Thanh Xuan Homestay

Bún bò Huế, a spicy soup from Huế, is famed for its rich lemongrass broth, tender beef and al dente vermicelli served with herbs and vegetables. For over 50 years this eatery has been delighting locals with tasty noodle soups, including sliced beef, pork knuckle and meatball options.

This bustling, casual spot is open 24/7 – come for rice dishes during the day and seafood at night. Most of the shellfish is sourced locally and the owner ensures the quality is top-notch. Take your pick from the live fish tank and specify how you want it cooked. The grilled shrimp has impressive smoky aromas and simple seasoning that allows the natural umami to shine through. The appetisers, such as quail eggs and poached peanuts, are perfectly made.

You can smell the barbecue from a distance. Bún thịt nướng, or rice noodles with barbecue pork, is the must-try. Or go for barbecue with salad and rice paper – choose from pork, minced pork skewers, pork belly, and beef.

Operated for over 40 years by Bà Vui, whose name it bears, this enduring local favourite keeps a tight focus, serving just two items: bún gà and xôi gà. The deeply flavoured clear chicken broth is lifted by light, refreshing acidity and a subtle touch of black pepper. Served warm, the sticky rice is topped with a mix of tender pulled chicken, pickled onions and a generous handful of fried shallots – and portion sizes are hearty and satisfying.

Open from 6am-1pm, this no-frills shop is packed with people craving their fix of mì quảng. The flavoursome orange-red broth is made with shrimps, and you can top your noodles with a choice of quail egg, pork, shrimp, meatball or springy jelly fish.

This two-storey oasis away from the bustling main strip features al fresco seating in a lush green setting. Scan the QR code to learn more about the menu and Vietnamese food in general. Phố nam is a must-try with noodles in a clear beef bone broth loaded with flavours. Order the thập cẩm version to try all beef cuts. Bánh xèo miền tây is another popular choice with crispy pancakes and a generous filling. Cheerful, friendly front-of-house team.

This shop specialising in Huế-style bún bò makes its robust, savoury broth fresh every day. Pick from four toppings including the signature xí quách: the large L-shaped beef bone lends deep flavour and a wealth of textures – meat, cartilage and fatty edges. For a more varied bowl, try the thập cẩm, which comes with beef blood curd, pork loaf and tendon; the thinly sliced beef tongue is tender and delicate. Arrive early as beef bone availability is limited.