Must-Try Foods In Cox's Bazar (Bangladesh) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh

Cox's Bazar, named after British East India Company officer Captain Hiram Cox, is a port city known for having the world's longest natural sea beach. Its history is richly tied to various cultural influences, including the Rakhine state of Myanmar, which is reflected in its local cuisine. The locality is renowned for its fresh seafood due to its coastal position and fishing being a staple part as the livelihood for many locals. The traditional cooking here often combines the rich flavors of South Asian spices with fresh fish, creating a distinct taste that's unique to the Bengali coastal region.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh

• Panta Bhat with Fried Hilsa Fish - This is a traditional Bengali dish where leftover rice is soaked in water overnight and usually eaten with fried hilsa fish. Notably, hilsa is considered the national fish of Bangladesh. (Non-Veg)
• Mezban Beef - While beef is typically avoided in many Cox's Bazar dishes, Mezban is a special spiced beef dish associated with traditional feasts in the region. (Non-Veg)
• Rakhine Malaikari - A delicious curry made with coconut milk and prawns, this dish is influenced by the Rakhine people and their cooking style. (Non-Veg)
• Palak Prawn Curry - A delightful combination of spinach and prawns. (Non-Veg)
• Sea Food Platter - Varieties of seafood like crabs, lobsters, and various fishes, grilled or fried with spices. (Non-Veg)
• Vegetable Khichuri - A savory rice and lentil dish cooked with different vegetables and spices. (Veg)
• Chingri Bhorta (Shrimp Paste) - An aromatic paste or mash made with shrimp, a popular side dish with rice. (Non-Veg)
• Bhuna Khichuri - A thicker, richer version of the standard khichuri, often served with fried chicken or fish. (Non-Veg)
• Prawn Biryani - A festive dish with fragrant rice and prawns, cooked with premium spices and herbs. (Non-Veg)
• Coconut Laddu - A sweet treat made from coconut and sugar, these laddus are a delicious way to finish off a meal. (Veg)

Top Famous Restaurants in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh

• Jhaubon Restaurant
  Address: Hotel Sayeman Rd, Cox's Bazar 4700
  Famous Food: Seafood platter (Non-Veg)
• Mermaid Café
  Address: Pechar Dwip, Marine Drive, Cox’s Bazar
  Famous Food: Grilled Prawns (Non-Veg)
• Poushee Restaurant
  Address: Beach R/A, Cox's Bazar 4700
  Famous Food: Traditional Bengali Thali, with options for both veg and non-veg thalis.
• EFC - A Live Fish Restaurant
  Address: Plot# 11, Block# A, Kolatali Main Road, Cox's Bazar
  Famous Food: Fresh fish barbecue (Non-Veg)
• The Cox Today
  Address: Plot-7, Road-02, Hotel Motel Zone, Kolatoli, Cox's Bazar 4700
  Famous Food: Seafood Pizza (Non-Veg)
• Handi and Karai
  Address: Hotel Sayeman Rd, Cox's Bazar
  Famous Food: Chicken Handi (Non-Veg)
• Koyla
  Address: Plot # 47, Block # B, Kalatoli Hotel-Motel Zone, Cox's Bazar
  Famous Food: Koyla Special Naan with Veggie Kebab Platter (Veg)
• Devine Sea Stone Café
  Address: Sea Inn Beach, Hotel Motel Zone Cox's Bazar
  Famous Food: Grilled Lobster (Non-Veg)
• Angel Drop Restaurant
  Address: Laboni Beach Road, Hotel Motel Zone, Cox's Bazar
  Famous Food: Veg Fried Rice (Veg)
• Kolatoli Grill House
  Address: Kolatoli Turning Point, Cox's Bazar
  Famous Food: Mixed Grill Platter (Non-Veg)