Hue officially launches "Hue - Culinary Capital 2026" program
An event promoting unique culinary culture in Hue, highlighting the iconic Hue beef noodle soup, aimed at spreading Vietnam's traditional heritage to the world.
From July 23 to 26, the Hue City People's Committee will host the "Hue - Culinary Capital 2026" program at Thuong Bac Park (Phu Xuan Ward). This event serves as a major highlight of the Hue Festival 2026, dedicated to honoring the unique culinary heritage of the ancient imperial capital.
According to the Hue City People's Committee, the event brings together approximately 80 culinary stalls representing various provinces including Hanoi, Nghe An, Quang Tri, and Phu Tho, offering a diverse exploration of regional flavors. A focal point of the event is the National Hue Beef Noodle Soup Festival, which aims to set a record for the largest live preparation and serving of this dish simultaneously.
Ms. Tran Huu Thuy Giang, Vice Chairwoman of the Hue City People's Committee, stated that the program aims to elevate the brand of Hue beef noodle soup, establishing it as a hallmark of cultural tourism. The dish is considered a synthesis of folk knowledge, with the Van Cu noodle village, boasting over 400 years of history, serving as the cradle of this traditional craft.
Having transcended its humble origins, Hue beef noodle soup is now popular in the US, France, Canada, and Australia. In 2014, renowned chef Anthony Bourdain famously praised it as one of the best soups he had ever tasted. The dish has consistently appeared in rankings by TasteAtlas and the Asian Record Organization. Notably, in June 2025, the "Folk knowledge of Hue beef noodle soup" was officially inscribed in the National Intangible Cultural Heritage List.