Halong Bay is not only famous for its stunning landscapes, but also for its unique and delicious cuisine. From fresh seafood caught straight from the Gulf of Tonkin to local specialties, Halong Bay offers a variety of flavors that will leave any food lover wanting more. In this guide, we will explore some of the best dishes to try and where to find them in the region.
1. Chả Mực (Squid Cakes)
Chả mực is one of the most iconic dishes in Halong Bay. Made from fresh squid, this dish is known for its chewy texture and savory taste. The squid is finely chopped and mixed with a variety of seasonings and herbs, then shaped into cakes and deep-fried until golden brown. It is often served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce and a side of herbs.
Where to try it:
You can find this dish in many local seafood restaurants around Halong Bay. One of the most popular spots is Bánh Cuốn Chả Mực Hạ Long, a famous eatery known for its exceptional chả mực.
2. Ngán (Razor Clams)
Ngán, also known as razor clams, are a popular delicacy in Halong Bay. These shellfish have a unique taste, slightly sweet and tender, and are usually served steamed or grilled with a variety of seasonings, including garlic, ginger, and lemongrass. The grilled ngán with chili and salt is a must-try for anyone visiting Halong Bay.
Where to try it:
Many seaside restaurants and street vendors in Bãi Cháy serve delicious ngán dishes. For an authentic experience, visit Nhà Hàng Hương Mai or Nhà Hàng 555.
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3. Sam Biển (Sea Cucumber)
Sam biển, or sea cucumber, is another delicacy that can be found in Halong Bay. Known for its jelly-like texture, sea cucumber is often prepared in soups, stir-fries, or braised dishes. It is considered a nutritious food that is believed to have various health benefits, including improving skin elasticity and boosting immunity.
Where to try it:
Sea cucumber is commonly served in high-end seafood restaurants, such as Công Đoàn Hotel Restaurant or Sailing Club Halong Bay.
4. Bánh Cuốn Chả Mực (Steamed Rice Rolls with Squid Cakes)
This dish is a Halong twist on the popular Vietnamese bánh cuốn (steamed rice rolls). The rice rolls are filled with minced pork, wood ear mushrooms, and a special squid cake called chả mực. It’s usually served with fried shallots, fresh herbs, and a sweet soy sauce or fish sauce on the side. The combination of soft, thin rice rolls and the chewy squid cakes makes this dish irresistible.
Where to try it:
For an authentic experience, head to Bánh Cuốn Chả Mực Hạ Long or Quán Bánh Cuốn 87 in Halong City.
5. Vịt Cỏ (Free-range Duck)
Vịt cỏ is a traditional Vietnamese dish made from free-range ducks. The ducks are raised on natural food and have a distinct flavor compared to regular farm ducks. The meat is tender and slightly gamey, often served in a rich, flavorful broth or stir-fried with fresh vegetables.
Where to try it:
For a tasty duck dish, visit Nhà Hàng Dương Hương in Halong or Quán Vịt Cỏ Hạ Long for a hearty and flavorful meal.
6. Cá Song (Snub-nosed Carp)
Cá song, also known as snub-nosed carp, is a local fish found in the waters around Halong Bay. It is usually grilled or steamed with a variety of herbs and spices, giving it a fresh, earthy flavor. The fish is often served whole, and its tender meat is a treat for any seafood lover.
Where to try it:
For a fresh, delicious cá song dish, head to Nhà Hàng Tuấn Anh or Nhà Hàng Hải Sản Minh Hải, both known for their excellent fish dishes.
7. Bánh Đa Cua (Crab Noodles)
Bánh đa cua is a famous noodle soup in Halong Bay made with thick, chewy rice noodles, crab meat, and a rich broth. It’s often served with herbs, fried onions, and chili sauce for extra flavor. The sweetness of the crab and the richness of the broth make this dish a favorite for many.
Where to try it:
You can enjoy a bowl of bánh đa cua at Quán Bánh Đa Cua Tân Thành or Quán Bánh Đa Cua Hạ Long, where locals swear by the freshness and quality of the ingredients.
Where to Eat in Halong Bay
For food lovers visiting Halong Bay, there are plenty of places to sample these delicious dishes. Here are some recommendations:
- Bãi Cháy Market: A bustling market where you can find a variety of seafood and Halong specialties.
- Ngọc Vừng Seafood Restaurant: Known for its fresh seafood dishes, including ngán, chả mực, and crab.
- Công Đoàn Hotel Restaurant: Offers a wide range of seafood, including premium dishes like sea cucumber and snub-nosed carp.
Halong Bay is a paradise not only for nature lovers but also for food enthusiasts. Whether you’re indulging in the sweet and savory flavors of chả mực, enjoying the delicate taste of ngán, or trying the rich broth of bánh đa cua, Halong’s culinary offerings are sure to leave a lasting impression. Don’t forget to explore local markets and street vendors to discover even more hidden gems of Halong’s cuisine. Happy eating!