Food & Receipts

A Taste of Tradition: Crab Noodle Soup on Hoè Nhai Street

For over 30 years, this humble crab noodle soup restaurant has been a beloved fixture in the heart of Hanoi. Join us as we uncover the secrets behind this longstanding favorite and explore what makes it so special.

Administrator

4 July, 2024

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Canh bún cua is a traditional Vietnamese dish that has seen a decline in popularity in recent years. However, in Hoè Nhai Street, Hanoi, a small, unassuming stall serving this classic dish has become a beloved institution for locals and visitors alike. Join us as we explore the story behind this humble yet mouthwatering destination.

1Introducing the Traditional Crab Noodle Soup Stall of Mrs. Ngọc in Hoè Nhai

Mrs. Ngọc’s crab noodle soup stall in Hoè Nhai

Restaurant Quality: 4.5/5 (Google Rating)

Address: 7 P. Hoè Nhai, Nguyễn Trung Trực, Ba Đình, Hanoi

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Price Range: VND 25,000 – 35,000

Phone Number: N/A

Facebook: N/A

Delivery: Available (Foody)

Menu: Crab Noodle Soup, Crab Vermicelli, and more…

Signature Dish: Crab Noodle Soup

Pros: Delicious food at affordable prices.

Cons: Limited seating and parking space.

On a bustling street corner in Hanoi’s Hoè Nhai neighborhood, locals are familiar with the sight of a woman in her 70s tirelessly serving up bowls of crab noodle soup to eager customers. This is Mrs. Ngọc, the proud owner of this humble food stall with over 30 years of history.

The stall has become a beloved fixture in the community for over 30 years.

Mrs. Ngọc’s stall has been a part of her life for decades, with a 10-year hiatus to care for her ailing husband. Despite this break, her loyal customers continued to support her when she reopened, a testament to the enduring appeal of this traditional dish.

The stall is always bustling with customers.

With limited seating and only about 100 bowls of noodles served daily, patrons often line up early to ensure they get a taste of this delectable treat.

2What Makes Mrs. Ngọc’s Crab Noodle Soup So Enticing?

A Flavorful Soup that Leaves a Lasting Impression

Mrs. Ngọc’s crab noodle soup is prepared using traditional methods, without any fuss or frills, yet it possesses an undeniable allure. Each bowl is a harmonious blend of noodles, crab, vegetables, and a generous spoonful of savory broth.

The traditional crab noodle soup is a simple yet mouthwatering dish.

The noodles she uses are a thicker variety, similar to Japanese udon, ensuring they remain intact and don’t break apart when eaten. The crispy pork belly cracklings, or tóp mỡ, provide a delightful contrast in texture, remaining crunchy even when soaked in the broth, yet becoming pleasantly chewy. The crab meat is carefully strained, ensuring a smooth and sandy-free experience. But the true star is the broth, made from freshly crushed and strained river crabs, enhanced with a blend of tomatoes, shrimp, and pure, natural spices.

The vibrant colors of the dish are a feast for the eyes.

The soup is served hot, with a vibrant color and a tantalizing aroma. The slightly sweet and sour broth delights the taste buds, and the addition of Mrs. Ngọc’s homemade chili sauce and shrimp paste further enhances the flavors.

The sweetness of the broth makes the dish irresistible.

Affordable Prices

A bowl of this traditional crab noodle soup, complete with vegetables, crab meat, crispy pork belly, and shallots, costs only VND 25,000. For an additional VND 10,000, you can add delicious slices of Vietnamese pork sausage, known as giò, to your meal. In the heart of bustling Hanoi, this is an incredibly affordable price for a dish that is meticulously crafted and bursting with flavor.

Affordable prices for delicious food.

Warm and Welcoming Attitude

Despite her advanced age and the physically demanding nature of her work, Mrs. Ngọc always greets her customers with a smile and a warm attitude. Her genuine care and enthusiasm have made the dining experience even more memorable for her patrons.

Mrs. Ngọc warmly welcomes her customers.

Over the years, the flavor of Mrs. Ngọc’s crab noodle soup has won over countless hearts. We hope that traditional dishes like this will continue to thrive and preserve the diverse culinary heritage of our nation.

Frequently asked questions

The restaurant is called Bun Rieu Cua 102 Hoe Nhai and is located at 102 Hoe Nhai Street, Hanoi.

The restaurant is open from 6:30 AM to 9:30 PM daily.

The crab noodle soup at Bun Rieu Cua 102 Hoe Nhai is made with a secret family recipe that has been passed down through generations. It is known for its rich and flavorful broth, made with a blend of spices and fresh crab meat.

In addition to their signature crab noodle soup, the restaurant also serves other traditional Vietnamese dishes such as spring rolls, grilled pork with vermicelli, and fried fish with dill.

The restaurant has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. It is often filled with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the delicious food and friendly service.