Phú Quốc is a captivating tourist destination in Vietnam, boasting picturesque landscapes and friendly locals. Beyond its natural allure, the island also boasts an array of delectable specialties that lure travelers seeking unique culinary experiences. If you’re planning a trip to Phú Quốc and are curious about the local specialties, this guide will introduce you to the must-try dishes and souvenirs.
1. An Introduction to Phú Quốc’s Allure
Phú Quốc is a renowned destination in Vietnam, famed for its pristine beaches and captivating scenery. As the largest island in the country, it sits in the Gulf of Thailand, attracting travelers seeking idyllic surroundings, fresh air, and distinctive experiences.
Phú Quốc boasts numerous stunning beaches, including Gành Dầu, Cửa Cạn, and Vũng Bầu. Visitors can immerse themselves in the crystal-clear waters, bask on white sandy shores, indulge in fresh seafood, and partake in thrilling activities like windsurfing, scuba diving, and kayaking.
An overview of Phú Quốc’s allure
In addition to its beaches, Phú Quốc offers renowned tourist spots such as Suối Tranh, Cửa Lục, and Hòn Thơm. These destinations provide visitors with opportunities to explore the island’s pristine beauty and immerse themselves in its unspoiled nature.
Indulging in the local specialties is a must when visiting Phú Quốc. From savory seafood to authentic local dishes, the island’s cuisine will tantalize your taste buds. Don’t forget to explore the bustling night markets, where you can purchase unique souvenirs and immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture.
A trip to Phú Quốc promises a relaxing and memorable escape, offering a blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and delectable cuisine. If you’re seeking a vacation filled with new discoveries and exciting adventures, add Phú Quốc to your travel itinerary and prepare to be captivated by this enchanting island.
2. A Culinary Journey: Must-Try Specialties in Phú Quốc
Delicious Delicacies to Sample in Phú Quốc
Hàm Ninh Crab
Hàm Ninh Crab
Hàm Ninh Crab is a mouthwatering delicacy you must try when visiting Phú Quốc. With its firm, flavorful meat, this crab is a local favorite. Whether you prefer it steamed, in a hot pot, or as a delicious soup, Hàm Ninh Crab is a treat for your palate.
- Estimated price: 180,000 – 250,000 VND/kg (~$7.7 – $10.7)
- Where to find it: Dương Đông Market
Phú Quốc Emperor Crab
Phú Quốc Emperor Crab
Emperor Crab is a luxurious delicacy in Phú Quốc, known for its exquisite taste and nutritional value. While it carries a hefty price tag, this crab is sought after by tourists eager to indulge in its unique flavor.
- Estimated price: ~1,000,000 VND/crab (~$43)
- Where to find it: Hàm Ninh Fishing Village, An Thới Market
Sea Urchin
Sea Urchin
Sea Urchin, also known as sea hedgehog or sea egg, is a unique and famous delicacy in Phú Quốc. With its black color, round shape, and long spines, this seafood delicacy is a must-try for adventurous foodies.
- Estimated price: 20,000 – 25,000 VND/kg (~$0.86 – $1.08)
- Where to find it: Dương Đông Market
Trích Fish Salad (Gỏi cá trích)
Trích Fish Salad
Trích Fish Salad is a signature dish of Phú Quốc, and you’d be remiss not to try it during your visit. The sweet and firm flesh of the trích fish, combined with various vegetables and a tangy dressing, creates a harmonious blend of flavors. Accompanied by the renowned Phú Quốc fish sauce, this dish is a true delight.
- Estimated price: 100,000 – 130,000 VND/plate (~$4.3 – $5.6)
- Where to find it: Quán Việt – Gỏi cá trích và các món nướng: 261 Nguyễn Trung Trực, TT. Dương Đông, Phú Quốc.
Biên Mai Snail (Còi Biên Mai)
Biên Mai Snail
Biên Mai Snail is a famous specialty of Phú Quốc, and you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to sample it during your stay. This delicacy is prepared in a variety of ways, including sweet and sour stir-fries, steaming, soups, and hot pots, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
- Estimated price: 40,000 – 70,000 VND/plate (~$1.7 – $3)
- Where to find it: Quán Phố 10 Sơn
Crab Noodle Soup (Bánh canh ghẹ)
Crab Noodle Soup
Crab Noodle Soup is a beloved specialty of Phú Quốc, favored by locals and tourists alike. The key to this dish’s allure lies in its broth, which boasts a delicate sweetness and freshness derived from seafood, perfectly complemented by the chewy texture of the noodles. Crab, the star ingredient, lends its sweet flavor to the soup, making it a must-try for any food enthusiast.
- Estimated price: ~30,000 VND/bowl (~$1.3)
- Where to find it: Bánh canh Phụng Phú Quốc – 27 Bạch Đằng, Dương Đông, Phú Quốc.
Bún Kèn Noodle Soup
Bún Kèn Noodle Soup
Bún Kèn Noodle Soup is a unique dish native to Phú Quốc, and it’s a must-try for any food enthusiast visiting the island. The term “kèn” in Khmer refers to dishes made with freshwater snails, and in Phú Quốc, this noodle soup is prepared with either nhồng or ngân fish, both rare species found only on the island.
- Estimated price: 20,000 – 30,000 VND/bowl (~$0.86 – $1.3)
- Where to find it: Bún kèn Út Lượm – 42 đường 30 Tháng 4, Phú Quốc.
Free-range Chicken (Gà rẫy)
Free-range Chicken
Free-range Chicken is another delicacy that Phú Quốc proudly claims as its own. Raised naturally on the island, these chickens yield tender, flavorful meat that’s packed with nutrients. Local chefs prepare this chicken in a variety of ways, from grilling to making soups, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.
- Estimated price: ~300,000 VND/chicken (~$13)
- Where to find it: Gà rẫy Bà Loan Phú Quốc – Thị trấn Dương Đông, Phú Quốc.
Grilled Turmeric Fish Cake (Chả cá nướng nghệ)
Grilled Turmeric Fish Cake
To create this distinctive Phú Quốc specialty, locals use the freshest fish to ensure a sweet, natural taste. The fish is then marinated in a special blend of turmeric and lá lốt leaves, enhancing its flavor and making it a true culinary delight.
- Estimated price: ~700,000 VND (~$30)
- Where to find it: Quán Thùy Linh – Mạc Cửu, Dương Đông, Phú Quốc.
Grilled Spiny Oyster with Scallion Oil (Ốc gai nướng mỡ hành)
Grilled Spiny Oyster with Scallion Oil
When visiting Phú Quốc, don’t miss out on the island’s array of oyster dishes, especially the Grilled Spiny Oyster with Scallion Oil. This delicacy offers a harmonious blend of flavors, with the oyster’s tender and crispy meat complemented by the fragrant scallion oil.
- Estimated price: 40,000 – 100,000 VND (~$1.7 – $4.3)
- Where to find it: Ra khơi – 131 đường 30 tháng 4, Dương Đông, Phú Quốc.
Grilled Cá Mú (Cá mú nướng mọi)
Grilled Cá Mú
Another distinctive dish you must try in Phú Quốc is Grilled Cá Mú. This fish, a natural gift to the region, is prepared with local ingredients to create a flavor profile that’s truly exceptional.
- Estimated price: 250,000 – 400,000 VND/serving (~$10.7 – $17.2)
- Where to find it: Thịnh Phát Restaurant – 160 Đường 30 tháng 4, Dương Đông, Phú Quốc.
Memorable Souvenirs from Phú Quốc
Phú Quốc Sim Wine
Phú Quốc Sim Wine
If you’re unsure what to buy as a souvenir from Phú Quốc, consider Sim Wine. This gift is not only meaningful but also highly appreciated for its health benefits, including improved digestion, reduced muscle aches, enhanced blood circulation, and anti-aging properties.
- Estimated price: 140,000 – 200,000 VND/600ml bottle (~$6 – $8.6)
- Where to find it: 124 đường 30/4, Dương Đông, Phú Quốc, Kiên Giang.
Phú Quốc Dried Seafood
Phú Quốc Dried Seafood
Phú Quốc is renowned for its dried seafood products, which make excellent souvenirs or gifts. Some popular choices include dried squid, shrimp, cá bè, cá nhồng, and cá chỉ vàng. The seafood used in these products is exceptionally fresh, carefully marinated, and sun-dried, resulting in a unique flavor that’s hard to resist.
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