Ha Long Bay is not only a world-famous natural wonder but also a culinary paradise with a variety of delicious street foods. From fresh seafood to sweet treats, Ha Long Bay offers a wide range of street food that will satisfy any food lover. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular street foods you must try when visiting Ha Long Bay.
1. Bánh Cuốn Chả Mực
Bánh cuốn chả mực is a unique variation of the traditional steamed rice rolls, featuring Ha Long’s famous grilled squid (chả mực).
- Address: No. 1, Cai Dam Street, Bai Chay, Ha Long City
- Specialty: Steamed rice rolls served with grilled squid, minced pork, mushrooms, and crispy shallots.
- Review: The rice rolls are delicate and flavorful, while the grilled squid adds a delicious, smoky taste. A perfect combination of textures and flavors.
2. Bánh Tráng Trộn
Bánh tráng trộn is a popular Vietnamese street food made from mixed rice paper, dried shrimp, quail eggs, beef jerky, and various herbs and spices.
- Address: No. 8, Vuon Dao Street, Bai Chay, Ha Long City
- Specialty: Mixed rice paper with dried shrimp, quail eggs, beef jerky, and fresh herbs.
- Review: The mix of flavors is well-balanced with a perfect blend of salty, sweet, and spicy. The ingredients are fresh, and the portion size is generous.
3. Chả Mực
Chả mực, or grilled squid cake, is a specialty of Ha Long Bay. Made from fresh squid, these cakes are flavorful and have a unique texture.
- Address: Bai Chay Market, Bai Chay, Ha Long City
- Specialty: Grilled squid cakes served with a side of sweet and sour dipping sauce.
- Review: The squid cakes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a delightful savory flavor. Best enjoyed hot and fresh.
4. Bánh Gối
Bánh gối, or Vietnamese empanadas, are savory pastries filled with a mixture of meat, vegetables, and glass noodles.
- Address: No. 12, Tran Hung Dao Street, Hon Gai, Ha Long City
- Specialty: Vietnamese empanadas filled with pork, glass noodles, and mushrooms.
- Review: The pastry is crispy and golden, while the filling is savory and well-seasoned. A perfect snack to enjoy at any time.
5. Nem Chua Rán
Nem chua rán, or fried fermented pork, is a popular snack in Ha Long Bay. These crispy pork rolls are perfect for a quick bite.
- Address: No. 5, Bai Chay Market, Bai Chay, Ha Long City
- Specialty: Fried fermented pork served with a side of fresh vegetables and dipping sauce.
- Review: The pork rolls are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a delicious savory flavor. A must-try for street food enthusiasts.
6. Bánh Mì
Bánh mì, or Vietnamese baguette, is a staple street food in Vietnam. Filled with various meats, vegetables, and condiments, bánh mì is both satisfying and flavorful.
- Address: No. 21, Vuon Dao Street, Bai Chay, Ha Long City
- Specialty: Vietnamese baguette filled with pork, pate, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.
- Review: The baguette is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a perfect balance of flavors and textures. A delicious and convenient meal.
7. Chè
Chè is a traditional Vietnamese dessert made with a variety of ingredients such as beans, fruits, and jellies. It’s a refreshing treat perfect for hot days.
- Address: No. 45, Le Thanh Tong Street, Hon Gai, Ha Long City
- Specialty: Chè thập cẩm (mixed sweet soup) and chè bưởi (pomelo sweet soup).
- Review: The chè here is delicious and not too sweet, with a variety of textures and flavors that complement each other perfectly. It’s a great place to cool down and enjoy a sweet treat.
8. Kem Dừa
Kem dừa, or coconut ice cream, is a refreshing treat that’s perfect for hot days. Served in a coconut shell, this ice cream is both creamy and delicious.
- Address: No. 3, Bai Chay Street, Bai Chay, Ha Long City
- Specialty: Coconut ice cream topped with roasted peanuts and chocolate syrup.
- Review: The ice cream is creamy and rich, with a strong coconut flavor. The roasted peanuts add a nice crunch, and the chocolate syrup provides a sweet contrast. A delightful way to cool off.
Travel Tips for Enjoying Street Food in Ha Long Bay
- Explore Different Areas: Don’t limit yourself to one area. Explore different parts of Ha Long Bay to discover a variety of street food options.
- Ask Locals for Recommendations: Locals often know the best spots for food. Don’t hesitate to ask for their recommendations.
- Try New Things: Be adventurous and try new foods that you might not find elsewhere.
- Share with Friends: Sharing food with friends allows you to try a wider variety of dishes and enjoy a communal dining experience.
Conclusion
Ha Long Bay offers a wide range of delicious street foods that cater to all tastes. From savory seafood dishes to sweet treats, there’s something for everyone. Make sure to visit these famous street food spots and enjoy the culinary delights that Ha Long Bay has to offer. Start planning your food tour in Ha Long Bay today and savor the flavors of this beautiful destination.
