Brian Jeffrey
A Memorable Culinary Experience in Hanoi
Ken, a businessman from Japan, recently enjoyed a brief vacation in Hanoi with his girlfriend, where they took the opportunity to sample the local delicacies.
As he often travels abroad for work, Ken has made it a habit to create a tourism vlog highlighting the unique cuisines he encounters during his journeys.
On previous trips to Vietnam, Ken frequently opted for traditional dishes like pho (noodles with beef or chicken) and banh my (Vietnamese bread). However, this time, he and his girlfriend chose to explore bun cha (Hanoi-style grilled pork and vermicelli noodles).
Bun cha is a famous dish that represents the culinary heritage of Hanoi.
The couple dined at a renowned eatery on Hang Manh street, which boasts a 60-year history within the bustling Hoan Kiem business district.
Being a weekend, the restaurant was busy, with most outdoor seating taken.
After reviewing the menu, they ordered two portions of bun cha and a serving of nem (fried spring rolls), which came generously accompanied by fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lettuce, and perilla leaves.
Kanna, Ken’s girlfriend, found the dish visually appealing. As a food enthusiast, she eagerly tried the vermicelli dipped in fish sauce and praised its flavor.
She noted that the taste reminded her of tsukemen (dipping ramen) and somen (thin cold Japanese noodles served with a soy-based sauce).
Ken was equally impressed, declaring, “It’s really delicious. I’m adding this to my list of must-try foods.”
They also enjoyed the nem ran, with Kanna remarking on its deliciousness, even though she wasn’t familiar with its name.
This restaurant is recognized as one of the top Michelin Selected spots of 2023.
Ken noted that he now understands the restaurant’s popularity, stating, “I regret only thinking of banh my and pho when I could have learned about bun cha sooner.”
