Royal costume dinner in Hue

The former monarchical capital, located in the center of Vietnam, is not only famous for its historical monuments, such as those of its Imperial City recognized by UNESCO. It is also a highly appreciated destination for its cuisine inherited from the royal court. For more than a century, when the 13 emperors of the Nguyen dynasty reigned between 1802 and 1945, the dishes concocted in Huê reached a peak and were pushed to the rank of artistic creations.

Refinement, mixing subtlety and complex tastes, characterizes this culinary culture considered a leading national heritage. As a result, we have preserved, perpetuated and propagated this quintessence of Vietnamese culture among younger generations and visitors from abroad. Some restaurants in the Imperial City are the best examples of this through the organization of costumed imperial dinners.

Imperial gastronomy of Hue

As early as 1802 under the reign of Gia Long, the first Nguyen king, an “Imperial Mouth Service” was established. In close cooperation with the court doctors, he was responsible for concocting dishes especially for the monarch. The fifty or so cooks who made it up were all rigorously selected; everyone focused on preparing just one of the 30 to 50 dishes served on the royal table. The emperor only consumed a tiny amount and the rest was allocated to the mandarins.

These monarchical meals were based on the same products, practically, on which the inhabitants ate. However, the use of certain very rare ingredients also made a difference. This included bear hands, sambar tendons, rhino skins, and even orangutan lips! According to the strict procedures for preparing the dishes, these sophisticated and unusual additions could require three or four successive seasonings.

It was also necessary to develop a complex and refined presentation with decorations using vegetables and fruits meticulously sculpted in the shape of sacred animals. This cuisine of the Nguyen dynasty required great harmony between tastes and colors, respecting a balance of Yin and Yang. This required making a good choice of products that were beneficial nutritionally and for the health of the kings. In addition, the dishes were served in very beautiful porcelain and covered with thick linen; this allowed heat to be preserved during the transfer from the kitchen to the emperor's table.

In summary, the imperial gastronomy of Hue is the most beautiful illustration of the sophistication, elegance, even charisma of Vietnamese culinary art. Tasting its dishes around a table, dressed like kings and mandarins, offers a unique and particularly unforgettable experience for those who let themselves be tempted by the emblematic restaurants of the ancient capital.

How is this royal dinner going?

To ensure a typical atmosphere, reminiscent of a prestigious past, travelers are first invited to dress up as an emperor or a mandarin. They then gather around a table on which dishes formerly reserved for Vietnamese monarchs are offered. Throughout the meal, a group of artists plays a recital of songs and traditional pieces of music with period instruments. A change of scenery and better knowledge of the imperial court are guaranteed!

For who?

This activity is intended for lovers of sought-after gastronomy during a stay in Hue, and for those who want to know more about the history of Vietnam. But any curious visitor, open to pleasant surprises, can obviously also be interested!