Discover Hanoi’s must-try dish: shrimp cakes at Banh Tom Ho Tay, a historic restaurant overlooking West Lake, offering the authentic taste of tradition.
 
When visiting Hanoi, one dish you absolutely cannot miss is Banh Tom—crispy shrimp cakes that have become an iconic part of the city's culinary culture. Overlooking the tranquil West Lake, Banh Tom Ho Tay is the go-to restaurant for this delicious specialty. A no-frills establishment with its signature green plastic chairs, it has remained a favorite among locals and visitors alike for generations.

A Taste of History
The origins of banh tom trace back to the 1930s when small street vendors began setting up stalls along Thanh Nien Street, a scenic road separating West Lake and Trúc Bạch Lake. As the shrimp cakes grew in popularity, the government consolidated many of the vendors into a single restaurant along the waterfront. Thus, Banh Tom Ho Tay was born, and it has been serving this signature dish ever since.

Despite its humble appearance, the restaurant has become a beloved fixture, where friends and families gather to enjoy afternoons filled with crispy, savory shrimp cakes and chilled bia hoi (local draft beer), all while taking in the serene views of the lake.

The Making of Banh Tom
What makes these shrimp cakes special is their simplicity. Made with only a few main ingredients—freshwater shrimp or crayfish from West Lake, flour, and sweet potato—the cakes are surprisingly time-intensive to prepare. Unlike other fried seafood dishes where the shrimp is ground into a paste, the shrimp in banh tom is left whole and placed on top of the crunchy cake, giving the dish its signature texture.

Traditionally served with lettuce for wrapping, and accompanied by a dipping sauce of chili, lime juice, and fish sauce, these cakes offer a perfect balance of crispy, savory, and tangy flavors.

While upscale restaurants have since reimagined and modernized this dish, Banh Tom Ho Tay remains the top choice for those seeking the authentic experience.

Why It’s a Must-Try
In Hanoi, if you mention banh tom, it’s impossible not to bring up Banh Tom Ho Tay. This restaurant is special not only for its delicious shrimp cakes but also for its rich history and connection to the city's culinary traditions. Though shrimp cakes can now be found at many restaurants across Hanoi, the authentic version from this iconic spot offers a unique taste of the city’s past.

Getting There
Located on Thanh Nien Street, Banh Tom Ho Tay is easy to find and a perfect stop after a leisurely walk around West Lake. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, experiencing the crispy shrimp cakes at this historic restaurant is a must on any Hanoi itinerary.