Xoi in Hanoi: Sticky Rice for Breakfast

Before Hanoi fully wakes up, xoi is already everywhere: tucked into baskets, scooped from steaming pots, wrapped for commuters and carried away on motorbikes.

It does not have pho’s international fame, but xoi may tell you more about an ordinary Hanoi morning because it fits real life so well — warm, filling, inexpensive and easy to take away.

What Is Xoi in Hanoi?

Xoi is glutinous rice steamed until the grains cling together while still keeping some chew. It can be sweet or savoury, plain or loaded with toppings, and there are dozens of regional and family variations across Vietnam.

The Hanoi Version Many Locals Grow Up With: Xoi Xeo

Xoi xeo is one of northern Vietnam’s most recognisable versions. Yellow sticky rice is topped with thinly shaved mung bean, fried shallots and often a little chicken fat or oil. The result is richer than it looks: soft rice, powdery mung bean and crisp shallots in the same bite.

Other Savoury Orders to Know

Xoi ga adds shredded or chopped chicken. Xoi cha pairs sticky rice with Vietnamese pork sausage. Some shops add braised pork, pate, eggs or floss, turning what started as a simple breakfast into a very substantial meal.

Sweet Xoi Is a Different World

Sweet versions may include mung bean, black beans, peanuts, coconut, gac fruit or sesame. They can appear at breakfast, family gatherings, temple offerings and celebrations, so xoi is not only an everyday commuter food; it also has a ceremonial side.

Why It Fits the Morning So Well

Sticky rice holds heat, travels well and keeps people full. That makes it ideal for school runs, office mornings and market workers who need something more substantial than a pastry but do not have time to sit over a bowl of noodles.

How to Order

• Xoi xeo for the classic northern mung-bean version.

• Xoi ga if you want something familiar and filling.

• Ask what toppings are available rather than assuming every stall has the same menu.

• If you see a busy basket vendor early in the morning, buy then; small vendors often finish when their batch is gone.

Why Travelers Miss It

Xoi is not visually dramatic. It rarely arrives in a beautiful bowl and often gets handed over in paper or a takeaway box. That is exactly why it is worth noticing. It is food built for people who are going somewhere, not food built to be photographed.

Pair this with our guide to Where to Eat in Hanoi Old Quarter, or discover more everyday dishes on Taste of Hanoi.

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Dung (Emma) Co-founder of Beyond Vietnam

Xin chào! I’m Dung, but many travellers call me Emma. I grew up on the outskirts of Hanoi, and no matter how far I travel, this busy and slightly chaotic city still feels most like home.

I’ve explored Vietnam on my own and with the people I love, while also spending years volunteering and joining community projects. Along the way, I’ve collected plenty of stories, local tips and unforgettable moments. I share them here to help you feel closer to Hanoi and Vietnam, hopefully even before you arrive.

You can also find me on Facebook. Come and say hi!

Explore the bigger guide: Breakfast in Hanoi