Hanoi's iconic pho with beef.

Vietnam’s capital is among seven famous Asian "food paradises" mentioned in the newspaper’s listing of 20 best food tours in the world. The six others are Bangkok, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Vientiane and Mumbai. The Guardian said "the fascinating mix of Vietnamese cuisine with Chinese, French and American influences is part of Hanoi’s considerable charms." It recommended visitors tasting Hanoi’s signature dishes like banh cuon (steamed rice paper roll), and pho (rice noodle soup).

US news site Business Insider last October published a list of 50 must-try attractions, foods and experiences in Asia, and among them was "a steamy bowl of pho in Hanoi".