During the rainy season, there’s one place to be: Lam Vinh Mau sweet soup shop. With its cozy atmosphere and delightful offerings, it’s a haven for those seeking comfort in the heart of District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
Nestled on Nguyen Thai Binh Street, the shop exudes a charming Teochew style. Run by an elderly Chinese man, it embodies a simplistic approach, inviting guests to sit, relax, and indulge in sweet treats while engaging in captivating conversations.
The story of this sweet soup cart began in 1958 when it was founded by its namesake, Lam Vinh Mau. Over the years, it has become a legacy, passed down through generations, even as its founder moved abroad.
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| A cozy gathering at Lam Vinh Mau sweet soup shop, where customers enjoy sweet treats and warm ambiance. Photo: Dang Khuong / Tuoi Tre |
The sweet soup cart holds a special reputation, not only among locals but also visitors from afar. It’s a must-visit destination for those traveling to Ho Chi Minh City, seeking a unique culinary experience.
As guests arrive, their eyes are drawn to the intricate wooden cart, adorned with engravings of ancient Chinese tales, proudly bearing the name ‘Lam Vinh Mau.’ The attention to detail and heritage is evident even before tasting the desserts.
The sweet soup offerings are a feast for the senses. Diners are presented with a delightful array of fresh ingredients, meticulously prepared and arranged. Longans, lotus seeds, tapioca, red beans, and mung beans—each ingredient tells a story of flavor and texture, carefully curated to create a harmonious dessert experience.
At the heart of the cart, a clay charcoal stove burns, adding a layer of richness and fragrance to each dessert. It’s this traditional cooking method that sets the sweet soups apart, enhancing the natural aromas of the fruits and vegetables.
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| A mouthwatering serving of sweet soup, carefully crafted and presented. Photo: Dang Khuong / Tuoi Tre |
The shop owner, a master of his craft, emphasizes the importance of the long cooking process. He carefully tends to the pots, adding just the right amount of sugar to strike a perfect balance. It’s this meticulous attention to detail that sets their sweet soups apart.
Among the offerings, the almond ginkgo sweet soup stands out as a beloved favorite. With a refreshing sweetness and a subtle richness, it captivates the senses with the aromatic fusion of almonds and ginkgo. The almond jelly adds a slight umami note, beautifully countered by the bitterness of the ginkgo biloba, creating a harmonious dance of flavors.
Another customer favorite is the red bean sweet soup. It’s a tantalizing treat that sparks curiosity with its mild, refreshing aroma. The secret lies in the dried tangerines simmered in the soup, adding a subtle twist that enhances the overall experience.
The cooking methods used at Lam Vinh Mau sweet soup shop are not just about flavor. They also carry a medicinal quality, reflecting the traditional Chinese approach to cuisine. Each bowl is a delicate balance of taste and wellness.
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| A captivating serving of red bean sweet soup, a customer favorite at Lam Vinh Mau shop. Photo: Dang Khuong / Tuoi Tre |
While the sweet soup shop offers a unique and memorable experience, some customers have expressed mixed feelings about the pricing. With a serving costing VND45,000 (US$1.83), some diners feel it is a bit pricey for the portion size, especially when compared to other street food options.
However, for those who appreciate the craftsmanship and attention to detail, the price is a worthwhile investment. Patrons from Hanoi, for example, have shared that a visit to Lam Vinh Mau sweet soup shop is always on their agenda when traveling to Ho Chi Minh City, even if it’s just for a quick bowl before starting their day.
Lam Vinh Mau sweet soup shop is more than just a dessert destination. It’s a place where tradition, craftsmanship, and flavor come together to create a warm and inviting ambiance. It leaves a lasting impression, not only on the taste buds but also in the hearts of those who visit.
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