Eating bún riêu (crab and tomato vermicelli soup) on the sidewalk is a familiar experience, but enjoying a bowl of this popular dish in a space resembling a miniature museum is certainly a novel one. Today, let’s join our host as we “intrude” into ‘Bún Ziu Gánh’ (Bún Ziu Cart) owned by Ms. Yến to discover what makes this place so fascinating!
1. Introducing ‘Bún Ziu Gánh’ in Quốc Tử Giám Street, Hanoi
The well-known chef who cooks bún riêu, Ms. Yến
Restaurant quality: 4.4/5 (Google rating)
Address: 104 Lương Sử C, Quốc Tử Giám, Đống Đa, Hanoi
Price range: 30,000 – 55,000 VND (~$1.27 – $2.34)
Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM (Usually crowded at 7:00 PM)
Phone number: 0888333328
Facebook: Bún Ziu Gánh – cô Yến
Delivery: Not available
Menu: Bún riêu (crab and tomato vermicelli soup), bún bò (beef vermicelli soup), bún than (charcoal vermicelli soup), bún ốc (snail vermicelli soup), bánh đa (rice flakes), etc.
Signature dish: Bún riêu (approximately 55,000 VND or $2.34)
Pros: Beautifully decorated restaurant, spacious seating, delicious food, reasonable prices
Cons: Located in an alley, a bit hard to find
Famous on social media for its unique decorative images, ‘Bún Ziu Gánh’ by Ms. Yến is indeed a pleasant surprise. This restaurant, tucked away in an alley on Quốc Tử Giám Street, offers diners a cozy and refined ambiance. Every corner of the restaurant is meticulously crafted, from the antique paintings to the vibrant red lanterns. Here, you’ll not only indulge in a delicious bowl of bún riêu but also immerse yourself in a distinctive cultural space.
2. What Makes ‘Bún Ziu Gánh’ So Enticing to Diners?
Aristocratic Ambiance
From the entrance to the interior, the restaurant is filled with surprises. Shelves, paintings, and decorative items exude a charming antique aesthetic with a modern twist. This unique blend of traditional and contemporary styles creates a space that is both familiar and novel, leaving diners amazed and delighted.
The dining table, creatively repurposed from an old sewing machine, stands out with its rustic wooden surface and glossy finish. Even the chopstick holders and chili sauce containers are made of fine ceramics. Some decorative items are made of ceramic, while others are crafted from fired bricks; there’s a piano in one corner and vintage-style clocks in another. Yet, everything blends harmoniously, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
As you sit in the restaurant, you’ll sense the warmth and love that Ms. Yến has poured into this space. Each item tells a story, making you feel like you’ve been invited into the home of a dear friend.
The restaurant’s aristocratic ambiance
Rich Traditional Flavors
Beyond its unique ambiance, what captivates diners about Ms. Yến’s bún riêu restaurant is the rich and traditional flavors of the food. With each spoonful of bún riêu, you’ll experience a miniature version of Hanoi.
The tangy taste of fermented rice vinegar, the sweetness of the meat, and the freshness of the herbs blend subtly, creating an unforgettable flavor symphony. Bite into the crispy cinnamon-flavored meatballs and sip the hot broth to feel a heartwarming sensation.
With its cozy atmosphere, delectable cuisine, and reasonable prices, Ms. Yến’s bún riêu restaurant is sure to satisfy even the most discerning diners.
The traditional flavors of bún riêu
Renowned Chef
The image of Ms. Yến with her food cart by the ancient banyan tree, beneath the plaque that reads “Engrave the Hatred,” has become indelibly etched in the memories of many Hanoians. Even at the age of 70, Ms. Yến remains energetic and passionate about cooking. She often jokes, “The older I get, the better my taste buds work, and the tastier my dishes become!” Picture a petite, agile elderly lady, skillfully stirring the broth while chatting animatedly with her customers. That’s Ms. Yến for you.
Losing her familiar vending spot left Ms. Yến feeling lost and disoriented. As she shared, “I’ve devoted my entire life to cooking, and not being able to do what I love made me feel like I’d lost a part of myself.” So, when the opportunity to reopen her restaurant arose, she poured her heart and soul into it. With her creativity and dedication, she transformed the modest house into a cozy and vibrant space.
Ms. Yến embodies the spirit of a traditional Hanoi woman, with her kind heart and forgiving nature. She is always attentive to those around her and willing to share whatever she has. The story of Ms. Yến and her bún riêu restaurant is not just about food; it’s a tale of love, sharing, and timeless traditional values.
The renowned chef, Ms. Yến
In the heart of ancient Hanoi, there are countless delicious eateries, but ‘Bún Ziu Gánh’ by Ms. Yến holds a special place in the hearts of diners. If you ever find yourself in Hanoi, don’t forget to pay a visit to this restaurant to savor a bowl of delectable bún riêu and explore a space that encapsulates the essence of old Hanoi.
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