Bánh Xíu Páo: Savor Nam Dinh’s Legendary Snack in Ninh Binh Province

In the vibrant Nam Dinh region, now a ward of Ninh Binh Province following Vietnam’s administrative merger, bánh xíu páo stands as a culinary icon that captures the essence of Red River Delta cuisine. This small, golden pastry, known for its crispy yet soft crust and savory filling, is a beloved snack among locals and travelers alike. Originating from Chinese influences and perfected in Nam Dinh, it combines char siu pork, boiled eggs, and aromatic spices in a flaky, honey-glazed crust. Affordable and flavorful, it’s a must-try for food enthusiasts. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, offers curated food tours to experience this delicacy—book via links throughout this guide. Dive into Nam Dinh’s culinary heritage with bánh xíu páo today

Legend Travel Group is committed to authentic Southeast Asia experiences, prioritizing sustainability, cultural immersion, and expert-guided tours. Our bánh xíu páo tours feature eco-conscious practices, partnering with local bakers to preserve culinary traditions and support communities. Aligned with Ninh Binh Province’s “Culinary Tourism” initiative, we use low-impact transport like bicycles and contribute to local economies. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless foodie journey. Discover our tours—book via the links on this page!

Bánh xíu páo, a specialty of the Nam Dinh region in Ninh Binh Province, is a small, baked pastry with a rich history tied to Chinese migration to Nam Dinh. The name “xíu páo” translates to “baked bun with char siu,” reflecting its filling of barbecued pork (char siu), boiled quail or chicken eggs, wood ear mushrooms, and spices like five-spice powder and honey. The crust, made from layered wheat flour dough, is brushed with egg yolk and oil for a golden, flaky finish. Priced at ~10,000–15,000 VND (~$0.40–$0.60 USD) per piece, it’s a budget-friendly snack or breakfast staple, especially popular among students. Pair your tasting with visits to nearby cultural sites like Tran Temple for a complete Ninh Binh experience.

Administrative Update: Following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, the former Nam Dinh Province is now a ward within Ninh Binh Province, with Ninh Binh City as the provincial hub. The district level has been abolished, improving access to culinary hotspots with enhanced infrastructure.

Bánh xíu páo stands out for its meticulous preparation and harmonious flavors:

• Crust: A multi-layered, flaky wheat flour dough, baked to a golden-brown crisp with a honey and egg yolk glaze.

• Filling: Char siu pork marinated with honey and spices, paired with boiled eggs, wood ear mushrooms, and pork fat for a savory, rich taste.

• Aroma: Fragrant with five-spice powder, basil, and grilled onions, stimulating the senses when eaten hot.

• Texture: Combines a crispy exterior with a soft, juicy interior, offering a delightful contrast.

• Cultural Roots: A fusion of Chinese and Vietnamese culinary traditions, perfected in Nam Dinh’s historic Chinatown.

This unique combination makes bánh xíu páo a standout snack, distinct from similar pastries like pia or mooncakes.

1. Xíu Páo Dư Dư

A historic shop on Hoang Van Thu Street, renowned for its traditional recipe and crispy crust.

• Cost: ~10,000–12,000 VND (~$0.40–$0.48 USD/piece).

• Highlights: “The gold standard of xíu páo” (Foody.vn, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tip: Enjoy hot with green tea (~10,000 VND, ~$0.40 USD); visit morning for fresh batches.

• Book Now: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Street Food Adventure Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD).

2. Bánh Xíu Páo Nam Định

A popular stall on Le Hong Phong Street, offering generous fillings and consistent quality.

• Cost: ~12,000–15,000 VND (~$0.48–$0.60 USD/piece).

• Highlights: “Authentic and flavorful” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tip: Try with a boiled egg filling; evening visits (6:00–8:00 PM) for lively vibes.

• Book Now: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Culinary Explorer Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD).

3. Tiệm Bánh Xíu Páo Hoang Van Thu

A family-run bakery in Nam Dinh’s former Chinatown, known for its aromatic char siu.

• Cost: ~10,000–13,000 VND (~$0.40–$0.52 USD/piece).

• Highlights: “A local favorite” (Vietnam Tourism, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tip: Buy a box for souvenirs; morning (7:00–10:00 AM) for the freshest pastries.

• Book Now: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Foodie Trail Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD).

4. Xíu Páo KC Food Shop

A modern take on the classic, offering consistent quality near Hang Sat Street.

• Cost: ~12,000–15,000 VND (~$0.48–$0.60 USD/piece).

• Highlights: “Perfect for on-the-go” (Foody.vn, 4.4/5 stars).

• Tip: Pair with iced tea (~10,000 VND, ~$0.40 USD); ideal for quick snacks.

• Book Now: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Nam Dinh Snack Tour (~1,000,000 VND, ~$40 USD).

From Hanoi (90–100 km, ~1.5–2 hours)

• Bus: Giap Bat Station to Ninh Binh City, then taxi to Nam Dinh bakeries.

  • Cost: Bus: ~100,000 VND (~$4 USD); taxi: ~100,000 VND (~$4 USD).

  • Duration: ~1.5–2 hours.

• Train: Reunification Express to Ninh Binh Station, then taxi.

  • Cost: Train: ~75,000–150,000 VND (~$3–$6 USD); taxi: ~100,000 VND (~$4 USD).

  • Duration: ~2 hours.

• Motorbike: Via National Highway 1A or Hanoi–Ninh Binh Expressway.

  • Cost: Rental: ~100,000–250,000 VND (~$4–$10 USD/day); fuel: ~50,000 VND (~$2 USD).

  • Duration: ~1.5–2 hours.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s tours (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD) include eco-transfers.

From Ho Chi Minh City (1,300 km, ~2 hours flight + 2 hours road)

• Flight + Road: Fly to Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport, then bus/taxi to Nam Dinh.

  • Cost: Flight: ~750,000–1,750,000 VND (~$30–$70 USD); bus: ~100,000 VND (~$4 USD); taxi: ~100,000 VND (~$4 USD).

  • Duration: ~2 hours flight + ~2 hours road.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s tours (~3,500,000 VND, ~$140 USD) include flights and transfers.

From Ninh Binh City Center (15–20 km, ~20–30 minutes)

• Motorbike: Via Highway 38B to Hoang Van Thu Street.

  • Cost: Rental: ~120,000–200,000 VND (~$5–$8 USD/day); fuel: ~20,000 VND (~$0.80 USD).

  • Duration: ~20–30 minutes.

• Taxi/Grab: ~100,000–150,000 VND (~$4–$6 USD/trip); ~20 minutes.

• Bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day); ~45–60 minutes.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s tours (~1,000,000 VND, ~$40 USD) include transfers.

Within the Nam Dinh Region (1–5 km, ~5–15 minutes)

• Bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day); ~5–15 minutes.

• Motorbike: Rental: ~120,000–200,000 VND (~$5–$8 USD/day); fuel: ~10,000 VND (~$0.40 USD); ~5–10 minutes.

• Walking: Free; ~10–20 minutes to Hoang Van Thu Street.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s tours (~750,000 VND, ~$30 USD) include eco-transfers.

Route Tip: Take Highway 38B from Ninh Binh City to Hoang Van Thu or Le Hong Phong Street; use offline maps (e.g., Maps.me). Parking: ~5,000–15,000 VND (~$0.20–$0.60 USD/motorbike).

• Morning (7:00–10:00 AM): Freshest batches, ideal for breakfast; best in spring (February–April) or autumn (September–November) with mild weather (15–28°C).

• Evening (6:00–8:00 PM): Lively street food scene, perfect for snacks.

• Year-Round: Available daily; summer (May–August) is warm (25–35°C), winter (December–January) cooler (10–20°C) with 10–15% tour discounts.

• Festivals: Pair with Phu Day Festival (lunar March) visits; book tours 2–3 weeks ahead.

• Tip: Morning for freshness; hot pastries enhance flavor, so eat immediately.

• Bánh Xíu Páo: ~10,000–15,000 VND (~$0.40–$0.60 USD/piece).

• Drinks/Sides: Tea/soft drinks: ~10,000–30,000 VND (~$0.40–$1.20 USD).

• Transport:

  • From Hanoi: Bus + taxi: ~200,000 VND (~$8 USD); train + taxi: ~175,000–250,000 VND (~$7–$10 USD); motorbike: ~150,000–300,000 VND (~$6–$12 USD).

  • From Ho Chi Minh City: Flight + road: ~950,000–2,050,000 VND (~$38–$82 USD).

  • From Ninh Binh City: Motorbike: ~140,000–220,000 VND (~$5–$9 USD); taxi: ~100,000–150,000 VND (~$4–$6 USD); bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD).

  • Within Nam Dinh: Bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD); motorbike: ~130,000–210,000 VND (~$5–$8 USD); walking: free.

• Accommodation: Budget guesthouses: ~300,000–600,000 VND (~$12–$24 USD/night); mid-range hotels: ~800,000–1,500,000 VND (~$32–$60 USD); luxury resorts: ~3,000,000 VND (~$120 USD) and up.

• Total Daily Cost: ~500,000–1,750,000 VND (~$20–$70 USD) (budget: ~$20–$35 USD; mid-range: ~$35–$50 USD; luxury: ~$50–$70 USD).

• Tip: Use VND; ATMs in Ninh Binh City (Vietcombank, Agribank); book tours for seamless planning.

• Plan Ahead: Book tours 1–2 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group or Baolau.com (+84 938 123 456). Shops open 7:00 AM–8:00 PM.

• Pack Smart: Bring small cash (VND) for vendors, reusable water bottle, and light clothing for warm days.

• Budget Wisely: Expect ~500,000–1,750,000 VND (~$20–$70 USD/day); confirm prices to avoid overcharging.

• Stay Safe: Secure valuables; inform vendors of allergies (English may be limited); avoid peak hours for a calmer experience.

• Sustainability: Support local bakers; use reusable items to reduce waste; choose eco-tours to preserve culinary heritage.

• Cultural Respect: Thank vendors (“cảm ơn”); tip ~5,000–10,000 VND (~$0.20–$0.40 USD) for great service; respect queue customs.

• Navigation: Allow 1–2 hours for bakery visits; combine with Tran Temple (~10 km) for a half-day itinerary.

Our sustainable food tours immerse you in Nam Dinh’s culinary traditions:

• Street Food Adventure Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD/person): Xíu Páo Dư Dư, bánh mì chân cầu, local markets. Includes eco-transfers and snacks.

• Culinary Explorer Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD/person): Bánh Xíu Páo Nam Định, Phở Cường, Phu Day Relic Complex. Includes transfers and lunch.

• Foodie Trail Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD/person): Tiệm Bánh Xíu Páo, bánh nhãn, Thinh Long Beach. Includes transfers and meals.

• Ninh Binh Food Odyssey (~8,500,000–13,500,000 VND, ~$340–$540 USD/person, 3–4 days): Bánh xíu páo, Tran Temple, homestays (~300,000–600,000 VND, ~$12–$24 USD/night). Includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, activities, and meals/snacks. Group discounts (10% off for 10+ travelers) available. Book now via links around this page!

Bánh Xíu Páo, the iconic snack of Ninh Binh’s Nam Dinh region, offers a delicious blend of crispy crust, savory char siu, and aromatic spices, embodying Vietnam’s culinary heritage. From historic bakeries on Hoang Van Thu Street to vibrant street food scenes, this pastry is a gateway to Nam Dinh’s culture. Legend Travel Group’s Ninh Binh Tours provide a sustainable way to savor bánh xíu páo, ensuring a sustainable Ninh Binh Travel experience while supporting local artisans and preservation efforts. Don’t miss this flavorful experience—browse our featured tours and book your Nam Dinh culinary adventure today!
Ready to taste bánh xíu páo in Nam Dinh? Reserve your eco-friendly tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable culinary journey!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Source: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group.