Since its debut in 1984, Dung's eel noodle soup shop has become a culinary beacon, drawing throngs of eager patrons from morning till night, especially after earning a spot in the Michelin Guide's recommendations.
In Vietnam's rich tapestry of regional cuisines, eel dishes shine as beloved delicacies, each area boasting its distinctive preparation. Amidst this culinary landscape, Hanoi's Dung's eel noodle soup shop stands as a gastronomic landmark. Nestled at 87 Hang Dieu Street in the historic Hoan Kiem District, It's not merely one of the oldest eateries in the capital; it's a culinary beacon that has captured the hearts and palates of both locals and curious travelers.
This year, it proudly joined the ranks of the Michelin Guide's Bib Gourmand category, an honor bestowed upon establishments offering outstanding cuisine at affordable prices.
Read more about 5 Must-try Michelin-recommended dishes in Vietnam
The 66-year-old owner Quach Kim Dung says, “With years of experience from my previous work at a Hang Buom Street restaurant, I ventured into selling rice meals and steamed rice rolls post-retirement. My love for eel noodle soup drove me to perfect our now-famous recipe".
The two-story eatery, awash in natural light, seats 50 at capacity. Lunchtime crowds spill onto the sidewalk, a testament to Dung's enduring appeal.
The eels, sourced from Nghe An and Bac Ninh provinces, are chosen for their medium size, smooth skin, and round bodies. These serpentine delicacies undergo a meticulous preparation, emerging crisp and golden from the fryer.
The broth, the true soul of Dung's culinary, is a result of 10 hours of simmering pork and eel bones, carefully cleaned and blanched to ensure clarity.
The menu showcases two main dishes: eel noodle soup and mixed eel noodles, with options for soft or crispy eel.
Upon ordering, the noodles and bean sprouts are quickly blanched in the broth, maintaining the noodles' chewy texture and preventing them from sticking.
Accompanying each dish is an array of fresh condiments: soy sauce, cucumber, perilla leaves, basil, mint, roasted peanuts, and fried shallots. A garden of herbs and condiments stands ready, allowing for personalized flavor profiles.
Summer sees a surge in demand for the mixed noodles, their sweet-sour notes a balm against Hanoi's heat.
Dung's repertoire extends beyond the classics, with eel porridge and patties drawing their own devoted following.
Regular customer Thanh Loan from Ba Dinh District shares her fondness: “I visit the shop 2-3 times a week. The crispy eel in the mixed eel noodles is my favorite—it’s always perfectly cooked to my taste.”
The noodles offers a satisfying chew, while the eel, crispy and richly seasoned, adds a delectable crunch. Chili oil is available for those who wish to add an extra kick.
The shop's offerings are notably affordable, with eel noodle soup and eel porridge at 45,000VND ($1.70), mixed eel noodles at 55,000VND, eel soup at 35,000VND, and stir-fried eel noodles at 65,000VND. For those craving a taste of Hanoi at home, the vacuum-sealed crispy eel is available at 1.5 million VND ($59) per kilogram, making for an excellent gift.
Operating daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., Dung's has established itself as a beloved destination for those exploring Hanoi's Old Quarter, offering a perfect spot for a late-night culinary adventure.
Find out more about Exploring The Soul Of Hanoi
Source: Vnexpress.
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