Food History of Phu Quoc Prison (Coconut Tree Prison)
Phu Quoc Prison, also known as Coconut Tree Prison, is a historic site on Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam. It was used to detain prisoners during the Vietnam War and is notorious for the harsh conditions that the prisoners were subjected to. Food served in Phu Quoc Prison during that time was typically poor and insufficient, contributing to the suffering of detainees. Meals often consisted of basic staples like rice and vegetables, with occasional small portions of protein, often in the form of fish due to the island's coastal location.
Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Phu Quoc
While Phu Quoc Prison itself is not a place for culinary exploration, the island of Phu Quoc is renowned for its delicious and diverse food offerings. Here are the top 10 must-try dishes when visiting Phu Quoc Island, along with their food type:
- Bun Quay Phu Quoc (Non-Veg) - A popular noodle soup with a variety of seafood.
- Phu Quoc Seafood (Non-Veg) - While not one specific dish, the island's fresh seafood is a must-try; options vary from grilled squid to steamed crabs.
- Goi Cuon (Non-Veg) - Fresh spring rolls packed with greens, herbs, vermicelli, and often shrimp or pork.
- Banh Canh (Non-Veg/Veg) - A thick Vietnamese noodle soup; fish-based versions are common in Phu Quoc.
- Com Tam (Non-Veg) - Broken rice usually served with grilled pork (sans pork for a vegetarian option) and a variety of sides.
- Cao Lau (Non-Veg) - Noodle dish that is typically made with pork and local greens.
- Banh Khot (Non-Veg/Veg) - Crispy mini pancakes that can be made with or without seafood.
- Rau Mam (Veg) - A nutritious and colorful salad made with a mix of fermented greens and vegetables.
- My Quang (Non-Veg/Veg) - A flavorful and hearty noodle dish that often features shrimp, fish, or can be made meatless.
- Chuoi Chien (Veg) - Fried banana, a simple yet popular dessert or snack.
Top Famous Restaurants near Phu Quoc Prison
When visiting the area around Phu Quoc Prison, you can try typical Phu Quoc cuisine at these nearby restaurants:
- Ham Ninh Crab House
- Address: Bai Vong, Ham Ninh, Phu Quoc Island
Famous for: Ham Ninh Crab (Non-Veg).
- Bun Quay Phu Quoc Restaurant
- Address: 30 Thang 4 Street, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc Island
Famous for: Bun Quay (Non-Veg).
- Quan Oc 343
- Address: Tran Hung Dao Street, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc Island
Famous for: Sea Snails (Non-Veg).
- Ngoc Mai Restaurant
- Address: 94 Tran Hung Dao, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc Island
Famous for: Various seafood dishes (Non-Veg).
- The Spice House at Cassia Cottage
- Address: 5th Group, Ba Keo Area, Tran Hung Dao street, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc Island
Famous for: Local Vietnamese cuisine (Non-Veg/Veg options).
While these restaurants serve a variety of dishes, it is advisable for vegetarian visitors to specify their dietary restrictions to ensure they receive a vegetarian meal, especially in establishments focusing on seafood and local Vietnamese cuisine.