Top 8 local specialties in Nha Trang

In the picturesque coastal city of Nha Trang, discovering the eight must-try local specialties is an essential gastronomic experience for any visitor eager for new flavors. This Vietnamese enclave offers much more than white sand beaches and spectacular sea views. Nha Trang’s culinary delights are an invitation to explore unique interpretations of Vietnamese classics, from spring rolls to curries, with a special focus on the signature sweet and sour fusion, always accompanied by the famous fish sauce as a condiment.

Nha Trang’s bustling markets and local restaurants are full of culinary treasures, offering visitors abundant fresh seafood from local fishing villages. From huge shrimps, succulent squids, exotic sea urchins, delicious crabs, intriguing jellyfish, and a variety of shellfish, the seafood is presented according to the weight chosen by the customer.

1. Nem nuong (grilled fermented pork roll)

Nem nuong, a grilled fermented pork roll, is a local specialty that tempts diners with its sweet and spicy flavors, accompanied by marinated green papaya and fresh herbs. Served over charcoal braziers in Nha Trang restaurants, this dish offers easy customization, encouraging diners to forgo cutlery for an authentic, hand-held meal.

2. Bun cha sua (jellyfish vermicelli soup)

A popular morning delicacy among locals, Bun cha sua noodle soup features a combination of rice vermicelli, jellyfish, and sailfish fillet in a sweet and salty fish broth. Some establishments add a touch of crab, shrimp, and pork to the culinary experience. One variation to explore is Banh canh cha ca, featuring thick noodles and generous slices of fish.

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3. Pho

Vietnamese classics such as Pho noodle soup are in no short supply in Nha Trang. Served in a fragrant broth with beef or chicken, bean sprouts, and a variety of vegetables, Pho can be spiced up with a spicy chili sauce or fish sauce, making for a breakfast experience popular at local restaurants. For those looking for a bold twist, Bun bo hue features rice vermicelli with beef in a spicy lemongrass and pork broth.

4. Bo ne

Bo ne, a Vietnamese take on steak and eggs, is a popular breakfast option in Nha Trang. Served on a hot plate, this dish features slices of steak marinated in a blend of spices, accompanied by pâté, eggs, and chili sauce. Topped with condiments, toasted baguette, and fresh vegetables, the local way to enjoy Bo ne is to dip the beef in a mixture of lime, salt, and pepper sauce.

5. Banh cuon

Banh cuon – steamed rice rolls offer a light experience with a mixture of minced pork, black mushrooms, and onions wrapped in a steamed rice crepe. Topped with dried shrimp, cilantro, and herbs, Banh cuon is sold at street markets and local restaurants, offering several pieces per plate, ideal for a light breakfast.

6. Banh can

Banh can, a crispy rice cake topped with quail eggs, fresh or dried meat, and seafood, is a ubiquitous Nha Trang specialty. Freshly prepared on circular charcoal stoves, it is sold in pairs due to its modest size. Dipping in a sauce made with fish sauce, lemon, chili pepper, and garlic is the best way to enjoy Banh can, with some versions including raw vegetables, pork meatballs, and grated green mango.

7. Ca ri ga (Chicken curry)

Ca ri ga – Chicken Curry, a Vietnamese curry, is served with rice, noodles, or a warmed baguette. Made with chicken, carrots, sweet potatoes, ginger, and peas in a coconut milk curry sauce, this dish offers considerably milder and lighter flavors than its Indian, Cambodian, and Thai counterparts. It’s ideal for a light lunch or dinner in Nha Trang.

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8. Banh xeo

Finally, Banh xeo, a crispy pancake made with rice flour, coconut milk, and turmeric, is a must-try as a snack. Pan-fried with ingredients such as pork slices, shrimp, onions, bean sprouts, and button mushrooms, this Nha Trang specialty is perfectly enjoyed with lettuce, herbs, and a sweet sauce of fermented peanut butter. Some local restaurants use rice paper to wrap Banh xeo with its accompaniments, adding an authentic touch to the dining experience.

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