Bánh Ít Lá Gai is a delicacy that can be found in many regions of Vietnam, each with its own unique twist reflecting the local flavors.

The Bánh Ít Lá Gai from Phú Yên is a delightful treat with a subtle sweetness, soft and chewy texture, and a hint of beans, leaves, rice, and coconut. This unique blend creates a distinct flavor that can only be found in Phú Yên. Besides the traditional sweet filling, you can also try the savory version with a twist – a delightful combination of shrimp, meat, and beans, best enjoyed with a sweet and sour dipping sauce.
Chả Cá Phú Yên (Phú Yên Fish Cakes)
When it comes to specialties, Chả Cá is undoubtedly one of the first dishes that comes to mind when thinking of Phú Yên. This dish is a must-try for visitors to the region.
As a coastal province known for its seafood, Phú Yên boasts an abundance of fresh fish, which is used to create the delicious Chả Cá. The golden, crispy exterior and chewy, flavorful interior of this dish will leave a lasting impression.
Bò Một Nắng Muối Kiến Vàng (Sun-Dried Beef with Yellow Ant Salt)
Phú Yên is one of the few places in Vietnam that offers this unique delicacy. The beef is carefully selected from the healthiest cows, using only the best cuts from the thigh and tenderloin, dried to perfection, and then slightly smoked before packaging.
To enjoy, simply grill the beef until golden, and dip it in the special yellow ant salt, a unique seasoning from Phú Yên. This dish is perfect as a snack or to share with friends over drinks.
Bánh Tráng Hòa Đa (Hòa Đa Rice Paper)
Phú Yên is renowned for its rice paper, with many locals relying on this trade for their livelihood. The secret family recipes and years of experience result in a distinctively delicious product, with the Hòa Đa brand being the most famous. Be sure to buy some when visiting Phú Yên.
Cá Ngừ Đại Dương (Bluefin Tuna)
When it comes to seafood in Phú Yên, bluefin tuna is a standout. The province boasts the largest production of this fish in Vietnam.
Not only is bluefin tuna abundant in Phú Yên, but it is also renowned for its freshness and sweet meat. One of the most sought-after products is the eye of the bluefin tuna, which is not only delicious but also highly nutritious. A simple preparation is all that’s needed to unlock its goodness.
Chả Ram Tôm Đất (Shrimp and Pork Patties)
Unlike traditional shrimp patties, Chả Ram Tôm Đất from Phú Yên is a simpler affair, featuring only three main ingredients: thin rice paper, freshwater shrimp, and pork belly. This simplicity allows the natural sweetness of the shrimp to shine through.
Hải Sản Khô (Dried Seafood)
Phú Yên’s coastal location ensures a plentiful supply of seafood, and its dried seafood products, such as dried squid, fish, and shrimp, make excellent souvenirs. Treat yourself to some sun-dried shrimp, dried snakehead fish, or squid, which are not only delicious but also easy to store and transport.
Hạt Đác Tươi/Hạt Đác Rim (Fresh/Candied Ice Plant Seeds)
Fresh ice plant seeds have a crunchy texture and a subtle sweet taste. Despite being low in calories and fat, they are packed with vitamins and minerals, aiding digestion and supporting heart health. They are also incredibly versatile, showing up in dishes like candied ice plant seeds with pineapple or passion fruit, ice plant seed porridge, and even ice plant seed yogurt.
Nước Mắm Gành Đỏ (Gành Đỏ Fish Sauce)
Vietnam is famous for its fish sauce, and Gành Đỏ fish sauce from Phú Yên is a standout example. The centuries-old tradition of making fish sauce in this region has resulted in a superior product that makes an excellent souvenir.
Crafted from a traditional recipe and the freshest anchovies, Gành Đỏ fish sauce strikes the perfect balance between savory and salty, making it a versatile condiment for any meal. You can purchase this directly from the producers along National Highway 1A in Gành Đỏ, in the town of Sông Cầu, Phú Yên.
We hope this list helps you navigate the delicious specialties of Phú Yên and choose the perfect souvenirs to bring home!
The Pork Cut Treasured by American Experts: A Nutritional Powerhouse Equivalent to Chicken Breast, Beloved in Vietnamese Cuisine.
Pork, a staple meat in Vietnamese cuisine, has been lauded by American nutrition experts for its nutritional value, even drawing comparisons to chicken breast. This cut of meat is now being hailed as a nutritional powerhouse, with a protein content comparable to that of chicken. Discover the nutritional secrets and learn how to prepare this versatile meat.