Early morning at Banh Cuon Ba Hoanh (Mrs. Hoanh’s banh cuon) shop in Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi, is always bustling with customers eagerly enjoying the delicious dishes served. The shop has a rich history spanning over 70 years.

The origin of the shop dates back to Mrs. Hoanh, who started selling Thanh Tri banh cuon on the streets of Hanoi before eventually opening her shop on To Hien Thanh Street. The popularity of the shop grew over the years, leading to its expansion and loyal customer base.

Banh cuon is often described as the quintessential snack of Hanoi, with Thanh Tri banh cuon known for its delicate texture and fragrant taste. Maintaining the traditional flavor of Thanh Tri banh cuon has become a rarity in modern times.

Despite advancements in technology, the family at Mrs. Hoanh’s Banh Cuon continues to make the rice rolls by hand, ensuring quality and authenticity. The shop gained recognition when its dish was served at a high-profile summit in Hanoi.

To create the perfect banh cuon, the process begins with selecting premium rice, which is ground and filtered meticulously to achieve a smooth batter. The steaming technique is crucial to achieving the ideal thin and chewy texture of the rice rolls.

Over the years, the menu at the shop has expanded to include various options, including hot banh cuon with meat filling alongside the traditional cold banh cuon with cha moc. Each dish is served with a flavorful dipping sauce that complements the banh cuon.

An exclusive ingredient at Banh Cuon Ba Hoanh is ca cuong, a unique water bug that adds a distinctive flavor to the dishes. While uncommon, this ingredient has attracted curious customers eager to try something new.

The shop’s reputation has earned it a spot in the Michelin Guide 2024 as one of the selected restaurants in Hanoi, signifying its commitment to preserving the authentic taste of its cuisine.

Customers can enjoy a range of traditional snacks along with banh cuon at the shop, all prepared with the same dedication to quality and taste. Despite occasional complaints about pricing, the shop continues to attract visitors seeking an authentic culinary experience.

With a loyal customer base and a blend of tradition and innovation, Mrs. Hoanh’s banh cuon remains a must-visit establishment in Hanoi for locals and tourists alike.