Andrea gets a taste of fresh rice rolls in Hanoi made the old-fashioned way…

Located on a busy corner in the Old Quarter of Hanoi sits a new restaurant that is a must-visit for anyone heading to the city. Started by Ms Le Thi Thanh Thuy, this little restaurant is a wonderful hidden gem. Banh Cuon Viet features a very simple menu of traditional Vietnamese Steamed Rice Rolls, but the best part is that you can be part of the action. The chef actually sits at the front of the restaurant and makes these little delicacies for all to see. You can choose the ingredients — everything from a simple spring onion roll to a pork or shrimp roll. If you really want to be challenged you can take the hot seat and try making your own rolls.

Ms Thuy is a lovely host and because of her many years of being a tour guide she has no problem explaining the menu, the restaurant or just chatting in flawless English. Her reason for leaving guiding and getting into the restaurant business? Her love of steamed rice rolls, of course. She remembers having them as a kid and decided to go back to her home town to learn how to make them in the traditional way before bringing those skills back to Hanoi.

It’s the perfect light meal and a great way to enjoy some local flavor!… Read more »