Food & Receipts

Taste-Testing Vietnam’s Iconic Pho at the Blackpink Hotel: A $12 USD Bowl of Noodle Soup

Intrigued by the $13 price tag and the buzz surrounding the Blackpink girls' slurping feast, we delve into the allure of this seemingly ordinary bowl of pho. But is it really just an average bowl of noodle soup, or does it live up to its extravagant reputation?

Administrator

9 July, 2024

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During their tour in Vietnam, Blackpink left a lasting impression not only through their music but also through their sincere love for the country. Rosé enthusiastically expressed her delight in tasting Vietnam’s iconic culinary delight, Pho, and couldn’t help but praise its delicious taste, causing the entire audience to applaud in agreement.

Blackpink had the opportunity to indulge in some delicious Pho at Backstage, the restaurant where they stayed during their time in Hanoi. Many people rushed to Backstage to try the mouth-watering Pho, which cost almost VND 300,000 and received high praise from the four girls. So, let’s follow in their footsteps and see what made this bowl of Pho so special that the girls “slurped up every last drop”!

1Introducing Backstage Restaurant – A Vietnamese Cuisine Haven within Capella Hotel

Introducing Backstage Restaurant – A Vietnamese Cuisine Specialty within the Prestigious Capella Hotel

Restaurant Quality: 4.5/5 (Rated by Google)

Address: Inside Capella Hanoi Hotel, 11 P. Le Phung Hieu, French Quarter, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi.

Price Range: Approximately VND 175,000 – 1,100,000.

Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 11:00 AM; 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM; 5:30 PM – 10:30 PM

Phone: 02439878888

Facebook: Capella Hanoi

Delivery: Information not available

Menu: Bread, sandwiches, sourdough bread, and more.

Pros: Delicious food, professional and enthusiastic service

Cons: Depending on customer feedback

Located within the luxurious 5-star Capella Hotel in the heart of Hanoi, Backstage Restaurant has attracted attention for its mouthwatering Pho, which has gone “viral” on social media and received rave reviews from the “Black Pink” girls. The restaurant was once listed in the Michelin Selected (Michelin Suggested) list. It primarily focuses on serving Northern Vietnamese cuisine.

Backstage is where Western architecture seamlessly blends with the essence of Hanoi’s culinary delights. When you step into this restaurant, you will be captivated by its opulence and grandeur, while also experiencing the serenity and purity of Asian cuisine.

2What Makes Backstage Restaurant So Special?

Elegant Ambiance

Elegant and Luxurious Ambiance at Backstage Restaurant

Backstage Restaurant boasts a design by the renowned Bill Bensley, often referred to as the “King of Resorts.” He is also the mastermind behind the award-winning Capella Ubud in Bali, which was named the world’s best hotel in 2020. Thus, in directing and designing Backstage, Bill Bensley has left an unmistakable personal touch. He showcases his aesthetic sensibility and unique design philosophy of “the stranger, the better” in every corner of the restaurant.

The structure of the restaurant is divided into two main parts: the stage and the kitchen in the back. The kitchen is designed with an open concept, resembling a central stage. This is where the talented chefs showcase their culinary techniques.

The fusion of European and Asian cuisines, though seemingly contrasting, is masterfully blended at Backstage Restaurant. Right behind this “stage”, there is a separate dining area where guests can admire the vibrant and unique costumes on display.

5-Star Traditional Cuisine

Indulge in Traditional Vietnamese Cuisine with a 5-Star Twist

At Backstage Restaurant, the essence of Hanoi’s culinary delights is meticulously preserved and elevated under the guidance of culinary artist, Ms. Anh Tuyet. She is the mentor who imparts traditional recipes and cooking techniques for authentic Hanoi dishes to the kitchen staff. Among these, Pho is considered the signature dish of the restaurant. It is prepared using a traditional recipe, featuring fresh ingredients and an authentic broth, capturing the true flavors of Vietnam’s capital city.

Culinary Experience Combined with Cultural Activities

Guest Reviews Highlight the Unique Experience at Backstage Restaurant

Blackpink’s dining experience at Backstage Restaurant goes beyond just enjoying Pho and bread; it creates a special connection between the group and Vietnamese culture. This has sparked interest among their Vietnamese fans, who now eagerly wish to relive these “cheep moments” with their idols.

Frequently asked questions

Pho is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup dish that has become a staple in Vietnamese cuisine. It consists of a flavorful broth, rice noodles, thin slices of beef or chicken, and a variety of herbs and spices. Pho is iconic in Vietnam due to its unique blend of flavors, its accessibility, and its cultural significance. It is often considered a comfort food and can be found in street stalls, restaurants, and homes across the country.

There are numerous places in Vietnam to taste-test iconic Pho, but one notable location is the Blackpink Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City. The hotel’s restaurant offers a Pho dish that has gained popularity among locals and tourists alike for its delicious flavor and affordable price. For just $12 USD, diners can enjoy a bowl of Pho that is both authentic and flavorful.

The key ingredients in Pho include rice noodles, a rich broth made from bones and spices, thin slices of beef or chicken, onions, ginger, and a variety of herbs such as basil, cilantro, and green onions. The broth is often simmered for hours to extract maximum flavor, resulting in a deep, savory taste. Pho is also known for its balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors, creating a complex and satisfying dining experience.

Pho is typically served in a large bowl, with the noodles, meat, and broth all combined. Diners are often given a plate of fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and chili peppers on the side, allowing them to customize the dish to their taste. Pho is usually eaten with a spoon and chopsticks, and it is common to add a squeeze of lime juice and a variety of sauces, such as hoisin and sriracha, to enhance the flavors.

The Pho at the Blackpink Hotel is special due to its high-quality ingredients, careful preparation, and balanced flavors. The restaurant uses fresh, locally sourced produce and meats, ensuring a delicious and authentic taste. The broth is simmered for hours, resulting in a deep, rich flavor. Additionally, the portion size is generous, making it a satisfying meal for both locals and tourists alike.