Bale Well
The set menu
Verdict: Run
Type: Vietnamese
Location: Hoi An, Vietnam
Address: 45 Ngõ 51 Trần Hưng Đạo, Phường Minh An, Hội An, Quảng Nam 550000, Vietnam
Entrance to the larger eating area
Crowded tables
Banh xeo production line
Must Try Items: Banh Xeo set menu, fresh orange juice
Cost: Set for 1 pax was ₫140k (~$7.60 CAD), drinks were between ₫15k-150k ($0.80-8.15 CAD)
Interior courtyard
Happy rolling
Comments:
Let’s set the stage for this review. We went to Bale Well for dinner 2 days in a row. It was that good. Plus, the VFM (value for money) is insane.
It’s a family-run business and clear favourite for locals & tourists alike (we were recommended this place from Anna, our tailor from Se Se’s). They were so welcoming that the matriarch took us under her wing and insisted she was our Auntie from now on.
Rice wrap demo
Showing off my rolling skills
Fresh mango juice
The set spread:
Bánh xèo (crispy pancake with shrimp, beansprouts), Ram Cuốn (fried rice spring rolls with pork, green onions), Nem Nướng (grilled pork satay), Thịt Nướng (grilled pork)
Get the set menu. It comes with Bánh xèo (crispy pancake with shrimp, beansprouts), Ram Cuốn (fried rice spring rolls with pork, green onions), Nem Nướng (grilled pork satay), Thịt Nướng (grilled pork), a huge plateful of mixed fresh greens, pickled veggies, rice paper, and sauces. They adjust the quantities based on your party size.
The staff will demo how to make the 2 different types of wraps. Then all you need to do is wrap, dunk, and eat.
We kept going back because of the Bánh xèo - so incredibly crispy. The wraps overall were fresh, flavourful, and just plain delicious.
Bánh xèo wrap demo
Bánh xèo wrap dipped in a peanut sauce
Chocolate mouse & passion fruit puddings
Rascal pup getting into the garbage
Their fresh fruit drinks were delicious. Especially the orange - made from their local green skinned oranges. Tasted like a creamsicle.
I know as travellers we’re warned about consuming fresh veggies/fruits & ice in areas we don’t know, but we were pleasantly surprised by our experience at Bale Well. I for one, was so appreciative that we could incorporate fresh fruits & veggies into our diet here.
We will definitely be back to visit Auntie. Until then, if you go, please say hello :)
The Matriarch of Bale Well
Auntie
Fresh orange juice
Final bill for the set & drinks
Outdoor kitchen
More Bánh xèo