Banh Nam is a traditional dish that enchants us with its unique, smooth, and alluring flavor, thanks to the delicate aroma of shrimp. It truly is a must-try for any traveler who sets foot in the ancient capital of Hue, providing satisfaction for every palate. Alongside Banh Loc, Banh Beo, and Banh Ram It, Hue Banh Nam, together with these other delicacies, paints a rich culinary landscape that characterizes the Hue region. However, Hue Banh Nam stands out with its delicious taste, easy consumption, and simple preparation process.
If you have the opportunity to visit Hue, you cannot miss this enticing Banh Nam – an unforgettable culinary experience!
1. Hue Banh Nam – The Essence of Imperial Flavors in a Specialty Dish
Hue Banh Nam, a distinctive specialty dish, is crafted from tapioca starch, rice flour, and fresh shrimp. Although it may resemble Banh Beo or Banh Loc, the selection of ingredients for this type of cake is entirely different.
With its delicate rectangular shape, Hue Banh Nam is covered with a smooth layer of tapioca starch on a leaf. Like an exquisite painting, on top of the starch layer, neatly arranged shrimp and meat create a cake that not only appeals to the eyes but also delights the taste buds with its rich and delicious flavors.
2. Famous and Crowded Places for Delicious Hue-style Banh Nam
2.1: Ba Do Restaurant
- Address: 8 Nguyen Binh Khiem Street, Phu Cat Ward, Hue City.
- Price range: 10,000 – 50,000 VND per serving.
- Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
Ba Do Restaurant, a renowned establishment with a timeless reputation, is famous for serving the most delicious Hue Banh Nam. In addition to the signature Banh Nam, the restaurant also offers enticing Banh Beo and Banh Bot Loc. With reasonable prices for each type of cake, you can indulge in them or take them home as special gifts.
2.2: Central Vietnam 16 To Hien Thanh Banh Nam
- Address: 16 To Hien Thanh Street, Hue City Center.
- Price range: 10,000 – 15,000 VND per serving.
- Opening hours: 6:30 AM – 7:30 PM.
Central Vietnam 16 To Hien Thanh Banh Nam is where you can find the traditional flavors of Hue. Located in the city center, this establishment offers exquisite and tempting Banh Nam. With reasonable prices and convenient opening hours, you can enjoy delicious Banh Nam right here.
2.3: Quan 109
- Address: 109 Le Huan Street, Thuan Hoa Ward, Hue City.
- Price range: 10,000 – 15,000 VND per serving.
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
Quan 109 is a perfect choice for those who want to savor the unique local delicacies in Hue. Despite its small space, the food here is delicious and clean. Particularly, the Banh Nam is made from pure rice flour, providing a delightful aroma without feeling heavy. With its early morning to late evening opening hours, it is convenient for a satisfying lunch in Hue.
2.4: Ba Toan Banh Nam
- Address: 9 Ung Binh Street, Vy Da Ward, Hue City.
- Price range: 10,000 – 15,000 VND per serving.
- Opening hours: 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM.
When visiting Hue, don’t miss Ba Toan Banh Nam – a long-standing establishment known for various famous specialties such as Banh Beo, Banh Loc, and Banh Nam. The aroma from the Banh Nam here always excites diners’ taste buds. In particular, the dipping sauce prepared at this place has a distinct and delicious flavor. Ba Toan Banh Nam has become a familiar and appealing destination for frequent visitors.
2.5: Banh Nam Chi Restaurant
- Address: 52 Le Viet Luong Street, Xuan Phu Ward, Hue City.
- Price range: 15,000 – 50,000 VND per serving.
- Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 7:30 PM.
Banh Nam Chi Restaurant, although offering various types of cakes, is best known for its Hue Banh Nam. The ingredients used for preparation are carefully selected by the owner to ensure the highest quality and freshness. The cooking process here is also meticulously carried out to guarantee food safety. At Banh Nam Chi, you will savor the exquisite flavor of the finest Hue Banh Nam.
2.6: O Thuy Restaurant
- Address: 27 Nguyen Khuyen Street, Phu Nhuan Ward, Hue City.
- Price range: 10,000 – 20,000 VND per serving.
- Opening hours: 2:30 PM – 6:30 PM.
O Thuy Restaurant is located in the heart of Hue City, making it easily accessible for tourists. Here, you can freely enjoy various Hue specialties such as Banh Loc, Banh Nam, and Banh Beo. Being the oldest cake shop, it attracts a large number of customers every day who come to indulge in its delicacies.
2.7: Banh Nam Chi 52 Le Viet Luong
- Address: 52 Le Viet Luong Street, Xuan Phu Ward, Hue City.
- Price range: 15,000 – 50,000 VND per serving.
- Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 7:30 PM.
Banh Nam Chi is a well-known establishment for Hue Banh Nam and various other types of cakes. The owner is meticulous in selecting ingredients for processing, ensuring freshness and cleanliness. The cooking process at Banh Nam Chi is also strictly implemented to ensure food safety and hygiene.
Hue Banh Nam stands as a delightful embodiment of Hue street food’s rich culinary heritage. Its distinctive flavors and traditional preparation methods transport both locals and visitors alike on a culinary journey through time. With each bite of this delectable treat, one can savor the essence of Hue’s cultural identity, as well as the passion and expertise of the local food artisans. As the vibrant hues of Hue’s streets continue to entice food enthusiasts, Hue Banh Nam remains an essential part of this captivating gastronomic tapestry, a true testament to the enduring allure of Vietnamese street food.
