Sapa cuisine is a vibrant picture of the Northwest (Tay Bac) mountains and forests - a convergence of ethnic flavors, seasonal ingredients, and simple yet warm local cultural traits. Just one market day or an evening by the charcoal stove, and you will fully experience the soul of the cuisine here.

Local Flavors - Simple yet Refined

At the Bac Ha or Cat Cat weekend markets, the pungent aroma of Thang Co blends with the vibrant colors of Xoi Ngu Sac. Each dish tells a story of the lives of the Mong and Tay people - rustic flavors imbued with the spirit of the highlands.

Delicacies in the chilly weather

Salmon and Sturgeon Hot Pot - an unmissable specialty

No need to wait for winter, anytime you go to Sapa, you can enjoy a steaming pot of salmon hot pot. The fish, raised in the village, has firm, sweet, and less fishy meat, served with wild vegetables and fresh mushrooms, warming your heart after a day of cloud hunting.

Piglet carried on the arm grilled over charcoal

On the central streets, the smell of grilled meat spreads throughout the space. The piglet carried on the arm - a specialty of the Mong people - is marinated with mac khen, lemongrass, and chili, then grilled over charcoal, with crispy skin, tender meat, and an alluring aroma.

The intoxicating scent of wine amidst the high sky

Corn wine, handcrafted with wild leaf yeast, is indispensable in every highland meal. Drink a small cup, feel the spicy taste spread, and you'll sense the warmth of the land and the people here.

Gifts to bring back from Sapa

Each piece of buffalo meat is dried over the kitchen stove, seasoned with characteristic spices, and emits a strong aroma when grilled. This is a gift many tourists choose to bring back after their trip, as it is both rich in highland character and convenient to preserve.

Suggestions for your culinary journey

Experience the Sapa night market or Ta Van village , Cat Cat village to enjoy ethnic dishes in the most authentic village atmosphere.
In the morning, try steamed rice rolls with egg or horse meat pho from Bac Ha - a light meal that provides enough energy for your cloud hunting journey.