1. Fresh Seafood – The Culinary Treasure of Halong Bay
When visiting Halong Bay, the first thing that comes to mind is fresh seafood – the pride of Quang Ninh’s coastal region. Caught directly from the bay, the seafood here is naturally sweet, flavorful, and packed with nutrients.
1.1. Sea Worms (Sá Sùng)
Known as the “gold of the sea”, sá sùng is a rare delicacy often used to cook pho broth, make nutritious soups, or stir-fry dishes. Dried sá sùng is highly valued and commonly chosen as a premium gift.
1.2. Horseshoe Crab (Sam Biển)
Horseshoe crab can be prepared into many unique dishes such as sweet-and-sour stir-fried sam, grilled sam, or sam salad. It’s a rare delicacy that can hardly be found outside Quang Ninh.
1.3. Mantis Shrimp (Bề Bề)
Sweet, firm, and protein-rich, mantis shrimp is a must-try. Popular cooking styles include steamed, salt-roasted, or charcoal-grilled, making it a favorite for visitors to Halong.
1.4. Geoduck Clam (Tu Hài)
Nicknamed the “ginseng of the sea,” geoduck is a premium shellfish with a rich taste. The most recommended dishes are geoduck grilled with scallion oil or steamed with lemongrass – a true Halong Bay specialty.
2. Dried Specialties and Souvenirs from Halong Bay
Aside from fresh seafood, Halong is also well-known for a variety of dried delicacies, perfect to bring home as gifts.
2.1. Dried Squid (Mực Khô)
Thick, sweet, and aromatic when grilled, Halong dried squid is a popular souvenir and a symbol of the region’s culinary culture.
2.2. Halong Squid Cake (Chả Mực)
Hand-pounded squid cake is a famous Quang Ninh specialty, recognized as one of Vietnam’s Top 50 must-try dishes. It’s fragrant, chewy, and flavorful, best enjoyed with sticky rice or steamed rice rolls.
2.3. Sun-Dried Mackerel (Cá Thu Một Nắng)
With firm, fatty flesh and little fishy odor, Halong’s one-sun-dried mackerel is delicious when fried or grilled. It’s a thoughtful gift for family and friends.
3. Where to Eat the Best Halong Bay Specialties
Halong Market 1 & 2: A paradise for fresh seafood and dried specialties.
Cai Dam Food Street (Bai Chay): Affordable restaurants serving fresh and tasty seafood.
Famous Seafood Restaurants: Cua Vang Restaurant, Hong Hanh Seafood, Lang Chai Restaurant…
For a truly elevated experience, dining onboard Emperor Cruises is a must. Guests can savor specialties like squid cake, geoduck, and mantis shrimp prepared in a fine-dining style while admiring the breathtaking scenery of Halong Bay.
4. Where to Buy Halong Bay Specialties as Gifts
Halong Market or Cai Dam Market: Wide variety of dried seafood and packaged specialties.
Trusted specialty stores: Ensure quality, clean packaging, and convenient for transport.
Tip: Always check expiration dates, packaging, and preservation methods when buying for long-distance travel.
5. Conclusion
So, if you are wondering “What to eat in Halong Bay?”, the answer is: from fresh seafood to renowned dried specialties, Halong Bay offers a diverse and flavorful culinary journey. And for the ultimate experience, don’t miss enjoying these delicacies onboard Emperor Cruises, where the taste of the sea meets world-class luxury.