Coronavirus-Themed Burgers in Vietnam: A Viral Twist to the Best Restaurants in Hanoi

🍔 When Creativity Meets Crisis: The Birth of a Virus-Inspired Burger

In the heart of Hanoi, a chef decided to flip fear into flavor. During the peak of the pandemic panic, Vietnamese chef Hoang Tung took an unusual approach to lift community spirits — he started crafting Coronavirus-Themed Burgers in Vietnam.

Yes, you read that right. These green, spiky buns shaped like the infamous virus weren’t just made to go viral on social media, but also to boost morale and bring a bit of humor into dark times.

And surprisingly? They tasted amazing.

For those planning a trip to Vietnam, this isn’t just food — it’s a slice of cultural resilience on a plate.

🎨 The Making of the Coronavirus Burger

• Shape: Resembles the coronavirus molecule with spiked green buns.

• Color: The bun is dyed using green tea powder or vegetable-based coloring.

• Taste: Juicy pork or beef patty, pickled veggies, and a homemade sauce blend.

The idea, according to the chef, was to show that “if you're scared of something, you should eat it.”

This edible “enemy” started trending fast — from Facebook to Instagram to local news channels. What was meant to be a small, light-hearted initiative soon turned into a food trend that attracted tourists and locals alike.

📍 Where to Find These Burgers in Hanoi

You can grab a bite at Pizza Home in Hanoi, the original spot where Chef Hoang Tung introduced this concept. While the trend may not be as viral in 2024 as it was in 2020, the legacy of that burger — and creative food innovation — still lives on in Vietnam’s street food and restaurant culture.

🇻🇳 Why This Burger Became a Cultural Icon

1. Symbol of Positivity: In a time of fear, it brought smiles and conversation.

2. Support for Local Business: Encouraged people to continue supporting small eateries during lockdown.

3. Viral Marketing Masterstroke: Proof that creativity and good food are the best combo.

🍴 Trip to Vietnam? Here's Why Hanoi's Food Scene Is a Must-Explore

Beyond quirky burgers, Hanoi offers one of Southeast Asia’s richest and most authentic culinary scenes. From roadside stalls to luxury rooftop restaurants, there’s something for every palate and budget.

🍜 Best Restaurants in Hanoi to Explore

Let’s now move beyond the virus and dive into the best restaurants in Hanoi that should be on your foodie bucket list.

1. Bun Cha Huong Lien

• Why it’s famous: Visited by Barack Obama and Anthony Bourdain

• Specialty: Bun Cha – grilled pork with noodles and herbs

• Cost: Budget-friendly (~$3–$5)

2. Pizza 4P’s

• Vibe: Modern fusion with Japanese-Italian influence

• Try: Burrata cheese pizza, made fresh in-house

• Great for: Couples and date nights

3. Pho Thin

• Reputation: Among the best places for authentic Pho

• What to try: Pho Bo (beef noodles)

• Location: Lo Duc Street

4. Home Hanoi Restaurant

• Ambience: Elegant dining in a French colonial villa

• Cuisine: Traditional Vietnamese with modern presentation

• Try: Grilled eggplant, spring rolls, lotus root salad

5. Cau Go Vietnamese Cuisine

• View: Overlooks Hoan Kiem Lake

• Perfect for: Sunset dinner

• Highlights: Crispy soft-shell crab, seafood hotpot

6. Banh Mi 25

• Street food legend

• Signature: Crispy baguette with pork, pâté, veggies

• Open: Morning till late night

7. The Hanoi Social Club

• Vibe: Artistic, hipster café

• Popular With: Expats and remote workers

• Must-try: Veggie burgers, chia seed smoothies

8. Sen Tay Ho Buffet

• Style: Buffet-style Vietnamese feast

• Good for: Large groups

• Bonus: Located by West Lake with outdoor seating

9. Cha Ca Thang Long

• Dish of fame: Cha Ca – turmeric fish with dill

• Unique cooking style: Cooked at the table with a portable stove

10. Green Tangerine

• Location: Old Quarter

• Vibe: French-Vietnamese fusion in a 1920s building

• Perfect for: A romantic evening

11. An Cafe

• Highlights: Vegan and health-friendly options

• Try: Avocado smoothies, tofu bowls

12. Quan An Ngon

• Concept: Street food court-style setup in a refined environment

• Perfect for: Sampling many Vietnamese dishes in one go

13. T.U.N.G Dining

• Luxury pick: Michelin-star experience

• Style: Tasting menus with Vietnamese-European fusion

• Chef’s Special: Foie gras with tropical fruit glaze

14. Maison de Tet Decor

• Café + art gallery

• Charming setting: Lakeside, ideal for brunch

• Try: Local coffee and banana pancakes

15. La Badiane

• Award-winning: French fine dining with a twist

• Why go: Excellent service and wine selection

• Must-have: Duck breast in orange sauce

🧳 Packing Tips for Your Foodie Trip to Vietnam

• Carry loose clothes — you'll eat more than you think.

• A power bank to charge phones for those food Instagram moments.

• Google Translate app for navigating local menus.

• Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated between meals).

📅 Best Time to Visit Hanoi for a Foodie Tour

• Spring (March to April) and Autumn (October to November) offer ideal weather.

• Lunar New Year (Tet) is exciting but many places may close — plan accordingly.

📌 Final Thoughts: Food with a Side of Heart

The story of Coronavirus-Themed Burgers in Vietnam reminds us that food is more than taste — it’s emotion, culture, and creativity on a plate. And when paired with the culinary depth of the best restaurants in Hanoi, you don’t just eat—you experience a nation.

So if you’re planning your trip to Vietnam, come with an open heart and an empty stomach. From quirky burgers to five-star cuisine, this country knows how to serve more than just a meal — it serves a memory.

Bon Appétit and Chúc Ngon Miệng! 🇻🇳🍴