Must-Try Foods In Ha Long Bay (Vietnam) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is not only famous for its stunning limestone karsts and azure waters but also for its exquisite culinary offerings. The history of food in Ha Long Bay is as rich and varied as its landscapes. Influenced by the various cultures that have traded with and conquered the region throughout history, Ha Long Bay's cuisine has developed a distinctive character.

Fishing villages have flourished in the area for centuries, contributing to a food culture heavily based on seafood. Local cooks use fresh catches to create dishes that have been passed down through generations. Ingredients like fish, shrimp, squid, and various shellfish often take center stage in the region's dishes.

The traditional food in Ha Long Bay reflects the abundance of the sea combined with the Vietnamese culinary traditions, where flavors are balanced between sweet, salty, sour, and hot. Meals often feature fresh vegetables and herbs, reflecting the importance of agriculture in the Vietnamese culture.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

1. Cha Muc (Squid Sausage) - Non-Veg: A traditional dish made from ground squid, often seasoned with garlic, pepper, and other spices, and then fried until golden brown.
2. Banh Cuon Cha Muc (Squid Sausage in Rice Rolls) - Non-Veg: A savory dish where squid sausage is placed inside thin steamed rice rolls, usually served with a dipping sauce.
3. Sa Sung (Peanut Worm) - Non-Veg: A unique local delicacy, these worms are usually fried and eaten as a snack with beer or used to flavor broths and soups.
4. Ngan (Mollusk) - Non-Veg: A bivalve mollusk that can be prepared in various ways, such as grilling, steaming, or in a soup.
5. Hu Tieu (Rice Noodles) - Non-Veg/Veg Option: A popular noodle dish that can be served with a variety of toppings including seafood or just vegetables for a vegetarian option.
Sam (Horseshoe Crab) - Non-Veg: A special seafood dish made from horseshoe crab, often prepared as salads or sautéed with noodles or rice.
6. Nem Chua Be Be (Fermented Shrimp Cake) - Non-Veg: A fermented shrimp paste cake that is fried or grilled, known for its tangy and spicy flavor.
7. Banh Gat Gu (Tapioca Cake) - Veg: This cake is made from tapioca starch and has a chewy texture, typically served with a sweet and spicy sauce.
8. Rau Cau Ha Long (Ha Long Jelly) - Veg: A dessert made from seaweed extract, providing a refreshing conclusion to a seafood-rich meal.
9. Xoi Ha Long (Ha Long Sticky Rice) - Veg/Non-Veg Option: Sticky rice often paired with a choice of toppings like peanuts or meats.

Top Famous Restaurants in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Cua Vang Restaurant

Address: Tran Hung Dao Street, Bai Chay, Ha Long
Famous Food: Cha Muc (Non-Veg)

Bien Mo Floating Restaurant

Address: Cang Cai Lan, Ha Long Bay
Famous Food: Seafood platters (Non-Veg)

Co Ngu Restaurant

Address: Ha Long Street, Bai Chay, Ha Long
Famous Food: Grilled seafood (Non-Veg)

Li Jia Restaurant

Address: No.1 Ben Doan, Hon Gai, Ha Long
Famous Food: Sam (Non-Veg)

Avocado Restaurant

Address: 31 Vuon Dao, Bai Chay, Ha Long
Famous Food: Vietnamese fusion cuisine with options for Vegetarian dishes

Vinace Italian Restaurant

Address: Bo Hon Island, Sung Sot Cave, Ha Long
Famous Food: Italian Pasta (Veg/Non-Veg Options)