SUMO HOTELS

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.

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.

Following its relocation, the restaurant now occupies three floors, offering a more spacious and comfortable setting. The exotic Indian-inspired design adds character, while the kitchen remains true to authentic traditional flavours. An experienced Indian chef helms the kitchen and his extensive menu features iconic dishes from the north to the south of his homeland. Kick off your meal with a refreshing papadam dipped in mint chutney. Then try the saag ghosh, a lamb and spinach curry from Northern India, even better with garlic naan to mop up the creamy sauce.

A French colonial allure depicts this two-storey restaurant with a blue and yellow façade. A relaxed vibe and its convenient location near the Han River and Han Market make it a popular spot for a meal after shopping. The concise menu features outstanding bánh xèo, boasting crispy, golden pancakes stuffed with carrot, pork, shrimps and squid. Spot-on seasoning, divine aromas and very courteous front-of-house staff.

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.

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.