A Glimpse Into Hue's Ancient Charm

Hue is a province in Central Vietnam, bordered by Laos, the East Sea, Quang Nam, Da Nang, and Quang Tri. The city is renowned for its poetic, peaceful, and gentle beauty—a charm that makes almost anyone dream of visiting Hue at least once in their lifetime.

A journey to the former imperial capital offers visitors the chance to admire majestic golden palaces, solemn royal tombs, and historical landmarks imbued with time. These elements combine to create the unique allure of Hue. Travelling to Hue evokes deep emotions and lasting impressions for visitors from all over. Those who have been to this ancient city often find themselves reluctant to leave. Many travellers wonder, what is it about Hue that draws people back again and again? It’s a feeling that’s hard to describe—one you must experience for yourself.

Hue Boasts Stunning And Unique Architecture

The palaces and royal tombs reflect the grandeur of Nguyen Dynasty architecture—solemn, ancient, and majestic. Despite undergoing various restorations, these heritage sites have remarkably preserved their original spirit and Vietnamese identity.

A Green, Clean, And Beautiful City

In Hue, it’s common to see locals actively participating in environmental protection campaigns—cleaning streets, picking up trash along the Huong River, and encouraging eco-friendly transport like cycling. These small efforts contribute to making Hue a “green-clean-bright” city in the eyes of visitors.

Hue People Are Kind And Gentle

Locals here are especially friendly and welcoming. They greet strangers with warm smiles and are always willing to help. If you ever find yourself lost or unsure of directions in the imperial city, don’t hesitate to ask—you’ll be met with genuine hospitality.

Captivated by the royal court music of Hue

“Nhã nhạc cung đình” (Royal Court Music) is a cultural gem and a pinnacle of Vietnamese musical heritage, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. While in Hue, make sure to listen to this unique art form—it’s an experience not to be missed.

What Makes Hue's Cuisine Truly Unique 

Hue’s poetic charm lies not only in the Huong River, Mount Ngu Binh, or its grand palaces and tombs, but also in the hands of its talented and skillful people who have crafted a distinctive cuisine that captures the essence of this beautiful land. Just the thought of Hue’s signature dishes is enough to stir cravings among travelers, leaving them wishing for another taste.

Hue’s cuisine is known for its bold, well-defined flavors. To the people of Hue, food reflects the philosophy of life itself—a harmony of saltiness, sweetness, richness, nuttiness, sourness, bitterness, and spiciness—with each taste standing out clearly on its own.

The culinary heritage of Hue is a result of generations of creativity, boasting more than 1,700 dishes ranging from royal delicacies to humble folk food. It represents a harmonious blend of regional influences, embodying the cultural fusion and evolution of different areas across Vietnam.

Hue’s cuisine is a perfect balance—it can be elegant and sophisticated or simple and rustic, yet always refined through skillful preparation and thoughtful seasoning. Even the most humble dishes become a delight thanks to the artistry behind them. Hue locals are true gourmets. Their meticulous approach to food goes beyond selecting ingredients—they pay equal attention to seasoning, preparation, and especially presentation. Each dish feels like a carefully crafted piece of art.

Whether it’s a luxurious royal dish or a rustic street snack, Hue’s food has a magical way of enchanting those who try it—evoking a quiet awe, lingering long after the last bite. It’s as though each dish carries not just flavor but a soul—a touch of Hue’s spirit, shaped lovingly by the delicate hands of its women.

Today, Hue may no longer be a major political or economic center, but it remains a living museum of Vietnam’s imperial past—preserving the elegant lifestyle and traditions of a bygone era. And without a doubt, its culinary culture plays a vital role in shaping the identity and charm of Hue’s people.

Top 10 Must-Try Dishes On Your Hue Street Food Tour

Bún Bò Huế (Hue Beef Noodle Soup) 

When talking about Hue’s specialities, it’s impossible not to mention the iconic “Bun bo Hue”—a bold, flavorful beef noodle soup that perfectly embodies the Central region’s signature taste: rich and slightly spicy, unlike anything found elsewhere.

A proper bowl of bún bò Huế typically includes tender beef slices, pork leg, congealed pig’s blood, beef sausage, and crab rolls. One distinctive feature is the noodles—they must be thick and round, unlike the thinner varieties used in Northern or Southern Vietnamese noodle soups.

Today, you can find bún bò in many cities across Vietnam, but only in Hue, when enjoying it in the crisp morning air, do you truly experience its full, authentic flavor—hearty, spicy, and deeply comforting.

Recommended places to try bún bò in Hue:

Bún Bò mệ Kéo

Address: 20 Bach Dang Street, Phu Cat Ward, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue Province

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM

Price Range: 20,000 VND – 30,000 VND 

Bún Bò Huế Mỹ Tâm

Address: No. 5 Tran Cao Van Street, Vinh Ninh Ward, Hue City

Opening Hours: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM

Price Range: 25,000 – 40,000 VND 

Bánh Bèo (Steamed Rice Discs with Shrimp)

Banh Beo may be found throughout Vietnam, but few people know that this delightful dish actually originated in Hue. Unlike other rice cakes, Hue’s version features a smooth, tender batter steamed in small, shallow dishes. Each serving is topped with The dish is topped with crispy fried shallots, shredded dried shrimp or pork, crunchy pork cracklings, and finished with a drizzle of sweet and tangy fish sauce.

Top places to try Banh Beo in Hue:

Bánh bèo Huế Sương

Address: 4 Doan Huu Trung Street, Hue City

Opening hours: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Price range: 10,000 – 12,000 VND

Quán bà Đỏ

Address: 08 Nguyen Binh Khiem Street, Hue City

Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 9:30 PM

Price range: 10,000 – 50,000 VND

Bánh Nậm (Flat Steamed Rice Dumplings)

Banh nam is a traditional Hue dish that can be enjoyed either as a snack or a main course. Wrapped in dong leaves, each flat, steamed rice cake features a smooth layer of white dough topped with savory minced shrimp and pork. It’s best enjoyed with a tangy-sweet fish sauce and a slice of green chilli, bringing out the true taste of Hue in every bite.

Simple yet irresistible, banh nam captures the essence of local cuisine — rustic, humble, but deeply flavorful. If you’re wondering what to eat in Hue, this dish should be at the top of your list!

Where to try banh nam in Hue

Quán bà Đỏ

Address: 08 Nguyen Binh Khiem Street, Hue City

Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 9:30 PM

Price range: 10,000 – 50,000 VND

Bánh Nậm Trung Bộ

Address: 16 To Hien Thanh Street, Hue City Center

Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 7:30 PM

Price Range: 20,000–35,000 VND

Bánh Bột Lọc (Clear Tapioca Dumplings)

Banh bot loc (Hue-style clear shrimp and pork dumplings) may not be unfamiliar to many, but in Hue, it is considered a must-try local specialty. This traditional dish comes in two versions: wrapped in banana leaves or served bare. The outer layer is made from tapioca flour, creating a soft and chewy texture. Inside, you’ll find a savory mix of minced shrimp and pork, best enjoyed with a sweet and sour dipping fish sauce.

Recommended places to try:

Bánh lọc Huế bà Vân

Location 1 (Takeaway Only): 106B Luong Ngoc Quyen Street, Thuan Loc Ward, Hue City—Specializes in uncooked dumplings as gifts.

Location 2 (Dine-in): 17 An Cu 2, Da Nang City

Opening Hours: 7:00 AM–10:00 PM

Price Range: 15,000 VND–25,000 VND

Nem Lụi (Grilled Pork Skewers)

Nem lui is not exclusive to Hue, but in this city, the dish takes on a uniquely unforgettable flavor. The main ingredients include finely minced pork mixed with thinly sliced pork skin, shaped around bamboo skewers, and grilled over charcoal until golden and fragrant.

This dish is typically served with rice paper, vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, green mango slices, and, most importantly, a thick, flavorful dipping sauce that is considered the soul of the dish and truly sets Hue’s version apart.

Some of the best nem lụi spots in Hue

Nem lụi Huế Tài Phú

Address: No. 2–4 Dien Bien Phu Street, Hue City

Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 10:30 PM

Price range: 25,000 – 130,000 VND 

Nem lụi Huế bà Tý

Address: 81 Dao Duy Tu Street, Phu Binh Ward, Hue City

Opening hours: 2:00 PM – 10:30 PM

Price range: 6,000 – 20,000 VND per portion

Vả Trộn (Mixed Fig Salad)

Va tron is made from vả fruit, a type of fig fruit related to the common fig tree. In the past, it was a dish prepared for family gatherings or special occasions like Tet (Lunar New Year). Nowadays, as you explore Hue, you can easily find fig salad served everywhere—from street stalls to local eateries. Despite its humble origins, simple preparation, and inexpensive ingredients, this dish carries a distinctive charm. Those who try it often find themselves captivated by its unique flavor.

Some of the best vả trộn spots in Hue

Buffalo restaurant

Address: 68 Nguyen Huu Tho Street, Xuan Phu Ward, Hue City, Vietnam

Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Price range: 40,000 VND–400,000 VND

Quán Sông Xanh - Hải Sản Đồng Quê 

Address: 103 Nguyen Lo Trach Street, Xuan Phu Ward, Hue City, Vietnam

Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Price range: 30,000 VND–250,000 VND

Cơm Hến (Clam Rice)

Clam Rice (Cơm Hến) may not be a particularly rare dish and can be found in many places across Vietnam, but in Hue, it becomes a true specialty thanks to its unique flavor. This dish consists of cooked white rice left to cool, then topped with baby clams, crispy pork fat, fermented shrimp paste, and various seasonings. It’s served with fresh herbs, banana blossoms, bean sprouts, and finely sliced white taro stems.

Cơm Hến reflects the distinct culinary style of Hue—it’s a dish best enjoyed in its hometown, where the flavors truly shine. If you have a chance to visit Hue, don’t miss out on this simple yet deeply flavorful local delicacy!

Recommended places to try Cơm Hến in Hue:

Quán Nhỏ 

Address: 28 Pham Hong Thai Street, Hue City

Opening hours: 06:00 AM – 10:00 AM

Price range: 20,000–39,000 VND

Cơm Hến Hoa Đông

Address: 64 Kiet 7 Ung Binh Street, Hue City

Opening hours: 07:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Price range: 7,000–100,000 VND

Bánh Khoái (Hue Sizzling Pancake)

Another must-try Hue's specialty is banh khoai—a unique type of crispy pancake originating from the former imperial city. While it may resemble bánh xèo at first glance with its golden crispy crust, bánh khoái sets itself apart with its filling: shrimp, pork rolls, small local fish (cá kình), and fresh bean sprouts. The pancake is typically shaped in a round mold and pan-fried to perfection.

This dish is best enjoyed with a thick, savory dipping sauce and a side of fresh herbs, which together create a rich, balanced flavor that’s both nutty and satisfying. For many locals, bánh khoái is more than just street food — it’s a taste of home and childhood memories that linger long after they’ve left Hue.

Recommended places to try bánh khoái:

Bánh Khoái Chị Hạnh:

Address: 11 Phu Duc Chinh Street, Hue City

Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Price range: 20,000 – 55,000 VND

Bánh Khoái Thu Sương

Address: 86 Kim Long Street, Hue City

Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Price range: 10,000–20,000 VND

Chè Huế (Hue Sweet Soup)

When talking about Hue, it would be a big miss to overlook che (Vietnamese sweet soup), a signature dish that represents the essence of Hue’s cuisine. Hue is home to hundreds of varieties of chè, each with its own unique flavor and intricate preparation—from lotus seed sweet soup (chè hạt sen), longan stuffed with lotus seed (chè nhãn bọc hạt sen) to colorful delights like chè sương sa hạt lựu, roasted pork sweet soup (chè thịt quay), taro sweet soup (chè môn sáp vàng), and chè bông cau. Crafted by the delicate hands of Hue's women, these sweet soups captivate visitors with their subtly rich flavors that are truly unique and unlike any other in Vietnam.

Some of the Best Chè Shops in Hue

Chè Hẻm Huế

Address: No. 1, Alley 29, Hung Vuong Street, Hue City

Opening Hours: 08:00 AM – 09:00 PM

Price Range: 10,000 VND–25,000 VND

Chè Cung Đình Huế

Address: Le Loi Street, Hue City

Opening Hours: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM

Price Range: 17,000 VND – 40,000 VND

Bánh Ram Ít (Fried Sticky Rice Dumplings)

What make banh ram it special is its two-part structure: a soft, sticky steamed dumpling (bánh ít trần) placed atop a crispy fried rice cake. This clever combination not only enhances texture—soft on top, crispy underneath—but also makes the sticky dumpling easier to handle and eat. According to locals, this dual-layer form arose from the practical need to avoid getting sticky fingers while still enjoying the chewy delight. The first bite of Bánh Ram Ít offers a burst of flavors and textures that will leave a lasting impression on any first-time visitor.

Recommended Places to Try Bánh Ram Ít in Hue:

Bánh O Lé

Address: 104/17/19 Kim Long Street, Hue City

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Price Range: 15,000 VND – 35,000 VND

Tips For Your Unforgettable Hue Street Food Adventure

To make the most of your culinary journey in Hue, consider these tips designed to enhance your experience:

Join a Hue Cooking Class Tour: For a deeper dive into Hue cuisine, consider a cooking class tour. This hands-on experience lets you learn about ingredients and preparation directly from local chefs. For example, the Hue Cooking Class Tour offers a chance to visit a local market, cook authentic Hue dishes, and then enjoy your creations. It's a fantastic way to turn a simple meal into a memorable culinary education.

Exploring Local Markets: Hue's local markets, like Dong Ba Market, are vital to its food culture. They offer a sensory experience and an abundance of fresh ingredients. Observe locals, and always carry cash (Vietnamese Dong), as most stalls don't accept cards. It's a wonderful spot to sample street snacks and watch dishes being prepared.

Best Time to Embark on Your Food Quest

Morning: Ideal for breakfast favorites like Bún Bò Huế, Bánh Bèo, or Cơm Hến.

Late Afternoon/Evening: The street food scene comes alive with a wider variety of vendors offering Nem Lụi, Bánh Khoái, and an array of Chè (sweet soups), often in cooler temperatures.

10 Must-Try Dishes In Hue You Can't Miss 

From steaming bowls of bún bò Huế to crispy bites of bánh khoái, from delicate chè cung đình to the chewy-crispy harmony of bánh ram ít, Hue’s street food is more than just sustenance—it’s a journey through the soul of Vietnam’s former imperial capital. Each dish tells a story of heritage, creativity, and pride, crafted by generations of skilled hands and flavored with the warmth of the local people.

Whether you’re wandering the alleys in search of hidden culinary gems or sitting down for a royal-inspired feast, Hue offers a street food experience that is as rich in flavor as it is in history. So bring your appetite and curiosity, because in Hue, every bite is a cultural adventure—and one you’ll find yourself craving long after your trip ends.

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