1. Local dishes in Phu Quoc
1.1. Goi ca trich – Herring salad
One of the most popular dishes to eat in Phu Quoc, herring salad is a refreshing and healthy seafood salad. It consists of fresh herring fillets mixed with shredded coconut, onions, chili, and herbs. The dish is traditionally served with rice paper, allowing diners to roll their own wraps before dipping them into Phu Quoc’s famous fish sauce. The combination of fresh fish, fragrant herbs, and tangy dipping sauce creates a unique flavor explosion. Herring salad is particularly popular among locals and tourists looking for an authentic Phu Quoc dish. This light yet flavorful dish is perfect for a warm tropical day, making it a must-try while visiting the island.
1.2. Bun quay – Stirred noodle soup
Bun quay is a distinctive noodle dish that originated in Phu Quoc and is rarely found elsewhere in Vietnam. The dish is prepared fresh to order, featuring handmade noodles served in a steaming bowl of seafood broth. It includes a mix of ground shrimp, squid, and fish paste that cooks directly in the hot broth upon serving. A unique aspect of bun quay is that diners create their own dipping sauce using Phu Quoc fish sauce, lime, chili, and sugar. This customization enhances the experience and allows each person to adjust the flavor to their liking. The combination of fresh seafood, chewy noodles, and aromatic broth makes it a comforting yet interactive dish to eat in Phu Quoc.
1.3. Bun ken – Fish noodle soup
A rare find outside of Phu Quoc, bun ken is a unique noodle dish that you will only find to eat in Phu Quoc. Unlike traditional Vietnamese soups, bun ken is made with a thick and aromatic coconut-based broth. The broth is infused with minced fish, turmeric, lemongrass, and chili, giving it a distinctively rich and creamy texture. It is topped with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for an added crunch. This dish is typically enjoyed for breakfast, offering a flavorful and filling start to the day. The blend of coconut and spices creates a taste that is both sweet and savory, making bun ken a must-try for those seeking an authentic Phu Quoc experience.
1.4. Ham Ninh crab
Ham Ninh crab is a seafood lover’s dream and one of the best dishes to eat in Phu Quoc. These crabs are known for their sweet and tender meat, best enjoyed steamed or boiled to preserve their natural flavors. They are typically served with Phu Quoc’s signature dipping sauce made of black pepper, salt, and lime. Ham Ninh crabs are sourced from the island’s Ham Ninh fishing village, where seafood is freshly caught every day. The simple yet delicious preparation allows the natural sweetness of the crab to shine through. For an authentic local experience, pair this dish with a glass of Sim wine, another Phu Quoc specialty.
1.5. Grilled sea urchin with scallion oil
Grilled sea urchin is a delicacy that seafood enthusiasts must try to eat in Phu Quoc. These spiky creatures are carefully cut open, cleaned, and then grilled over an open flame. They are topped with scallion oil and crushed peanuts, creating a deliciously creamy and smoky flavor. Some variations also include cheese or egg, adding extra richness to the dish. The texture of grilled sea urchin is both soft and slightly firm, offering a delightful umami taste. This dish is often considered an aphrodisiac and is highly nutritious. If you want to try something unique and truly local, don’t miss out on this flavorful treat.
1.6. Stir-fried sea cucumber
Sea cucumber is a delicacy to eat in Phu Quoc, prized for its health benefits and unique texture. It is often stir-fried with mushrooms, carrots,... absorbing the flavors of the seasonings. The dish has a slightly chewy yet tender texture, making it a favorite among seafood lovers. In Phu Quoc, high-quality sea cucumbers are sourced fresh from the ocean, ensuring their natural taste. This dish is commonly found in high-end seafood restaurants on the island. If you’re looking for a nutritious and luxurious dish, stir-fried sea cucumber is an excellent choice.
1.7. Grilled sweet snail with chili salt
Grilled sweet snails are a favorite street food to eat in Phu Quoc, known for their natural sweetness and firm texture. These snails are marinated with chili salt before being grilled over charcoal, infusing them with a smoky aroma. The combination of spicy, salty, and slightly sweet flavors makes them incredibly addictive. They are best enjoyed with a side of fresh herbs and a tangy dipping sauce. Many local seafood restaurants and night markets serve this dish, making it a must-try for adventurous eaters. Pair it with a cold beer for the ultimate Phu Quoc dining experience.
1.8. Grilled Bien Mai scallops
Bien Mai scallops are a unique seafood specialty to eat in Phu Quoc, known for their firm and slightly chewy texture. These large scallops are typically grilled with garlic butter or stir-fried with vegetables, creating a rich and aromatic dish. Unlike regular scallops, the meat of Bien Mai is thicker and more flavorful, making it a sought-after ingredient. Locals enjoy pairing it with a spicy dipping sauce to enhance its taste. It is one of the most beloved seafood dishes on the island, often served at beachfront restaurants. If you love shellfish, this is a must-try delicacy during your visit.
1.9. Stewed squid with coconut water
Squid stewed in coconut water is a comforting dish to eat in Phu Quoc, highlighting the island’s fresh seafood and tropical ingredients. The squid is slowly cooked in coconut water, which tenderizes the meat while infusing it with a mild sweetness. The dish is seasoned with fish sauce, garlic, and black pepper to create a harmonious balance of flavors. It is typically served with steamed rice, allowing you to soak up the flavorful broth. Many restaurants on the island offer this dish as part of a seafood feast. Its tender texture and subtle sweetness make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
1.10. Grilled mackerel
Grilled mackerel is a simple yet flavorful dish to eat in Phu Quoc, showcasing the island’s fresh fish. The mackerel is marinated with turmeric, galangal, and local spices before being grilled over charcoal. This cooking method enhances its natural flavors while giving the skin a crispy texture. The dish is typically served with rice paper, fresh herbs, and a fish sauce-based dipping sauce. Many seafood restaurants along the coastline specialize in this dish, making it a popular choice for dinner. The combination of smoky, tangy, and herbal flavors makes it an unforgettable culinary experience.
2. Traditional sweets & cakes in Phu Quoc
2.1. Banh kheo
Banh kheo – mini sweet cake is a traditional dessert that is as delightful to look at as it is to eat in Phu Quoc. These small, intricately shaped cakes come in a variety of fillings, including mung bean, coconut, and taro. The outer layer is made from glutinous rice flour, giving it a slightly chewy texture. Each bite delivers a delicate sweetness that is not overpowering, making it a favorite among those who prefer mild desserts. Bánh Khéo is often sold at local markets and bakeries, making it a great snack or souvenir. Its cute appearance and variety of flavors make it a must-try for dessert lovers visiting Phu Quoc.
2.2. Banh tet mat cat leaves
A unique variation of Vietnam’s traditional sticky rice cake, banh tet is a special treat to eat in Phu Quoc. Unlike the typical banana leaf-wrapped banh tet, this version is wrapped in mat cat leaves, which give it a distinctive aroma. The cake consists of sticky rice, mung beans, and pork belly, creating a balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors. The texture is dense and chewy, making it a filling snack or meal accompaniment. This dish is commonly found during Lunar New Year celebrations but is available year-round in local markets.
2.3. Banh bo
This traditional cake, banh bo – palm sugar honeycomb cake, is a delicious honeycomb cake that is soft, fluffy, and slightly caramelized. Made with palm sugar, coconut milk, and rice flour, this dessert has a rich yet delicate flavor. The fermentation process gives it a light and airy texture, making it an enjoyable treat to eat in Phu Quoc. The cake has a golden-brown hue and a subtle sweetness that pairs well with tea. It is often sold at street food stalls and local bakeries, offering a taste of Phu Quoc’s traditional desserts.
2.4. Grilled sticky rice banana
For those who love banana-based desserts, grilled sticky rice banana is a fantastic choice to eat in Phu Quoc. This dish features a ripe banana wrapped in sticky rice, grilled over charcoal until golden brown. It is then served with a drizzle of coconut milk, adding a creamy contrast to the smoky flavor. The combination of textures—crispy on the outside and soft inside—makes this dish a true delight. It is commonly found at street food vendors and night markets, where its irresistible aroma attracts hungry visitors.
2.5. Thick noodle soup with mackerel
Thick noodle soup with mackerel is a heartwarming dish to eat in Phu Quoc, featuring thick, chewy noodles served in a clear and fragrant fish broth. The broth is made from simmering fresh mackerel bones, creating a naturally sweet and umami-rich flavor. Mackerel fillets are added to the soup, giving it a tender and slightly oily texture. The dish is garnished with fresh herbs, fried shallots, and a squeeze of lime for extra brightness. It is often enjoyed as a breakfast or light lunch option. If you’re looking for a comforting noodle dish, this is a perfect choice.
2.6. Coconut leaf cake
Coconut leaf cake is a traditional dessert to eat in Phu Quoc, made from sticky rice, coconut, and palm sugar. The cake is wrapped in coconut leaves and steamed, giving it a naturally fragrant aroma. It has a slightly chewy texture with a rich, caramelized sweetness. This dessert is commonly found in local markets and is often enjoyed with a cup of tea. It is a great snack to try if you want a taste of Phu Quoc’s traditional sweets. Many visitors buy this cake as a souvenir to take home.
2.7. Pandan rice cake
Pandan rice cake is a vibrant green dessert to eat in Phu Quoc, made from glutinous rice and infused with pandan leaves. The cake is steamed in a special cylindrical mold, creating a soft and spongy texture. It is usually filled with shredded coconut and mung beans, adding a subtle sweetness. This dessert is a favorite among children and is often sold by street vendors. The natural fragrance of pandan and coconut makes it a delightful treat. If you enjoy light and mildly sweet desserts, this is a must-try.
2.8. Xoi Xiem
Xoi xiem is a luxurious dessert to eat in Phu Quoc, influenced by Thai cuisine but adapted to local tastes. The dish consists of glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk, topped with a silky custard made from eggs and palm sugar. It has a rich and creamy texture, making it an indulgent treat. The combination of sweet and salty flavors creates a perfect balance. This dessert is commonly found in local markets and traditional food stalls. It is often enjoyed as a breakfast dish or an afternoon snack.
2.9. Banh it tran
This dish is a glutinous rice dumpling to eat in Phu Quoc, available in both sweet and savory versions. The sweet version is filled with mung bean paste, while the savory version contains shrimp and pork. The dumplings are steamed until soft and slightly chewy, then topped with fried shallots. They are served with a light fish sauce or coconut milk, depending on the variety. This dish is a favorite among locals and is often found at traditional markets. The soft texture and flavorful fillings make it a comforting and satisfying treat.
2.10. Baked cassava cake
Made from grated cassava, coconut milk, and sugar, this is a dense and chewy cake to eat in Phu Quoc. The batter is baked until golden brown, creating a crispy crust with a soft interior. The natural sweetness of cassava pairs perfectly with the creamy coconut flavor. This cake is often enjoyed with a cup of hot tea or coffee. It is a popular dessert for those who love traditional Vietnamese sweets. If you’re looking for a unique and satisfying dessert, this is an excellent choice.
Exploring Phu Quoc’s culinary scene is an adventure in itself. From fresh seafood to unique local dishes, there is always something delicious to eat in Phu Quoc. Whether you prefer casual street food or fine dining experiences, the island’s diverse flavors promise to leave a lasting impression on every food lover.
