries in old town Hanoi but cleaner and not as cramped. They serve a good variety of northern Vietnamese dishes especially those unique to Hanoi. Service can be a tad slow around peak hours but still prompt and friendly nonetheless. Ordered Nem cua bể (crispy fried crab meat roll) and the iconic Chả cá Lã Vọng (turmeric spiced grilled fish with dill). The fish is pan seared on the tabletop propane grill which makes it a fun and unique experience. The pieces are tender, aromatic and nicely spiced with turmeric and galangal. Comes with plenty of fresh dill which is the signature trademark of this unique dish. Having eaten this dish numerous times in Hanoi, I’d say it’s quite authentic and packed with nice layers of flavor. The Nem cua bể can be a little bit crispier in my opinion, but still very good and delicious. I recommend this place for those wanting something a bit different than the typical Vietnamese fare found in SoCal. What will make this place even better is Bia Hanoi or Bia Saigon that will pair very nicely with the Bún chả or other dishes there for that matter.

We stopped by Hà Nội Old Quarter in Garden Grove since we were in the area and wanted to try some authentic Northern Vietnamese food. We ordered the Nem Cua Bể (crab spring rolls), which were crispy and flavorful, and the Bún Chả Hà Nội, my favorite dish—grilled pork with vermicelli, fresh herbs, and dipping sauce that was smoky and comforting. We also tried the Bún Đậu Mắm Tôm, which came with rice vermicelli, fried tofu, fried fermented pork roll, spring rolls, and a house-made fermented shrimp sauce. Very traditional and bold in flavor. Service was okay and seating was a bit tight, especially during busy times. Overall, it was okay , a good go-to spot if you’re in the area and want to explore Northern Vietnamese dishes beyond pho.

1. The Vietnamese dishes were delicious and comforting! I really like the bun cha Ha Noi! 2. The spot has chill casual vibes! The interior has high ceilings! 3. The staff was friendly and timely with our order! It was ready in about 10 mins! Note: There is a restroom available for customers! Photo: Bun Dau and Bun Cha Ha Noi

One of the best bun dau mam tom in the area. The fermented shrimp paste is very yummy but is an acquired taste. The safer option is the bun cha thit nuong, aka grilled meat patty and grill met soaked in fish sauce and served with rice noodles.

Late-night gem in Little Saigon, Hanoi Old Quarter hits the spot! Love, love, love everything about this place. We were hangry after a late flight into John Wayne Airport and drove straight here at 11 PM for a bite before our cousin’s wedding weekend. Thankfully, they’re open until midnight, what a lifesaver! After a bit of confusion locating them (they’re in the back lot of the plaza, parallel to Brookhurst St, not facing Westminster), we called and the staff were so kind and helpful. They confirmed they were still open, took note of our party size, and welcomed us. We got there around 11:25 PM, and food came out quickly after we ordered. What we ordered: - Xôi Gà (Chicken Sticky Rice), $14.95 So, so, so delicious! Perfect seasoning, tender chicken, and just all-around comfort food. First time trying it here and it blew us away. We even wanted to order more to bring home but the kitchen had closed. We’ll definitely return just for this dish alone! - Nem Cua (Crab Rolls), $11.95 Loved the crispiness of the rice wrapper, light, crunchy, and satisfying with every bite. The filling was balanced with herbs and texture. A beautifully executed appetizer. - Miến Gà Trộn (Dry Chicken Glass Noodles), $16.55. We especially loved that it came with chicken intestines (liver, heart, gizzard), such a treat. The sauce was a bit sweet for our taste, but we easily balanced it with fresh lime juice. And speaking of limes: This place deserves 5/5 rave from me just for how they cut their limes! Juicy wedges, not stingy little slivers, such a small thing, but it really shows care and thought. Most places don’t get this right, and it makes a big difference. The only weak spot? The broth served on the side, very bland and forgettable. - Canh Bún, $16.55: Overall a solid dish with flavorful broth and noodles, but the huyết (pork blood jelly) had a very strong “hôi” smell, a sign of poor storage and or prep. It turned us off a bit. Next time, we’d ask for the dish without it. Good to know: - Open 7 days/week from 10 AM – Midnight (Last order taken at 11:45 PM) - Tables set for both small and big groups in relatively small space - Plenty of parking in the back lot - No toilet seat covers (just a heads-up) We’re so grateful this place was open late, and we’re already planning to return. Hanoi Old Quarter is a gem for homestyle Northern Vietnamese comfort food, especially if you’re out late or want something beyond the usual.