Rich in history, culture, and incredible views, Quy Nhon is a gem nestled along the coastline of Central Vietnam. For those looking to eat their way through town, here's a quick rundown of Quy Nhon's culinary highlights.
Bánh Xèo Tôm Nhảy – "Jumping" Shrimp Pancake
While this iconic savoury crepe can be found throughout the country, no region does bánh xèo the same. At Quy Nhon restaurants, fresh local shrimp hit the pan "jumping", sizzling atop a rice-flour batter and pork belly. The pancakes are rolled with rice paper, packed with herbs, and served with a side of tangy, salty fish sauce.
Bún Rạm – Crab Noodle Soup
There's nothing more comforting than a bowl of bún, Vietnam's signature rice vermicelli noodle. In Quy Nhon, mini minced crab patties are added to the broth, cooked with shallots and generously seasoned. Topped with rice crackers to balance the grease, bún rạm hits the spot when you're dining by the coast.
Bún Chả Cá – Fishcake Noodles
Whether you're dining in an upscale venue at Avani Quy Nhon Resort, or a street-side restaurant beloved by locals, this variation of bún chả is inescapable here. Fishcakes, or cá, replaces the staple pork sausage, giving the dish an edge that can only be found in a coastal town like Quy Nhon.
Bánh Hỏi Cháo Lòng – Pork Noodles & Congee
Although bánh hỏi (noodles), cháo (congee), and lòng (pork offal) can be found on their own at many street stalls, why not try all at once? Enjoy a serving of each dish together, savouring umami bites of liver, comforting rice porridge, and chewy noodles at many culinary institutions in Quy Nhon.
Gỏi Sứa – Jellyfish Salad
If you're looking for a unique summer refresher, don't skip the jellyfish. Bite-sized chunks are tossed with mango, chilli, peanuts, and shredded coconut, marrying the subtle, salty taste of the jellyfish with the mouthwatering tang of the salad.
Ốc – Snails
Venture closer to the seafront for something a little more adventurous. In addition to Jellyfish, Quy Nhon is famed for its love of snails, found in mixed seafood platters, fried till crisp, or tossed in spices and delicious herbs.
Tré Bình Định – Pork Parcels
Steamed, dried, and packed in guava leaves, this portable snack is a beloved delicacy around the region. Tré bình định, or pork rinds, offer the perfect salty bite to go with a refreshing beer or a day of sightseeing.
Bánh Ít Lá Gai – Green Bean Cakes
Bánh Ít Lá Gai is a hallmark of the region's sweeter cravings. These pyramid-shaped green bean cakes are stuffed with shredded coconut and wrapped in banana leaves, promising a mildly sweet, fragrant flavour.
