Nha Trang, a coastal city in Vietnam, is famous for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and especially its diverse and delicious street food. Joining a Nha Trang street food is a culinary adventure that allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and flavors. This guide will take you through the best street food destinations, must-try dishes, and tips to navigate the bustling food scene in Nha Trang.
Why should you try Nha Trang street food?
Nha Trang street food reflects the rich culinary heritage of the city. Influenced by its coastal location, the food here often features fresh seafood along with various other ingredients, creating a unique experience with each dish. The street food scene in Nha Trang is not just about eating; it also involves experiencing local life, understanding the culture, and connecting with the people.
Must-try street food dishes in Nha Trang
1. Fish Cake Noodle Soup (Banh canh cha ca)- A great breakfast option
Fish Cake Noodle Soup is a delicious fish cake soup that is a must-try in Nha Trang. The broth is made from fish bones, creating a rich and flavorful base. The chewy noodles and tender fish cake make this dish a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Recommended places for Fish Cake Noodle Soup in Nha Trang:
– Bún cá Cô Ba, 123 Yersin Street
– Bánh canh Cô Hà, 14 Phan Chu Trinh Street
2. Nha Trang grilled pork rolls (Nem nuong)- A addictive street food
Nha Trang grilled pork rolls is a popular street food dish consisting of grilled pork skewers served with fresh vegetables and rice paper. This dish is often accompanied by a special sweet and sour dipping sauce, creating a unique flavor combination. Visitors will enjoy the aroma of grilled meat, the crispy and spicy taste, and the sweetness that all come together.
Recommended places for Nha Trang grilled pork rolls:
– Nem nướng Đặng Văn Quyên, 16A Lãn Ông and 02 – 04 Phan Bội Châu
– Nem nướng Bà Sáu, 02 Tô Vĩnh Diện
3. Jellyfish Noodles Soup (Bun Ca Sua)- A refreshing street food dish
Jellyfish noodles soup is another top street food dish that must be included in this list. The combination of jellyfish and fish in a clear and flavorful broth creates a refreshing and delicious dish. The crunchy texture of the jellyfish, along with the fish and noodles, provides a satisfying experience. This dish is particularly refreshing and perfect for hot days.
Recommended places for Jellyfish noodles soup:
– Quán bún sứa, 3 Tăng Bạt Hổ, Vạn Hạnh Ward
– Quán bún sứa Dốc Lếch, Yersin – Bà Triệu Intersection
4. Nha Trang squid pancake (Banh Xeo) – Authentic Central Vietnamese cuisine
When trying Nha Trang street food, you cannot miss the legendary pancake with squid. Nha Trang squid pancake is a signature dish, known for its crispy golden crust and delicious filling. Made from rice flour, coconut milk, and turmeric, Nha Trang squid pancake has a unique and enticing flavor. The filling usually includes fresh shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and spring onions, creating a perfect combination of ingredients.
This dish is often served with fresh vegetables and a special dipping sauce, providing a fantastic culinary experience for diners. Nha Trang is not only famous for its beautiful beaches but also for its rich and flavorful cuisine, and bánh xèo is definitely one of the dishes not to be missed.
Recommended places for Nha Trang squid pancake:
– Bánh xèo chảo, 85 Tô Hiến Thành (open from 4 PM to 10 PM)
– Bánh xèo Hương, 87 Hoàng Văn Thụ Street
5. Grilled Fish Nha Trang (Cha Ca) – Unforgettable street food
Grilled Fish Nha Trang is usually made from fresh fish marinated with turmeric and other spices before being perfectly grilled. It is usually served with fresh vermicelli noodles, herbs, and peanuts. The combination of flavors creates a unique and unforgettable taste.
Recommended places for Grilled Fish Nha Trang:
– Bún cá Mịn – bún cá Ninh Hòa, 170 Bạch Đằng Street
– Bún chả cá Nha Trang Hạnh Nhiên, 32C Lê Đại Hành Street, Nha Trang
6. Sizzling Beef steak (Bo Ne) – A not-to-be-missed Nha Trang street food
Sizzling beef steak Nha Trang is a must-try dish for any food lover visiting this coastal city. This sizzling beef dish is served on a hot plate with eggs, pate, and crispy baguette. The beef is marinated with a local spice mixture, ensuring each piece is full of flavor. The sound and aroma when the dish is served enhance the culinary experience, turning it into not just a meal but a sensory delight. Usually enjoyed for breakfast, bò né provides a satisfying and fulfilling start to the day, showcasing the culinary richness of Nha Trang.
A suggested itinerary for exploring street food in Nha Trang
Evening street food tour
1. 5:00 PM – Start street food tasting at Nha Trang Night Market
Begin your tour at Nha Trang Night Market, where you can try dishes like Bánh Căn and Nem Nướng Nha Trang. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and explore the diverse food stalls.
2. 6:30 PM – Head to Xom Moi Market
Continue to Xom Moi Market to try dishes like Bún Cá Sứa and Bánh Canh Chả Cá. This market is less crowded than the night market, offering a more relaxed food experience.
3. 8:00 PM – Explore Tran Phu Street
End your evening tour with a stroll along Tran Phu Street. Look for stalls selling Chả Cá and Bò Né. Enjoy the sea view and indulge in these delicious dishes.
Morning street food tour
1. 7:00 AM – Have breakfast at Dam Market
Start your day with a visit to Dam Market. Try traditional breakfast dishes like Phở and Bánh Mì. The morning market is bustling and provides a great start to your day.
2. 9:00 AM – Relax with a cup of coffee
Take a break at a local coffee shop and enjoy Vietnamese coffee. Try a Ca Phe Sua Da (iced coffee with condensed milk) or a Ca Phe Trung (egg coffee) for a unique experience.
3. 10:30 AM – Sample seafood at local street stalls
Head to the coastal area near Tran Phu Street and try fresh seafood from street stalls. Grilled squid and grilled shrimp are must-try dishes.
The Nha Trang street food tour is a culinary adventure that promises to satisfy your taste buds and provide you with a deep understanding of Vietnamese culture. From bustling markets to hidden gems, Nha Trang’s street food offers a range of flavors and diverse experiences. By following this guide, you will have enough knowledge to explore the vibrant food scene and enjoy your amazing culinary journey in this beautiful coastal city. Enjoy your adventure and savor the delicious food!
