1. What is the best restaurant near Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Cave) in Phong Nha, Vietnam?
The best restaurant near Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Cave) in Phong Nha, Vietnam is Oxalis Home Restaurant. This restaurant offers delicious Vietnamese dishes and has a beautiful outdoor seating area overlooking the mountains. They also offer vegetarian and vegan options. Customers rave about the food, service, and atmosphere of this restaurant.
2. Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available at the local restaurants near Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Cave)?
Some of the local restaurants near Thien Duong Cave may have vegetarian or vegan options available, but it is best to inquire directly with the restaurant to confirm. Some popular dishes that are suitable for vegetarians and vegans in Vietnam include: 1. Pho Chay – a vegetarian version of the popular noodle soup made with tofu, vegetables, and mushrooms.
2. Goi Cuon – fresh spring rolls filled with vegetables and herbs.
3. Com Chay – a vegetarian version of the traditional Vietnamese rice dish, usually made with tofu or mock meat and served with various vegetables.
4. Banh Mi Chay – a vegetarian version of the famous Vietnamese sandwich, typically made with tofu or eggplant instead of meat.
5. Xoi Chay – sticky rice cooked with soy sauce and served with toppings such as fried onions, peanuts, and mushroom-based dishes.
It is also recommended to visit some Buddhist temples in the area as they often serve vegetarian meals at their canteens.
3. Is it possible to try local traditional Vietnamese dishes near Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Cave) and if so, what are some recommended dishes?
Yes, it is possible to try local traditional Vietnamese dishes near Thien Duong Cave. Some recommended dishes include:
1. Banh cuon (steamed rice rolls) – thin sheets of steamed rice flour filled with minced pork and mushroom, served with a savory dipping sauce.
2. Mi Quang (Quang-style noodles) – a dish from the Quang Nam province, consisting of turmeric noodles, sliced pork, shrimp, peanuts, and fresh herbs in a flavorful broth.
3. Chao khoai (sweet potato porridge) – a popular dessert made with sweet potato, tapioca pearls, coconut milk, and sugar syrup.
4. Com hen (clam rice) – a specialty dish from Hue featuring rice topped with stir-fried clams, fried shallots, roasted peanuts and herbs.
5. Bun bo Hue (Hue-style beef noodle soup) – made with beef broth flavored with lemongrass and chili and served with beef slices, fermented shrimp paste, mint leaves and crispy pork rinds.
It is recommended to ask your tour guide or local restaurant staff for their recommendations on the best places to try these dishes near Thien Duong Cave.
4. How far are the dining options from Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Cave)? Can they be reached by foot or will transportation be needed?
The dining options near Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Cave) are located about 1-2 kilometers away, which is about a 20-30 minute walk. However, it is recommended to take transportation as the roads can be quite steep and hilly. There are also local restaurants and small food stalls along the main road leading to the cave that offer simple Vietnamese dishes and refreshments. Some tour companies may also include a lunch stop at a nearby restaurant as part of their package.
5. Are there any popular street food vendors or markets near Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Cave) that sell local specialties?
Yes, there are several street food vendors and markets near Thien Duong Cave that sell various local specialties. Some of the most popular options include:
1. Son Doong Market: This market is located near the entrance to Thien Duong Cave and offers a wide range of local specialties, including grilled pork skewers, banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), and fresh tropical fruits.
2. Phong Nha Night Market: Just a short drive from Thien Duong Cave, this night market is a popular spot for trying local dishes such as banh xeo (crispy Vietnamese pancake) and com hen (clam rice).
3. Oxalis Adventure Restaurant: This restaurant is located at the entrance of Hang En Cave, which is close to Thien Duong Cave. In addition to serving traditional Vietnamese dishes like pho and bun cha (grilled pork with vermicelli noodles), they also offer unique dishes made with wild ingredients found in the surrounding Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.
4. Street food vendors along Highway 20: Along Highway 20, which leads to Thien Duong Cave, you can find numerous street food stalls selling local favorites like banh beo (steamed rice cakes) and bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup).
5. Local villages: Many villages around Thien Duong Cave have small markets or roadside stalls where you can try local dishes made by villagers using fresh ingredients from their gardens. These include specialties like banh khoai (fried potato cake) and goi la lot (grilled meat wrapped in betel leaf).
6. Do any of the nearby restaurants offer outdoor seating options with a view of the cave or surrounding landscapes?
Yes, there are a few nearby restaurants that offer outdoor seating options with views of the cave or surrounding landscapes. These include:
1. The Cave Bistro and Wine Bar – This restaurant has a spacious patio area with gorgeous views of the cave and surrounding cliffs.
2. Picnic in the Park – Located near the entrance of the cave, this restaurant has a picnic-style outdoor seating area with views of the natural landscapes.
3. The Cliffside Cafe – This restaurant has a large outdoor deck with panoramic views of both the cave and the surrounding landscapes.
4. Sunset Grille – Situated on a hill overlooking the valley, this restaurant offers outdoor seating with stunning sunset views.
5. Tribal Grounds Coffee – For a more casual option, this coffee shop has an outdoor seating area with views of the nearby rolling hills.
Overall, these restaurants offer great food options coupled with beautiful scenery for a unique dining experience.
7. Can you recommend any budget-friendly dining options near Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Cave) for travelers on a tight budget?
Some budget-friendly dining options near Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Cave) include:
1. Pho Binh Minh- a local favorite serving authentic Vietnamese pho at affordable prices.
2. Dac San Quang Binh- known for their delicious Banh Canh ghe (crab soup) and other seafood dishes, all at reasonable prices.
3. Xuan Hoa Restaurant- offering a variety of Vietnamese dishes, including vegetarian options, at budget-friendly prices.
4. Nha Hang Tuan Vu- a popular spot for grilled seafood dishes and other local specialties, with prices that won’t break the bank.
5. Hong Hanh Restaurant- serving traditional Vietnamese cuisine in a cozy setting, with affordable prices and friendly staff.
6. Nguyen Huu Fish Stall- a small street food vendor specializing in fresh fish dishes at low prices.
7. The Quoc Sate Light restaurant- offering budget-friendly set menus featuring various Vietnamese noodle dishes and rice plates.
8. Are there any must-try delicacies unique to Phong Nha that can be found at restaurants near Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Cave)?
Some popular local dishes to try near Thien Duong Cave include:
1. Bun Bo Ke (Grilled Beef and Vermicelli Noodles): A popular dish made with grilled beef, vermicelli noodles, herbs, and a delicious broth.
2. Fried Crickets: These crispy fried insects are a popular street food snack in Phong Nha.
3. Com Chay (Burned Rice): This dish is made by frying burnt rice until it becomes crispy and serving it with toppings such as meat, vegetables, or eggs.
4. Banh Beo Chen (Steamed Rice Cakes in Cups): These small steamed rice cakes are served in individual cups and topped with savory ingredients such as shrimp or pork.
5. Cha Loi (Fried Spring Rolls): These crunchy spring rolls are stuffed with various fillings like pork, shrimp, mushrooms, and vegetables.
6. Thit Kho To (Caramelized Braised Pork): This hearty dish consists of braised pork cooked in a caramel sauce and served with rice.
7. Banh Loc Tom Thit (Shrimp-and-Pork Tapioca Dumplings): These dumplings are filled with shrimp and pork and then wrapped in tapioca flour before being boiled or steamed.
8. Bun Xao Hoi An (Stir-Fried Rice Vermicelli Noodles): This dish is made by stir-frying thin rice noodles with vegetables, meat or seafood, and a mix of flavorful sauces.
9. Are there any cafes or coffee shops around Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Cave) with Wi-Fi access for travelers who need internet connectivity on their trip?
Yes, there are several cafes and coffee shops located near Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Cave) that offer Wi-Fi access to customers. Here are a few options:
– Thien Duong Cafe: This cafe is located within walking distance from Thien Duong Cave and offers free Wi-Fi for customers.
– Paradise Coffee: Another nearby option, this coffee shop also offers free Wi-Fi for customers and is a great spot to relax after exploring the cave.
– Cua Tung Cafe: Situated about 2km from Thien Duong Cave, this cafe has Wi-Fi available along with a scenic outdoor seating area.
It’s always best to confirm with the establishment beforehand that they do have Wi-Fi available. Alternatively, you can also check for local sim card options for mobile internet access while in Vietnam.
10. Is it safe to eat raw foods like salads at local restaurants around Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Caver), considering the water and hygiene standards in Vietnam?
It is generally safe to eat raw foods like salads at local restaurants in Vietnam, including those near Thien Duong Cave. As a popular tourist destination, the restaurants in this area are likely to maintain good hygiene standards and use filtered water in food preparation. However, it is always a good idea to use caution when eating raw foods while traveling and make sure the restaurant looks clean and reputable. If you have any concerns, you can also ask the restaurant about their food safety practices before ordering.
11. Do any of the nearby dining options have English menus available for non-Vietnamese speakers?
Many larger restaurants and popular tourist spots in Vietnam will have English menus available. However, smaller local eateries or food stalls may not have English menus. It is always a good idea to carry a translation guide or use a translation app if you are not familiar with the local language. Additionally, some restaurant staff may speak basic English and can help you navigate the menu.
12. Are there any nearby seafood restaurants that serve freshly caught seafood from the neighboring coastal regions of Phong Nha?
Yes, there are several seafood restaurants in the neighboring coastal regions of Phong Nha that serve freshly caught seafood. Some popular options include:
1. Mai Le Seafood Restaurant: Located in Dong Hoi, this restaurant serves a variety of fresh seafood dishes including prawns, crabs, fish and clams.
2. Thuan Thanh Seafood Restaurant: This restaurant in Quang Binh is known for its grilled and steamed seafood dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
3. Omo Restaurant: Situated in the fishing village of Cua Tung, this restaurant offers a daily catch menu featuring fresh fish, shrimp, squid and lobster.
4. Bep Xanh Quang Binh: Another popular seafood spot in Dong Hoi, this restaurant has a menu featuring various types of shellfish, fish hotpot and sizzling plates.
5. Thien Ly 2 Seafood Restaurant: A favorite among locals, this beachfront eatery in Cua Tung serves delicious seafood BBQ dishes using fresh local ingredients.
It is recommended to try these restaurants during your visit to Phong Nha to experience the authentic flavors of Vietnamese coastal cuisine.
13. What are some highly recommended restaurants or dining experiences in Phong Nha that would be worth visiting after exploring Thien Duong Cave (Paradise cave)?
1. The Pub with Cold Beer: Located in the heart of Phong Nha village, this popular restaurant serves delicious Western and Vietnamese dishes, as well as cold beer straight from the tap.
2. Easy Tiger: This rustic bar and restaurant is a favorite among adventurers for its laid-back atmosphere and wide selection of food and drinks. Don’t miss their wood-fired pizzas!
3. Dark Cave Restaurant: After conquering the Dark Cave, head to the adjacent restaurant for some tasty Vietnamese food and refreshing drinks.
4. Oxalis Home: This cozy restaurant, run by the same company that offers cave tours in Phong Nha, serves up a variety of local dishes using fresh ingredients from their own farm.
5. Hoa’s Place: Located on the banks of Son River, this family-run restaurant offers stunning views and mouth-watering seafood dishes.
6. Moi Moi Restaurant: Serving traditional Hue cuisine, this charming restaurant is known for its friendly staff and authentic flavors.
7. Chay Lap Farmstay & Restaurant: Set in a peaceful farm setting, Chay Lap’s restaurant serves up an array of Western and Vietnamese dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
8. Bia Tuoi Oi: This lively bar and restaurant is known for its ice-cold beer towers and delicious grilled meats. It’s a great spot to unwind after a day exploring the caves.
9. Nguyen Shack Phong Nha Riverside Villas & Bar: Enjoy fresh homemade meals with stunning river views at this idyllic retreat nestled in the jungle just outside of town.
10. Hang Tien BBQ Garden: For a truly unique dining experience, take a boat trip to Hang Tien BBQ Garden inside a massive cave where you can grill your own dinner right on the table!
14. Is it possible to find international cuisine like Italian or Japanese near Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Cave) in case someone is not a fan of Vietnamese food?
Yes, there are a few international restaurants located near Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Cave) in Phong Nha. Some options include:
1. Earth Cafe: Located approximately 2 km away from Paradise Cave, this cafe offers a mix of Vietnamese and Western dishes.
2. Easy Tiger Restaurant: This restaurant, located within Easy Tiger Hostel, serves a variety of international cuisine including Italian and Japanese dishes.
3. Capture Vietnam: This restaurant is situated about 4 km from Paradise Cave and offers a diverse menu of Spanish, Italian, and Vietnamese cuisine.
4. The Pub With Cold Beer: This popular pub serves a range of international food including German sausages, Australian pies, and Japanese sushi.
5. Little Seoul: If you’re craving Korean food, this restaurant is just over 7 km from Paradise Cave and offers a selection of traditional dishes such as bibimbap and bulgogi.
Keep in mind that while these options are available nearby, they may not be as readily available as traditional Vietnamese cuisine in more remote areas like Phong Nha. It’s always best to research dining options beforehand or ask locals for recommendations.
15. Are there any popular night markets or food streets near Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Cave) where one can experience the local food culture after dark?
Yes, there are several popular night markets and food streets near Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Cave) where visitors can experience the local food culture after dark. Some of these include:
1. Phong Nha Night Market: Located near the entrance of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, this night market offers a variety of street food stalls selling traditional Vietnamese dishes such as banh mi sandwiches, pho noodles, and fresh seafood.
2. Truong An Night Market: Situated in Son Trach town, this market features numerous food stalls serving local specialties such as bun bo Hue (Hue-style beef noodle soup) and com hen (clam rice).
3. Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street: This pedestrian street in Dong Hoi city is a popular spot for food lovers. Here, visitors can find a wide selection of local street food vendors offering dishes like banh xeo (sizzling crepe), banh trang nuong (grilled rice paper), and more.
4. Phu Due Night Market: Located just outside the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, this market offers a lively atmosphere with food stalls selling delicious regional dishes such as ca kho to (caramelized fish) and nem lui (lemongrass skewers).
5. Quang Binh Food Street: This bustling street in Dong Hoi city features a variety of restaurants and food stalls serving some of the best traditional Vietnamese cuisine in the region.
Visitors can also find other smaller night markets and street vendors scattered throughout Dong Hoi city and surrounding areas, providing plenty of options to explore the local delicacies after visiting Thien Duong Cave.
16. How early do the nearby dining places open and until what time are they usually open?
This can vary depending on the specific dining places near you. Some may open as early as 6 or 7am for breakfast, while others may not open until 11am for lunch. Dinner hours can also vary, usually closing around 9 or 10pm. It’s best to check with individual restaurants for their exact opening and closing times.
17. Are there any restaurants or cafes in Phong Nha that have options for people with dietary restrictions such as gluten-free, halal, or lactose intolerant?
Yes, there are some restaurants and cafes in Phong Nha that offer options for people with dietary restrictions. Some options include:
1. Lucky Lucky Restaurant: This restaurant offers a wide range of vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options.
2. The Little Menu: This cafe offers healthy and organic food options suitable for vegetarians, vegans, and those with dietary restrictions.
3. Easy Tiger Hostel & Bar: They offer a variety of Cambodian and Vietnamese dishes that can be adjusted to accommodate dietary restrictions such as gluten-free or vegetarian.
4. The Villas at East Hill Phong Nha: This resort offers a menu with various dietary restriction options such as halal, gluten-free, lactose-free, and vegetarian.
5. Nomad Cafe & Pizza: This cafe has a separate menu for those with dietary restrictions and offers vegan cheese for their pizzas.
Please note that it is always best to inform the staff about your specific dietary needs so they can cater to you accordingly.
18. What is the price range of the dining options near Thien Duong Cave (Paradise cave)? Are they expensive or budget-friendly?
The price range of dining options near Thien Duong Cave (Paradise cave) is generally budget-friendly, with meals ranging from $5 to $20 per person depending on the type of cuisine and location. There are several local restaurants and street food stalls offering affordable Vietnamese dishes, as well as some more upscale restaurants with a higher price point for international cuisine. Overall, the area offers a good variety of dining options at reasonable prices.
19. Can you recommend any good local food tours that include a visit to Thien Duong Cave (Paradise cave) and other nearby attractions in Phong Nha?
Here are some local food tours that include a visit to Thien Duong Cave and other nearby attractions in Phong Nha:
1. Phong Nha Culinary Adventure – This tour takes you through the hidden gems of Phong Nha, including a visit to the stunning Thien Duong Cave, while also introducing you to local dishes and flavors.
2. Exploring the Caves & Cuisine of Phong Nha – Experience the best of Phong Nha’s caves and cuisine with this tour that includes visits to Thien Duong Cave, the Dark Cave, and a traditional home-cooked meal.
3. Taste of Vietnam in Phong Nha – Discover the delicious flavors of Vietnam while exploring the natural wonders of Phong Nha, including a visit to Thien Duong Cave and a hands-on cooking class.
4. Biking & Caving Expedition in Phong Nha National Park – This adventure tour takes you on a bike ride through lush green landscapes, followed by cave exploration in Thien Duong Cave and other nearby caves.
5. Homestay & Food Tour in Quang Binh – Immerse yourself in local culture with a homestay experience while also enjoying authentic Vietnamese dishes and visiting Thien Duong Cave.
It is recommended to research each tour company and read reviews before booking your trip.
20. Do the restaurants near Thien Duong Cave (Paradise cave) accept credit cards or is cash payment preferred?
Most of the restaurants near Thien Duong Cave do not accept credit cards. It is recommended to bring cash for payment. However, some higher-end restaurants may accept credit cards, so it is best to check before ordering.