Bia Hoi and Bap Xao

The best way to soak up the Vietnamese street atmosphere is in a bia hoi, quaffing cheap beer with the locals.

In Hanoi it is generally served cold enough to drink on its own however you have the option of asking for ice cubes. Squatting on your tiny plastic stool just above street level, tends to get some great views. While you watch the chaotic traffic, pushcarts will pass you by vying for your attention along with the booksellers. Some sing out, others give you a nod and a wink to order some of their food.





Bap xao is just one of the many tasty snacks you can order whilst drinking at a bia hoi. The vendor wheels his cart over to you, lights his gas flame, out comes the wok. Once hot he adds some oil, garlic, red chillies, tiny shrimp, corn kernels and perhaps a few green herbs. He stir-fries for about 5 minutes and voila!. The sweetcorn kernels are chewy, the garlic and chillies give it that extra punch and the tiny shrimp are salty and add a crunch to the texture. Its the perfect compliment to a beer.