Vung Tau, a picturesque coastal city in southern Vietnam, boasts a vibrant culinary scene that caters to all tastes. Finding a great Vung Tau restaurant is easy whether you’re craving fresh seafood, traditional Vietnamese fare, or international cuisine. Join us as we explore top dining spots that promise unforgettable flavors and experiences.
What Should You Eat When Coming to Vung Tau?
Vung Tau, a scenic coastal city in southern Vietnam, is celebrated for its picturesque beaches, vibrant nightlife, and diverse and delectable cuisine. The city’s culinary landscape is a delightful blend of fresh seafood, traditional Vietnamese flavors, and unique regional specialties.
1. Banh Khot: The Quintessential Vung Tau Treat
No culinary exploration of Vung Tau is complete without trying Banh Khot, a beloved local specialty. These small, savory pancakes are made from rice flour and coconut milk batter. Banh khot creates a crispy exterior and a soft, slightly sweet interior. Each pancake is topped with plump shrimp, green onions, and sometimes mung beans, then served with fresh herbs and a tangy fish sauce. The combination of textures and flavors makes Banh Khot an irresistible treat that perfectly captures the essence of Vung Tau’s street food scene.
Suggested: 3 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, 42 Tran Dong Street, 14 Nguyen Truong To Street.
2. Lau Ca Duoi: A Unique Hotpot Experience
Lau Ca Duoi, or Stingray Hotpot, is a unique and flavorful dish that showcases Vung Tau’s love for fresh seafood. This communal meal features tender pieces of stingray cooked in a fragrant broth with various vegetables, herbs, and spices. The hotpot is typically enjoyed with rice noodles and dipping sauces. It allows diners to savor the delicate flavors and rich aromas.
Suggested: Hoang Hoa Tham Street, 44 Truong Cong Dinh Street.
3. Banh Canh Ghe: A Hearty Bowl of Comfort
Another seafood delight in Vung Tau is Banh Canh Ghe, a hearty soup made with thick tapioca noodles and fresh crab meat. The rich, savory broth is infused with the sweetness of crab and garnished with cilantro, green onions, and sometimes quail eggs. This comforting dish offers a satisfying and delicious meal highlighting the freshness and quality of Vung Tau’s seafood. The chewy texture of the noodles combined with the tender crab meat makes Banh Canh Ghe a must-try for any visitor.
Suggested: 73 Le Lai Street, 125 Vo Thi Sau Street, 109 Vo Thi Sau Street.
4. Seafood: A Seafood Lover’s Paradise
Vung Tau’s coastal location makes it a haven for seafood enthusiasts. Seafood options in the city include freshly caught fish, squid, shrimp, and shellfish. Seafood can be prepared in various ways, from grilling and steaming to stir-frying or baking, enhancing natural flavors. Dining at a local seafood market or beachfront restaurant, where the day’s catch is expertly prepared, is an experience that should not be missed.
5. Banh Bong Lan Trung Muoi – Salted Egg Sponge Cake: A Delightful Dessert
Banh Bong Lan Trung Muoi offers a unique dessert experience for sweet tooths. This soft, fluffy sponge cake is filled with salted egg yolks, creating a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. The cake’s light texture and rich, creamy filling make it a popular treat in Vung Tau. Whether enjoyed as a snack or dessert, Banh Bong Lan Trung Muoi provides a memorable culinary contrast that exemplifies the creativity and diversity of Vietnamese cuisine.
Suggested: 17B Nguyen Truong To Street, 6 Do Chieu Street.
6. Oc – Snails: The Street Food Adventure
Lastly, no visit to Vung Tau is complete without indulging in Oc, a popular street food consisting of various types of snails. These snails are typically stir-fried with flavorful seasonings such as lemongrass, garlic, and chili, offering a spicy and aromatic treat. Vendors on the street and seafood restaurants serve snails in various styles, allowing adventurers to discover new flavors and textures.
Suggested: 121 Ly Tu Trong Street, 23 Pham Ngoc Thach Street, 32 Le Quy Don Street.
Top 10 Best Restaurants in Vung Tau, Vietnam
Situated on Vietnam’s scenic coastline, Vung Tau boasts beautiful beaches and a lively dining scene where local tastes merge seamlessly with global inspirations. Here’s a curated selection of the best Vung Tau restaurants, each guaranteeing a memorable experience with its distinct menu, atmosphere, and price.
1. Ganh Hao Seafood Restaurant
Address: 3 Tran Phu, Ward 5, Vũng Tàu
Price Range: 300,000 – 500,000 VND per person.
Situated right by the sea, Ganh Hao Seafood Restaurant is celebrated for its fresh seafood dishes and breathtaking ocean views. From grilled squid to steamed lobster, every dish at Ganh Hao highlights the richness of local seafood, making it a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts and those seeking a scenic dining experience.
2. Lan Rung Resort & Spa
Address: 03-05 Tran Phu, Vũng Tàu
Price Range: 250,000 – 600,000 VND per person.
Lan Rung Resort & Spa offers a luxurious dining experience amidst lush gardens and a tranquil atmosphere. Known for its extensive menu blending Vietnamese and Western cuisines, Lan Rung impresses with crispy spring rolls and succulent beef steak. The serene setting and attentive service elevate dining here to a refined experience.
3. Bánh Khọt Gốc Vú Sữa
Address: 14 Trần Phú, Ward 5, Vũng Tàu
Price Range: 50,000 – 150,000 VND per person.
For an authentic taste of local cuisine, head to Bánh Khọt Gốc Vú Sữa. This humble eatery specializes in bánh khọt, crispy rice pancakes topped with shrimp and served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce. Its lively ambiance and affordable prices make it a favorite among locals and tourists.
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4. Offshore Bar & Restaurant
Address: 01 Trần Phú, Vũng Tàu
Price Range: 300,000 – 600,000 VND per person.
Offshore Bar & Restaurant is a cozy spot offering a range of Western dishes such as burgers, steaks, and fish and chips. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and live music sessions, it’s perfect for relaxing evenings with good food and drinks without breaking the bank.
5. Sushi Tokyo
Address: 9 Hoàng Hoa Thám, Vũng Tàu
Price Range: 300,000 – 600,000 VND per person.
Sushi Tokyo is a haven for sushi aficionados. It serves fresh sushi, sashimi, and Japanese specialties like tempura and ramen. Its stylish interior and attentive service ensure a delightful dining experience that caters to locals and visitors looking for quality Japanese cuisine in Vũng Tàu.
6. The Coast Restaurant
Address: The Grand Ho Tram Strip, Phuoc Thuan, Xuyen Moc, Vũng Tàu
Located within The Grand Ho Tram Strip, The Coast Restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with panoramic ocean views. Its menu features a fusion of Vietnamese and international dishes, including seafood platters and tenderloin steaks. Ideal for special occasions, the restaurant combines elegant ambiance with impeccable service.
7. David Pizzeria
Address: 3 Nguyễn Trường Tộ, Vũng Tàu
Price Range: 150,000 – 400,000 VND per person.
David Pizzeria is a go-to spot for authentic Italian cuisine in Vũng Tàu. Famous for its wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta, this restaurant offers a taste of Italy in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether enjoying a pizza or a plate of pasta, diners can expect quality and flavor at reasonable prices.
8. Lẩu Dê Trương Công Định
Address: 29 Trương Công Định, Ward 2, Vũng Tàu
Price Range: 150,000 – 500,000 VND per person.
For a unique dining experience, Lẩu Dê Trương Công Định specializes in goat hotpot, a traditional Vietnamese dish known for its rich broth and tender goat meat. The casual setting and affordable prices make it popular among locals and visitors seeking authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
9. Bistro Nine
Address: 09 Hạ Long, Vũng Tàu
Price Range: 300,000 – 700,000 VND per person.
Bistro Nine offers a blend of French and Vietnamese cuisines in a cozy setting. With its flavorful menu, which includes classic pho and French-inspired dishes like escargot, Bistro Nine caters to diverse tastes. Its relaxed ambiance and friendly service make it an ideal spot for a leisurely meal in Vũng Tàu.
10. Yummy Yummy Restaurant
Address: 02 Hạ Long, Ward 2, Vũng Tàu
Price Range: 300,000 – 800,000 VND per person
Yummy Yummy Restaurant is a hidden gem offering a variety of Vietnamese, Thai, and Western dishes at affordable prices. Popular dishes include pad Thai, beef pho, and grilled chicken, served in a casual and welcoming atmosphere that appeals to both locals and tourists looking for a budget-friendly dining option.
In Conclusion
This list of top 10 best Vung Tau restaurants showcases a delightful mix of local authenticity and international flair that will satisfy culinary enthusiasts and casual diners alike. From seaside seafood extravaganzas to cozy bistros and exotic flavors, these establishments exemplify the city’s vibrant food culture, ensuring memorable meals against its stunning coastal vistas.
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