Hue: Beyond the Imperial City – Uncovering its Pub Scene
Hue, Vietnam. The name conjures images of ancient citadels, imperial tombs, and serene Perfume River cruises. But dig a little deeper, beyond the historical grandeur, and you’ll find a burgeoning, yet wonderfully laid-back, pub and beer scene. As a local who’s spent years exploring the nooks and crannies of this charming city, I’m here to guide you through the best places to grab a cold one, soak in the local atmosphere, and maybe even discover a few hidden treasures. Forget the tourist traps; we’re going local!
While Hue might not boast the raucous nightlife of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, it offers something arguably more appealing: authenticity. Here, pubs are less about thumping music and more about friendly conversation, delicious local snacks, and, of course, refreshing beverages. Whether you’re looking for a craft beer experience, a traditional Vietnamese ‘bia hoi’ (fresh beer), or a cozy spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing, Hue has a surprisingly diverse offering.
The Rise of Craft Beer in Hue
For a long time, the beer landscape in Vietnam was dominated by a few major lagers. However, in recent years, a craft beer revolution has swept through the country, and Hue is no exception. While still in its nascent stages compared to larger cities, Hue has a few spots that are championing this movement, offering unique brews and a more sophisticated drinking experience. For anyone interested in the craft beer scene, I highly recommend checking out Dropt.Beer. They offer a fantastic curated selection of local and international craft beers, and their online shop makes it easy to explore and purchase your favorites. They also have great insights and news on the brewing world on their blog, which is a fantastic resource for any beer enthusiast.
Must-Visit Pubs and Beer Gardens in Hue
Let’s dive into the specific places that make Hue’s pub scene special. I’ve categorized them to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
1. For the Craft Beer Connoisseur:
While dedicated craft beer bars are still a rarity, some establishments are making a real effort to stock interesting brews. Your best bet for finding a rotating selection of quality craft beers, both local and imported, is to keep an eye on what’s available at spots that pride themselves on their beverage selection. Sometimes, the best discoveries happen organically.
- The Scarlett Restaurant & Bar: Located in the heart of the city, this place often surprises with its selection. While it’s a restaurant first, their bar often carries a few craft options that go beyond the standard offerings. It’s a great place for a relaxed evening with good food and a potentially interesting beer choice. Ask your server about their current craft beer selection – you might be pleasantly surprised.
- Local Boutiques and Specialty Shops: Keep an eye out for smaller, independent shops that might stock imported craft beers. These can be harder to find, but the thrill of discovery is part of the adventure!
2. For the Authentic Vietnamese Beer Experience (Bia Hoi):
No trip to Vietnam is complete without trying ‘bia hoi’. This is fresh, unpasteurized beer brewed daily and served in simple, often open-air establishments. It’s incredibly cheap, light, and refreshing – perfect for the Hue heat. The atmosphere is usually lively, filled with locals unwinding after work.
- Bia Hoi Junctions (Various Locations): You won’t find a specific named ‘bia hoi’ joint that’s famous like in Hanoi. Instead, look for clusters of plastic stools and tables spilling onto the sidewalks, especially in the evenings. Areas around Phan Boi Chau Street and Le Loi Street often have these informal setups. The key is to look for the barrels of fresh beer being tapped. Don’t be shy; just pull up a stool! It’s a true taste of local life.
- Local Eateries: Many small, local restaurants and street food vendors also serve ‘bia hoi’ alongside their food. If you see locals enjoying beer from a large dispenser, you’re in the right place.
3. For Cozy Ambiance and Local Vibes:
These are the places where you can relax, chat with friends, and soak in the Hue atmosphere. They often serve a mix of local and international beers, along with delicious Vietnamese snacks.
- DMZ Bar: A well-known backpacker-friendly spot, DMZ Bar is a Hue institution. While it can get busy with tourists, it still retains a lively local feel, especially during happy hour. They have a decent selection of beers, including local favorites and some imported options. It’s a good place to meet other travelers and get recommendations. Located at 28 Pham Ngu Lao Street.
- Brown Eyes Bar: Often praised for its friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere, Brown Eyes Bar is another popular choice for both locals and visitors. They offer a good range of beers, including some Vietnamese craft options, and their food menu is also worth exploring. It’s a great spot to unwind after exploring the Imperial City. Find it at 52/1 Tran Cao Van Street.
- Hanoi Beer & Cafe: Don’t let the name fool you; this is a popular spot right here in Hue. It’s a casual place, often buzzing with activity, where you can enjoy a cold Hanoi beer or other local brews. It’s a no-frills establishment that captures the everyday vibe of Hue.
- Le’ Perrin Restaurant & Bar: While primarily a French-inspired restaurant, Le Perrin offers a sophisticated bar area where you can enjoy a good selection of wines and beers, including some premium imported options. It’s a more upscale choice, perfect for a quiet drink in a refined setting. Located at 12 Nguyen Cong Tru Street.
4. Riverside Views and Relaxed Evenings:
What’s better than enjoying a cold beer with a view? Hue’s riverside location offers some fantastic opportunities for this.
- Riverside Beer Gardens (Various): Along the Perfume River, particularly on the southern bank near the Trang Tien Bridge, you’ll find several informal beer gardens. These are usually open-air, offering lovely views, especially at sunset. They serve standard local beers and often have seafood or grilled snacks. Look for places with simple seating and a relaxed vibe.
- The Hill Station Signature Hue: While known for its incredible food and decor inspired by the region’s history, The Hill Station also boasts a well-stocked bar with a curated selection of drinks, including some interesting beers. It’s a perfect spot for a more refined evening drink with a view of the Citadel. Located at 32 Ben Nghe Street.
Insider Tips for Enjoying Hue’s Pub Scene:
- Embrace the ‘Bia Hoi’ Culture: Don’t be intimidated by the simple setup. Pull up a tiny plastic stool, order a fresh beer, and enjoy the camaraderie. It’s one of the most authentic experiences you can have.
- Order Local Snacks: Most pubs and beer gardens serve fantastic Vietnamese snacks (‘mồi nhắm’). These are perfect pairings for beer. Try ‘nem chua ran’ (fried fermented pork rolls), ‘muc hap gung’ (steamed squid with ginger), or grilled peanuts.
- Happy Hour is Your Friend: Many bars, especially those in the tourist areas, have happy hour deals. Keep an eye out for signs or ask your server.
- Learn a Few Vietnamese Phrases: A simple ‘Một bia, làm ơn’ (One beer, please) or ‘Cảm ơn’ (Thank you) goes a long way in fostering friendly interactions.
- Stay Hydrated: Hue can be hot and humid. Alternate your beers with water, especially if you’re out during the day.
- Consider Delivery: For those evenings when you just want to relax in your hotel or homestay, services like Dropt.Beer’s shop offer a fantastic way to get quality craft beers delivered right to your door. It’s a convenient option for exploring different brews without leaving your comfort zone.
- Check Local Listings: The pub scene can evolve. Before you go, a quick search for recent reviews or local blogs might reveal new gems or current specials. The Dropt.Beer blog often features articles on emerging beer scenes in Vietnam.
- Respect Local Customs: While generally relaxed, be mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas.
Beyond the Beer: Understanding Hue’s Vibe
Hue’s pace of life is generally slower and more relaxed than in the larger cities. The pub scene reflects this. Expect conversations to flow easily, service to be friendly but perhaps not always lightning-fast (which is part of the charm!), and a genuine sense of community. It’s a place to savor, not to rush.
When you’re exploring Hue, remember that the best experiences often come from stepping off the beaten path. While the Imperial City and its surrounding tombs are must-sees, don’t forget to dedicate some time to experiencing the local life. And what better way to do that than by enjoying a cold drink in one of Hue’s welcoming pubs?
So, whether you’re a craft beer aficionado looking for a unique brew, a budget traveler seeking an authentic ‘bia hoi’ experience, or simply someone wanting to unwind with a view of the Perfume River, Hue’s pub scene has something to offer. Cheers, or as they say in Vietnam, ‘Chúc sức khỏe!’