Huế Old Town:
Savor the Essence of Royal Vietnamese Cuisine
Morning in Huế old town feels like stepping into a watercolor painting. The soft glow of sunlight spills over tiled rooftops, and the air carries both the scent of blooming frangipani and simmering broth. As I wander along moss-covered walls and quiet alleyways, I can taste the promise of Huế food. It is a blend of royal heritage and bold Vietnamese cuisine that has shaped Central Vietnam’s culinary identity for centuries.
Cơm Hến – The Mussle Rice That Changed My World
Later in the day, I crossed the Perfume River, watching fishermen cast their nets as the sun dances on the water. In a small riverside eatery, I’m served Cơm hến — a humble yet unforgettable local food specialty. Steamed rice forms the base, topped with baby clams, roasted peanuts, green mango, crispy pork skin, fresh herbs, and a splash of spicy fish sauce. The combination is both crunchy and tender, salty and fresh — a perfect representation of Vietnamese cuisine’s ability to transform simple ingredients into culinary poetry.
Bánh Bèo – Local Food With A Royal Touch
By midday, I find a shady courtyard tucked behind the old town’s winding lanes. Here, a family-run shop serves Bánh bèo — delicate steamed rice cakes in tiny dishes, topped with dried shrimp powder, crispy shallots, and scallion oil. A small spoon is used to lift each soft cake, releasing an aroma that’s both savory and subtly sweet.
For a more historical and cultural information of Bánh Bèo, check out this wonderful podcast!
Salted Coffee – A Sweet and Savory Pause From Flavorful Vietnamese Cuisine
In the late afternoon, I stop at a small café hidden between the old shophouses. Here, the specialty is Huế’s salted coffee — a unique twist on the traditional Vietnamese brew. A layer of rich coffee meets a silky cream topped with a hint of salt, creating a balance between sweetness and savory depth. As I sip, the bitterness softens, the salt teases the tongue, and the cream lingers like the golden light spilling across the cobblestones outside. It’s not just a drink — it’s a quiet moment of Huế’s charm in a cup.
Learn how to make Salted Coffee at home with Recipe by Savour The Pho.
Bún Bò Huế – The Medicine For A Rainy Day
The first call of the day comes from a bustling street corner where pots of broth bubble gently. Bún bò Huế is more than a noodle soup — it is the soul of the city. Springy, round noodles float in a rich, lemongrass-infused broth layered with the warmth of chili and the depth of shrimp paste. Tender beef slices add heartiness, while fresh lemongrass brighten every spoonful. Each bite tells a story of imperial refinement meeting the spice-loving heart of Central Vietnam.
External link idea: Huế’s official tourism board page describing the dish’s history.
Vietnamese Cuisine Like I’ve Never Seen Before
As evening falls, street food stalls come alive under a canopy of glowing lanterns. The scents of grilled pork on lemongrass skewers, sizzling pancakes, and steaming bowls of Beef noodle soup mingle in the cool night air. Locals and travelers gather around low tables, sharing stories and flavors under the watchful gaze of the Ancient Citadel.
Internal link idea: Link “street food” to your Vietnam night market guide.
External link idea: Link to Lonely Planet’s Huế food recommendations.
The Flavors That Keep Huế in Your Heart
By the end of the day, I understand why Huế old town leaves such a deep mark. From the bold spice of Bún bò Huế to the gentle comfort of Bánh bèo, and the rustic charm of Cơm hến, this city’s dishes hold more than flavor — they hold memory, tradition, and soul. And as I leave, I carry the warmth of Huế with me, already longing to return.