I love taking father-son trips with my boys. I started this blog to not just share my experiences with readers, but to also create a space where they may one day look back on some of the memories we created together on our trips abroad. Due to school and work commitments, we often find ourselves away over major holidays. Last year, my entire family and I went to Paris over Thanksgiving break. This year, Evan and I went to Hanoi, while Gretchen took our younger son, Elliott, to Disneyland over the holiday. Food is one of Thanksgiving’s centerpieces, but turkey and stuffing are not easy to find in Hanoi. So, to celebrate this very American holiday, Evan and I opted to try a traditional Vietnamese meal at Duong’s – Old Quarter.
We ordered the Traditional Set One and we were not disappointed. It would be an understatement to say our meal at Duong’s Old Quarter was the best food on our trip. Without a doubt, our Thanksgiving at Duong’s was the most delicious food we have ever eaten on any of our trips. Everything was perfect. Duong’s Old Quarter is one of those restaurants I plan to visit again on a trip to Hanoi, and we highly recommend it.
Evan is excited to try the spring rolls.
Appetizer
For our first course, Evan and I enjoyed traditional Vietnamese spring rolls prepared two ways. One was fried, and two more were served fresh. The fried spring roll was filled with herbs, mushrooms, and rice noodles. Not overly greasy, it was a crunchy delight. The two fresh rolls consisted of fresh herbs and vegetables wrapped in rice paper and crowned with shrimp. The dipping fish sauce worked perfectly with both. A wonderful start to our Thanksgiving lunch – both of us were left hungry for more.
The beef pho is spectacular.
Duong’s Old Quarter Special Beef Pho
Heavenly is the first word that comes to mind when I think about Duong’s “Special” Beef Pho. By far, this was the best we tried on our trip to Vietnam. The broth tastes like the most delicious bite of steak you can imagine melted in your mouth. Also, the slices of beef are delicately tender, and the noodles are soft and chewy. One bite and you’ll agree that Duong’s pho will leave a lasting impression.
Bun Cha
The star of our Thanksgiving meal was the Bun Cha. This dish consists of grilled pork served in stalks of lemongrass, vermicelli rice noodles, an assortment of fresh herbs, and a delicious dipping sauce. To eat it, we recommend placing some noodles, shredded fresh herbs, and pork in the sauce. After one bite, you’ll agree this is a very flavorful treat. Simply put, Duong’s bun cha is a must try while in Hanoi.
Dessert
The final course was dessert. We enjoyed a nice serving of chocolate mousse and cinnamon ice cream. It was a very sweet ending to a perfect, albeit non-traditional Thanksgiving meal in Vietnam.
Duong’s Old Quarter Information
Duong’s is located at 27 Neo Huyen St in the Hoan Kiem District of Hanoi. You may also enjoy visiting Duong’s 2 at 1010 Ma May St. They are open 7 days a week from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Reservations are available online by clicking here. We hope you enjoy their authentic and wonderful Vietnamese cuisine.
