Chris and Steph, a traveling duo from Canada, run a YouTube channel with over 250,000 subscribers, where they document unique culinary experiences from around the globe.

Hanoi, dubbed their “paradise of street food,” is a destination they return to often. In addition to trying well-known eateries, the couple actively seeks out hidden street food gems known mostly by locals.

They’ve previously featured beloved Hanoi staples like cha ca (grilled fish) on Phung Hung Street, banh gio on Thuy Khue, and bun dau in Ngo Gach - all favorites among Hanoians.

Their latest discovery was a small sidewalk eatery on Huong Vien Street in Hai Ba Trung District, where they eagerly tried a non-traditional version of bánh mì filled with fried fermented pork rolls (nem chua ran) and French fries.

Unlike the classic fillings of pâté, eggs, or cold cuts, this “bánh mì nem khoai” sandwich features crispy pork and potatoes, topped with tangy sauces and creamy mayonnaise.

Many Vietnamese viewers of the video commented that this combination is unfamiliar even to them, as it’s more popular among younger crowds.

The street stall has been serving this fusion sandwich for nearly 20 years. Initially catering to students from nearby Tran Nhan Tong High School, it gradually attracted office workers and young food lovers. Priced at VND25,000 (about USD1), the bánh mì is generously filled and flavorful.

Its crispy bread pairs perfectly with the fluffy potatoes, tangy-crunchy nem, and rich sauces like mayonnaise, chili, and ketchup.

“The nem is made from fermented pork, battered and deep-fried. It’s super crispy on the outside but soft inside - it reminds me of chicken nuggets,” Steph said.

“Combined with the fries and sauces, the bánh mì has a flavor completely unlike any other I’ve had. It’s delicious, cheap, and absolutely worth trying.” 
Sticky rice speed show draws tourists

The couple also stopped by the now-famous xôi May (May sticky rice) stall on Ly Thuong Kiet Street in Hoan Kiem District.

Once a small street cart serving only locals, the stall gained attention after videos showcasing the vendor’s “lightning-fast sticky rice slicing” skills went viral online. Customers often gather around, intrigued by the owner's swift and skillful service.

Xôi xeo, a traditional Hanoi breakfast dish, is known for its meticulous preparation. A typical bowl includes sticky rice, thinly shredded mung beans, golden crispy shallots, and fatty scallion oil, topped with side dishes like pork floss, cinnamon sausage, egg, or stewed pork.

Chris ordered a xôi thập cẩm (mixed sticky rice bowl) with all the toppings for VND37,000 (about USD1.50). The golden, glossy sticky rice was served piping hot, topped with soft mung beans and crispy shallots.

“The sticky rice is incredibly glutinous and delicious,” Chris said while chewing. “The mung beans are smooth - almost mashed potato-like - but blend beautifully with the rice. The fried shallots add a great crunch, and the pork fat gives it richness.”

He also appreciated the perfectly cooked side dishes, especially the pork belly and fried egg.

“I absolutely love the cha (Vietnamese pork sausage). This dish combines everything I enjoy about Vietnamese food,” he added.

The shop currently offers four types of sticky rice: corn, mung bean, peanut, and gac (baby jackfruit), each served with a range of toppings. According to the owner, Ngoc Anh, all ingredients are homemade, giving the dish a unique family flavor.

The stall operates from 5:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with queues forming early each morning as customers line up to get their breakfast fix.