1. Overview of Ha Long Quang Ninh specialties
Overview of Ha Long Quang Ninh specialties. (Source: Collected)
1.1. Flavor characteristics and preparation methods of Ha Long Quang Ninh specialties.
Ha Long Bay's coastal area is where nature bestows abundant seafood resources, contributing to the formation of Ha Long Quang Ninh specialties with a distinct coastal flavor. What creates the unique appeal of the dishes here is their naturally sweet and refreshing taste, formed from mineral-rich seawater. Each type of seafood, such as shrimp, crab, fish, and squid, is caught daily, preserving its freshness and offering a reliable and attractive culinary experience for diners.
The people of Ha Long pass down many characteristic cooking secrets, creating a unique identity for each dish. Popular methods such as steaming, grilling, stir-frying, and salt-roasting are skillfully employed to preserve the original flavors. Local spices like shallots, green peppercorns, and bird's eye chilies are mixed in just the right amount, enriching the seafood taste while maintaining its natural essence. Notably, cha muc (squid cake) is meticulously made using a hand-pounding method, resulting in an ideal chewy texture; seafood like ngan and sam are also strictly processed to ensure safety and retain their unique fresh taste.
1.2. Why you should experience Ha Long Quang Ninh specialties when traveling in 2025.
Entering 2025, Ha Long Quang Ninh specialties are becoming an even greater attraction for tourists visiting this heritage region. Fresh ingredients sourced directly from the local sea not only offer high nutritional value but also provide peace of mind when dining. A significant difference lies in the fact that seafood in Ha Long is always caught and processed on the same day, thus preserving its natural sweetness and appealing freshness.
A highlight of coastal cuisine is its convenience, suitable for tourists. Many dishes like cha muc (squid cake), dried sa sung (sea cucumber), shrimp floss, and oyster floss are carefully packaged, allowing you to enjoy them on-site or easily take them home as gifts. These products can be stored for a long time while retaining their flavor and quality, extending the memories of your trip.
Beyond their culinary value, Ha Long Quang Ninh specialties are intimately connected with the culture of this land. Cha muc often appears during traditional festivals, and banh gat gu is associated with the Tien Yen region; each dish contains historical stories and the affection of the local people.
2. The most outstanding seafood specialties of Ha Long Quang Ninh
The most outstanding seafood dishes in Ha Long. (Source: Collected)
2.1. Ha Long Squid Cake.
Squid cake is always a representative name when mentioning specialties of Ha Long Quang Ninh. Made from carefully selected fresh cuttlefish, under the skilled hands of local people, squid cake possesses an attractive golden color and a distinct chewy and crispy texture. The natural sweetness of sea squid blended with spices creates an unforgettable characteristic flavor of the Ha Long sea region.
The prominence of squid cake comes from its elaborate processing procedure. Fresh squid is entirely hand-pounded to retain fine meat fibers and natural chewiness, without using an industrial grinder. After the squid mixture is complete, small portions are shaped and then fried golden brown in hot oil until the outer layer is crispy. Enjoying squid cake with sticky rice, rolled rice pancakes, or white rice all brings a uniquely attractive experience.
Visitors can find quality squid cake at reputable addresses such as Ba Kien squid cake, the Ha Long market area, or the Thoan squid cake brand. Currently, modern variations like vacuum-sealed squid cake, rolled rice pancakes with squid cake, and sticky rice with squid cake are also chosen by many, catering to the diverse tastes of diners.
2.2. Sea Geoduck.
Sea geoduck is a unique highlight in the collection of specialties of Ha Long Quang Ninh, standing out for its flavor that is hard to find elsewhere. This mollusk species lives in tidal flats, with chewy and sweet meat and a distinctive aroma. Sea geoduck only lives in certain areas of Quang Ninh, making this dish rare and attractive to visitors who love seafood cuisine.
Sea geoduck is prepared in many ways, such as steamed to preserve its natural sweetness, grilled to enhance aroma, or stir-fried with vegetables to create a nutritious dish. Notably, geoduck wine is a specialty drink of Quang Ninh, considered by locals as a traditional nutritious beverage. For many diners, the first impression of geoduck might be its unusual taste, but the more you enjoy it, the more you are captivated by its very own sweetness.
To fully experience the fresh and delicious taste of sea geoduck, visitors should seek out seafood restaurants near Ha Long beach, where geoduck is often prepared immediately after being caught. In large restaurants in Ha Long, diners can enjoy many geoduck dishes - from traditional to modern preparations - suitable for various tastes.
2.3. Quang Ninh Peanut Worm.
Peanut worm is still known as the "gold of the sea" in the list of specialties of Ha Long Quang Ninh. This sea worm plays an important role in creating a natural sweet and clear flavor for pho broth, soup, and many other dishes. Just a small amount of dried peanut worm is enough to transform the flavor of a dish, bringing a distinctive rich umami taste.
Peanut worm not only has high economic value due to its rarity but also for its unique delicious flavor. Fresh peanut worms are very difficult to preserve, so the dried form is chosen by many visitors who want to buy it as a gift. Locals here have also created dishes such as peanut worm stir-fried with garlic, grilled peanut worm, or peanut worm congee - each dish carries the strong flavor of the sea and is very rich in nutrients. Peanut worm contains a lot of protein and minerals, supporting the health of diners.
Visitors can choose dried peanut worm at the Ha Long market or reputable specialty stores. When buying, choose peanut worms that have a natural bright yellow color, are not moldy, and have a distinct smell of the sea.
2.4. Horseshoe Crab.
Horseshoe crab is a dish that brings diversity to the menu of specialties of Ha Long Quang Ninh. This mollusk species has firm meat and rich roe, creating many attractive dishes such as steamed horseshoe crab, sweet and sour stir-fried horseshoe crab, horseshoe crab salad, or grilled horseshoe crab legs. Each dish highlights a unique aspect of the horseshoe crab's flavor.
The way steamed horseshoe crab is prepared preserves its natural sweetness, often eaten with fresh herbs and a specially mixed dipping sauce. Sweet and sour stir-fried horseshoe crab combines pineapple and tomatoes, creating a dish balanced between fresh and rich flavors. Horseshoe crab salad mixed with herbs and peanuts offers a light appetizer feel. Notably, grilled horseshoe crab legs captivate diners with their characteristic aroma and rich, creamy taste.
To ensure safety, horseshoe crab needs to be properly prepared to remove natural toxins. Visitors should choose experienced restaurants and eateries in horseshoe crab preparation to enjoy with peace of mind. Reputable establishments often apply a standardized preparation process, providing a complete and safe culinary experience for diners.
2.5. Mantis Shrimp (Peacock Shrimp).
Mantis shrimp, also known as peacock shrimp, contributes to creating unique dishes in the collection of specialties of Ha Long Quang Ninh. This shrimp species has a large, hard shell with firm, sweet, and nutritious meat, making it an ideal ingredient for many attractive dishes. Mantis shrimp noodle soup stands out with its clear broth cooked from mantis shrimp shells, combined with fresh noodles and sweet and clear shrimp meat.
Steaming mantis shrimp helps preserve the natural taste of the seafood, while salt-and-pepper mantis shrimp with kaffir lime leaves and bird's eye chilies is attractive due to its rich flavor, very suitable to enjoy with beer. Mantis shrimp meat is chewy, sweet, and has a distinctive flavor compared to other types of shrimp.
To enjoy the freshest and most delicious mantis shrimp, visitors should choose restaurants such as Thuy Chung Seafood restaurant, Cua Vang restaurant, or seafood eateries along Bai Chay beach. These places are not only famous for their diverse menu of mantis shrimp dishes but also ensure quality and reasonable prices, contributing to an unforgettable culinary experience.
2.6. Types of Sea Floss: Shrimp Floss, Oyster Floss, Fish Floss.
Various types of sea floss are an excellent choice for those who want to bring specialties of Ha Long Quang Ninh home as gifts after their trip. Shrimp floss, oyster floss, and fish floss are all processed from fresh ingredients, undergoing a meticulous drying and seasoning process. The natural colors, distinctive aroma, and rich sweet taste of sea floss always make a strong impression on diners.
Shrimp floss has an eye-catching orange-red color, with a sweet taste and attractive aroma. Oyster floss has a light yellow color, rich with the creaminess of sea oysters. Fish floss has a yellow-brown color with a captivating aroma. All types of floss are packaged into convenient small boxes or bags, easy to transport long distances without quality loss.
Sea floss is not only a meaningful gift after a trip but also an excellent ingredient for daily meals. Floss can be used mixed with rice, sprinkled on bread, or eaten with congee, all bringing a delicious and attractive flavor. Visitors can easily find quality sea floss at the Ha Long market, specialty stores, or supermarkets at reasonable prices and safety standards.
3. Traditional Specialties and Rustic Dishes of Quang Ninh
Traditional rustic dishes of Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected)
3.1. Banh Cuon Cha Muc.
The harmonious blend of traditional banh cuon (rice noodle rolls) and Ha Long squid cake creates a unique Ha Long Quang Ninh specialty that is hard to find elsewhere. The banh cuon layer is soft and smooth, made from rice flour, delicately thin, with a fragrant minced pork filling mixed with fried shallots inside. The indispensable highlight is the chewy and crispy squid cake, creating a harmonious combination of texture and flavor.
When enjoyed, the light, delicate taste of banh cuon blends with the rich, chewy flavor of squid cake, offering a novel experience for diners. The dipping sauce is made from fish sauce, sugar, lime, and a bit of bird's eye chili, adding to the dish's appeal. The banh cuon rolls are neatly arranged and garnished with herbs, creating an appetizing look from the first glance.
If you want to experience authentic banh cuon cha muc, visitors should visit Ba Lan's Banh Cuon in Ha Long Market - a place that preserves its long-standing traditional flavor. Additionally, breakfast eateries on Bach Dang street also serve this dish with consistent quality and reasonable prices.
3.2. Banh Gat Gu, a Tien Yen specialty.
Originating from the poetic Tien Yen region, Banh Gat Gu has become a popular symbol of Ha Long Quang Ninh specialties. The special name of the cake reflects its soft, chewy texture, easily rolled after steaming. The main ingredient is finely ground rice flour, forming a thin, ivory-colored cake layer, offering a chewy texture and distinctive flavor.
The appeal of Banh Gat Gu lies in its combination with braised fish dipping sauce, fragrant golden fried shallots, and tender, sweet braised meat. When rolled with filling and dipped in the special fish sauce, each piece of cake emits an alluring aroma, creating an endlessly satisfying eating experience. This dish is also associated with homeland affection, becoming a childhood memory for many Tien Yen residents.
To enjoy authentic Banh Gat Gu, visitors should visit traditional cake shops in Tien Yen - where the old methods are still preserved. Additionally, many stalls in Ha Long Market also sell quality Banh Gat Gu, convenient for tourists to try during their local culinary exploration.
3.3. Quang Ninh Oyster Porridge.
Chao Hau (Oyster Porridge) is one of the exquisite dishes in the collection of Ha Long Quang Ninh specialties, highlighted by its sweet and rich flavor from fresh oysters. Quang Ninh oysters have thick, plump flesh and a natural sweetness; when cooked into porridge, they yield a clear broth with a fragrant aroma. Finely chopped scallions and freshly ground green pepper perfectly complete the flavor of the hot porridge.
Furthermore, Chao Hau is highly nutritious, providing a large amount of high-quality protein, zinc, selenium, and many other essential minerals. This dish is suitable for all ages, especially beneficial for those needing to boost their health or supplement nutrients for children and the elderly.
The best places to eat Chao Hau are usually found on Tran Quoc Toan street, where fresh oysters are always carefully selected before preparation. Besides, seaside eateries near Ha Long Market also serve Chao Hau with guaranteed quality and reasonable prices, offering a nutritious experience during your Quang Ninh culinary exploration.
4. Suggestions for combining culinary experiences with prominent destinations
Suggestions for combining culinary tourism in Ha Long. (Source: Collected)
Day 1
The first day's journey can begin with an energetic breakfast featuring Quang Ninh Ha Long specialties at the bustling Ha Long market. Dishes like rolled cakes with squid paste, hot clam porridge are always chosen by many tourists for breakfast. The atmosphere at the eateries around the market is often lively, creating a vibrant culinary scene unique to this land.
Lunchtime and the afternoon are ideal times to explore Sun World Ha Long Park, an entertainment complex offering many modern experiences amidst a heritage landscape. Here, thrilling games, family-friendly areas, and art performances will provide diverse entertainment experiences for visitors. After that, you can visit the Sun Group old town to enjoy coffee, local snacks like pearl yogurt, and processed seafood in a space rich with ancient architecture.
Day 2
The morning of the second day should be spent exploring famous beaches such as Bai Chay, Tuan Chau. Here, visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood right at the seaside restaurants. Dishes like grilled ngan (a type of clam), steamed horseshoe crab, salt-and-pepper mantis shrimp are prepared from freshly caught ingredients, preserving their natural sweet flavor. The blue sea, white sand, and the sound of gentle waves contribute to the culinary experience.
In the afternoon, take time to visit the vibrant Ha Long walking street, the modern Quang Ninh Museum to learn more about the history and culture of this land. This is also a great opportunity to take photos to preserve memories, and enjoy traditional dishes like banh gat gu (a type of rolled cake), clam porridge, and seafood vermicelli at nearby eateries. These places often have diverse menus, meeting the varied culinary exploration needs of tourists.
Quang Ninh Ha Long specialties not only bring the fresh taste of the sea but also open a door to the cultural and historical depth of the heritage region. Reputable shopping addresses and long-standing brands with verified quality will ensure the most complete culinary experience. Share your moments of enjoying Ha Long specialties on social media and save this guide for a perfect 2025 travel itinerary!
