Buzz
The fragrant aroma of pho broth infused with peanuts, the turmeric-colored satay sauce, and its intense fragrance never fail to delight diners.
Iconic Pho and Hu Tieu spot drawing night owls for 50 years in Saigon
Situated at the corner of Nguyen Tri Phuong intersection, District 10, the traditional Hớn Hưng pho shop has been a familiar late-night dining spot for Saigonese for over 50 years. From pho broth to beef balls and satay sauce, all are prepared in the traditional Chinese style, which has captivated diners even on their first try.
All ingredients used in the shop are handcrafted. What makes the pho bowl memorable is the large, meaty beef balls that are a joy to chew. The owner shares that they sell about 20 kilograms of homemade beef balls a day. From grinding the meat, seasoning, to shaping the balls, the owner has been doing it all alone from A to Z for many years, resulting in a flavor unlike any other beef ball pho shop in Saigon. However, there are also those who do not fancy this type of beef balls as they find them slightly tough and chewy.
The beef used in the shop is a lean type of beef, sourced from the belly and thigh regions. When cooked, it has a slightly pale color similar to pork, tender and easy to eat but not sweet. In contrast, the pho broth is rich and flavorful from thorough simmering of various bones, with the addition of rich raw chicken eggs. A bowl of beef ball pho, with tender beef and flavorful broth, costs around 50,000 VND, satisfyingly warming the stomach. Pho prices range from 40,000 to 70,000 VND depending on the type.
The standout dish here is the satay-flavored Hu Tieu, beloved for its rich broth, fragrant aroma of peanuts, and unique taste, especially for those accustomed to Nam Vang or Saigon-style Hu Tieu. Despite having multiple servers, only the owner is entrusted with the task of seasoning the broth to safeguard the secret recipe. The addition of satay sauce, infused with turmeric, intensifies the flavor. Some enjoy its curry-like taste, while others find it quite different. Additionally, it surprises many with the combination of Hu Tieu with tomatoes and cucumber.
The shop opens from 3:30 PM to midnight every day and is often paired with a small dim sum stall nearby. Despite being a roadside eatery, it attracts a considerable crowd, especially from 7 PM till late at night. While waiting to be served, you can enjoy a plate of steaming hot dim sum.
According to Ngôi sao
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Reference: Travel guide Mytour
MytourApril 6, 2018
