Bun Bo Hue is one of the most iconic dishes in Vietnamese cuisine, known for its rich and spicy broth, tender beef, and fresh herbs. Originating from Hue, a city famous for its royal heritage and unique culinary style, this dish captures the essence of central Vietnam’s flavor.
If you’re a fan of Vietnamese cuisine, Bun Bo Hue is a must-try! This iconic dish, known for its rich broth and flavorful ingredients, can be found in some of the best restaurants across Vietnam. Join us as we explore the top 8 Bun Bo Hue Restaurants that promise to deliver an unforgettable dining experience, showcasing the authentic flavors of this beloved specialty. Whether you’re in Hue or nearby cities, these spots are sure to satisfy your cravings!
Top 8 Bun Bo Hue Restaurants: A Taste of Central Vietnam
Show table of content
- 1. Overview of Bun Bo Hue
- 1.1 History of formation
- 1.2 Ingredients
- 1.3 How to enjoy Bun Bo Hue
- 1.4 Why is Bun Bo Hue famous – The distinctive taste of Hue cuisine?
- 2. Top 8 the best Bun Bo Hue Restaurant
- 2.1 Madam Thu Restaurant – Taste of Hue
- 2.2 Madam Tuyet Local Restaurant
- 2.3 Bun Bo Cam – Local Restaurant
- 2.4 Madam Keo Local Restaurant
- 2.5 Bun Bo Hue – Madam Gai local Restaurant
- 2.6 Bun Bo My Tam
- 2.7 Bun Bo Mrs.Ty
- 2.8 Mrs Nga – Local Restaurant
- 3. How to experience Bun Bo Hue
- 3.1 Join a Hue Street Food Tour
- 3.2 Hue Cooking Class – Learn to cook Bun Bo Hue yourself
- 3.3 Use a Map, Rent a Motorbike or Walking
- 4. Other Famous Dishes in Hue
- 4.1 Nem lui (GRILLED CHOPPED PORK)
- 4.2 Khoai Cake (STUFFED RICE PANCAKE)
- 4.3 Beo, Nam and Loc Cake
- 4.4 Bun Hen
- 4.5 Bun Thit Nuong
1. Overview of Bun Bo Hue
1.1 History of formation
There are many stories about the origins of this special dish. People often tell each other that Bun Bo Hue actually comes from the ancient Van Cu Village – which is still regarded as the “cradle” of the famous chewy Hue noodles. According to historical records, Bun Bo Hue is mentioned as a dish that appeared on royal dining tables long ago, and it’s unclear when it began to weave its way into all the nooks and crannies of the former imperial city. Over time, the dish became popular among the common people, evolving into the beloved street food that we enjoy today. The “Hue” in its name signifies its origin, and this historical connection is what makes Bun Bo Hue special.
1.2 Bun Bo Hue Ingredients
The main ingredients in Bun Bo Hue are rice vermicelli noodles (bun), beef (bo), pork, and a flavorful broth. The broth is made by boiling beef bones with lemongrass, giving it a fragrant aroma, while shrimp paste and chili oil add the signature spicy and umami flavors. It’s usually topped with slices of beef shank, pork knuckles, congealed pig’s blood, and sometimes crab balls. Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, and banana blossoms are served on the side to enhance the flavor.
1.3 How to enjoy Bun Bo Hue
Bun Bo Hue is traditionally served with a side of fresh vegetables, including banana blossoms, cabbage, and bean sprouts, along with a squeeze of lime and some chili for extra heat. To fully appreciate its taste, diners mix the fresh herbs and vegetables into the steaming bowl. It’s common to slurp the noodles and sip the broth, which enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
1.4 Why is Bun Bo Hue famous – The distinctive taste of Hue cuisine?
Bun Bo Hue stands out in Vietnamese cuisine due to its bold and distinctive flavors. Unlike the northern Pho or southern dishes, it embodies the balance of spicy, salty, sour, and sweet that Hue cuisine is known for. The broth is the essence, the pinnacle of cuisine, crafted from beef bones simmered with lemongrass, shrimp paste, and chili oil. It’s not just a dish—it’s a reflection of Hue’s history and culture.
2. Top 8 the best Bun Bo Hue Restaurant
2.1 Madam Thu Restaurant – Taste of Hue
Located in the center of Hue City, Madam Thu’s Bun Bo Hue is renowned for its authentic taste, capturing the perfect balance of rich broth and tender beef. The restaurant prides itself on using high-quality ingredients and preserving the traditional recipe.
At Madam Thu Restaurant, the highlight is not just the renowned Bun Bo Hue, but also a delightful array of Hue specialties, including Nem Lui (GRILLED CHOPPED PORK), Banh Khoai (STUFFED RICE PANCAKE), Nam Cake (RECTANGULAR DUMPLING), and Loc Cake (CLEAR DUMPLING). Often hailed as a culinary paradise for those visiting Hue, this restaurant offers a warm and inviting ambiance that beautifully captures the essence of traditional royal Hue. The charming service from the staff adds to the experience, making it one of the most sought-after dining destinations for tourists in recent times.
Address 1: 04 Vo Thi Sau Street
Address 2: 45 Vo Thi Sau Street
Opening: 10:00 AM – 22:00 PM
2.2 Madam Tuyet Local Restaurant
The Bun Bo brand here has been around for decades, so it is extremely popular and always crowded. This humble spot is famous among locals and tourists alike. Madam Tuyet’s Bun Bo Hue has a spicy, fragrant broth that leaves a lasting impression. Her family has been making this dish for generations, ensuring each bowl is a masterpiece.
Address 1: 47 Nguyen Cong Tru, Phu Hoi Ward, Hue City.
2.3 Bun Bo Cam – Local Restaurant
Bun Bo Cam is known for its rich and hearty broth. Situated near Hue’s iconic landmarks like Huong River, Truong Tien Bridge, Walking Street, and Toa Kham Wharf…, it is a popular stop for travelers. The restaurant uses fresh ingredients from local markets, ensuring an authentic Hue experience.
Address 1: 45 Le Loi, Phu Hoi Ward, Hue City.
2.4 Madam Keo Local Restaurant
Me Keo beef noodle shop is the affectionate name given by locals to the traditional noodle stall that has been around for a long time in the ancient capital. Me Keo beef noodles are considered one of the oldest beef noodle dishes in Hue. This is a small yet well-loved place where locals come to enjoy Bun Bo Hue in its most traditional form. The broth here is intensely flavorful, with just the right amount of spice.
Address 1: 20 Bach Dang Street, Phu Cat Ward, Hue City.
2.5 Bun Bo Hue – Madam Gai local Restaurant
Madam Gai’s restaurant is tucked away on Ha Noi Street, serving one of the best versions of Bun Bo Hue in the city. Her secret is a long-simmered broth packed with depth and complexity. Those who are fans of beef noodle soup cannot forget Ba Gai beef noodle soup. Although the restaurant is small, it is still bustling with guests, especially from early morning to late at night, so this is a suitable address for those who like to eat late at night.
Address 1: 11A Ha Noi Street, Vinh Ninh Ward, Hue City.
2.6 Bun Bo My Tam
At My Tam, the Bun Bo Hue is slightly milder in spice but still rich in flavor. It’s a great spot for travelers who want to enjoy this dish in a relaxed setting.
Address 1: 05 Tran Cao Van, Vinh Ninh Ward, Hue City.
2.7 Bun Bo Mrs.Ty
Known for its affordable price and authentic taste, Mrs. Ty’s Bun Bo Hue is a popular choice among budget travelers and locals alike. The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere makes it a welcoming place to enjoy this Hue specialty. This beef noodle shop is famous for its incredibly friendly owner. The delicious vermicelli might not be as amazing as the owner’s enthusiasm and charming smile. That’s why, even though the shop is tucked away in a little alley, it’s always bustling with customers coming in and out.
Address 1: 33/9/15 Alley 33 Nguyen Cong Tru, Phu Hoi Ward, Hue City.
2.8 Mrs Nga – Local Restaurant
For a truly local experience, Mrs. Nga’s Bun Bo Hue is a hidden gem. Located in a quiet neighborhood, the restaurant offers a homely feel, and the dish is prepared using a family recipe passed down through generations.
Address 1: 62 Nguyen Chi Dieu, Phu Hau Ward, Hue City.
3. How to experience Bun Bo Hue
3.1 Join a Hue Street Food Tour
To truly appreciate Bun Bo Hue, joining a Hue flavor street food tour is a great option. These tours often take you to the best spots, where you can learn about the history and culture behind the dish while enjoying various local delicacies.
3.2 Hue Cooking Class – Learn to cook Bun Bo Hue yourself
For those who want a hands-on experience, taking a Hue cooking class is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the cuisine. You’ll learn how to prepare Bun Bo Hue from scratch, understanding the intricacies of each ingredient and cooking technique. Madam Thu Restaurant is the ideal destination for those looking for a place to take a cooking class with a chef, join a Hue Cooking Class Tour and you will be able to cook delicious Hue beef noodle soup with traditional flavors.
3.3 Use a Map, Rent a Motorbike or Walking
If you prefer exploring on your own, simply rent a motorbike or walk around Hue’s streets. The city is full of small, family-owned Bun Bo Hue restaurants. Use a map to find the best-rated places and enjoy the adventure of discovering Hue’s food scene.
4. Other Famous Dishes in Hue
Besides Bun Bo Hue, Hue is also known for other delicious dishes that represent its rich culinary tradition:
4.1 Nem lui (GRILLED CHOPPED PORK)
Grilled minced pork skewers served with rice paper, fresh vegetables, and herbs. The dish is enjoyed by wrapping the skewers in rice paper and dipping them in a special peanut sauce. The dish is a favorite not only among locals but also visitors, making it one of the must-try foods when exploring Hue’s vibrant street food scene.
The best-recommended places for Nem Lui in Hue:
- Hue Mung Nem Lui Restaurant – 134 Truong Chinh Street.
- Hong Mai Restaurant – 110 Dinh Tien Hoang Street.
- Mrs.Ty Restaurant – 81 Dao Duy Tu Street.
4.2 Khoai Cake (STUFFED RICE PANCAKE)
It is similar to the more well-known Banh Xeo, but smaller and thicker, with a unique flavor that reflects Hue’s royal culinary traditions. This is a crispy pancake made from rice flour and stuffed with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. It is typically served with a flavorful dipping sauce and fresh herbs.
The best-recommended places for Banh Khoai in Hue:
- Hanh Restaurant – 11-15 Pho Duc Chinh Street.
- Hong Mai Restaurant – 110 Dinh Tien Hoang Street.
- Lac Thien Restaurant – 06 Dinh Tien Hoang Street.
- Hue orca cake at Lang Chuon market.
4.3 Beo, Nam and Loc Cake
Three popular Hue steamed rice cakes. Banh Nam is a flat, steamed rice cake with shrimp and pork, Banh Beo is a small, round rice cake topped with dried shrimp, and Banh Loc is a chewy, translucent dumpling filled with shrimp and pork, all served with fish sauce for dipping. Beo, Nam, Loc are three famous street foods that have been cherished by the Hue people for a long time. Behind these humble dishes lies a reflection of the culture and cuisine of the ancient capital’s people.
The best-recommended places for Nam, Beo, Loc Cake in Hue:
- Hue Xua Restaurant – 01 Nguyen Binh Khiem Street.
- Banh Chi Restaurant – 52 Le Viet Luong Street.
- Mrs. Do Restaurant – 08 Nguyen Binh Khiem Street.
- Trang Neko Food – 30 Ly Tu Trong Street.
4.4 Bun Hen
A unique noodle dish made with baby clams, vermicelli noodles, and a variety of herbs, served either dry or with a light broth. It’s a specialty of Hue, known for its fresh and bold flavors. This is a rustic dish loved by the locals. Nowadays, Bun Hen has become one of the favorite specialties and is widely introduced to tourists when coming to Hue. This dish carries the uniqueness and characteristics of Hue’s culinary culture.
The best-recommended places for Bun Hen in Hue:
- Hoa Dong Restaurant – 64/7 Ung Binh Street, Vy Da Ward, Hue City.
- Hue Nho mussel noodle shop – 228 Pham Hong Thai Street.
- Com Hen Dap Da – 01 Han Mac Tu Street.
- Com Hen – Bun Hen Lanh – 38 Ngo Gia Tu Street.
4.5 Bun Thit Nuong
Grilled pork noodles served with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy fish sauce. The combination of savory grilled meat and the freshness of the herbs makes this dish a popular choice for locals and tourists alike.
The best-recommended places for Bun Thit Nuong in Hue:
- Mrs. Ty: 81 Dao Duy Tu Street.
- Phuong Restaurant: 38 Ba Trieu Street.
- Hanh Restaurant: 11-15 Pho Duc Chinh Street.
Bun Bo Hue is not just a dish; it’s an experience that reflects the rich history, culture, and culinary heritage of Hue. Whether you savor it at a local street vendor or a renowned restaurant, the taste of Bun Bo Hue will leave a lasting impression on your journey through Vietnam. Come to Hue and experience this dish with the flavor of the ancient capital, which leaves many travelers nostalgic and unforgettable.
Exploring the top 8 Bun Bo Hue Restaurants offers a delightful journey into the heart of Vietnamese cuisine. Each restaurant on this list not only serves a delicious bowl of Bun Bo Hue but also embodies the rich cultural heritage of Hue. From the fragrant, spicy broth to the tender beef and fresh herbs, these establishments provide an authentic taste that transports diners straight to the streets of Hue.
