Tucked away on a charming corner in Hanoi's Old Quarter, Chè Bốn Mùa ("Four Seasons") is more than just a dessert shop; it's a portal to the past. Stepping inside, the air is thick with the warm, sweet aroma of simmering broths and the delicate scent of jasmine flowers. Faded photographs lining the walls whisper stories of a bygone era, transporting you back to a simpler time.
I opted to sit outside on the sidewalk, watching the vibrant street life unfold while I sipped on a steaming bowl of chè sen (lotus seed dessert). The sweetness was gentle, not overpowering, and the lotus seeds had a delightful, nutty texture. Each spoonful felt like a hug from a warm memory, a taste of childhood summers spent savoring these traditional treats.
While the chè itself was delicious, it's the ambience that truly sets Chè Bốn Mùa apart. It's a place where time seems to slow down, inviting you to savor the moment and reconnect with the simpler things in life.
However, it's important to note that the sweetness level might be a bit high for some palates. If you prefer your desserts less sugary, you might want to ask for less sugar when ordering. Additionally, the seating inside can feel a bit cramped, and the ventilation isn't the best. So, if you're looking for a modern, air-conditioned cafe experience, this might not be it.
But if you're seeking a taste of Hanoi's rich culinary heritage and a chance to step back in time, Chè Bốn Mùa is an absolute gem. It's a place where every bowl of chè comes with a side of nostalgia and a warm sense of community. Just be prepared for a sugar rush and...
Read moreA Disappointing Return to My Once-Favorite Dessert Spot
I recently revisited a dessert shop in Vietnam that I used to love during my previous trip. Back then, the sweet soups was delightful, and the cozy atmosphere made it a must-visit spot. However, this return visit turned out to be a huge disappointment.
First, I noticed that the shop had undergone renovations. While the space is now much larger and modern-looking, it seems to have lost its charm. Moreover, the staff has almost entirely changed, and sadly, not for the better. The service was shockingly slow, and the staff displayed a lack of professionalism, with an unwelcoming and inattentive attitude.
As for the food, it was far from what I remembered. I ordered “banh troi tau”, which used to be a favorite of mine. This time, the dish was poorly made. The dough was thick, dense, and lacked the chewy, delicate texture it had before. The overall flavor was bland and unappetizing.
What was once an amazing dessert spot has now turned into a place I would not recommend. Unfortunately, it seems the focus on quality has been lost amidst the changes. I left feeling disappointed and will...
Read moreGreat place to enjoy Vietnamese dessert “Che”. The staffs don’t speak English and there isn’t English menu. So here are my recommendation from the menu: Che Khuc Bach (Almond Panna Cotta Jelly): light, refreshing Che Thap Cam (Mixture of green bean, lotus seed, jelly in coconut): the most basic Che dish where you can try different taste in one Sua Chua Mit (Yogurt with jack fruit, tapioca balls and jelly): this is my favorite, yogurt is milky and blend well with the sweet flavor of jack fruit, the tapioca balls are very well-made as well Sua Chua Nep Cam (Yogurt with red-colored sticky rice in coconut juice): I had doubt how yogurt can go along with sticky rice, but it turned out to be awesome, the coconut juice really add to the balanced flavor as well. A very traditional northern style dessert, must-try
How to order: Basically you find a seat first, the lady will come to take order. You can show them the photos of what you like to have. After eating you go to the...
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