Explore the banquet table for the French president in Hanoi

The menu for the French president's reception includes many dishes with strong Vietnamese flavors.

President Tran Dai Quang and French President Francois Hollande attend the reception. Photo: Giang Huy

French President Francois Hollande attended a reception in Vietnam this afternoon at the International Convention Center, Hanoi.

Talking to VnExpress, chef Chu Manh Hung said the party served 5 main dishes including: spring rolls and salad, abalone soup, king crab meatballs, pan-fried veal tenderloin and fruit dessert, coffee and tea.

"The king crab meatball dish will probably please the French president. We determined that we had to have a unique Vietnamese dish to make an impression," said chef Hung.

According to Mr. Hung, preparations for the party began two days ago.

The party menu. Photo: Giang Huy

After the reception, Mr. Hollande continued walking in Hanoi's Old Quarter with a group of former students studying in France.

Mr. Hollande landed in Hanoi last night, beginning a visit to Vietnam that will last until September 7. The visit marks the first time a French president has visited Vietnam in 12 years. Mr. Hollande is the third French president to visit Vietnam, following President Francois Mitterrand in 1993 and President Jacques Chirac in 1997 and 2004.

Guests attending the party. Photo: Giang Huy

According to VNE