Bún Bò Huế & Mè Xửng: Timeless Treasures of Hue’s Imperial Capital

"Hue’s two iconic specialties – the bold, spicy Bún Bò Huế and the chewy, aromatic Mè Xửng sesame candy – embody the soul of the ancient capital and have earned Asian culinary acclaim."

A journey to Hue is incomplete without savoring a steaming bowl of Bún Bò Huế and a piece of Mè Xửng paired with lotus tea. The former delivers a rich, lemongrass-scented broth laced with hidden shrimp paste and fiery saté; the latter offers a perfectly balanced sweet-chewy delight made from toasted sesame and peanuts. Both are proud entries in Asia’s culinary records and the ultimate edible souvenirs of Hue’s dreamy heritage.

Bún Bò Huế originated in Vân Cù village, the 400-year-old cradle of Hue’s signature noodles. Legend credits Cô Bún with inventing the craft after being exiled from her village during a famine. Once served at royal banquets, the dish soon became a beloved street-food staple across the imperial capital.

What defines authentic Bún Bò Huế is its thick, chewy noodles from Vân Cù, crystal-clear broth sweetened by slow-simmered bones, fragrant lemongrass, subtle shrimp paste, and a fiery saté kick. Each bowl overflows with tender beef, pork knuckle, crab cake and fresh herbs. More than just food, it reflects Hue’s refined yet humble lifestyle.

Mè Xửng is Hue’s signature sweet treat, traditionally displayed on every tea tray in the ancient capital. Crafted from white sesame, roasted peanuts, caramelized sugar, malt and honey, these chewy squares deliver a fragrant, not-too-sweet bite that has captivated locals and travelers alike.

Making Mè Xửng demands patience: sesame and peanuts are toasted until fragrant, sugar is boiled to the perfect thread stage with lemon and honey, then thickened with tapioca starch before being molded and sliced. Thiên Hương, a family business since 1940, remains the most revered brand, offering a modern, less-sweet version that still honors tradition.

The proper way to enjoy Mè Xửng is slowly, with a steaming cup of lotus tea – the candy’s gentle sweetness perfectly balanced by the tea’s delicate aroma. It can be savored any time of day and makes the most thoughtful souvenir from Hue.

Both Bún Bò Huế and Mè Xửng are proudly listed among Asia’s culinary treasures and Vietnam’s top specialties. Praised by Anthony Bourdain as “the world’s best soup,” they are far more than meals – they are edible expressions of Hue’s poetic soul.