Innovative snail vermicelli eatery, where discerning diners must await their turn

Buzz

Content

Innovative snail vermicelli eatery, where discerning diners must await their turn

A bowl of snail vermicelli at a Hanoi eatery comes with added ribs while retaining the traditional tangy flavor it's known for.

Innovative snail vermicelli eatery, where discerning diners must await their turn

Apart from pho, many Hanoians yearn for another dish whenever they travel away from the city: snail vermicelli. Previously, a bowl of vermicelli mainly consisted of noodles, snails soaked in slightly sour vinegar-based broth, served with fresh vegetables. Over time, many eateries started adding pork knuckles, beef to satisfy customers craving a fuller meal. However, this addition altered the original taste of the dish.

For many picky eaters, the addition of 'solid' ingredients to traditional snail vermicelli often causes discomfort. Thus, they still seek out long-standing establishments of 30-40 years to enjoy 'vermicelli and snails' only.

However, there's still a 'trend-setting' eatery that has opened just a few years ago, becoming a familiar spot for many diners. While most snail vermicelli eateries operate in the morning and noon, the one on Hai Ba Trung Street (Hanoi) opens from 2 PM until late at night. The operating hours may seem unusual, but the eatery consistently draws a crowd. During dinner time (7-8 PM), the number of customers can reach 30-40, filling up all tables.

The eatery consists of a small space, primarily used to display ingredients and cooking equipment. Customers usually sit on the sidewalk or near the walkway, using plastic tables and chairs.

Apart from snail vermicelli, the owner only offers one accompanying dish: freshly cut ribs. Regular customers simply order 'large ribs, small ribs, or mixed ribs,' and the server understands how to prepare the bowl of vermicelli accordingly: large snails, small snails, with or without ribs. Alternatively, you can opt for a traditional bowl of vermicelli with just snails.

The snail vermicelli bowl boasts eye-catching colors. The green of the onions, the red of the sliced tomatoes, or the plump round snails stand out against the white backdrop of perfectly-sized vermicelli strands. The bowl for the vermicelli is placed separately, with a nostalgic white – blue hue, featuring the address of the restaurant.

The restaurant does not offer side dishes like tofu, beef, or pig's ears like many others do. The ribs do not alter the flavor of the broth, so discerning eaters still find it appealing.

When customers order, the seller often asks, 'Would you like shrimp paste?' If you prefer milder flavors, it's best to decline because the broth itself is quite flavorful. The bowl of vermicelli is substantial; adults may find it filling. However, on cool autumn days, many customers may opt for an extra bowl due to the refreshing sourness of the broth, enhancing the dining experience.

A drawback of the eatery is the relatively slow service, especially during peak hours. However, when you take your seat, the seller usually takes notice in advance. Therefore, you don't need to remind them; just wait, and a staff member will come to assist you.

The price per bowl of vermicelli ranges from 30,000 to 40,000 Vietnamese dong depending on your selection.

According to An Yên/Vnexpress

***

Reference: Travel guide by Mytour

MytourOctober 4, 2018

The content is developed by the Mytour team with the aim of customer care and solely to inspire travel experiences. We do not take responsibility for or provide advice for other purposes.

If you find this article inappropriate or containing errors, please contact us via email at [email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes snail vermicelli a popular dish among Hanoians?

Snail vermicelli is beloved by Hanoians for its unique combination of slightly sour broth, tender snails, and fresh vegetables. This traditional dish evokes nostalgia and is often craved by locals when they are away from Hanoi. The innovative eateries adding ingredients like pork knuckles cater to varied tastes while some prefer to stick to the original recipe, making it a staple comfort food.

Why do some customers prefer traditional snail vermicelli over modern variations?

Some customers favor traditional snail vermicelli because they appreciate its authentic taste and simplicity. The addition of solid ingredients like pork knuckles can alter the dish's flavor, causing discomfort for picky eaters. Therefore, they seek out long-standing eateries that have preserved the original recipe for decades, ensuring an experience that highlights the dish's true essence.

What are the operating hours of the popular snail vermicelli eatery in Hanoi?

The popular snail vermicelli eatery on Hai Ba Trung Street operates from 2 PM until late at night, which is unusual compared to most similar establishments. This schedule allows it to attract a crowd, especially during dinner hours when the number of customers can reach 30-40, creating a lively dining atmosphere.

How does the addition of ribs affect the traditional snail vermicelli dish?

While the addition of ribs to snail vermicelli is meant to enhance the meal's heartiness, it does not alter the flavor of the broth. The eatery ensures that the original tangy taste remains intact, appealing to discerning diners who enjoy both the traditional and modern interpretations of this beloved dish.