
Crab Tapioca Noodle Soup
Bánh Canh Cua
Hue's comforting crab noodle soup
Photos
What's in it
- thick tapioca or rice noodles
- crab broth
- minced crab meat
- shrimp
- pork slices or pork bone broth
- quail egg
- green onions
- coriander
- pepper
Best moments to enjoy it
Best for breakfast, lunch, or an early dinner; many local spots sell out by late afternoon when the broth is finished
Origin & history
Bánh canh developed across central and southern Vietnam as a noodle soup made with thick tapioca or rice noodles. Hue's version reflects the city's royal-era preference for layered, balanced broths and small, refined portions, often featuring crab from nearby coastal waters.
How to order & pay
For solo diners, order one small bowl first if you are unsure of portion size; say 'ít bánh canh' for less noodles or 'không cay' if you want no chili. If available, ask for 'thêm cua' for extra crab.
Cash is still the safest option at small local stalls; keep 20,000-100,000 VND notes ready.
Allergens, nutrition & health
Allergens
Contains shellfish and seafood; may include pork and egg; broth may contain fish sauce
Nutrition & benefits
Provides protein from crab and egg, plus energy from noodles; broth can be hydrating and filling without being too heavy
Health notes
If you are sensitive to seafood, ask about broth ingredients before ordering. Choose a busy stall with high turnover for fresher soup.
Best spots in Hue
- 4.7
Bánh Canh Cua Rời Mệ Nga
32 Phạm Hồng Thái, Thuận Hóa, Huế 530000, Vietnam
- Hours
- 6:00 AM – 8 :00 PM
- 4.3
Bánh Canh Cua Hương
30 Phạm Hồng Thái, Thuận Hóa, Huế 530000, Vietnam
- Hours
- 6:00 AM – 9 :00 PM

