2. Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available at restaurants in Long An?
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available at many restaurants in Long An. Some popular dishes in the area include stir-fried vegetables, tofu dishes, and fresh spring rolls filled with vegetables and rice noodles. Many restaurants also offer vegetarian versions of traditional Vietnamese dishes such as pho and banh mi. Some popular vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Long An include Chay Thien Kim (located at Phuoc Sang Market) and Chay Khai Hoan (located on Tran Huy Lieu Street). Many other restaurants also have separate sections on their menus dedicated to vegetarian or vegan options.
3. Can you recommend any must-try restaurants for visitors to Long An?
As an AI, I do not have personal experiences but here are some popular restaurants in Long An that visitors should try:
1. Ninh Kieu Quan – Located near the Tan An market, this restaurant serves a variety of authentic Vietnamese dishes such as banh xeo (crispy savory pancake), pho (noodle soup), and bo la lot (grilled beef in betel leaves).
2. Binh Tien Restaurant – Known for its fresh seafood dishes, this restaurant is a must-try for seafood lovers. Some recommended dishes include grilled lobster, steamed clams, and stir-fried squid.
3. Ong La Cay Restaurant – This restaurant offers a unique dining experience as it is set on a floating boat on the Vam Co Dong River. They serve traditional Vietnamese dishes with a focus on seafood.
4. Huong Giang Restaurant – Located in Tan An City, this restaurant specializes in Hue-style cuisine with dishes such as banh beo (steamed rice cakes), bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodles), and nem lui (grilled meat skewers).
5. Thuan Ty Western Restaurant – For those looking for a break from Vietnamese food, Thuan Ty offers delicious Western dishes such as burgers, pasta, and pizza. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.
4. Are there any traditional markets or street food vendors worth checking out in Long An?
There are several traditional markets and street food vendors worth checking out in Long An. Some popular options include Ba Lang Floating Market, Tan Thanh Market, Chau Thoi Market, and Hoa Lam Market.
At these markets, you can find a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and meats sold by local farmers and vendors. You can also find street food vendors selling delicious dishes such as banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), com tam (broken rice dish), mi xao (stir-fried noodles), banh xeo (Vietnamese pancake), and more.
The waterfront areas in Long An, especially near the Mekong River Delta, are also known for their many street food stalls selling grilled fish, snails, and other seafood dishes. These stalls offer a unique dining experience with outdoor seating and views of the river.
Overall, visiting traditional markets and trying street food is a great way to experience the local culture and cuisine of Long An. Just be sure to choose busy stalls with a high turnover of customers to ensure the freshest and safest food possible.
5. What is the typical price range for a meal at a local restaurant in Long An?
The typical price range for a meal at a local restaurant in Long An can vary depending on the type of food, location, and restaurant. However, as a general guide, a meal at a local restaurant can cost anywhere from 30,000 to 100,000 VND (approximately $1.30 – $4.30 USD) per person. Street food or more budget-friendly restaurants may offer meals for less than 30,000 VND while higher-end restaurants may have prices upwards of 100,000 VND per person.
6. Are there any restaurants or dining options that offer a view of the Mekong River?
Yes, there are several dining options that offer a view of the Mekong River. Some popular choices include:1. Riverside Café (located in NagaWorld Hotel and Casino): This restaurant has a stunning view of the Mekong River and serves a variety of cuisines, including Cambodian, Chinese, and Western dishes.
2. The Deck by PONTOON: This open-air restaurant is situated right on the banks of the Mekong River and offers breathtaking views while you dine. They also have live music performances in the evenings.
3. La Croisette Restaurant: This rooftop restaurant offers panoramic views of the Mekong River and serves delicious French and European cuisine.
4. Brown Coffee & Bakery (Riverside branch): While mainly known for their coffee, this branch also offers a beautiful view of the Mekong River from their outdoor seating area.
5. Tang Dynasty Palace: This Chinese restaurant has floor-to-ceiling windows that offer a great view of the Mekong River while you enjoy your meal.
6. Kanika Floating Restaurant: Located on a boat, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience with stunning views of the Mekong River as it cruises along Phnom Penh’s waterfront.
7. Is it safe to eat street food in Long An?
Eating street food in Long An, like in any other place, carries certain risks. However, with proper precautions, it can be a safe and enjoyable culinary experience.
Here are some tips to ensure safe street food consumption in Long An:
1. Choose busy vendors: Street food stalls that have a steady stream of customers are likely to have a higher turnover of ingredients and thus fresher food.
2. Observe the cleanliness: Look for cleanliness indicators like clean utensils, gloves used while handling food and no visible flies or insects around the stall.
3. Eat boiled or cooked food: Opt for boiled or cooked dishes rather than raw ones as they are less prone to contamination.
4. Watch how the food is prepared: With street food, it’s important to see how the food is being prepared. If you notice that the cook is not following basic hygiene practices, it’s best to avoid their food.
5. Be wary of tap water: Avoid drinking tap water and use bottled water for drinking and ice cubes.
6. Carry hand sanitizer: It’s always good to sanitize your hands before eating street food as you may not find clean washrooms nearby.
7. Ask for recommendations: Ask locals or your tour guide for recommendations on popular and safe street food stalls in the area.
By following these precautions, you can enjoy delicious street food in Long An without compromising on your health and safety.
8. Are there any unique food festivals or events held in Long An throughout the year?
Yes, there are several unique food festivals and events held in Long An throughout the year. Some of them include:
1. Buffalo Fighting Festival: This is an annual event held in Tan Hung district where trained buffaloes engage in a traditional fighting competition. It also features various local dishes made from buffalo meat.
2. Southern Traditional Cuisine Festival: Held in Tan An City, this festival celebrates the diverse and delicious cuisine of the southern region of Vietnam, including dishes from Long An Province.
3. Rice Cooking Competition: This contest is held in Thanh Hoa district and showcases the creativity and skills of local chefs through various rice-based dishes such as Com Tam (broken rice) and Banh Xeo (rice flour pancakes).
4. Cau Ong Pagoda Food Fair: Located in Ben Luc district, this fair is organized at Cau Ong Pagoda every year to celebrate the Buddha’s birthday. Visitors can enjoy vegetarian dishes and traditional desserts while participating in cultural activities.
5. Dong Thap Muoi Lotus Fair: Held in Thu Thua district, this fair celebrates the blooming lotus flowers and features various delicacies made from lotus seeds, leaves, and stems.
6. Mekong Delta Vegetarian Festival: This festival takes place at Vinh Trang Pagoda in My Tho City every year during the seventh lunar month, featuring vegetarian dishes from different regions of the Mekong Delta.
7. Dong Tam Snake Village Festival: This festival highlights snake-based dishes such as snake wine and grilled snake skewers, offering visitors a unique culinary experience.
8. Ba Danh Noodle Soup Festival: Held in Tri Ton district, this festival celebrates Ba Danh noodle soup – a popular dish made with special broth and beef or pork slices.
9. Are there any popular cafes or coffee shops that locals frequent in Long An?
Some popular cafes and coffee shops that locals frequent in Long An are:
– L’etage Café: This cafe has a cozy atmosphere and serves a variety of drinks including coffee, tea, smoothies, and milkshakes.
– Coffee House: With several locations throughout the province, this cafe chain offers a modern ambiance and a menu of coffee drinks, juices, and light snacks.
– Ca Phe Tron Gai: This local favorite is known for its special blend of Vietnamese-style iced coffee with whipped egg yolks on top.
– The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf: A well-known international chain, this cafe offers gourmet coffee blends as well as breakfast options and baked goods.
– Nineteen Coffee: This hip cafe serves a range of specialty coffee drinks and also has a selection of craft beers on tap.
– Hieu Thuong Cafe: This rustic-style cafe serves freshly brewed Vietnamese coffee along with local specialties such as durian ice cream.
10. Can you find international cuisines such as Chinese or Japanese food in Long An?
Yes, there are several restaurants in Long An that serve Chinese and Japanese cuisine, such as Yuwa Garden Chinese Restaurant and Hana Japanese Restaurant.
11. Is seafood readily available and fresh in restaurants around Long An?
Yes, seafood is readily available in restaurants around Long An. The province is situated near the Mekong Delta, an area known for its abundant supply of fresh seafood. As a result, many restaurants in Long An offer a variety of seafood options on their menus. Additionally, the coastal location of Long An also allows for easy access to fresh seafood from nearby fishing villages.
12. Are there any hidden gems for foodies to discover in Long An?
Yes, Long An has some hidden gems for foodies to discover, including:
1. Binh Quoi Tourist Village: This village is known for its delicious traditional Vietnamese dishes, such as grilled pork and fresh spring rolls.
2. Go Cong Roasted Pork: This dish is made with slow-roasted pork belly and served with a spicy dipping sauce. It can be found at local markets in Long An.
3. Sa Dec Black Sesame Sweet Soup: This unique dessert is made with black sesame seeds, sticky rice, and coconut milk, creating a rich and creamy treat that can be found at street stalls in Sa Dec.
4. Tan Lap Floating Village Fish Noodle Soup: This dish features fresh fish from the floating village of Tan Lap cooked in a flavorful broth and served over noodles.
5. Cau Dua Spring Rolls: These crispy spring rolls are filled with a variety of locally-sourced ingredients, including rice vermicelli, pork, shrimp, and vegetables.
6. Chau Thanh Grilled Snakehead Fish: This popular dish is made with snakehead fish caught in the local rivers and grilled to perfection over an open flame.
7. Cho Gao Sticky Rice Cakes (Banh Chung): These sticky rice cakes are a traditional snack enjoyed during Tet, the Vietnamese New Year celebration.
8. Dong Thap White Rice Cake (Banh Bo Hap): Made with white rice flour and sprinkled with shredded coconut on top, this steamed cake has a soft texture and delicate flavor.
9. Chau Thanh Coconut Candy (Keo Dua Chau Thanh): This sweet treat is made by cooking down coconut milk and sugar until it forms into thin caramel-like sheets that are then cut into bite-size pieces.
10. My Tho Fried Spring Rolls (Cha Gio My Tho): These fried spring rolls are filled with pork, shrimp, and vegetables wrapped in rice paper and served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce.
11. Cho Gao Banana Cake (Banh Chuoi): This cake is made with mashed bananas, coconut milk, and rice flour, giving it a moist and dense texture, and can be found at local markets in Cho Gao.
12. Tan An Crab Noodle Soup (Bun Rieu Tan An): This comforting dish consists of rice noodles in a tangy tomato broth topped with crab meat and served with fresh herbs and lime.
13. Where can one find the best pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) in Long An?
Some popular options for the best pho in Long An include:
1. Pho Khai Nga: Located at 72 Phan Dinh Binh Street, Ward 2, Tan An City, this restaurant is known for its flavorful broth and generous portions.
2. Pho Co Tuong: This family-owned restaurant at 941 Pham Van Tai Street, Ward 4, Tan An City is praised for its authentic flavors and fresh ingredients.
3. Pho Nam Quoc: Another popular spot for pho lovers, this restaurant can be found at 36 Nguyen Van Troi Street, Ward 5, Tan An City.
4. Mai Linh Pho Viet: Located at Lot A6 Binh Hoa Quarter, National Highway 1A, Binh Hoa Commune in Bien Hoa Town, this restaurant serves up hearty bowls of pho with a variety of toppings to choose from.
5. The Garden Cafe & Restaurant: This cozy cafe at No.370 Quang Trung Street , Ward 2 , Tan An City not only offers delicious pho but also has a beautiful garden setting perfect for a relaxing meal.
Note: It is always recommended to do your own research and read reviews before trying any new restaurant to ensure it meets your personal preferences and dietary requirements.
14. In terms of budget, are there any cheap but delicious options for dining in Long An?
There are many affordable dining options in Long An that offer delicious meals. Some popular cheap options include local street food stalls, which serve a variety of dishes such as banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), pho (noodle soup), and com tam (broken rice). You can also find inexpensive restaurants and eateries serving authentic Vietnamese cuisine, as well as international dishes like burgers, pizza, and pasta. Shopping at local markets and cooking your own meals is also a budget-friendly option for dining in Long An.
15. Do most restaurants accept credit cards, or is cash the preferred method of payment?
Most restaurants in developed areas accept credit cards, but it is always a good idea to have some cash on hand just in case. In more rural areas or smaller establishments, cash may be preferred over credit cards. It’s best to check with the restaurant beforehand or have both options available.
16. How accessible is it to find Western food options in Long An?
It can be somewhat difficult to find Western food options in Long An, as the majority of restaurants and food vendors tend to serve Vietnamese cuisine. However, there are some international restaurants and fast food chains (such as KFC) that do offer Western food options. Additionally, expats and foreigners living in Long An may be able to find specialty stores or markets that sell imported Western foods.
17. Can you recommend any local specialties that tourists should try while visiting Long An?
As a local of Long An, I highly recommend tourists to try the following specialties:
1. Banh Hoa – a flower-shaped cake made from rice flour, coconut milk and sticky rice.
2. Com Suon – grilled pork ribs served with fragrant and crispy young green rice.
3. Goi Ca Tuoi Long Hai – fresh raw fish salad mixed with herbs, shrimp paste, peanuts and herbs.
4. Canh Dong Xanh Cai Vang – green jute soup cooked with dried shrimp, pork meat and tamarind juice.
5. Duong Dua Ben Tre – honey made from coconut flower nectar in neighboring province Ben Tre.
6. Trai Me Long Viet- sweet ripe star apples grown in Long An’s orchards.
7. Chao Can Rau Mai – porridge cooked with fresh bamboo shoots and clams.
8. Chen Thuyen – boat-shaped rustic cakes made from glutinous rice and mung beans filling.
9. Goi La – steamed shredded pork or chicken wrapped in la lot leaves (wild betel leaves).
10. Nuoc Mam Nam Bo – fish sauce traditionally produced in southern Vietnam, known for its unique flavor and aroma.
18. Do you have any tips for navigating the local street food scene safely and enjoyably?
1. Research beforehand: Before traveling to a new destination, do some research on the local street food scene. Look for popular and highly-rated stalls or restaurants, as these are usually safer options.
2. Observe the locals: Take note of where the locals are eating. If a place is busy with locals, it is usually a good sign that the food is fresh and safe to eat.
3. Check for cleanliness: Make sure the stall or restaurant has clean utensils and preparation areas. Watch how the food is being prepared and if you see any unsanitary practices, it’s best to avoid eating there.
4. Follow your nose: Street food should smell appetizing. If you notice any strange or unpleasant odors, it’s best to move on to another stall.
5. Go for cooked food: Opt for food that is cooked in front of you rather than pre-made dishes. This way, you can ensure it is freshly prepared and less likely to cause stomach issues.
6. Stick to bottled drinks: Avoid drinking tap water and opt for bottled drinks instead. Some vendors may sell unbranded or homemade drinks which could be unsafe.
7. Be mindful of allergies: If you have any known allergies, make sure to communicate this clearly with the vendor before ordering.
8. Eat at peak hours: As a general rule, it’s best to eat at popular stalls during peak hours when turnover is high and food is less likely to sit out for too long.
9. Trust your instincts: If something looks or smells off, trust your gut instinct and avoid eating there.
10. Start with small portions: It’s always a good idea to start with smaller portions when trying out new street foods in case your stomach doesn’t agree with it.
11. Practice good hygiene: Always wash your hands with soap before eating, or use hand sanitizer if washing facilities are not available.
12. Avoid raw or undercooked food: To reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses, avoid eating raw or undercooked meat, seafood, and eggs.
13. Be cautious with street desserts: Some street desserts may contain uncooked elements such as raw eggs or unpasteurized milk. If in doubt, it’s best to skip them.
14. Avoid ice from unknown sources: Ice served in drinks may come from questionable sources. It’s safer to stick to bottled or canned drinks.
15. Don’t forget your medication: If you have any pre-existing conditions or take medication regularly, make sure to bring enough supplies with you during your travels.
16. Stay hydrated: Carry a water bottle with you at all times and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and ward off any potential stomach issues.
17. Take it slow: Allow your body some time to adjust to new foods and flavors. Trying out too many different dishes at once may not agree with your stomach.
18. Trust your instincts: Ultimately, trust your instincts when it comes to trying new foods while traveling. If something doesn’t seem right, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
19.Do most restaurants and cafes have English menus available for non-Vietnamese speakers?
Yes, many restaurants and cafes in major cities and tourist areas will have English menus available for non-Vietnamese speakers. In more rural areas, it may be less common to find an English menu. However, most staff at these establishments will be able to communicate in basic English to help customers order their food.
20.Can you suggest any outdoor dining spots with beautiful scenery surrounding them in/around Long An?
1. Saigon River Clubhouse – located on the banks of the Saigon river, this restaurant offers stunning views of the water and surrounding countryside.
2. Rau Ram Restaurant – set in a peaceful garden setting with views of rice fields, this restaurant serves up delicious Vietnamese cuisine.
3. Lang Nuong Nam Bo – a countryside-style restaurant surrounded by greenery and offering traditional Vietnamese dishes cooked over charcoal grills.
4. Kafe Vie – situated on the rooftop of The PX Pavilion Mall, this café offers panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City and the countryside beyond.
5. Hoa Vien Brauhaus Mekong – enjoy German cuisine while admiring views of the lush Mekong Delta.
6. Wild Waterfalls Mekong – dine next to a beautiful waterfall in the heart of Long An province.
7. Custom House (Cai Lay) – this riverside restaurant offers open-air dining with panoramic views of Cai Be floating market and the Mekong river.
8. Thom Homestay Long An – a homestay with outdoor dining options overlooking tranquil lotus ponds and fruit orchards.
9. Nha Vuon 78 Homestay & Cafe – enjoy homemade Vietnamese dishes while taking in views of gardens, ponds, and countryside landscapes.
10. Bien Xanh Sunrise Resort & Restaurant – an eco-resort with an open-air restaurant offering breathtaking views of Thac Ba waterfall and surrounding mountains.