Phu Quoc can make you fall in love after just one meal. It's the sweetness of freshly steamed Ham Ninh crab, the pungent smell of pepper in the sea breeze, or simply the feeling of sitting on the sand at Sunset Town, enjoying hot seafood as the afternoon fades. The cuisine here is unpretentious, and just one taste will show you why people call Phu Quoc the island of flavors.
Fresh seafood - an unmissable specialty
Mentioning Phu Quoc means mentioning seafood, a gift bestowed by the sea upon this land. Ham Ninh crab with firm flesh, rich slipper lobsters, fragrant grilled sea urchin with scallion oil, or savory steamed grouper with soy sauce... all carry the natural sweetness of the ocean.
You can wander around Ham Ninh fishing village or Rach Vem to watch fishermen return after their catch, or visit Duong Dong market with its calls, the sound of waves, and the smell of the sea blending in the bustling atmosphere. A seafood meal right by the sandy shore, amidst the sound of the wind and grilling smoke, is enough to make you understand why Phu Quoc is called the 'paradise of fresh flavors'.
Rustic Dishes - Authentic Flavors of Phu Quoc People
If seafood is the soul of the sea, then rustic dishes are the rhythm of life of the islanders. Try Bun Quay Kien Xay, a dish where diners 'stir' their own fish cakes and fresh shrimp to create a steaming, flavorful bowl of noodles. Or Goi ca trich (Herring Salad), a blend of the fish's sweetness, lime's sourness, grated coconut's richness, and chili's spiciness. A simple bowl of Banh canh cha ca (fish cake noodle soup) is enough to warm one's heart in the salty sea breeze.
Phu Quoc cuisine is unpretentious, not elaborate. Just the authentic flavors and simple cooking methods are enough to express the feelings of the people of the sea: gentle, hospitable, and proud of their island homeland.
Fine dining in Sunset Town - where deliciousness meets emotion
If you're looking for a romantic dinner or a more refined culinary experience, Sunset Town is a must-visit destination. Located on the southwest coast of the island, this area stands out with its vibrant Mediterranean architecture and is a prime spot for high-class restaurants, bars, and gastro pubs.
You can stroll through the brightly lit streets, choose a table by the sea at Sun Bavaria GastroPub to enjoy high-class European-Asian dishes with a refreshing cocktail, or visit other luxurious seafood restaurants in town to soak in the vibrant atmosphere as the sun sets.
In Sunset Town, every meal is not just a feast for the taste buds but also an emotional experience, where music, light, and the sea and sky blend into one.
Flavors to Take Home - The Aftertaste of the Sea
Before saying goodbye to the pearl island, don't forget to bring back a bit of 'Phu Quoc flavor' as a gift. It's a bottle of fragrant fish sauce fermented from black anchovies and natural sea salt, a bag of pungent black pepper, or a sweet rose myrtle wine; all carry the breath of the sea and the meticulousness of the islanders. These gifts are not just for giving but also a way for you to preserve the flavors of your journey.
Suggested Stops for Souvenir Shopping Before Leaving the Island
To make choosing and buying Phu Quoc specialties convenient and easy, you can visit Vietnam Select Supermarket, located right in the Vui Fest Gate area – South Phu Quoc Island.
Vietnam Select focuses on high-quality products with transparent origins and stable prices, such as authentic Phu Quoc fish sauce, Phu Quoc pepper, dried seafood, rose myrtle wine, along with the island's characteristic spices and ingredients. This is also a suitable stop for you to choose gifts for relatives or bring the taste of Phu Quoc back to your family kitchen after the trip.
The supermarket's space is neatly arranged and easy to navigate, making shopping smooth and quick – especially convenient in the final days of your journey.
Once your taste buds are awakened, let the journey continue with experiences that make you feel like you truly belong here. From Sunset Town, just a few minutes away, you can reach Hon Thom Island - an island with pristine beauty, blue seas, golden sun, and countless exciting activities.
In the morning, you can enjoy swimming in the sea, in the afternoon, savor seafood by the white sandy beach, and in the evening, stroll through the town in the brilliant sunset at Sunset Town. Each moment helps you fully appreciate the beauty of Phu Quoc, where delicious food, emotions, and experiences blend together, creating unforgettable memories.
