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Bun thang Hanoi: Discover the Delicate Noodle Soup of Vietnam’s Capital

08:15 - 26/10/2024

4.5/5 - (2 votes)

When discussing Vietnamese food, we usually center on famous dishes like pho or banh mi, but Hanoi, the capital, presents a hidden jewel: Bun thang. This delicious noodle soup is evidence of Hanoi’s creative cooking. This is a symphony of tastes, colors, and history not just a meal. Let MOTOGO Tours delve deeply into Bun thang’s universe.

Bun thang is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup, especially famous in Hanoi. ( Source: Collected)

What is Bun thang?

Specifically must-try dishes in Hanoi, Bun thang is a classic Vietnamese noodle soup. Made with a transparent broth, thin rice noodles (bun), shredded chicken, egg strips, and dried prawns, this delicate, light meal In Vietnamese, the term “thang” describes a sort of “herbal soup,” signifying the harmony among several components in one bowl. This meal is unique in that it stays mild, light, and cozy while yet using over 20 different ingredients to create its sophisticated tastes.

This dish stands out because it uses over 20 different ingredients to achieve its complex flavors, — This dish stands out because it uses over 20 different ingredients to achieve its complex flavors ( Source: Collected)

The Origins of Bun thang

Deeply entwined with Hanoi’s culture, Bun thang has roots hundreds of years ago. Originally, it was a meal meant to be consumed following Tet, the Lunar New Year, celebrations from leftovers. Families would mix several festive foods into a soup to make a filling but sensible lunch. This modest beginning over time produced the polished version we know today. This noodles soup in Hanoi reflects the city’s attitude, where elegance meets history, not only cuisine.

The roots of Bun thang go back hundreds of years, deeply tied to Hanoi’s culture. ( Source: Collected)

Bun thang Ingredients

Though at first look the components utilized in Bun thang seem simple, their combination creates beauty. Usually, a genuine bowl of Bun thang consists of:

Rice noodles (Bun): Thin and soft, these noodles are the base of the dish.
Shredded chicken: Usually boiled and finely shredded, the chicken adds protein and a subtle richness.
Egg strips: Thinly sliced omelet strips add both flavor and color.
Dried shrimp: Dried and ground shrimp bring an umami punch to the broth.
Mushrooms: Dried shiitake mushrooms contribute a deep, earthy flavor.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like Vietnamese coriander (rau ram) give the dish its signature fragrance.
Pork slices: Some variations add tender pork to make the dish more filling.

Every component is meticulously made and arranged in the bowl; the broth is poured last-minute.

The ingredients used in Bun thang might seem simple, but the beauty lies in their combination. ( Source: Collected)

Top 10 Must-Try Bun Thang Spots in Hanoi

Regarding getting to Hanoi, visitors are drawn not only by the well-known sites but also by the seductive gastronomic pleasures that keep them returning. Among these, bún thang is clearly a popular specialty of the city. Where then in Hanoi may one get the tastiest bun thang? Let’s explore some top recommendations!

1. Bun Thang Hang Hom – The Authentic Taste of Hanoi

Address: 11 Hang Hom, Hoan Kiem District
Price Range: 30,000 – 35,000 VND per bowl

Situated in the center of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hang Hom is a must-see for bun thang aficioners. Here, the bun thang is robust and flavorful, with chicken, egg, aromatic mushrooms, and pickled radish all cooked in a wonderfully thick chicken broth.

Famous Bun Thang Hang Hom in the Hanoi capital ( Source: Collected)

2. Mot Buoi Sang – The Rising Star of Bun Thang

Address: 86 Hai Ba Trung, Hoan Kiem District
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Price Range: 35,000 – 75,000 VND

See the vibrant attractions on Hai Ba Trung Street, then stop at Mot Buoi Sang for a bowl of scrumptious bún. This location stands out for its sleek and roomy atmosphere, which breaks out from the usual bún thang stores in Hanoi. Apart from bún thang, the menu consists in sticky rice, noodles, and cool beverages; they take great satisfaction in using 100% fresh products.

3. Bun Thang Ba Duc Cau Go

Address: 48 Cau Go, Dong Da, Hanoi
Opening Hours: 4:00 PM – 11:15 PM (Monday – Saturday), 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Sunday)
Price Range: 30,000 – 55,000 VND per bowl

Known lovingly as Ba Duc’s bun thang, residents treasure this well-liked venue. It is among the most busy restaurants in the city since it preserves the classic tastes that have drawn a consistent flow of patrons.

Cau Go is always crowded with customers coming and going. ( Source: Collected)

4. Bun Thang Hang Hanh

Address: 29 Hang Hanh, Hoan Kiem District
Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Price Range: 40,000 VND per bowl

Many residents of Hanoi will take you to Hàng Hành if you inquire where the best bún thang is found. Tucked down in the Old Quarter, this little restaurant presents a straightforward yet welcoming environment. Perfect for those wishing to enjoy without going broke, it’s well-known for its distinctive tastes and reasonable rates.

Hang Hanh is not only delicious but also very affordable. ( Source: Collected)

5. Bun Thang Ha Hoi- Rich and Flavorful

Address: 11 Ha Hoi, Hoan Kiem District
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Price Range: 25,000 – 55,000 VND per bowl

This little alley on Ha Hoi Street is tucked away and constantly busy with people. Their bún thang stands out for its soft shredded chicken and sweet, creamy broth, therefore capturing a real sense of classic Hanoi.

Ha Hoi vermicelli soup has a strong bone flavor and fragrant chicken flavor, attracting many diners. ( Source: Collected)

6. Bun Thang Lan Ong – A Traditional Delight

Address: 16 Lan Ong, Hoan Kiem District
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Price Range: 25,000 – 35,000 VND per bowl

For foodies, Bun Thang Lan Ong is a well-known Hanoi location providing a taste of traditional bún thang. Simmered from chicken bones, its transparent broth offers a delicate sweetness that complements several condiments including vinegar, garlicky sauce, and prawn paste.

Bun thang with full ingredients looks extremely beautiful ( Source: Collected)

7. Ba To Hang Be

Address: 66 Trung Kinh, Cau Giay District
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM | 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Price Range: 45,000 – 70,000 VND per bowl

Ba To Hang Be may not be in the busy Old Quarter, but among bún thang aficionados it has developed a devoted following even in Cau Giay neighborhood. Apart from their great, savory bún, the welcoming environment enhances the whole dining experience.

Although not located in the center of the old town, Ba To restaurant still attracts a large number of diners. ( Source: Collected)

8. Quan Tu Lun

Address: 5 Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem District
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Price Range: 30,000 – 50,000 VND per bowl

Among the first thang stores in the Old Quarter is Tu Lun. For residents yearning real tastes, it is still a beloved venue devoid of pretentious décor or bold signage. Fried eggs, succulent chicken, and a gently sweet broth filling their giving bowls will have you gassing.

Clear, sweet broth creates the characteristic flavor of bun thang ( Source: Collected)

9. Bun Thang Giang Vo – A Familiar Spot for Foodies

Address: 144 D2 Giang Vo, Ba Dinh District
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Price Range: 30,000 – 40,000 VND per bowl

Bun Thang Giang Vo is likely to answer when asked where in Hanoi one may get great bún thang. Their broth is well-known for its natural sweetness and purity; seasoned with garlic and chile, it tastes rather remarkable.

Giang Vo vermicelli soup is a favorite place for many locals. ( Source: Collected)

10. Bun Thang Tuan Minh

Address: 3A To Hien Thanh, Hai Ba Trung District
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Price Range: 35,000 – 45,000 VND per bowl

For discriminating consumers, Bun Thang Tuan Minh is a treat since it provides a thick and savory soup that faithfully embodies traditional bún thang. Even the most finicky diners will enjoy this dish as tender, aromatic chicken goes so well with the sweet broth and a squeeze of lime and a touch of pâsé.

Tuan Minh vermicelli soup satisfies even the most demanding diners ( Source: Collected)

Though Bun thang is not as well-known abroad as pho or banh mi, it deserves some attention. One of Hanoi’s most beloved meals is its delicate balance of flavors, rich cultural legacy, and painstaking preparation. Bun thang is a must-try for everyone wishing to really taste the authentic Hanoi cuisine, whether you enjoy it at a classic restaurant in the Old Quarter or try your hand making it at home.