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The Tasty Delights of Ha Long Bay: A Foodie’s Guide to the City’s Best Souvenirs

Are you on the hunt for unique Ha Long specialties to take home as gifts? Look no further! Discover the ultimate guide to the finest delicacies this region has to offer. From mouth-watering treats to one-of-a-kind souvenirs, we'll take you on a journey through the tastes and traditions of Ha Long. Get ready to impress your loved ones with a taste of Vietnam's cultural heritage!

Administrator

6 August, 2024

When visiting Ha Long, you won’t forget to buy some delicious specialties as gifts. Today, we will suggest some Ha Long specialties that you should buy as gifts, guaranteed to delight your friends and family.

For more information: Delicious and easy-to-make dishes at home

1. Cha Muc Ha Long (Ha Long Squid Sausage)

Cha Muc Ha Long

Cha Muc is one of the specialties of Ha Long. The squid sausage here is prepared by “pounding by hand,” an extremely laborious and intricate process. As a result, it often has a distinctive golden color and aroma. When eaten, you will experience an unforgettable sweet, crispy, and savory taste.

Estimated price: 330,000 – 470,000 VND/kg (approximately 30 – 32 pieces)

Suggested places to buy:

Hai San Ong Ba: Sunworld Ha Long Park Walking Street, Lot C122, Ha Long Road, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province
Cha Muc Quang Phong: Lot C112A, Old Quarter, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province

2. Ha Long Dried Squid

Ha Long Dried Squid

Ha Long Bay has a higher salinity compared to other seas, so Ha Long dried squid has a rich and unique flavor. When you taste Ha Long dried squid, you will experience a delicious, sweet, and chewy texture that is distinct to this region.

To choose the best quality dried squid, select those with a thicker body, a bright pink color, and intact heads and tentacles.

Estimated price: 450,000 – 800,000 VND/kg (depending on size)

Suggested place to buy:

Cho Cai Dam: Tien Ong Street, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province

3. Ruoc Tom (Shrimp Paste)

Ruoc Tom (Shrimp Paste)

Ruoc Tom is made from fresh shrimp, small shrimp, and meat broth. After processing, the shrimp paste has a distinctive seafood aroma, a golden-yellow color, soft and smooth strands, and is not dry. This is definitely a tasty snack that you can buy as a gift.

Estimated price: 130,000 – 300,000 VND/box

Suggested place to buy:

Ruoc Tom Ba Chanh: 42 Tien Ong, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province

4. Sa Sung Kho (Dried Sandworm)

Sa Sung Kho (Dried Sandworm)

Sa Sung, also known as “earth ginseng,” is a delicious and nutritious Ha Long specialty. Sa Sung has a characteristic ivory color and the fragrance of the sea and is often used to prepare various dishes such as garlic-fried sandworms, sandworm stir-fry, etc.

Estimated price: 1,500,000 – 2,000,000 VND/kg

Suggested place to buy:

Cho Ha Long 2: 433 Le Loi, Tran Hung Dao Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province

5. Hoanh Bo Fermented Glutinous Rice Wine

Hoanh Bo Fermented Glutinous Rice Wine

Hoanh Bo fermented glutinous rice wine is one of the delicious specialties of Ha Long that you can use as a gift. It is made from high-quality glutinous rice and Hoanh Bo forest leaves, resulting in a unique fragrance. Enjoying seafood dishes with Hoanh Bo fermented glutinous rice wine is an excellent suggestion.

Estimated price: 75,000 – 90,000 VND/liter

Suggested place to buy:

Cho Ha Long 2: 433 Le Loi, Tran Hung Dao Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province

6. Yen Tu Apricot Wine

Yen Tu Apricot Wine

Yen Tu Apricot Wine is also a delicious and famous wine that you can buy as a gift. The wine has a beautiful golden color, a distinctive aroma, and a sweet and sour taste.

Estimated price: 192,000 VND/500ml bottle

Suggested place to buy:

Thang Long Beer and Wine Factory: Group 1, Yen Thanh, Quang Trung Ward, Uong Bi City, Quang Ninh Province

You can easily buy ready-made apricot wine from well-known brands such as … at our place, and they are guaranteed to be authentic.

7. Nem Chao Quang Ninh (Fermented Pork Roll with Rice)

Nem Chao Quang Ninh (Fermented Pork Roll with Rice)

Nem Chao, also known as “nem thinh,” is made from shredded pork skin and roasted rice. Nem Chao is usually eaten with vietnamese pork sausage, sung leaves, etc., dipped in a sweet and sour fish sauce. This specialty dish is sure to delight your loved ones.

Estimated price: 50,000 – 220,000 VND/serving

Suggested place to buy:

Cho Dong Trieu: Gieng Noi, Hong Phong Ward, Dong Trieu Town, Quang Ninh Province

8. Sam Bien (Sea Cucumber)

Sam Bien (Sea Cucumber)

Sam Bien is one of the specialties of Ha Long. Because it is caught naturally, Ha Long sea cucumber retains its fresh and delicious taste. You can prepare sea cucumber in various dishes such as sweet and sour stir-fry, fried powder-coated sea cucumber, etc.

Estimated price: 500,000 – 700,000 VND/pair

Suggested place to buy:

Cho Ha Long 1: Van Xuan Street, Bach Dang Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province

9. Con Ngan (Arctica Islandica)

Con Ngan (Arctica Islandica)

Ngan, also known as “sea clam,” is a marine organism similar in appearance to clams and scallops but with a more distinctive flavor, and it can also be used to make wine. Dishes made from Ngan are diverse and delicious, including grilled Ngan, Ngan porridge, stir-fried Ngan, etc.

Estimated price: 450,000 – 600,000 VND/kg (15-20 pieces)

Suggested places to buy: Seafood restaurants near the intersection of Ha Long Road

10. Banh Gat Gu (Gat Gu Cake)

Banh Gat Gu (Gat Gu Cake)

The name “Banh Gat Gu” comes from the cake’s soft and long appearance. When you hold it in your hand, the cake will nod as if it were a sleeping person (“gat gu” means nodding off). The cake is entirely handmade and has a fluffy, soft, and chewy texture. It is usually served with dipping sauces such as coconut milk, condensed milk, etc., creating a rich and creamy flavor.

Estimated price: 30,000 – 50,000 VND/serving

Cho Dem Ha Long: Ha Long Marine Boulevard, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province

Frequently asked questions

When visiting Ha Long Bay, there are several delicious must-try dishes, including ‘Cha Muc’ (squid cake), ‘Sam Hop Vi’ (a trio of sea pine apple, sea cucumber, and sea worm), and ‘Tu Hai Xao Dua’ (stir-fried scallops with coconut).

Unique food-related souvenirs from Ha Long Bay include dried squid, shrimp paste, and ‘Banh Cuon’ (rice flour steamed rolls). These items can be purchased at local markets or specialty food stores.

Ha Long Bay is renowned for its seafood. Some of the best places to enjoy fresh seafood are at the local restaurants and seafood markets along the coast. You can also opt for a seafood cruise, offering a unique dining experience on the bay.

Yes, Ha Long Bay has its own special treats. One popular choice is ‘Banh Cay Xeo’, a crispy, savory rice pancake made with shrimp and pork. For a sweet treat, try ‘Kem Ha Long’, a unique ice cream made with local ingredients and flavors.

It is important to check local regulations and restrictions when considering taking seafood souvenirs with you. Some items may be prohibited or require special permits. It is always best to purchase souvenirs from reputable vendors who can provide guidance on any necessary documentation.