Phan Thiet, situated along Vietnam's coastline within Binh Thuan Province, is renowned for its stunning beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant local food. The city's cuisine is strongly shaped by its seaside location, blending fresh seafood, aromatic herbs, and flavorful spices. This culinary fusion creates a well-balanced array of tastes, combining sweetness, sourness, saltiness, and spiciness to deliver a truly distinctive and memorable dining venture. As you explore Phan Thiet, make sure not to overlook these top 10 essential dishes that beckon for a taste of this coastal culinary haven.
1. Grilled seafood
When traversing the enchanting realm of Phan Thiet, it becomes evident that seafood claims the spotlight as a quintessential delight etched into visitors' memories. Among Phan Thiet's esteemed specialties, its seafood stands tall, beckoning with a reputation that extends beyond its golden shores. Prized for its unparalleled freshness and reasonable pricing, Phan Thiet's seafood offerings outshine those of other coastal havens in Vietnam. A magnetic trait that beckons connoisseurs, this culinary treasure renders tourists unable to depart without a taste of the ocean's bounty, a testament to the irresistible allure of this beachside gastronomic haven.
Moreover, for those who relish seafood, Phan Thiet emerges as a true haven. The culinary highlight of Phan Thiet revolves around the freshest daily catch. This encompasses delectable prawns, tantalizing fish, and savory squid—all prepared through a delightful process of grilling. The grilled Vietnamese seafood truly dazzles, offering an exquisite pairing with a chilled beer and a modest dipping sauce enriched with salt, pepper, chili, and zesty lime.
Seafood processing in Phan Thiet is often simple but very delicate to retain the fresh and distinctive flavor of each type of seafood. The enticing aroma of succulent grilled seafood combined with the unique sweetness of scallops creates an irresistible temptation that will have you longing to savor it not just once, but time and time again.
Some recommended addresses:
Một Nắng Seafood Restaurant - 122 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, Ham Tien, Phan Thiet, Vietnam - +84 92 841 99 88
Google Maps :
https://goo.gl/maps/MUWUzTwSzcaSpYSEA 2. Bánh canh chả cá (Vietnamese thick noodle soup with fish cake)
“Bánh canh chả cá” is one of the most delicious dishes. Around the markets of Phan Thiet, you will come across multitude of enticing "banh can" eateries beckon, each of which will have a different way of stewing the broth and flavor. The embrace of this hearty noodle soup is an invitation to explore a harmonious convergence of tapioca noodles and fish cake, interwoven with an aromatic broth infused with dill and green onions. The play of textures and flavors is a tribute to comfort and culinary finesse.A savory noodle soup, "Bánh Canh Chả Cá" presents a medley of textures and tastes, where chewy tapioca noodles intertwine with delicate fish cake. Embellished with the aromatic presence of dill and green onions, each spoonful transports you to the heart of Phan Thiet's culinary heritage. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also embodies the coastal essence of this vibrant destination.
This Vietnamese noodle dish embodies simplicity, comfort, and delightful flavors. The heart of this Phan Thiet specialty lies in its rich broth, while the tender fish cakes and resilient noodles create a harmonious blend of textures. Elevate your experience by enhancing the flavors in your bowl with a touch of lime and chili.
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3. Bánh xèo Phan Thiết (Vietnamese pancakes Phan Thiet)
Indulging in "Banh Xeo Phan Thiet" reveals a familiar yet distinct culinary experience, crafted with a unique touch that sets it apart from its counterparts in other regions. This pancake's hallmark is its harmonious companionship with raw vegetables and a distinctive mixed fish sauce. The sauce, a fusion of crushed garlic, chili, and fish sauce, intertwines seamlessly to create a symphony of flavors that's both exceptional and rich.
Stuffed with a delectable blend of shrimp, meat, and squid, these Phan Thiet pancakes sizzle to perfection when fried. As one takes a bite, the sweet aroma of this delicacy mingles with the crispness of fresh vegetables and the captivating depth of the mixed fish sauce, delivering an enchanting experience that captivates the senses.
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4. Mực một nắng nướng (Grilled one-sun-dried squid)
The irresistible delicious taste of Binh Thuan's squid dish makes any diners almost rub it when it comes to it. In 2013, this attractive specialty dish of Phan Thiet was also listed in the top 100 most special cuisines in Vietnam. If you have the opportunity to visit the beautiful Binh Thuan beach, do not forget to bring a few pounds of squid a day as a gift for your family and friends!
Grilled one-sun-dried squid is not only a delicious dish to enjoy in Phan Thiet but also a great souvenir in Binh Thuan travel. This is a Vietnamese seafood dish, a special form of dried squid.These squids undergo a meticulous sun-drying process before being masterfully grilled, culminating in a delectable fusion of chewiness and rich flavor. A harmonious companion to a refreshing cold beverage, this treat beckons. Whether sourced from the plethora of seafood establishments or procured from a nearby market for a personal grilling experience, these exquisite gastronomic treasures of Phan Thiet await your discovery.
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5. Bánh Căn (Mini-Pancakes)
"Banh Can Phan Thiet" (also mini-pancakes) stands as a delicious rustic treasure, captivating global tourists with its bold and unmistakable sea-infused essence. This dish, adorned with an array of seafood like fresh squid or shrimp, as well as meats and eggs, adapts to individual tastes. However, what truly sets it apart is not just its filling, but also the accompanying dip. Unlike traditional water-based options elsewhere, Phan Thiet's specialty boasts a signature sauce crafted from braised fish. With its golden hue and enticing aroma, this sauce accentuates the dish's distinctive and indulgent flavor.
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6. Mì Quảng (Quang noodles)
Renowned as a distinctive delicacy in Binh Thuan, Quang Phan Thiet noodles hold a place of prominence. While Quang noodles are commonly associated with the province of Quang Nam, it's a lesser-known fact that Phan Thiet equally boasts its own celebrated rendition of this culinary specialty. Quang duck noodle is a specialty of Phan Thiet- unmissable Phan Thiet food, bringing with it a delicious and attractive taste, making many tourists enamored. In particular, Quang noodles in Phan Thiet are different from Quang noodles in other places by the unique combination with many types of broth. The broth is stewed from the bones and meat of duck, creating a sweet and rich flavor. Noodles are made from rice flour, eggs and especially gardenia seeds, creating a unique flavor. Quang Phan Thiet noodles are often served with raw vegetables and roasted peanuts. This specialty dish has a mild spicy flavor mixed with a typical sweet flavor of the broth, making anyone who enjoys it constantly complimenting it.
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7. Lẩu thả
"Lẩu thả" emerges as a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by discerning food enthusiasts. This local delicacy encapsulates the essence of communal dining, evoking both warmth and a sense of togetherness. A unique and interactive experience, "Lẩu thả" involves diners selecting an assortment of fresh ingredients that float alongside in a bubbling broth, ready to be savored at their own pace. As the ingredients meld harmoniously, releasing their flavors into the aromatic broth, "Lẩu thả" not only tantalizes the taste buds but also fosters a shared connection, making it a must-try culinary adventure that embodies the spirit of Phan Thiet.
For many visitors to Phan Thiet, Lẩu Thả is a signature dish.The dish is a harmonious combination of ingredients including natural elements: Kim (Metal), Mộc (Wood), Thủy (Water), Hỏa (Fire), Thổ (Earth), bringing health and necessary energy to people. It has a very impressive layout, creating a harmonious whole like a flower on the dining table. Therefore, you should not miss this food when traveling in Phan Thiet.
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8. Chả Cuốn Cá Trích Phan Thiết (Deep herring salad Phan Thiet)
If you're in pursuit of a meal that offers a tantalizing and revitalizing experience, cast your gaze upon the deep herring salad, or goi ca mai. This spirited dish brings together crispy herring, fragrant herbs, finely shredded green mango, and a spirited fish sauce dressing. It orchestrates a symphony of flavors that will awaken and enliven your taste buds.
Delicately crafted, these spring rolls encapsulate the flavors of the sea in each bite, with herring fish being the star of the show. The rolls are expertly wrapped in translucent rice paper, alongside a vibrant array of fresh herbs and crisp vegetables. As you indulge in "chả cuốn cá trích," you embark on a gastronomic journey that harmonizes the briny essence of the ocean with the crunch of herbs, resulting in a symphony of taste and texture unique to Phan Thiet's culinary landscape. This dish not only reflects the coastal charm of the region but also exemplifies the culinary artistry that makes Phan Thiet's cuisine truly exceptional.
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9. Gỏi Cá Phan Thiết (Fish Salad Phan Thiet )
Tourists when traveling to Phan Thiet or going to the beach are probably no stranger to fresh seafood salads with rich sea flavor. This is a special dish that attracts any visitor. It is also an idyllic dish with rich flavors of traditional Vietnamese fishing villages.
Phan Thiet fish salad can be made from many different types of fish such as sardines, apricots, halibut, etc. Each type of fish has its own unique flavor. Because every day there is a new source of fresh fish caught, the fish for salad is always fresh, bringing a delicious, fresh taste from the sea to the dish. Fold the salad up and put it in your mouth, you will immediately feel the sweetness of the fish, the freshness of the accompanying herbs, the crunchy sound of sesame rice paper, mixed with the thick sauce made from water. Phan Thiet fish sauce.
When you taste this special dish for the first time, you can roll it with rice paper, herbs, acrid banana, green star fruit and cucumber to make it easier to eat. However, the secret to you is that no matter how you eat it, this dish is also attractive and has a delicious and irresistible taste. Right from the first moment of enjoyment, you will immediately feel the sweetness, fleshy, chewy and crispy characteristic of apricot fish, the sweet and aromatic taste of vegetables and the richness of fish sauce. All promise to bring people unique experiences only in Phan Thiet sea.
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10. Răng Mực Nướng Phan Thiết (Grilled squid teeth Phan Thiet)
Exhibiting an eccentric yet surprisingly delightful facet of Mui Ne's cuisine, grilled squid "teeth" stand as a bold choice for those enamored with seafood. These dainty and delicate squid parts are expertly marinated and grilled to perfection, resulting in a singular texture and flavor that remains etched in the memory. Referring to Phan Thiet, it is impossible not to mention this attractive specialty dish. Squid teeth are a special part located on the head of a squid. However, when processing, this tooth will be separated and not used in the dish. Instead, squid teeth are processed into many delicious dishes such as fried, fried, steamed or grilled with fresh laksa leaves. The cute little squid teeth will bring you a new culinary experience, but extremely delicious and attractive. The crispy taste of the outermost layer of powder blends with the smooth, rich taste of squid teeth to create an interesting and unique dish. When combined with delicious laksa leaves, you will feel the harmony and freshness in each bite of squid.
Some recommended addresses:
Răng Mực Loan - Vo Thi Sau, Hung Long, Phan Thiet, Binh Thuan, Vietnam - + 84 369 335 646
11. Chả Cá Hấp Phan Thiết (Steamed Fish Cake)
If you are planning to visit the land of the sea combined with discovering Phan Thiet cuisine, you cannot ignore Phan Thiet's steamed fish cake. This place has a rich and abundant source of seafood, which has brought many unique and delicious specialties to the sea. In which, it is impossible not to mention steamed fish cakes.
Steamed fish cake in Phan Thiet has been famous for a long time and has a strong impression in the hearts of many tourists. After each fun trip, visitors do not forget to visit Phan Thiet market, choose to buy Phan Thiet specialties as gifts for relatives and friends, nothing more than "fish cakes". The special feature of this delicious dish is the sweetness and freshness of the fish, contributing to the diversity of cultural features.
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12. Bánh tráng nướng mắm ruốc (Grilled rice paper with fermented shrimp paste)
When exploring the realm of enticing and delightful Phan Thiet snacks, one cannot overlook the tantalizing delight known as Grilled rice paper with fermented shrimp paste. Nestled by the coastal allure of Phan Thiet, this culinary wonder captures the hearts of those who appreciate the beauty in simplicity. Imagine crispy, sizzling grilled rice paper, embraced by the essence of shrimp paste,creating a symphony of flavors that ignite the senses.
The rice paper itself offers a satisfying crunch, adorned thoughtfully with the perfect drizzle of fish sauce. Elevating this delight are a medley of distinctive toppings: the tenderness of boiled quail eggs, the zing of sour spring rolls, the crispness of traditional spring rolls, the depth of shrimp paste, a touch of fiery chili sauce, and a hint of indulgent onion fat. Without a doubt, this dish stands as a testament to satisfying both hunger and the yearning for flavors that dance on the palate. This is definitely a dish you can't miss.
Some recommended addresses:
Bánh Tráng Mắm Ruốc Cô Nở - 267 Ngu Ong, Duc Thang, Phan Thiet, Binh Thuan, Vietnam
In conclusion, Phan Thiet emerges as a treasure trove of culinary delights, beckoning all with its diverse array of flavors that encapsulate the region's rich cultural heritage and natural bounty. From the sumptuous seafood offerings like grilled squid teeth that tantalize the taste buds, to the refreshing tang of Quang Phan Thiet noodles that surprise with their origin, every dish tells a story of tradition, innovation, and an unyielding passion for gastronomy. As you traverse the vibrant food scene of Phan Thiet, you embark on a journey that not only satisfies your appetite but also offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of this captivating coastal gem. So, whether you're a devoted seafood enthusiast or a seeker of unique flavors, Phan Thiet's must-try foods promise a gratifying expedition for your palate and a memorable experience that will linger long after the last bite.