Bún Thịt Nướng (Grilled Pork Vermicelli Bowl) is a staple of southern Vietnamese cuisine and one of the most popular dishes at Bolsa Restaurant. The pork is thinly sliced and marinated in a blend of lemongrass, garlic, shallots, fish sauce, and a touch of sugar before being char-grilled to order. The caramelised exterior and juicy interior of the pork is what elevates this dish from a simple noodle bowl to something truly memorable.
The pork is served over a bed of cool, silky rice vermicelli noodles alongside a colourful arrangement of shredded lettuce, bean sprouts, fresh mint, cucumber, pickled daikon and carrot, and crispy fried shallots. A side of house-made nuoc cham (fish sauce dipping sauce) brings everything together with the perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and savoury. For those who want to add extra crunch, ask for a crispy spring roll (Chả Giò) on top — a popular upgrade loved by Bolsa regulars throughout Calgary SE.
The Secret to Our Grilled Pork Marinade
At Bolsa Restaurant, our grilled pork marinade is a time-honoured Vietnamese recipe. Pork shoulder or neck is sliced thin to maximise surface area, then marinated with lemongrass, garlic, shallots, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and a small amount of sugar. When the pork hits a hot grill, the sugars caramelise quickly — creating those irresistible charred edges and a smoky-sweet aroma that fills the dining room and draws in guests from Acadia to Haysboro.
How the Bowl Comes Together
The beauty of Bún Thịt Nướng is in its contrasts. Hot, smoky grilled pork meets cool, refreshing vermicelli noodles. Crunchy pickled vegetables sit alongside soft fresh herbs. The nuoc cham ties every component together with a bright, balanced punch. Some guests add a squeeze of fresh lime or a dash of chili for extra brightness and heat — the bowl is wonderfully customisable.
Great for Takeout or Dine-In near Willow Park, Calgary
Bún Thịt Nướng is one of our most popular takeout orders at Bolsa Restaurant. The noodle bowl travels well and is quick to assemble once home. For dine-in, Bolsa's comfortable dining room in Macleod Plaza offers a relaxed setting perfect for a weeknight dinner, a casual lunch meeting, or a family outing. We are open Monday to Saturday, just off Macleod Trail in southeast Calgary.
