If you pride yourself on being a connoisseur of fine foods, be sure to explore the culinary delights of Lan Ha Bay in Hai Phong Province, Vietnam. Sitting right next to the legendary Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay is not just a sanctuary of unspoiled nature, fascinatingly sculpted islands, and idyllic beaches, but also a treasure trove of exquisite seafood. Here, the seafood is incomparably fresh, seasoned with an array of delicate herbs. To truly embrace the local gastronomy, one must experience the Vietnamese seafood specialties that define what to eat in Lan Ha Bay.
What to eat in Lan Ha Bay – Must-try dishes
Coming to Lan Ha Bay, visitors not only have the opportunity to comfortably immerse themselves in the cool, clear blue sea water or explore the natural beauty of the sea and islands here, but also have the opportunity to enjoy the unique dishes of this place: Grilled lobster, roasted crab, crispy steamed geoduck, 7 dishes of sam, sea snake… All are rich in the flavor of the sea and make it difficult for visitors to forget that unique flavor once they eat it.
1. Geoduck Clam
Geoduck (its scientific name is Lutraria rhynchaena) is a favorite seafood option in Lan Ha Bay, and it’s a must-try when you’re wondering what to eat in Lan Ha Bay. This delectable seafood is best enjoyed steamed to preserve its juicy taste. Locals often steam it with citronella to enhance its fragrance and enjoy its healthy effects. For an extra kick, you can also add seasonings like chili and pineapple, which not only boost the aroma but also tantalize your taste buds. Especially during the winter, indulging in a hot pot of geoduck can provide much-needed warmth for your body and soul, making it a perfect choice for what to eat in Lan Ha Bay.
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Grilled geoducks
Don’t forget to order a pot of steamed geoduck during your visit to Lan Ha Bay; the geoduck in this area is renowned for being even juicier than elsewhere, allowing you to discover its authentic taste. Additionally, if you’re looking for more options, grilled geoduck is another delectable version that first captivates guests with its enticing aroma and then wins them over with its delightful taste. So, when considering what to eat in Lan Ha Bay, geoduck should definitely be on your list of culinary experiences to explore.
2. Sea horseshoe crab
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Sea horseshoe crab
Sam is a specialty that you cannot afford to miss when traveling to Lan Ha Bay. Its flavor will leave diners in awe, and you won’t be able to stop eating it. Locals have various ways of preparing sam, such as sam salad, stir-fried sam with lemongrass and chili, sweet and sour sam, and even grilled sam.
3. Grilled lobsters
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Grilled lobsters
4. Oven-roasted crabs with salt
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Oven-roasted crabs with salt
This crab delicacy isn’t just a unique offering in Lan Ha Bay; it’s also incredibly succulent and flavorful, leaving you longing for its taste. Among the various preparations, the oven-roasted crabs seasoned with salt stand out as a favorite among food enthusiasts. The combination of salt and careful seasoning enhances the seafood’s taste, making it an absolute delight for your taste buds. The steaming hot crabs, adorned with golden-brown garlic and sprinkled with salt, among other ingredients, contribute to the allure of these specialties, instantly tantalizing the senses of food enthusiasts. To truly appreciate the difference, make sure to savor these delectable crabs in Lan Ha Bay and compare them to Ca Mau crabs. The distinction in flavor is something only you can discern. You can relish oven-roasted crabs on luxurious Lan Ha Bay cruise trips, such as the Heritage Cruise.
5. Squid
In Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba Island, squid dishes are prepared in a wide variety of ways, including boiling, steaming, dipping, marinating, stir-frying, and deep-frying. Dried squid, torn and dipped in spicy soy sauce, or used as a filling for squid sausage, is among the options. However, the most famous and delicious squid dish is still squid sausage. In addition, Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba Island, offers many other delightful dishes such as salt-crusted crabs, lobster flambéed in wine, and lobster baked with egg sauce, among others.
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Squid with pineapple sauce
>>>Read more: Kayaking & Snorkeling in Lan Ha Bay: 2023 Guide
The restaurant at Lan Ha Bay is delicious
1. Vien Duong Restaurant
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Vien Duong Restaurant
The Vien Duong Cat Ba Restaurant is one of the finest dining establishments in Cat Ba, and it’s our pleasure to introduce it to you. This is an ideal place if you want to personally select fresh seafood right from the tanks.
The seafood here is quite diverse, which may leave customers with a variety of choices when it comes to dishes. The seafood is caught naturally right in Cat Ba, preserving the distinctive flavors of the sea, making it richer, sweeter, and more flavorful compared to seafood from elsewhere.
The restaurant is spacious and suitable for both tourist groups and families. The prices are also very reasonable, ensuring that you will be completely satisfied with your dining experience here.
- Address: 12 Nui Ngoc Street
- Phone: 0383 434 443
2. Bien Dong Restaurant
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Bien Dong Restaurant
The Bien Dong Cat Ba Restaurant features a live seafood tank, allowing you to personally select your preferred seafood. Afterward, the staff will weigh your selection and prepare the dish according to your request.
The restaurant’s menu offers a variety of seafood dishes as well as affordable rice-based options, giving you ample choices. The staff is quick and attentive, ensuring your satisfaction.
The restaurant has a spacious interior, conveniently located right on the main road for easy access. The dining area is air-conditioned and enclosed, making it suitable for gatherings and events. If you prefer to enjoy the ocean breeze, you can request an outdoor table, and the restaurant will arrange it for you.
- Address: 8 Nui Ngoc Street
- Phone: 0913 245 289
3. Hung Manh floating restaurant
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Hung Manh floating restaurant
If you’re looking to experience the sensation of dining on a floating platform, gently swaying on the water, and savor the flavors of the sea, then this is the place to be. Among the various floating restaurants in Cat Ba, Hung Manh Floating Restaurant receives the highest praise.
The first impression for customers is the refreshing atmosphere and stunning sea views, creating an elegant and luxurious ambiance.
The food here is quite fresh and satisfying, although the prices are slightly higher compared to restaurants in the town center.
- Address: Ben Beo, Cat Ba
- Phone: 097 933 35 59
Here are the top 5 must-try dishes when deciding what to eat in Lan Ha Bay, and you can easily find these dishes at the various restaurants scattered throughout the area. Additionally, Lan Ha Bay boasts a delightful array of other seafood options, ranging from squid to fish, all expertly prepared and seasoned in accordance with local culinary traditions. When it comes to deciding what to eat in Lan Ha Bay, you’ll find that the onboard menu on your cruise is a delightful complement to your journey.
Moreover, certain luxury cruises in Lan Ha Bay even offer cooking classes or tutorials, allowing you to witness the art of cooking, mixing, and seasoning these delectable ingredients firsthand. Ultimately, Lan Ha’s unspoiled beauty never fails to captivate and satisfy your senses, whether it’s your taste buds, sight, or any other aspect of your experience. So, when wondering what to eat in Lan Ha Bay, these dishes are a must-try to fully savor the local flavors and culinary delights of the region.
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