Food is at the heart of every great travel experience, and Vung Tau is no exception. This coastal city is home to some of Vietnam’s most unique and delicious dishes. Whether you're a fan of seafood, crave something hearty, or enjoy crispy, golden bites, Vung Tau’s culinary scene has it all. Join us as we explore the best local eats and uncover the flavors that make this city a true foodie destination!

Bánh canh ghẹ (Crab tapioca noodle soup)

A signature dish of Vung Tau, bánh canh ghẹ is a hearty crab tapioca noodle soup that encapsulates the freshness of the sea. The thick, chewy noodles, made from rice or tapioca flour, perfectly complement the rich and flavorful broth. Freshly caught crabs are cleaned, boiled, and cracked open to release their naturally sweet and succulent meat into the soup. The broth, simmered with crab shells, coconut milk, and a blend of spices, carries a creamy texture and a depth of umami flavor that leaves a lasting impression. Garnished with fresh herbs, crispy shallots, and a squeeze of lime, this dish is a comforting yet luxurious treat.

Bún riêu tôm (Shrimp noodle soup)

While traditional bún riêu is made with freshwater crab, Vung Tau’s version, bún riêu tôm, features freshly caught sea shrimp, giving it a unique coastal flavor. The broth, made from shrimp stock, has a natural sweetness, enhanced with tangy tomatoes and aromatic Vietnamese herbs. A bowl of bún riêu tôm is loaded with toppings like shrimp cakes, tofu, squid, and slices of pork, making it a wholesome and delicious dish. Served with fresh greens and a side of fermented shrimp paste, this dish is a true representation of Vung Tau’s seafood-rich cuisine.

Bánh khọt (mini crispy pancakes)

A trip to Vung Tau would be incomplete without trying bánh khọt, the city’s most famous street food. These bite-sized savory pancakes, made from rice flour batter, are fried in small cast-iron molds until crispy. Topped with fresh shrimp, scallions, and a drizzle of scallion oil, bánh khọt are served with an array of fresh greens and dipped in a sweet and tangy fish sauce. The combination of crispy, chewy, and fresh flavors makes this dish an irresistible snack.

Lẩu cá đuối (Stingray hotpot)

For a communal dining experience, try lẩu cá đuối, a hotpot made with stingray, a local delicacy. The stingray, freshly caught and expertly prepared, is cooked in a broth infused with tamarind, pineapple, and aromatic herbs, resulting in a delicious balance of sour, sweet, and savory flavors. Accompanied by fresh vegetables like morning glory and bean sprouts, this hotpot is a must-try for anyone looking to savor Vung Tau’s seafood in its purest form.

Bánh tiêu (Vietnamese hollow doughnut)

When visiting Vũng Tàu and strolling through its streets, especially the smaller alleys, you’re bound to come across several stalls selling bánh tiêu. This is a popular local snack that has long been a favorite among residents. The ingredients for bánh tiêu are quite simple. The outer shell is made from kneaded wheat flour, while the filling consists of steamed mung beans that are mashed into a smooth paste. The dough is then deep-fried until golden and crispy, creating a hot, fragrant treat. The filling is mildly sweet, offering a light, delicate flavor that keeps you coming back for more without feeling overwhelmed.

Hủ tiếu mực (Squid noodle soup)

Another noodle dish worth trying is hủ tiếu mực, a delicious seafood variation of the classic hủ tiếu. The broth, made from pork bones and dried squid, has a naturally sweet and umami-rich taste. Generously topped with fresh squid, shrimp, fish cakes, and quail eggs, this dish is both satisfying and refreshing. Served with a side of herbs, bean sprouts, and a squeeze of lime, hủ tiếu mực is a breakfast favorite among locals. 

Gỏi cá mai (Vietnamese raw fish salad)

For a refreshing dish, gỏi cá mai is a standout choice. Made with thinly sliced raw cá mai (a type of white anchovy), this salad is dressed in a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce made from lime juice, fish sauce, and garlic. Served with rice paper, fresh herbs, and roasted peanuts, gỏi cá mai offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a delightful appetizer or light meal.

Cháo hàu (Oyster porridge)

To end your food tour on a comforting note, try cháo hàu, a rich and creamy oyster porridge. Made with slow-cooked rice, fresh oysters, and fragrant seasonings, this dish is both nutritious and flavorful. Topped with crispy shallots, chopped cilantro, and a drizzle of fish sauce, cháo hàu is the perfect dish to warm your soul after a day of exploring Vung Tau’s culinary delights. 

Bánh bông lan trứng muối (Salted egg sponge cake)

One of Vung Tau’s most famous treats, bánh bông lan trứng muối, is a soft sponge cake topped with salted egg yolks, cheese, and shredded pork floss. The contrast between the sweetness of the cake and the saltiness of the egg yolk and cheese creates a unique flavor profile that is both indulgent and satisfying. Whether enjoyed as a dessert or a snack, this cake is a must-try for anyone visiting the city.