Designated as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2025! The Allure of Bun Bo Hue and 6 Must-Visit Restaurants in Hue

Welcome to Hue, the cultural heart of central Vietnam!

 The ancient capital of Hue, which still retains the vestiges of the imperial dynasty, spreads along the beautiful Perfume River. It captivates travelers not only with historical architecture but also with its delicate, profound culinary culture. Among its specialties, Bun Bo Hue can be considered one of Hue’s signature dishes.

On July 6, 2025, Bun Bo Hue was officially registered as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage of Vietnam. This is a great source of pride not only for the people of Hue but also for Vietnamese culinary culture as a whole.

This time, based on my own experience of living in Hue for four years while attending university, I will introduce six carefully selected Bun Bo Hue restaurants from among the many delicious places I have visited—especially those I recommend most.

From long-established traditional eateries to convenient spots open late at night, I chose places with good access that are easy to stop by between sightseeing.

 I hope this article helps you fully savor the charm of Bun Bo Hue!

 

1. What is Bun Bo Hue? — From the imperial court to a regional icon

Bun Bo Hue is a noodle soup dish originating from central Vietnam, especially Hue.

 Unlike the light, clean flavors of pho, Bun Bo Hue is characterized by a rich, full-bodied broth with a spicy kick. Its exquisite balance of sweetness, saltiness, acidity, and heat gives it a unique Hue identity.
 

Imperial origins

Although there are no official documents confirming it, many believe that Bun Bo Hue (Bún Bò Huế) took shape during the Nguyen Dynasty and was influenced by imperial cuisine known for its strict ingredient selection and elaborate preparation. Over time, the dish spread into daily life and became an indispensable part of breakfast for the people of Hue, enjoyed everywhere from small stalls to long-standing eateries.
 

The artistry of flavors in a bowl | 7 elements behind Bun Bo Hue

Below are the elements packed into one bowl:
• Broth: A fragrant, spicy broth made by slowly simmering beef bones and pork trotters, then finishing with lemongrass, red onion, mắm ruốc (fermented shrimp paste), and chili.
• Noodles: Round, thick, and pleasantly springy, they pair perfectly with the piping-hot broth.
• Beef: Slices of lean meat or shank, tender and moist.
• Pork trotters: Their gelatinous collagen adds richness to the soup.
• Congealed pig’s blood and crab cake/paste (depending on the shop): Adds variety in texture and flavor.
• Aromatic herbs and vegetables: Shredded green papaya, bean sprouts, and herbs such as cilantro and mint add freshness and crunch.

All of these harmonize to complete a heartwarming bowl that conveys the history and climate of Hue.

2. Where does Bun Bo Hue’s appeal lie? — The secrets behind its special taste

Broth: Spicy and rich — a flavor that wins you over in one sip

 Bun Bo Hue’s broth is created by simmering a beef bone stock for hours and then adding fragrant lemongrass, red onion, chili oil, and Hue’s specialty fermented shrimp paste, mắm ruốc.

 Naturally sweet and umami-rich, the broth is visually striking with its red aromatic oil floating on top. It’s pleasantly spicy yet deeply savory, setting it apart from other noodle dishes.
 

Noodles: Thick, bouncy, and satisfyingly hearty

 Bun Bo Hue noodles are thicker and rounder than typical rice noodles, with a slightly chewy, unique texture. They pair beautifully with the broth and stay hot until the end. One slurp is sure to bring a smile of satisfaction.
 

Mắm ruốc: The soul of Hue, the key hidden seasoning

 Mắm ruốc is a traditional seasoning unique to the Hue region, made by naturally fermenting small shrimp. In Bun Bo Hue, it is used to marinate the beef or added sparingly to the broth, giving the entire dish depth and complexity.

 Even in small amounts, it decisively shapes the aroma and flavor — truly worthy of being called “the taste of Hue.”
 

3. Tips for eating it right — Advice for overseas travelers

The deliciousness of Bun Bo Hue comes not only from quality ingredients but also from a delicate way of eating that brings out its unique flavors. Below are recommended steps to enjoy it even more:

Mắm ruốc

Add about half a teaspoon of mắm ruốc. If you’re used to spicy flavors, you can add more. If it’s your first time, start with less.
 

Chili and lemon (or calamansi)

Squeeze in some chili and lemon (or calamansi) for a bright accent.
 

Mix the herbs and noodles well

Mixing the herbs thoroughly with the noodles unifies the flavor.
 

Best enjoyed while hot

It’s best to enjoy it hot to capture the aroma and depth of the broth at their peak.

4. Notes when enjoying Bun Bo Hue at a shop: Things to know

Bun Bo Hue, a Hue specialty, is a breakfast staple for locals. To make the most of your chance to try it where it originated, keep the following points in mind. Useful both for first-timers and for those who’ve had it many times.
 

Choose the shop carefully

・Recommendations from locals are the most reliable. If that’s not possible, check Google Maps, social media, and food blogs.
・Be aware that many reviews are for advertising purposes; assess ratings with a cool head.
・Choosing a shop near your accommodation saves time and hassle.
・Before visiting, check basic info like location, opening hours, atmosphere, price range, and menu composition.
 

Mind the hours — Early birds win

・Since Bun Bo Hue is commonly eaten for breakfast, many shops are open only from around 6:00 to 10:00 a.m.
・Some places do serve lunch or dinner, but they are fewer in number; check hours in advance for peace of mind.

Condiments and toppings — What’s free and what’s paid?

・Tables typically have free condiments like satế (chili paste), nước mắm (fish sauce), fresh chili, lime, and raw vegetables. Adjust to your taste.

・However, extras like nem (fermented meat), chả lụa (pork ham), and chả cua (crab paste/cake) are usually charged separately. If you want to save money, confirm prices before you order.

Eating in is recommended

・More shops now offer takeout, but Bun Bo Hue is best enjoyed on the spot.
・Savoring the steaming broth, crisp fresh vegetables, and fragrant spices right there lets you experience its true charm.

Watch the saltiness — A Hue hallmark

・People in Hue tend to prefer a well-salted, bold flavor.
・Those accustomed to milder tastes (especially travelers from northern Vietnam or Japan) may find it easier to eat by adding more lime or extra vegetables to adjust the flavor.



If you’re still wondering “Where can I try authentic Bun Bo Hue?”, don’t worry.

Right after this, we’ll introduce several delicious and well-regarded Bun Bo shops you should try when visiting Hue — from traditional institutions to popular places loved by both locals and travelers.

5. Where to eat Bun Bo Hue in Hue? 7 must-visit spots recommended by a local insider!

Bun Bo Hue is a signature dish that represents Hue. As a student, it was my go-to for breakfast and late-night meals — a beloved soul food. If you’re traveling, you’ll want to try it at least once, but with so many shops, you might be wondering, “Where should I go?”

So here are six carefully curated shops I actually tried and loved during my four years living in Hue.

From classic local institutions to clean, accessible spots easy for travelers to visit, and convenient late-night eateries — we’ve picked a variety of styles.

Each shop has its own personality, with different seasonings, toppings, and atmospheres. Be sure to compare bowls during your stay and find your favorite.

Let’s dive into the recommended Bun Bo Hue shops in order!
 

Bun Bo Hue Mệ Kéo — A legendary local favorite for over 70 years

If you want to taste authentic, traditional Bun Bo Hue, “Bun Bo Mệ Kéo” is unmissable. With a history of over 70 years, it’s a beloved classic, popular with both locals and tourists across generations.

The name “Mệ Kéo” honors the original owner; “Mệ” is a Vietnamese word expressing familiarity and respect for an elderly woman. Though modest and small, the shop draws long lines in the morning.

A key feature here is the self-service system. Order directly at the kitchen, pick up your bowl yourself, and bring it to your table. If you want extra greens, you’ll need to fetch them yourself. It might feel a bit challenging for overseas visitors, but it’s a precious chance to experience an authentic local vibe.

Hours are limited to around 6:00–10:00/11:00 a.m., so early morning is the best time to visit. Enjoy a simple yet profound bowl that evokes the history of Hue.
 

Shop	Bún bò Mệ Kéo
Address	20 Bạch Đằng, tổ 19, Huế, Thành phố Huế
Hours	06:00–11:00
Price	~50,000 VND (~280 yen)

 

Hue specialty “Cẩm” — A Bun Bo Hue specialist recommended for tourists | Near the Perfume River

For travelers who want to enjoy authentic Bun Bo Hue easily in between sightseeing, “Cẩm” is a great choice. Located on Hue’s main street, Lê Lợi, right next to Century Riverside Hotel and within walking distance of the night street, it boasts excellent access.

The interior is clean, and the staff are polite and friendly. It’s also one of the few shops certified by the city of Hue to carry the official “Bun Bo Hue” trademark, earning solid reputations for flavor and quality.

The broth is deep and flavorful, with pronounced notes of lemongrass and fermented shrimp paste (mắm ruốc). Toppings are generous and varied: additive-free crab balls, beef shank, beef ham, spare ribs, pig’s blood jelly, and more.

You can choose from small, medium, and large sizes depending on appetite and timing. Prices start at 40,000 VND (about 230 yen) for a regular bowl, and 60,000 VND (about 340 yen) for the special “Đặc Biệt” with all toppings (¥1 JPY = 176.8 VND) — great value for money.

Clean, reliable, and conveniently located, “Cẩm” is perfect for Bun Bo Hue beginners and foreign travelers. Be sure to stop by when you visit Hue!
 

Shop	Quán Cẩm – Bún bò Huế
Address	45 Lê Lợi, Phú Hội, Huế, Thành phố Huế
Hours	06:00–21:00
Price	40,000 - 60,000 VND (230–340 yen)

 

Since 1992! Late-night Bun Bo Hue at “Mỹ Tâm” — A hidden gem in Hue
 

If you’re looking for a hearty late-night Bun Bo Hue, the long-established “Mỹ Tâm,” founded in 1992, is recommended. Loved by locals for over 30 years, it’s also welcoming to tourists, with consistent flavors and service.

The noodles are slightly thinner and softer, while the broth balances a clean sweetness with fragrant lemongrass. It’s not greasy and has a gentle taste. All toppings are fresh and plentiful — one bowl is satisfying enough.

Prices come in two options:
40,000 VND: Value mixed (without char siu)
65,000 VND: Special all-in (6 types: pork trotter, beef, beef tendon, crab ball, chả, and blood jelly)

The special is quite hearty, perfect for a proper meal.

Another charm of this shop is the warm, attentive staff. English is limited, but everyone tries their best with a smile, so foreign travelers can dine with confidence.

There’s also parking (cars OK), convenient for families and groups.

If you want something warmer and more substantial than fast food, or if you need a Bun Bo Hue place open late, “Mỹ Tâm” is definitely recommended.
 

Shop	Bún Bò Huế Mỹ Tâm
Address	3 Trần Cao Vân, Vĩnh Ninh, Huế, Thành phố Huế
Hours	06:00–00:00
Price	30,000 - 50,000 VND (170–280 yen)

 

Bún Bò Huế Sen — A gentle-tasting Bun Bo Hue in the Westerners’ quarter

Located in the Westerners’ quarter of Da Nang that attracts many foreign travelers, “Bún Bò Huế Sen” is a popular shop.

 With a clean, simple interior and attentive service, it’s easy even for first-timers to enter.

This Bun Bo Hue isn’t the traditional bold flavor; the broth is on the lighter side and gentle on the palate. Instead of pork trotter, it uses spare ribs (bone-in pork), making it less heavy and easier to eat.

Each bowl includes a balanced mix of beef, spare ribs, pig’s blood jelly, and crab balls, plus plenty of fresh greens on the side.
It’s perfect for those interested in Bun Bo Hue but not fond of strong flavors, and for beginners to Vietnamese cuisine.
 

Shop	Bún Bò Huế Sen
Address	69 Võ Thị Sáu, Phú Hội, Huế, Thành phố Huế
Hours	06:00–23:30
Price	40,000 - 70,000 VND (230–400 yen)

 

Bun Bo Hue Mụ Rơi — A Hue classic preserving tradition with wood-fired simmering

Located near the historical “Hue Imperial Citadel,” Mụ Rơi is renowned for preserving old-fashioned cooking methods for Bun Bo Hue.

Its greatest feature is that the broth is still simmered over a wood fire. The owner says, “I’ve considered switching to an electric stove, but it would lose the smoky aroma of wood,” and has steadfastly protected the traditional taste over many years.

The broth is carefully simmered using fresh ingredients sourced directly from the slaughterhouse, resulting in a natural sweetness and deep richness. It’s unforgettable after one taste, drawing many repeat customers.

Another specialty here is Bun Bo Hue with “chả cua” (crab cake). These handmade crab balls are fluffy in texture and rich in flavor, pairing perfectly with the broth. Made without preservatives and kneaded with care, one bite will have you hooked.

If you want to enjoy a taste long loved by locals and a truly local atmosphere, this is the place. It’s a must for travelers seeking a deep, authentic food experience in Hue.
 

Shop	Bún Bò Mụ Rơi
Address	40 Nguyễn Chí Diểu, Phú Hậu, Huế, Thành phố Huế, Việt Nam
Hours	06:00–10:00
Price	30,000 - 60,000 VND (170–340 yen)

 

Bún Bò Cảnh Vân — With rice on the side!? A unique Hue way to eat 

“Bun Bo with rice?”

 It may sound surprising at first, but in Hue, the style of “Bun Bo Hue + white rice” has long been common. You can experience this unique food culture at “Bún Bò Cảnh Vân,” located right by Hue’s largest local market, Dong Ba Market (Chợ Đông Ba).

Dong Ba Market is Hue’s largest local market and a popular spot for souvenirs and Vietnamese food. Its location makes it perfect to stop by while sightseeing.

At this shop, a small bowl of white rice is served free with your Bun Bo. Since the noodles are light and not as filling, the “Hue way” is to eat rice alongside when you want to be fully satisfied.

The broth has a fragrant fish sauce aroma and robust umami, while toppings are plentiful — chả (pork paste), pork trotters, beef, and more. It’s a bowl long loved by locals.

It’s perfect for travelers who want to experience the truly local “real Hue.” Combine it with a stroll around Dong Ba Market and give it a try.
 

Shop	Bún bò cơm nguội Cảnh Vân
Address	198B kiết 4 Chi Lăng tổ 3, Phú Cát, Huế, Thành phố Huế
Hours	05:30–11:00
Price	25,000 - 40,000 VND (141–226 yen)

 

Bún Bò Hạnh — A super-sized crab cake and a rich Hue flavor

Located near An Cuu Market, “Bún Bò Hạnh” is a popular local spot.

 Its appeal lies in a rich broth with pronounced lemongrass and Hue’s characteristic fermented shrimp paste (mắm ruốc).

Its biggest highlight is a “super-sized crab cake (fried crab paste)” that takes up half the bowl!
 The handmade chả cua, packed with crab flavor, is made fresh daily and offers a luxurious treat you won’t often find elsewhere.

The clean interior and quick service are also highly rated.
 It’s a hidden gem recommended for solo travelers and groups alike.
 

Shop	Bún Bò Huế Sen
Address	69 Đặng Văn Ngữ, An Đông, Huế, Thành phố Huế
Hours	07:00–21:00
Price	30,000 - 50,000 VND (169–282 yen)

 

6. Summary | Bun Bo Hue: A bowl that lets you taste Vietnamese culture

Bun Bo Hue is the representative dish of Hue in central Vietnam. It goes beyond being a simple local food, telling the story of the region’s culture and history.

In 2025, it was officially registered as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage of Vietnam, drawing increasing attention and acclaim both domestically and internationally.

This dish harmonizes a spicy broth with beef, crab paste (chả cua), and plenty of fresh herbs and vegetables. It’s not only deeply delicious but also a valuable experience that conveys the heart and traditions of the people of Hue.

When you visit Hue, be sure to savor a steaming bowl at a local shop.
 One bite will bring you closer to Vietnamese culture.
Don’t forget to add Bun Bo Hue to your must-eat list when traveling in Hue.

❓ Differences between Bun Bo Hue and Pho & 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What’s the difference between Bun Bo Hue and Pho? 2. Is Bun Bo Hue always spicy? 3. Can I eat Bun Bo Hue in the afternoon or evening? 4. Is mắm ruốc (fermented shrimp paste) essential? 5. What vegetables are served with Bun Bo Hue? 6. What’s the typical price? 7. Can I find it outside Hue? 8. Is it suitable for children? 9. Is it okay for foreigners? 10. Why was Bun Bo Hue registered as an Intangible Cultural Heritage?