Every soccer season reminds me of my childhood in Vietnam.

Because of the time difference between Vietnam and many countries around the world, some tournaments happened during the day, but many of the most memorable matches were played late at night. Sometimes we stayed awake until 2–3 AM, even 4–5 AM, just to watch a game.

No matter what time the match started, food was always part of the experience.

Before kickoff, families would prepare food in advance.

Sometimes it was fresh bánh mì. Sometimes snacks. Sometimes rice and chicken. Other days, there would be a whole pot of porridge, phở, or bánh đa cua ready before the game began.

Everything had to be prepared ahead of time so nobody needed to leave during the match.

Back then, not every family had a television.

Sometimes only a few houses in the neighbourhood had one, and everyone gathered together to watch. Each family would bring something they had prepared and share it with everyone else.

We watched, ate, laughed, and talked together.

Halftime became part of the memory too — people discussing goals, debating referee calls, predicting the next half, and sharing food while waiting for the match to continue.

And when a final went into extra time, nobody wanted to leave.

It felt like the whole city, sometimes the whole country, was living in the same excitement.

Looking back now, I don’t remember every score.

But I remember the feeling of gathering around food and spending time together.

That feeling still inspires us at Crab Hot Lau today.

Beyond our signature Vietnamese hotpot, we also love simple and comforting food that is easy to enjoy and share.

🥖 Vietnamese Bánh Mì
• Lemongrass Chicken Bánh Mì
• Pâté & Egg Bánh Mì
• Fish Cake Bánh Mì
• Grilled Pork Bánh Mì

🍗 Lemongrass Chicken Rice
🥢 Crispy Vietnamese Spring Rolls

Whether you’re enjoying soccer season in Vancouver, heading to summer events, or gathering with friends and family, we hope there’s always something here that feels familiar.

Looking for Vietnamese food in Vancouver during soccer season or summer gatherings? Explore our Vietnamese bánh mì, lemongrass chicken rice, and more at Crab Hot Lau.

We hope there’s always something here that feels familiar. Open daily in Vancouver.