Local Vietnamese Seafood Dishes to Try While in Vietnam

Vietnam is known for its vibrant culinary landscape, and seafood occupies a prominent place within it. The country’s long coastline and rich waters provide a variety of fresh catches, making seafood a staple in Vietnamese cuisine. Here are some local Vietnamese seafood dishes you must try while exploring this beautiful nation.

1. Pho Hai San (Seafood Noodle Soup)
Pho is one of Vietnam's most famous dishes, but the seafood variation takes it up a notch. Made with fresh prawns, squid, and mussels, this noodle soup is garnished with herbs and served with a side of lime. The broth is typically infused with spices, creating a savory experience unique to coastal regions.

2. Goi Cuon Ca (Fish Spring Rolls)
These fresh spring rolls are made with shrimp or fish, rice vermicelli, and crisp vegetables, all wrapped in rice paper. Served with a tangy dipping sauce, Goi Cuon Ca is a refreshing and healthy seafood option that reflects the fresh ingredients readily available in Vietnam.

3. Muc Nuong (Grilled Squid)
This dish features squid marinated in spices and grilled to perfection over an open flame. The resulting flavor is smoky and savory, often paired with a spicy dipping sauce. Muc Nuong is popular in coastal areas and is often enjoyed with a cold beer under the sunset.

4. Canh Chua Ca (Sour Fish Soup)
Typical of the Mekong Delta region, Canh Chua Ca is a sweet and sour fish soup made with catfish, tamarind, and a variety of vegetables. It’s not only delicious but also embodies the balance of flavors that Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated for. This dish is often served with rice and is a comforting meal option after a long day of exploring.

5. Cha Ca (Grilled Fish)
This unique dish comes from Hanoi and consists of fish marinated with turmeric and dill, then grilled and served with vermicelli noodles, peanuts, and herbs. Cha Ca is typically enjoyed at specialized restaurants, where the fish is cooked at your table, making it an interactive dining experience.

6. Tom Rang Muoi (Salted Shrimp)
This dish features fresh shrimp sautéed with garlic and sprinkled generously with salt, delivering a flavorful bite. Often served as an appetizer or side dish, Tom Rang Muoi is a simple yet tasty way to enjoy the natural sweetness of the shrimp.

7. Ngheu Hap (Steamed Clams)
Steamed clams are a delightful treat in Vietnam, often prepared with lemongrass and chili for a burst of flavor. Ngheu Hap can be found in local markets and seafood restaurants, making it easy to enjoy this dish while soaking in the local atmosphere.

8. Banh Xeo Hai San (Seafood Pancakes)
This savory crepe is made from rice flour and filled with shrimp, squid, and bean sprouts. Banh Xeo is crispy on the outside and is typically served with lettuce and herbs for wrapping, alongside a sweet chili dipping sauce. It is a popular street food dish that captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking.

Vietnam's diverse culinary culture is deeply intertwined with its abundant marine resources. Whether you're enjoying a meal in a bustling city or at a seaside restaurant, these local seafood dishes offer a delightful taste of the country’s rich flavors and traditions. Don’t miss out on these culinary experiences as you travel through Vietnam!