A 38-year Legacy: Hoa-inspired Noodle Haven on the Outskirts of Saigon

The Há family's eatery in Gò Vấp district, although situated far from the city center, has consistently welcomed a stable influx of customers for 38 years.

A 38-year Legacy: Hoa-inspired Noodle Haven on the Outskirts of Saigon

When it comes to the distinctive cuisine of the Hoa people in Saigon, one immediately thinks of the noodle dish 'hủ tiếu mì,' often concentrated around the historic Chợ Lớn area, now in districts 5, 6, 10, and parts of 1, 11. However, few may notice that on Phan Huy Ích street (Gò Vấp district), there's an authentic Hoa-origin 'hủ tiếu mì' eatery that has been keeping the flame alive for nearly 40 years.

There's no signboard; the distinctive feature of this spot is an old, colorful, yet always smoke-emitting vehicle.

The owner of the noodle shop is Mr. Lương Sú Há (70 years old). He mentioned that the shop opened in 1980 and has relocated once. 'For almost 40 years, we've maintained this kitchen. The customers at the shop now are more diverse than before, including foreigners,' proudly stated Mr. Há.

The current premises belong to the family, so the eatery operates from morning till night. Mr. Ha's family is one of the few original Chinese families still residing in Go Vap district. He recounts that there used to be a significant number of Chinese people living here, but they have since migrated.

The noodles at the restaurant are thick, soft, glossy white, fresh, and not soggy in the broth. The seasoning comprises sesame oil and authentic red vinegar, true to the Chinese dish. 'Around here, many Vietnamese people are unfamiliar with red vinegar and are used to seasoning with fish sauce. However, our establishment doesn't have that, so we recommend customers to use the right condiment for the authentic taste,' Mr. Ha's son explains.

Ingredients are prepared in just the right amount for each session, and they don't display food all day to keep the noodles always fresh. The wontons are also not pre-made; they are prepared on demand when customers order. The char siu meat or chives are also pre-cut just enough for two or three bowls before being sliced further.

Around 7-8 AM, the small corner house on Phan Huy Ich street welcomes a large number of customers. Mostly, they are locals living in the area, and some come from other places for a taste of the familiar flavor. There are also foreign customers who come to try and end up returning multiple times.

Khoa, currently residing in District 3, Saigon, shares that he often visits the eatery on weekend mornings. 'Back when I lived nearby, I used to have Mr. Ha's wonton noodles in the morning before going to work. Even though I've moved to a new place, I still come here whenever I crave it. The dish suits my taste, and the service is very attentive,' Khoa shares.

'The wonton noodle soup has a sweet and savory taste from the meat and bone broth, with a slightly earthy aroma from the noodles and wontons. Despite being quite picky about food due to my age, I really enjoy the flavor of Mr. Ha's wonton noodles,' Mai, who lives on the same Phan Huy Ich street, reveals.

The establishment opens its doors daily from 6 AM to 8 PM. The menu offers a variety of choices, including bone broth noodle soup, egg noodle soup, wonton noodles, and wonton egg noodles. Customers can conveniently park their vehicles in the front and enjoy their meals at clean and elevated tables and chairs.

As reported by Di Vy & Linh Sea/Vnexpress

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Reference: Travel guide Mytour