Bún chả eatery with square nem opens late in Hanoi

Despite the hearty servings of bún chả, many customers still order extra due to their fondness for the delectable dish along Ngọc Khánh street.

Late-night bún chả joint with square nem in Hanoi

Unlike many bún chả joints that only operate at lunchtime, this establishment on Ngọc Khánh street opens from 7 am to 10 pm, serving three square meals a day. It's one of the oldest bún chả spots in Hanoi with a sign boasting 25 years of experience. The hallmark of this place lies not only in the flavor of the grilled meat but also in the square-shaped nem.

While most bún chả joints serve rectangular-shaped nem, this one offers square nem, sometimes served sliced in half. Inside, you'll find crab meat, wood ear mushrooms, vermicelli, shredded carrots, all wrapped in crispy rice paper. Diners grab half a piece of square nem, dip it in the broth, and take a bite. The crab flavor bursts in every mouthful.

The minced pork is shaped into long, slender patties while the sliced meat is just the right thickness for a satisfying bite. Both types of meat are grilled to perfection with a slightly charred edge and just the right thickness. The dipping sauce packs a more intense flavor compared to many other bún chả spots in the old quarter.

A serving with two types of meat costs 40,000 dong, typically, one person would order an extra square nem. Groups of four or more can add a plate of minced meat on the side. The side salad includes lettuce, herbs, perilla leaves, and bean sprouts.

The restaurant boasts spacious areas with two sections, both outside and inside the alley, with air conditioning available during the summer. Open all day, but for bún chả, the best time to enjoy is still at lunch, especially in the summer and fall seasons.

Operating from morning till night, the restaurant has a barbecue pit right outside. The meat skewers are marinated and only grilled upon order. This ensures the freshness of the meat without any reheated taste.

Many passersby find the smoke bothersome as it clings to their clothes. However, those who enjoy this dish feel their hunger pangs soften as they inhale the fragrant aroma of grilled meat from the barbecue pit. Numerous drivers park and order a serving of bún chả, two nem, and a glass of iced tea to satisfy their cravings.

According to Nick M/Vnexpress

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Reference: Travel guide by Mytour