Northeast Vietnam, Vietnam
Haiphong's culinary identity is shaped by its port city status and Northern Vietnam location. Food reflects fresh ingredients from the sea and Red River Delta.
Recipes show Chinese and French cooking influences, blended with traditional Vietnamese techniques. Dishes are hearty and flavorful, suiting a working port population.
Use chopsticks for most dishes. A spoon is useful for broth or soupy dishes.
Meals are communal. Dishes for sharing among the group.
Use a porcelain spoon or a small bowl to scoop soup or dishes into your individual serving.
Haiphong's most famous dish. It features thick, reddish-brown rice noodles (bánh đa), a rich crab-based broth, various crab meat preparations (patties, rolls), fried tofu, morning glory, and pork cracklings.
Where to find: Numerous local eateries throughout the city. Try Quán Bánh Đa Cua Bể (195 Cầu Đất) or Bánh đa Cua Bể (48 Lạch Tray).
This dish features grilled pork skewers, often wrapped in bamboo sticks. It comes served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce. A variation of the popular Bún chả.
Where to find: Many street food stalls and local restaurants.
These unique square-shaped fried spring rolls contain crab meat, shrimp, pork, glass noodles, and mushrooms. They are often served with Bún chả or as a snack.
Where to find: Many street food stalls and local restaurants.
Smaller, thinner version of bánh mì. Often contains pâté and chili sauce, toasted until crispy. It makes a popular snack.
A rich and savory hotpot with a broth made from field crabs. Served with various meats, seafood, vegetables, and tofu for dipping.
Haiphong has limited true "fine dining" restaurants compared to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. However, upscale restaurants in 4-5 star hotels present a more refined dining experience with international and Vietnamese cuisine.
Numerous options present a mix of Vietnamese, Asian, and some Western dishes. Look for places popular with locals.
Experience authentic local flavors at a low cost. Haiphong has bustling street food scenes.
Due to the presence of foreign businesses, a fair number of Korean BBQ and Japanese restaurants exist. Some cafes and hotels present basic Western fare.
Options include pizza, pasta, and burgers at various establishments.
Cho Sat (Iron Market): The most famous market. It offers a wide array of fresh produce, meats, seafood, and a lively food section. Local Wet Markets: Found in every district, offering fresh ingredients and simple cooked meals.
These markets make for a true local experience.
Many local spots prepare 'chay' dishes. Specify 'không nước mắm' (no fish sauce) for vegan needs.
Very limited options. Travelers typically bring their own packaged meals.
Challenging as wheat flour is common. Rice noodles are naturally gluten-free.
Language barriers make communication difficult. Carry a translation card for severe allergies.
The ubiquitous and highly specialized Bánh đa cua eateries, often small, family-run, and focused on this one dish, offer an uniquely Haiphong dining experience.
These spots are integral to the local culinary scene.
Lunar New Year (Tet) features special sticky rice cakes (Banh Chung, Banh Tet) and candied fruits. Mid-Autumn Festival (Tet Trung Thu) presents mooncakes.
These foods mark important cultural celebrations.
Explore side streets for small, local cafes (quán cà phê) to observe daily life. Enjoy local coffee or tea.
Throughout the city, vendors present snacks, drinks, and simple meals. Interacting with them offers cultural insights.
Options specifically in Haiphong city are limited. These are more common in Hanoi or Hoi An. Some hotels might offer private classes.
Informal street food tours might be arranged through local guides for an immersive culinary experience.
Local festivals might feature specific foods, but no major annual food festivals specifically for Haiphong's cuisine attract international tourists.
Many mid-range to luxury hotels offer spa and massage services. Independent massage parlors are available; choose reputable ones.
Look for hotels for refined services.
Traditional Vietnamese medicine (đông y) is practiced. Acupuncture and herbal remedies are available through local clinics.
Explore local clinics for these traditional treatments.
Resorts at Do Son Beach offer pool access and beach amenities. These areas can get crowded, especially during peak season.
These are public beaches near Cat Ba Town popular for swimming and relaxation. Many upscale hotels in Haiphong have swimming pools available for guests.
Held annually on the 9th day of the 8th lunar month (around September/October) in Do Son. This is an unique and debated traditional festival.
Occurs late January or February, varying annually. This is the most important festival, marked by family gatherings, special foods, and temple visits. Many businesses close during this time.
This day celebrates the liberation of Haiphong, often with local events and parades.
Travelers with specific dietary needs may find some challenges, but options exist with proper communication.
