Savoring the famous 20-year-old Áp Chao pancake

BHG - When it comes to Ha Giang street food, one cannot overlook the iconic Áp Chao pancake shop run by Mrs. Hoang Bich Ha. With over 20 years of history, the shop, located on Nguyen Trai Street in the heart of the city, has become a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. Not only be renowned for its signature Áp Chao pancakes, the shop also offers a variety of delightful snacks such as fried dough sticks, sweet potato cakes, and banana fritters.

The Áp Chao pancake at Mrs. Ha’s shop stand out for their distinctive flavor that is hard to find elsewhere. The crispy golden crust is made from wheat flour and shredded sweet potato, fried to perfection. Inside, the filling is tender, flavorful pork that is carefully marinated to achieve a fragrant and soft texture.

A highlight of the experience is the dipping sauce, which plays a crucial role in this shop's popularity. This family-secret sauce features finely sliced green papaya soaked with chopped herbs, vinegar, fish sauce, and sugar, creating a perfectly balanced sweet-and-sour taste that complements the pancakes beautifully.

The sight of Mrs. Ha deftly frying pancakes in a sizzling hot pan adds to the cozy and welcoming atmosphere of the shop. On chilly winter days, the shop becomes even busier, with fresh batches of pancakes quickly selling out.

In addition to Áp Chao pancake, the menu also includes crispy fried dough sticks, sweet potato cakes, and aromatic banana fritters. These treats not only satisfy the palate but also evoke cherished childhood memories.

Nguyen Mai Chi, a loyal customer, shares: “I’ve been coming here since my school days. Even after so many years, the taste of the dishes hasn’t changed a bit.”

With price ranges from just 2,000 to 5,000 VND per piece, Mrs. Hoang Bich Ha’s Áp Chao pancake shop is an ideal stop to fully enjoy the flavors of Ha Giang’s street food. If you ever visit this province, don’t miss the chance to savor these wonderful dishes!

KHANH LINH