
Hue Spicy Beef Noodle Soup
Bún Bò Huế
Hue-style spicy beef noodle soup
Photos
What's in it
- Rice vermicelli
- Beef broth
- Beef shank or brisket
- Pork knuckle
- Lemongrass
- Shrimp paste
- Chili oil
- Herbs
- Lime
Best moments to enjoy it
Commonly eaten all day in Hanoi, though it is especially satisfying for breakfast or lunch
Origin & history
Bún bò Huế comes from Huế, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, and is known for its bold, spicy broth and layered flavors. In Hanoi, it is commonly served as a regional specialty alongside the city’s more delicate northern noodle soups.
How to order & pay
For a solo meal, ask for a small bowl if available, or say 'ít bún' for less noodles and 'không cay' if you want it mild. If you want the classic version, ask for 'bún bò Huế đầy đủ'.
Cash is still the safest option at small noodle shops, so carry small bills like 20,000-100,000 VND. Many casual places now accept QR or bank transfer, but do not assume card payment is available.
Allergens, nutrition & health
Allergens
Contains beef, pork, shrimp paste, and fish sauce; may contain shellfish and soy-based condiments
Nutrition & benefits
Provides protein, broth-based hydration, and herbs that add freshness and micronutrients
Health notes
The broth can be quite spicy and salty, so go easy on chili oil if you have a sensitive stomach. If you avoid shellfish, ask whether the broth contains shrimp paste before ordering.
How to eat it
Add lime, herbs, and bean sprouts to taste, then stir gently. Use chopsticks for the noodles and a spoon for the broth. If the bowl is large, eat the noodles first while the broth stays hot.
Best spots in Hanoi
- 4.8
Bún Bò Huế Ngự Uyển
101C4 P. Lương Định Của, Đông Tác, Kim Liên, Hà Nội, Vietnam
- Hours
- 6 AM–10:30 PM
2.8Bún Bò Huế 86
3P3M+8G6, Đ. Cầu Diễn, Nhổn, Xuân Phương, Hà Nội, Vietnam
- Hours
- 6 AM - 9 PM



