Vung Tau is not just a picturesque coastal destination; it is a culinary paradise that beckons food enthusiasts from all over the world. With its unique blend of fresh seafood and local specialties, the region offers an array of mouth-watering dishes that not only delight the palate but also offer an authentic taste of Vietnamese culture. Whether you’re sunbathing on the beach or wandering through the vibrant streets, these culinary gems are a must-try. What are the top dishes you should indulge in for an unforgettable experience in Vung Tau? Let’s dive into this delectable journey!
1. Must-Try Local Specialties in Vung Tau
1.1 Vung Tau Jellyfish Noodle Soup
Price Range: 20,000 – 30,000 VND per portion
Recommended Spots: Bún Sứa Vũng Tàu (Quán 79 Nha Trang on Bà Triệu Street), Bún Chả Cá – Bún Sứa at 84 Cô Giang.
Jellyfish noodle soup is more than just a local specialty; it is an experience that tantalizes the senses. The distinguishing factor of this dish lies in its fresh seafood and the aromatic broth that boasts a sweet and refreshing taste. Picture this: fresh noodles, succulent jellyfish, fragrant herbs, and a rich dipping sauce harmonizing beautifully—what better way to start your day?
Vung Tau Jellyfish Noodle Soup
Refreshing bowl of Vung Tau Jellyfish Noodle Soup.
1.2 Salted Yogurt and Soft-Boiled Eggs
Price Range: 7,000 – 30,000 VND per portion
Recommended Spots: Scenic lookout points on Núi Lớn, accessible via Viba Street or Hẻm 444 Trần Phú.
This delightful combination is a local favorite, especially enjoyed by those hiking up Núi Lớn. The surreal experience of eating creamy salted yogurt and perfectly cooked soft-boiled eggs while soaking in the breathtaking scenery whisk you away to gastronomic bliss.
Salted Yogurt and Soft-Boiled Eggs
Enjoying salted yogurt and soft-boiled eggs with a view.
1.3 Bún Tôm Tích (Mantis Shrimp Noodles)
Price Range: 40,000 – 80,000 VND per portion
Recommended Spots: Ngon 39 on Tú Xương Street, Lộc Dương Quán on Võ Thị Sáu Street.
Mantis shrimp, known locally as “tôm tích,” has a unique shape and high nutritional value. The dish is as vibrant as it is delicious, with various toppings like tiny shrimp and squid embellishing the fresh noodles, creating a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Mantis Shrimp Noodles
Delicious Mantis Shrimp Noodles topped with fresh seafood.
1.4 Bánh Khọt (Mini Rice Pancakes)
Price Range: 25,000 – 50,000 VND per portion
Recommended Spots: Bánh Khọt Cô Ba on Hoàng Hoa Thám Street, Bánh Khọt Gốc Vú Sữa on Nguyễn Trường Tộ Street.
These delightful mini pancakes are infused with shrimp, squid, and ground pork, creating a crispy delicacy. Fun fact: Bánh khọt is one of the twelve dishes recognized in the Asia record. Each bite transports you to a world of crunch and flavor.
1.5 Stingray Hotpot
Price Range: 130,000 – 250,000 VND per portion
Recommended Spots: Quán Ngon 15 on Nguyễn Trường Tộ Street, Lẩu Cô Hồng on Hùng Vương Street.
What’s better than sharing a warm meal during a breezy evening? This hotpot, made with fresh stingray and an array of seasonal vegetables, provides a rich and tangy broth that’s perfect for dipping various accompaniments like noodles.
Stingray Hotpot
Gathering around a warm Stingray Hotpot.
1.6 Nàng Vú Ốc (Naked Lady Snails)
Price Range: 70,000 – 90,000 VND per portion
Recommended Spots: Quán Ốc Tự Nhiên on Lê Quý Đôn Street, Quán Ốc Hiền on Lý Tự Trọng Street.
Indulge in these delicacies that can be prepared in multiple ways, from steamed to stir-fried. The unique flavor of the snails combined with dipping sauces creates a symphony of tastes that reflects the coastal bounty of Vung Tau.
1.7 Long Hải Lobster Blood Jelly
Price Range: 500,000 – 2,000,000 VND per portion
Recommended Spots: Hải Phương Restaurant on Ba Mươi Tháng Tư Street, Imperial Hotel Vung Tau.
This daring dish is made using the premium lobster blood, capturing a sweet and savory taste that exemplifies luxury dining. It’s always served with fresh herbs and crispy rice crackers, making for an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
Long Hải Lobster Blood Jelly
Intriguingly prepared Long Hải Lobster Blood Jelly.
1.8 Gỏi Cá Mai (Raw Mai Fish Salad)
Price Range: 30,000 – 110,000 VND per portion
Recommended Spots: Thiên Ân Restaurant on Võ Thị Sáu Street, Gỏi Cá Mai Vườn Xoài on Hoàng Hoa Thám Street.
This traditional dish is cherished for its freshness. It involves marinating fresh mai fish with herbs, garlic, and chili before serving with a unique dipping sauce. It’s a culinary creation that embodies the spirit of Vung Tau’s gastronomy.
1.9 Grilled Chicken from Long Sơn
Price Range: 70,000 – 180,000 VND per portion
Recommended Spots: Bằng Lăng Quán on Long Sơn, Sơn Thủy Ngư Quán.
Renowned for its exceptional marination, this grilled chicken dish highlights local cooking traditions with its juicy texture and flavorful seasoning. Each bite showcases the essence of rustic Vietnamese cuisine.
1.10 Crab Soup with Noodles
Price Range: 40,000 – 70,000 VND per portion
Recommended Spots: Bánh Canh Ghẹ Bà Ba on Tú Xương Street, Quán Anh Vy on Võ Thị Sáu Street.
Imagine savoring a bowl filled with tender crab meat, soft noodles, and a creamy broth—that’s the bliss of crab soup. The tantalizing aroma invites you to dig in and savor every bite.
1.11 Sausage Bánh Mì with Fried Eggs
Price Range: 20,000 – 30,000 VND per portion
Recommended Spots: Hàng Quyên on Cô Bắc Street, Bánh Mì Xíu Mại on Trần Phú Street.
This local breakfast staple is a hearty way to kick off your day. Each serving is filled with sunny-side-up eggs, sausage, and a variety of toppings, creating a wholesome and savory delight.
2. Popular Souvenirs from Vung Tau
2.1 Salted Egg Sponge Cake
Price Range: 15,000 – 40,000 VND per piece
Where to Buy: Bánh Bông Lan Trứng Muối on Nguyễn Trường Tộ, Ngọc Hiệp Bakery on Đồ Chiểu.
This delightful dessert is a must-try for visitors, featuring a moist sponge cake infused with salted egg yolks. It’s a perfect sweet treat to bring home, ensuring your taste buds remember Vung Tau.
2. Trí Hải Fish Sauce
Price Range: 40,000 – 55,000 VND per bottle
Where to Buy: 1700 Võ Nguyên Giáp Street.
Trí Hải Fish Sauce stands out for its freshness and diverse flavor profiles, including shrimp paste and anchovy sauce. It’s a culinary staple in Vietnamese cooking and makes a fantastic gift for cooking enthusiasts.
2.3 One-Sun Fish
Price Range: 400,000 – 450,000 VND per kilogram
Where to Buy: 54 Nguyễn Tri Phương Street.
One-Sun fish is revered for its nutritional value and delicious taste, making it suitable for children and adults alike. This specialty embodies the very essence of Vung Tau’s fishing heritage.
2.4 Souvenirs
Price Range: 5,000 – 50,000 VND per item
Where to Buy: Lê Lợi – Trưng Trắc crossroads, Vung Tau Night Market.
Locally crafted souvenirs, such as bracelets and stones, not only hold sentimental value but also showcase the rich culture of Vung Tau. These mementos are perfect to remind you of your adventures.
As you embark on your culinary journey throughout Vung Tau, let the local flavors leave an indelible mark on your experience. Make sure to explore the beautiful landscapes, accommodations, and vibrant markets around the city while also indulging in its exquisite cuisine. For any traveler, Vung Tau is indeed a feast for both the eyes and the palate!
