May 27, 2026Phu Quoc is often called Vietnam’s Pearl Island, and its food gives travellers another reason to slow down and explore beyond the beach. A simple meal here can reveal a lot about island life, from a bowl of noodles in Duong Dong to steamed crab in Ham Ninh or grilled seafood at the night market. This guide brings together 20+ iconic local foods in Phu Quoc and where to try them during your trip.
1. Herring Salad (Goi Ca Trich)
Among Phu Quoc’s most distinctive local dishes, goi ca trich gives travellers a fresh look at the island’s seafood culture beyond grilled seafood and market-style dining. Thin slices of fresh herring are mixed with lime juice, Phu Quoc fish sauce, shredded coconut, onion, chilli, and local herbs, then served with rice paper and fresh vegetables. The dish is usually eaten with a rich dipping sauce made from fish sauce and peanuts. A portion typically costs around 100,000-150,000 VND at local markets, while restaurants may charge more depending on the setting.
Best places to taste Herring Salad in Phu Quoc:
- Phu Quoc Night Market – Bach Dang Street and surrounding streets in Duong Dong
- DRAFT BEER Sunset Town – Sunset Town, Phu Quoc
- Ra Khoi Restaurant – 131, 30/4 Street, Duong Dong
2. Fish Cake Thick Noodles Soup (Banh Canh Cha Ca)
For a warm and filling local breakfast in Phu Quoc, banh canh cha ca is one of the easiest dishes to enjoy before a day of sightseeing. A typical bowl combines thick rice noodles with fish cakes made from fresh mackerel and a clear broth simmered from fish and pork bones, along with simple seasonings. The chewy noodles give the dish a comforting texture, while the fish cakes add a clear seafood flavour. Prices are usually affordable, often around 30,000-50,000 VND per bowl at casual local eateries.
Recommend places to eat Fish Cake Thick Noodles Soup in Phu Quoc:
- Banh canh Phung – 27 Bach Dang Street, Duong Dong
- Banh canh Minh Thu – 70 Tran Hung Dao Street, Duong Dong
- Banh Canh Den Dau – 30/4 Street, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc
3. Coconut Fish Noodle Soup (Bun Ken)
Bun Ken is made with rice vermicelli, finely shredded fish, coconut milk, fish stock, curry-like spices, green papaya, herbs, cucumber, and chilli. The result is creamy, aromatic, and lightly spicy without feeling too heavy. Bun Ken is also especially popular as a morning meal, with many local shops selling out before midday. A bowl usually costs around 25,000-30,000 VND at well-known local spots.
Recommend places to eat Ken Noodles in Phu Quoc:
- Bun Ken Co Thu – Area 1, Phu Quoc
- Bun Ken Ut Luom – 30/4 Street, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc
4. Ham Ninh Flower Crab (Ghe Ham Ninh)
Ghe Ham Ninh is a must-try Phu Quoc seafood specialty, loved for the naturally sweet meat and firm texture. The crabs are usually steamed simply and served with salt, pepper, lime, and chilli, allowing the freshness to stand out without heavy seasoning. Many travellers visit Ham Ninh Fishing Village specifically for this dish, as the area is closely associated with local seafood culture. Prices vary by size, season, and restaurant, but seafood meals in Ham Ninh can range from casual local prices to higher restaurant-style bills.
Recommend places to eat Ham Ninh Crab in Phu Quoc:
- Ham Ninh Fishing Village – 52JV+6XX, TL47, Rạch Hàm, Phú Quốc
- Phu Quoc Marina Food Night Market – 4X7M+XC2, Phu Quoc, An Giang (Phu Quoc Waterfront)
- An Thoi Market – 2287+PHC, Nguyen Van Cu Street, Phu Quoc
5. Stirring Vermicelli (Bun Quay)
Bun Quay is known as much for the eating experience as for the flavour. The dish usually includes fresh rice noodles, shrimp paste, fish paste, squid, herbs, and a clear seafood broth. What makes Bun Quay memorable is the self-mixed dipping sauce, in which diners stir together kumquat, chilli, sugar, and Phu Quoc fish sauce to taste. The broth is light but fragrant, making it ideal for breakfast, lunch, or a casual dinner. Prices often range from 35,000 to 65,000 VND.
Recommend places to eat Stirring Vermicelli in Phu Quoc:
- Bun quay Kien Xay – 28 Bach Dang Street, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc
- Bun Quay Thanh Hung – 77, 30/4 Street, Duong Dong
- Bun Quay Thien My – 130 Tran Hung Dao Street, Duong Dong
- Bun Quay Co Tam – AT52, Phu Quoc, An Giang
6. Phu Quoc Raw Crab Blood Pudding (Tiet Canh Cua Phu Quoc)
Tiet canh cua Phu Quoc is one of the island’s most unusual specialties and is best suited to adventurous diners. Unlike the more familiar versions of Vietnamese blood pudding, this dish is made from very fresh sea crab, usually roe-filled crabs, combined with crab meat, herbs, peanuts, and seasoning.
It is prized for its ocean-rich flavour and rarity, but it is also one of the more expensive local dishes because several high-quality crabs may be needed for one serving. Because this is a raw seafood dish, choose only reputable restaurants and avoid it if you have a sensitive stomach, are pregnant, elderly, immunocompromised, or travelling with young children.
Recommend places to eat Sea Crab Blood Pudding in Phu Quoc:
- Le Giang Restaurant – 7 Tran Hung Dao Street, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc
- Ra Khoi Restaurant – 131, 30/4 Street, Duong Dong
7. Grilled Seafood
Grilled seafood is a Phu Quoc essential, especially for travellers who want a relaxed evening meal with a strong local feeling. Depending on the season and market catch, you can find grilled egg squid, abalone, scallops, mackerel, garlic mantis shrimp with spring onion oil, sea urchin, prawns, fish, clams, and snails.
The preparation is usually simple, letting the natural sweetness of the seafood come through with chilli salt, lime, herbs, or Phu Quoc fish sauce. Prices vary widely by seafood type and weight, so it is always worth checking the price before ordering.
Recommend places to eat Grilled Seafood in Phu Quoc:
- A Chon 2 Restaurant – 68A Highway, Ward 6, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang
- Phu Quoc Night Market – Bach Dang Street and surrounding streets in Duong Dong
- Phu Quoc Marina Food Night Market – 4X7M+XC2, Phu Quoc, An Giang (Phu Quoc Waterfront)
8. Grilled Sea Urchin with Scallion Oil (Nhum Bien Nuong Mo Hanh)
Grilled sea urchin is a popular coastal specialty in Phu Quoc. Fresh sea urchins are cleaned, topped with scallion oil, egg, or peanuts, then grilled over charcoal until fragrant. The flavour is creamy, rich, and deeply oceanic. This is a good choice for seafood lovers who want something more distinctive than grilled prawns or squid.
Where to try the best Grilled Sea Urchin in Phu Quoc:
- Oc 343 – 78, 30/4 Street, Duong Dong
- Bien Xanh Restaurant – TL47, Rach Ham, Phu Quoc
- Phu Quoc Night Market – Bach Dang Street and surrounding streets in Duong Dong
9. Phu Quoc Free-Range Chicken (Ga Ray Phu Quoc)
Phu Quoc free-range chicken, or gà rẫy, is loved for its firm texture, clean flavour, and naturally sweet meat. The chicken is often served as porridge, shredded chicken salad, boiled chicken with lime-salt-pepper dip, or chicken noodle soup. It is a good choice for travellers who want something local but less seafood-heavy.
Where to try Phu Quoc Free-Range Chicken in Phu Quoc:
- Chao Ga Ray Phu Quoc – 113 Nguyen Trung Truc, Duong Dong
10. Sentinel Crab Thick Noodle Soup (Banh Canh Ghe)
Sentinel crab noodle soup is a comforting seafood noodle dish made with thick rice noodles, sweet crab broth, crab meat, fish cake, herbs, and fried shallots. The broth is usually light but rich in seafood flavour, while the crab adds natural sweetness. It is a good breakfast or lunch option for travellers who want a warm local dish.
Where to try Sentinel Crab Noodle Soup in Phu Quoc:
- Banh Canh Ghe Den Dau – 73, 30/4 Street, Duong Dong
- Banh canh Minh Thu – 70 Tran Hung Dao Street, Duong Dong
- Bánh Canh Ghe BY – Quarter 6, Phu Quoc, An Giang
11. Grilled Slipper Lobster (Tom Mu Ni Nuong)
Grilled slipper lobster is a rich Phu Quoc seafood dish with firm, sweet meat and a deep ocean flavour. It is often grilled with garlic butter, cheese, spring onion oil, or served simply with salt, pepper, and lime. Since slipper lobster is usually sold by weight, check the price before ordering.
Where to try Grilled Slipper Lobster in Phu Quoc:
- Bup Seafood Restaurant – Meyhomes Capital, 33 Centre, An Thoi, Phu Quoc
- Xin Chao Restaurant – 66 Tran Hung Dao, Duong Dong
12. Phu Quoc Sea Cucumber (Hai Sam Phu Quoc)
Phu Quoc sea cucumber is a premium seafood specialty, usually prepared in soup, stir-fry, or slow-cooked dishes. It has a soft, slightly gelatinous texture and a mild flavour that works well with mushrooms, herbs, and rich broths. This dish is best for travellers who enjoy refined seafood rather than casual street food.
Where to try Phu Quoc Sea Cucumber in Phu Quoc:
- Xin Chao Restaurant – 66 Tran Hung Dao, Duong Dong
- Ra Khoi Restaurant – 131, 30/4 Street, Duong Dong
13. Phu Quoc Skillful Cakes (Banh Kheo Phu Quoc)
Phu Quoc skillful cakes are small handmade cakes with delicate shapes and sweet fillings such as mung bean, coconut, taro, or durian. They are soft, lightly sweet, and often bought as edible souvenirs. Their pretty appearance and gentle flavour make them a simple local treat after a seafood meal.
Where to try Phu Quoc Skillful Cakes in Phu Quoc:
- Banh Kheo Co Dung – 43, 30/4 Street, Quarter 1, Phu Quoc
- Banh Kheo Thu Hien – 47, 30/4 Street, Duong Dong
14. Phu Quoc Fermented Crab Sauce (Mam Ba Khia)
Fermented crab sauce is a bold southern Vietnamese specialty with salty, savoury, and slightly sweet flavours. It is often mixed with lime, chilli, garlic, sugar, and sometimes green mango or other sour fruit. This dish is best for adventurous travellers who want to try a stronger local condiment.
Where to try Phu Quoc Fermented Crab Sauce in Phu Quoc:
- Phu Quoc Night Market – Bach Dang Street and surrounding streets in Duong Dong
- Phu Quoc Marina Food Night Market – 4X7M+XC2, Phu Quoc, An Giang (Phu Quoc Waterfront)
15. Grilled or Steamed Grouper (Ca Mu Hap Hong Kong hoac Ca Mu Nuong)
Grilled grouper is a simple but satisfying seafood dish in Phu Quoc. The fish is usually grilled whole, keeping the skin smoky and the meat firm, sweet, and juicy. It is often served with herbs, rice paper, vegetables, and a dipping sauce made with fish sauce, lime, chilli, or salt and pepper.
Where to try Grilled Grouper in Phu Quoc:
- Bien Hai Quan – Ganh Dau, Phu Quoc
- A Chon 2 Restaurant – 68A Highway, Ward 6, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang
- Lang Ca Seafood Restaurant – 98/5 Tran Hung Dao Street, Quarter 7, Phu Quoc
16. Murex Sea Snail (Oc Gai)
Murex sea snail is a local shellfish with firm, chewy meat and a naturally sweet flavour. It can be grilled, boiled, steamed with ginger, or stir-fried with garlic. This is a good dish for travellers who enjoy casual seafood restaurants and local snail dishes.
Where to try Murex Sea Snail in Phu Quoc:
- Oc 343 – 78, 30/4 Street, Duong Dong
- LTD100 Seafood Restaurant – 106 Tran Hung Dao, Duong Dong
17. Squid Noodle Soup (Hu Tieu Muc)
Squid noodle soup is a light and comforting dish made with rice noodles, clear broth, and fresh squid. The broth is usually clean and naturally sweet, while the squid adds a fresh seafood flavour. It is especially good for breakfast or lunch when you want something local but not too heavy.
Where to try Squid Noodle Soup in Phu Quoc:
- Hu Tieu Muc Tu Huong – 42, 30/4 Street, Duong Dong
18. Seafood and Cobia Hotpot (Lau Ca Bop Hai San)
Seafood and Cobia hotpot is a warm, family-style seafood dish with firm cobia fish, sour broth, herbs, vegetables, and noodles. The fish has a rich but clean flavour, while the broth is usually lightly sour, savoury, and refreshing. It is a good dinner choice for groups after a day at Phu Quoc beach.
Where to try Cobia Hotpot in Phu Quoc:
- Thien Thanh Restaurant – 107 Tran Hung Dao Street, Quarter 7, Duong Dong
- Phuong Dong – 22M8+MMJ, Phu Quoc
- Bai Sao Beach Seafood Restaurants – Group 9, Bai Sao, Quarter 4, Ward, Phu Quoc
19. Sweet Soup Dessert (Che)
Che is a comforting Vietnamese dessert that comes in many forms, from chilled sweet soups to creamy coconut-based bowls. In Phu Quoc, Che makes an easy afternoon or evening treat after seafood, noodles, or a walk through Duong Dong. Common ingredients include beans, tapioca pearls, jelly, fruit, lotus seeds, mung beans, coconut milk, and crushed ice. The flavour can be light and refreshing or rich and creamy, depending on the style. Prices are usually affordable, making Che a simple local dessert to add to any Phu Quoc food itinerary.
Recommend places to eat Phu Quoc’s Sweet Soup Dessert in Phu Quoc:
- Che Nha Co: 14 Bach Dang, KP. 2, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc
- Che Nha Jun – Che Ngon Phu Quoc: 9 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, Phu Quoc
20. Palm Sugar Honeycomb Cake (Banh Bo Thot Not)
Banh bo thot not is a soft, spongy cake made with rice flour, coconut milk, and palm sugar. Its golden colour and gentle sweetness make it a simple but memorable local snack. It is often sold in markets, especially in the morning or late afternoon. This is a good option if you want something light after a seafood meal or a small edible souvenir from Phu Quoc.
Where to try Palm Sugar Honeycomb Cake:
- Phu Quoc Marina Food Night Market – 4X7M+XC2, Phu Quoc, An Giang (Phu Quoc Waterfront)
- Phu Quoc Night Market – Street vendors along main roads in Duong Dong
21. Phu Quoc Pepper Dishes (Ho Tieu Phu Quoc)
Phu Quoc is known for producing some of Vietnam’s most aromatic pepper, valued for its bold fragrance, balanced heat, and earthy citrus notes. Thanks to the island’s coastal climate and red basalt soil, the pepper has a richer, more complex flavour than many mainland varieties, making it a signature ingredient in local cuisine.
You’ll find Phu Quoc pepper used in grilled seafood, stir-fries, dipping sauces, and marinades. Fresh green peppercorns pair especially well with crab, squid, scallops, prawns, and grouper, adding gentle heat without overpowering the seafood’s natural sweetness.
Where to try Phu Quoc Pepper Dishes:
- The Spice House Restaurant at Cassia Cottage Phu Quoc – 100/12c, Tran Hung Dao Street, Quarter 7, Phu Quoc
A Culinary Paradise in Phu Quoc
A Tapestry of Flavours: Unveiling What to Eat in Phu Quoc
The island’s cuisine is a captivating fusion of influences, drawing inspiration from neighbouring Vietnam and Chinese and Khmer traditions. The area’s rich maritime heritage is evident in its abundance of seafood dishes, while its fertile lands contribute an array of fresh vegetables and fruits.
A Legacy of Culinary Traditions
Phu Quoc’s culinary traditions have been passed down through generations, and each dish embodies the island’s unique cultural identity. From the delicate balance of spices in signature dishes to the rustic charm of some of the best food stalls, the island’s cuisine reflects its rich cultural heritage.
End Your Phu Quoc Food Tour at The Spice House
After exploring Phu Quoc’s markets, local eateries, and fishing villages, end your food tour with a quiet sunset dinner at The Spice House and a restful night at Cassia Cottage, beside Ba Keo Beach. The menu blends traditional Vietnamese cuisine, fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and a passion for showcasing the region’s culinary treasures for foodies.
The Spice House honours the island’s coastal spirit with fresh seafood, local herbs and pepper, and spice-led cooking, including BBQ grilled tiger prawns, red snapper, Mekong-style seafood, seafood pasta, seafood pizza, and seafood risotto. We make local delicacies without sugar, MSG or commercial seasonings that are full of flavour.
Contact: +(84) 297 3848 395 or reserve a table online
For something lighter, Mackerel Ceviche Cassia Style brings together fresh fish, herbs, kumquat, chilli, and vegetables, echoing the brightness of Phu Quoc herring salad. Desserts such as passion tart, mango passion dessert, crème brûlée, and chocolate cake offer a gentle finish.
As a boutique beachfront resort in Phu Quoc with a range of activities, our cottages are the essence of the island’s tranquil charm. Cassia Cottage’s serene ambience and focus on wellness invite guests to unwind and rejuvenate, feasting on delicious, local, and best food in Phu Quoc.
With its eco-conscious setting, garden calm, wellness focus, and slower rhythm, Cassia Cottage is ideal for travellers seeking a Phu Quoc stay that feels authentic, peaceful, and not overly touristy. Guests staying at Cassia Cottage can also ask about romantic dinner setups and in-house dining packages that make the dining experience at The Spice House even more worthwhile:
- Romantic Dinner: Enjoy dinner by the beach in a private Pergola. Choose from a set menu or à la carte options. The setup fee is 1,500,000 VND (waived for in-house guests), and the set menu price is 1,729,000 VND per person.
- Romantic Getaway Package: Includes one romantic dinner, perfect for couples seeking a serene and intimate experience.
- NatGEO Package: Includes 2 half-board meals for two people (total of 4 half-boards), a fantastic option to savour the best of what The Spice House has to offer.
We invite you to join us and discover the beautiful richness of what our region has to offer to tempt your taste buds. Make your Phu Quoc trip even more rewarding by booking directly with Cassia Cottage, and create a more complete Phu Quoc island stay!
FAQs about Phu Quoc local foods
1. What is the best food in Phu Quoc?
Some of the best foods in Phu Quoc include herring salad, stir-fried vermicelli noodles, fish cake thick noodle soup, ken noodles, Ham Ninh crab, grilled sea urchin, grilled squid, and fresh local seafood. These dishes show the island’s strong seafood culture and are easy to find in markets, local shops, and seafood restaurants.
2. What local dishes should I try in Phu Quoc?
Must-try local dishes include Phu Quoc herring salad, stir-fried vermicelli noodles, Ham Ninh crab, ken noodles, fish cake thick noodle soup, grilled squid, steamed crab, and palm sugar honeycomb cake. For a balanced food tour, try both noodle dishes and seafood specialties.
3. Where can I try Phu Quoc night market food?
You can try Phu Quoc night market food around Bach Dang Street and nearby streets in Ba Keo Marina. This area is known for grilled seafood, local snacks, desserts, tropical fruit, and casual street food. It is best for visitors who want to walk around and taste several small dishes in one evening.
4. Where is the best place to eat seafood in Phu Quoc?
Good seafood areas include Ham Ninh Fishing Village, An Thoi Market, and Phu Quoc Night Market. These places are popular for crab, squid, shellfish, grilled seafood, and simple local seafood dishes. For a calmer beachfront dinner, The Spice House at Cassia Cottage is also a good choice.
5. Is The Spice House good for dinner in Phu Quoc?
Yes. The Spice House at Cassia Cottage is a relaxed beachfront restaurant suited for sunset dinners, fresh seafood, Vietnamese-inspired dishes, desserts, and romantic dining in Phu Quoc. It is a good option after exploring markets and local eateries, especially if you want a quieter, more polished dining experience.
