Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey through the heart of Vietnam? Central Vietnam is renowned for its diverse and tantalizing cuisine, from the bustling streets of Da Nang to the historical charm of Hue. This article will guide you through 15 incredible dishes that represent the rich flavors and traditions of this region. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and discover some unforgettable specialties!
1. Bun Ca Nha Trang: A Delicious Coastal Delight
When you think of the culinary treasures of Central Vietnam, Bun Ca Nha Trang undoubtedly stands out. This dish captures the essence of Nha Trang’s coastal culture, using the freshest ocean fish to create a sweet, clear broth. The white fish fillets offer a delicate texture that pairs beautifully with the chewy rice noodles and crispy fish cakes.
- Where to Try:
- Bun Cha Ca Co Ba: 123 Yersin, Nha Trang
- Bun Cha Ca Sua Yersin: 87 Yersin, Nha Trang
- Bun Cha Ca Min: 170 Bach Dang, Nha Trang
- Price Range: 25,000 – 50,000 VND per bowl
Bun Ca Nha Trang – A Fresh and Flavorful Dish
2. Mi Quang: A Symbol of Quang Nam’s Heritage
Mi Quang is not just a dish; it’s a cultural symbol of Quang Nam and Da Nang. This vibrant noodle dish is made from thick, yellow rice noodles, topped with an array of meats such as shrimp, pork, and chicken, accompanied by crushed peanuts and fresh herbs, served in a flavorful broth.
- Where to Try:
- Quan Ba Mua: 19 – 21 Tran Binh Trong, Da Nang
- Quan Bep Trang: 10 Ha Bong, Da Nang
- Quan Mi Quang Co Van: 329 Nguyen Duy Hieu, Hoi An
- Quan Mi Quang Chi Ha: 02 Thai Phien, Minh An, Hoi An
- Price Range: 20,000 – 50,000 VND per bowl
3. Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo Hai Dau Da: A Culinary Must-Try in Da Nang
No trip to Da Nang is complete without indulging in Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo Hai Dau Da. This dish features tender slices of pork belly paired with fresh herbs and rice vermicelli, all wrapped in rice paper and dipped in a flavorful shrimp paste.
- Where to Try:
- Quan Mau: 35 Do Thuc Tinh, Cam Le, Da Nang
- Quan Ba Huong: 460 Duong 2 Thang 9, Hai Chau, Da Nang
- Quan Ba Mua: 19 – 21 Tran Binh Trong, Hai Chau, Da Nang
- Price Range: 60,000 – 160,000 VND per serving
Vietnamese Pork Bellies Wrapped with Rice Paper
4. Nem Nuong Nha Trang: The Quintessential Nha Trang Experience
Nem Nuong Nha Trang is a street food sensation that captivates both locals and tourists alike. These grilled pork skewers are seasoned to perfection and served alongside fresh vegetables and crispy rice paper for wrapping.
- Where to Try:
- Nem Nuong Dang Van Quyen: 16A Lan Ong, Nha Trang
- Nem Nuong Di Nuong: 29 – 31 Le Loi, Nha Trang
- Nem Nuong Vu Thanh An: 15 Le Loi, Nha Trang
- Price Range: 70,000 – 135,000 VND per serving
5. Cao Lau: A Unique Taste of Hoi An
Cao Lau holds a special place in Hoi An’s culinary tradition. The noodles, made from a unique blend of local ingredients, are chewy and rich, paired with slices of pork and a drizzle of savory broth topped with fresh herbs.
- Where to Try:
- Cao Lau Khong Gian Xanh: 687 Hai Ba Trung, Hoi An
- Nha Hang Trung Bac: 87 Tran Phu, Hoi An
- Cao Lau Ba Thanh: 26 Thai Phien, Hoi An
- Price Range: 30,000 – 50,000 VND per bowl
A bowl of Cao Lau – A Delightful Dish from Hoi An
6. Banh Can: The Delightful Mini Pancakes of Central Vietnam
Banh Can are mini rice pancakes that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Often filled with a variety of ingredients such as shrimp, pork, or quail egg, they’re best enjoyed with a sweet and sour dipping sauce.
- Where to Try:
- Banh Can Thuy Da Nang: 154 Huynh Thuc Khang, Nam Duong, Hai Chau, Da Nang
- Banh Can Loan Da Nang: 274 Hai Phong, Thanh Khe, Da Nang
- Price Range: 15,000 – 40,000 VND per plate
7. Chao Luon Nghe An: A Comforting Delight
Chao Luon Nghe An (Eel Porridge) has garnered immense popularity for its sweet, savory flavors. The porridge, made from fresh eel cooked with herbs, is a comforting dish best enjoyed with sides of sliced green onions and pepper.
- Where to Try:
- Chao Luon Hong Son: 154 Mai Hac De, Vinh City, Nghe An
- Quan Luon Ba Lan: 02 Tran Hung Dao, Vinh City, Nghe An
- Price Range: 30,000 – 40,000 VND per bowl
Eel Porridge – A Sweet and Savory Dish
8. Com Ga: The Chicken Rice Sensation
Despite the abundance of seafood, Com Ga (Chicken Rice) stands tall as a beloved dish in Central Vietnam. The rice is cooked in chicken broth, infusing it with a rich flavor, while the chicken is tender and accompanied by a zesty salad.
- Where to Try:
- Com Ga Tai Ky: 478A2 Dien Bien Phu, Thanh Khe, Da Nang
- Com Ga A Hai: 100 Thai Phien, Phuoc Ninh, Hai Chau, Da Nang
- Price Range: 30,000 – 50,000 VND per dish
9. Com Hen: A Hue Culinary Gem
Com Hen is a quintessential dish from Hue, made with small clams mixed with rice and a variety of toppings. The dish is known for its contrasting flavors and textures, making it a delightful option for adventurous eaters.
- Where to Try:
- Com Hen Hoa Dong: 64 Kiet 7 Ung Binh, Hue
- Com Hen O Nao: 22 Tran Phu, Hue
- Price Range: 10,000 – 20,000 VND per serving
Com Hen – Hue's Rice and Clam Dish
10. Bun Bo Hue: The Iconic Hue Noodle Soup
Bun Bo Hue is famed for its deeply flavored broth, made with beef bones, lemongrass, and spices that create an aromatic experience. The robust noodles are topped with a variety of meats and served with fresh herbs.
- Where to Try:
- Bun Bo Ba Tuyet: 47 Nguyen Cong Truc, Hue
- Bun Bo O Phung Chu Vong: 14 Nguyen Du, Hue
- Price Range: 25,000 – 60,000 VND per bowl
Bun Bo Hue – A Hearty Vietnamese Dish
2. Famous Central Vietnam Snacks for Souvenirs
1. Nem Chua Thanh Hoa
Nem Chua is a specialty from Thanh Hoa characterized by its crunchy skin and sour, fermented meat flavor. Packaged conveniently in bundles, it’s a great option for a unique souvenir.
- Price Range: 25,000 – 60,000 VND for 10 pieces
2. Keo Cu Do Ha Tinh
Keo Cu Do, a sweet treat from Ha Tinh, is loved for its delightful crunch and light sweetness. Perfect for sharing or enjoying yourself, it’s a popular choice for bringing back home.
- Price Range: 50,000 – 60,000 VND per 450g package
3. Yen Sao Nha Trang
Known for its high nutritional value, Yen Sao from Nha Trang is often served with rock sugar for a delightful dessert.
- Price Range: From 800,000 VND per 100g
4. Banh It La Gai Binh Dinh
This traditional delicacy is filled with sweet mung beans and wrapped in fragrant gai leaves. Easy to carry and great for gifts!
- Price Range: 50,000 VND for 10 cakes
5. Me Xung Hue
Me Xung from Hue is a traditional confection that is not only delicious but also comes in a variety of textures. Choosing between soft and crunchy, it’s perfect for a cozy tea time.
- Price Range: 35,000 VND for 500g
Among these 15 culinary gems of Central Vietnam, which one speaks to you the most? Each dish holds a unique story and flavor that invites you to take a culinary adventure. If you’re planning your first visit to this sun-soaked region, be sure to save this article as your ultimate guide to an unforgettable food experience.
