1. What are some popular local dishes to try in Hai Phong?
Some popular local dishes to try in Hai Phong include banh da cua (crab noodle soup), bun ken (Hai Phong-style vermicelli and broth with pork and shrimp), nem cua be (crab spring rolls), cha ca Hai Phong (grilled fish with herbs and rice noodles), and hai san rang muoi (salt-baked seafood). Other popular dishes include bun ca ro dong (rice noodles with snakehead fish), banh khot tom chung an nam (Vietnamese mini shrimp pancakes wrapped in leaves), cha ruoi (sandworm cakes), and com chay tu ky Hoang Van Thu (fried black chicken and broken rice).
2. What is a famous dessert in Hai Phong?
A famous dessert in Hai Phong is che dau van Quy Ra, a sweet soup made of red beans, coconut milk, tapioca pearls, and other ingredients like lotus seeds or taro. Other popular desserts include che chuoi nep nuong (grilled banana with sticky rice) and che troi nuoc (glutinous rice balls filled with mung bean paste in ginger syrup).
2. Are there any vegan or vegetarian restaurants in the city?
Yes, there are several vegan and vegetarian restaurants in the city. Some popular options include Soul Vegetarian Restaurant, Viva La Vegan, Vegway Vegan Fast Food, and Green Gourmet. There are also many restaurants that offer vegetarian and vegan menu options, such as Thai, Indian, and Mediterranean cuisine.
3. Can you recommend some good seafood restaurants in Hai Phong?
There are several seafood restaurants in Hai Phong that are highly recommended by locals and visitors alike. Some of the top picks include:
1. Ngon Hai Phong Seafood Restaurant – famous for its fresh and flavorful seafood dishes, especially their steamed crab and grilled mackerel.
2. Nha Trang Hai Phong – specializes in Vietnamese-style seafood dishes with a variety of cooking styles to choose from, such as stir-fried, grilled, steamed, and hotpot.
3. Duong Dong Dat Seafood – a popular spot for its signature dishes like roasted squid with chili sauce and coconut steamed clams.
4. Four Seasons Seafood – offers a mix of local and international seafood dishes, prepared with high-quality ingredients and presented beautifully.
5. Vuon Ha Long Seafood Restaurant – known for its picturesque outdoor seating area overlooking the bay and serving an array of delicious seafood dishes.
6. 1987 Pub & Restaurant – this cozy restaurant serves up tasty seafood options along with a great selection of beers and cocktails.
7. Mieu Noi Seafood Restaurant – offers an extensive menu featuring both traditional Vietnamese seafood dishes and fusion cuisine.
8. Man Chuoi Seafood – a laid-back eatery offering reasonably priced seafood fare, including grilled scallops, shrimp rolls, and more.
9.Ba Ty Huu Chau Dai Thanh Seafood Restaurant – well-known for its specialty dish “steamed flower crab.” Other menu highlights include grilled oysters, fried snails, and fish hotpot.
10. Kim Tuoc – Dong Bang – serving up a wide range of savory grilled seafood options at reasonable prices in a relaxed atmosphere.
4. Where can one find the best pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) in the city?
The best place to find pho in the city will depend on personal taste and preferences. However, some popular restaurants known for their delicious pho include:
1. Pho 2000 – located in Chinatown, this small restaurant offers a wide variety of pho options and is considered a local favorite.
2. The Slanted Door – situated in the Ferry Building Marketplace, this upscale Vietnamese restaurant serves high-quality, modern versions of traditional pho.
3. Them Ky – a family-owned restaurant known for its authentic and flavorful pho dishes, located in the Tenderloin neighborhood.
4. PPQ Dungeness Island – while primarily known for serving seafood dishes, this restaurant also offers delicious and well-priced pho options that are highly rated by locals.
5. Turtle Tower – offering classic Northern Vietnamese style pho, this restaurant has multiple locations throughout the city and is known for its fragrant broth and fresh ingredients.
5. Is street food safe to eat in Hai Phong?
Street food in Hai Phong is generally safe to eat as long as you follow basic hygiene precautions. Here are some tips for staying safe while enjoying street food in Hai Phong:
1. Choose stalls that are popular and have a high turnover of food. This ensures that the ingredients are fresh and the food is being prepared regularly.
2. Look for clean and hygienic cooking practices, such as stall owners wearing gloves and using separate utensils for handling raw meat and cooked food.
3. Avoid eating meat or seafood that appears undercooked or has been left out for a long time.
4. Opt for hot, freshly cooked meals over cold or pre-cooked dishes.
5. Wash your hands before and after eating, or use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
6. Try to avoid drinking tap water in Hai Phong; stick to bottled or boiled water instead.
Overall, using common sense and paying attention to the cleanliness of the stall can help you make informed decisions about which street vendors to buy from in Hai Phong.
6. Do locals have any specific dining customs that visitors should be aware of?
In general, dining customs in the Philippines are very casual and relaxed. However, there are a few customs that visitors should be aware of when dining with locals:
– Typically, meals are eaten with a spoon and fork rather than with knives. The fork is held in the left hand to push food onto the spoon.
– It is considered polite to wait for everyone at the table to be served before starting to eat.
– Filipinos enjoy sharing dishes, so it is common for meals to be served family style, with everyone taking a portion from the central serving dish.
– It is customary to say “salamat” (thank you) before and after a meal as a sign of appreciation.
– When eating at someone’s home, it is polite to leave a small amount of food on your plate as a show of modesty and gratitude for the host’s generosity.
– It is also common for hosts to offer seconds or even thirds of food, so it’s acceptable to accept more if offered.
– In rural areas or traditional households, it is customary for guests to first be offered rice and water or juice as a sign of hospitality. Accepting this offer shows respect for local customs and traditions.
7. What is the typical price range for a meal at a restaurant in Hai Phong?
The typical price range for a meal at a restaurant in Hai Phong is between 50,000 VND (about $2.15 USD) to 200,000 VND (about $8.60 USD). However, this can vary depending on the type of restaurant and the dishes ordered. Fine dining restaurants or international chains may have higher prices. Street food and local eateries may have lower prices.8. Are there any unique food markets or festivals to experience in the city?
Yes, there are several unique food markets and festivals in the city that offer a variety of local and international cuisine. Some popular options include:
– The Bangkok street food scene, with numerous street vendors offering traditional Thai dishes such as pad Thai, som tam (spicy papaya salad), and mango sticky rice.
– Chatuchak Weekend Market, which not only features a vast array of shopping options but also has a section dedicated to delicious street food.
– Talad Rot Fai (Train Night Market), where you can find a combination of vintage goods and tasty Thai street food.
– Suan Lum Night Bazaar, known for its abundance of international food stalls offering everything from Vietnamese pho to Japanese sushi.
– Tha Kha Floating Market, where visitors can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood directly from vendors on boats.
– The annual Vegetarian Festival held in October, during which many restaurants offer special vegetarian menus and traditional Chinese-style vegetarian dishes are available at various temples throughout the city.
9. Can you suggest some must-try dishes for someone new to Vietnamese cuisine?
1. Pho – a traditional noodle soup made with broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat (usually beef or chicken)
2. Banh mi – a sandwich made with crusty French bread, pickled vegetables, meat (such as pork or pate), and herbs
3. Bun cha – grilled pork served over rice vermicelli noodles with fresh herbs and dipping sauce
4. Goi cuon – fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, pork, herbs, and vegetables
5. Com tam – broken rice served with grilled meats (typically pork), pickled vegetables, and fish sauce
6. Ca kho to – braised fish in a clay pot with caramelized sauce
7. Banh xeo – crispy Vietnamese crepe filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and mushrooms
8. Nem nuong – grilled pork sausage wrapped in lettuce leaves with mint and dipping sauce
9. Chao tom – grilled skewers of marinated minced shrimp served on sugar cane sticks
10. Are there any affordable and authentic local dining options for budget travelers?
Yes, there are many affordable and authentic local dining options available for budget travelers. Some options include street vendors selling traditional dishes such as dumplings, noodles, and skewers. Many local restaurants also offer set menus or lunch specials that are reasonably priced. Additionally, some areas may have food markets or food courts with a variety of dishes from different vendors at affordable prices. It’s always a good idea to ask locals for their recommendations on the best and most affordable places to eat in the area.
11. What is the most popular type of cuisine in Hai Phong besides Vietnamese?
The most popular type of cuisine in Hai Phong besides Vietnamese is seafood. Hai Phong is a coastal city and is known for its fresh and delicious seafood dishes, such as grilled oysters, grilled scallops, and various types of fish dishes.
12. How easy is it to find international food options in Hai Phong?
It is relatively easy to find international food options in Hai Phong, especially in areas frequented by tourists or expats. There are a few international restaurants that offer a variety of cuisines such as Italian, Japanese, Korean, and Western. In addition, some supermarkets and grocery stores also carry imported products from various countries. However, the availability of international food options may be limited compared to bigger cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
13. Do restaurants in Hai Phong typically have English menus available?
Yes, many restaurants in Hai Phong have English menus available, especially in tourist areas. However, some smaller local restaurants may only have menus in Vietnamese. It is always recommended to ask if an English menu is available before ordering.
14. Are there any must-visit coffee shops or cafes in the city?
Some popular and highly-rated coffee shops and cafes in the city include:
1. Blue Bottle Coffee – known for its high-quality, sustainably-sourced coffee and minimalist design
2. Four Barrel Coffee – a hip, industrial-chic space with excellent house-roasted beans
3. Sightglass Coffee – a spacious and trendy cafe with an in-house roastery and seasonal espresso drinks
4. Ritual Coffee Roasters – a local favorite for its expertly crafted coffee and cozy atmosphere
5. Saint Frank Coffee – offering a variety of single-origin coffees in a modern yet welcoming setting
6. Contraband Coffee Bar – offers unique brewing methods and serves up delicious pastries alongside their coffee selection
7. The Mill – known for its unique toast options, high-quality coffee, and bakery items made with house-milled flour.
8. Mazarine Coffee – trendy atmosphere serving incredible local coffee from small-batch roasters.
9. Sextant Coffee Roasters – offering specialty blends with rotating selections of beans from around the world.
10. Réveille Coffee Co.- beautiful modern space that focuses on sustainability while serving up amazing single-origin cups, Nitro Cold Brews & Golden Espresso lattes
15. Does Hai Phong have a prominent street food scene like other cities in Vietnam?
Hai Phong does have a prominent street food scene with a diverse range of dishes influenced by both the coastal and inland regions of Vietnam. Some local specialties include banh da cua, a crab noodle dish, and nem cua be, a fried crab spring roll. There are also plenty of street food vendors selling traditional Vietnamese dishes like pho, banh mi sandwiches, and bun cha. The night market in the city is a popular spot to sample various street food offerings.
16. Can you recommend any rooftop or scenic restaurants for a special occasion?
Sure! Here are a few recommendations for rooftop or scenic restaurants for a special occasion:
1. The View at the New York Marriott Marquis – located in Times Square, this restaurant offers breathtaking views of the city skyline while you dine.
2. One Dine at One World Observatory – located on the 101st floor of One World Trade Center, this restaurant offers panoramic views of New York City along with delicious fine dining options.
3. The River Café – located under the Brooklyn Bridge, this romantic restaurant offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and specializes in American cuisine.
4. The Rainbow Room – located on the 65th floor of Rockefeller Plaza, this iconic restaurant offers beautiful views of the city and a menu featuring classic American dishes with a modern twist.
5. Añejo Tribeca Rooftop – located in Tribeca, this Mexican-inspired rooftop restaurant offers great views of Lower Manhattan and a menu featuring creative and flavorful dishes.
6. Haven Rooftop – located atop the Sanctuary Hotel, this French-American restaurant boasts an intimate rooftop setting with beautiful views of Times Square.
7. The Press Lounge – located in Hell’s Kitchen, this rooftop bar and lounge offers stunning views of the Hudson River and serves up delicious cocktails and small plates.
8. Gaonnuri – Located on the 39th floor in Midtown East, this Korean restaurant has floor-to-ceiling windows offering spectacular views of the city while you enjoy traditional Korean cuisine.
9. Westlight – Located on the 22nd floor in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, this trendy rooftop bar and lounge offers amazing panoramic views of Manhattan’s skyline along with upscale bites and drinks.
10. Manhatta – Located on the 60th floor at One Liberty Plaza, this modern American brasserie offers unparalleled views of lower Manhattan and serves up elevated versions of classic dishes.
17. How is tipping culture like at restaurants and cafes in Hai Phong?
Tipping culture in Hai Phong is not as prevalent as it is in Western countries. It is not expected or required, but appreciated if service was exceptional. Some restaurants and cafes may include a service charge of 5-10% on the bill, so tipping on top of that is not necessary. If you feel like leaving a tip, rounding up the bill or leaving loose change is usually enough.
18. What are some traditional dishes or drinks that can only be found in Hai Phong?
Some traditional dishes and drinks that can only be found in Hai Phong include banh da cua (crab noodle soup), ca tim yen (eggplant with bird’s nest soup), nem cua be (fried crab spring rolls), bun dau mam tom (vermicelli with fried tofu and shrimp paste), pho chieu nuoc ngot (a type of sweet and sour vermicelli soup), and Hai Phong beer.
19. Is it necessary to make reservations at popular restaurants ahead of time?
It is highly recommended to make reservations at popular restaurants ahead of time. This will ensure that you have a guaranteed table and avoid potential wait times or being turned away if the restaurant is fully booked. Additionally, making a reservation allows the restaurant to properly prepare for your visit, ensuring a better dining experience for you.
20. Where can I find the best banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich) in the city?
There are many great places to find banh mi in the city, but some popular options include:
1. Saigon Sandwich – located in the Tenderloin district, this small shop is often cited as having the best banh mi in the city.
2. Little Vietnam Cafe – a hidden gem in Outer Richmond, this cozy cafe serves up delicious banh mi sandwiches.
3. The Baguette Express – with multiple locations throughout the city, this chain offers tasty banh mi at affordable prices.
4. Dinosaurs – known for their delicious Vietnamese fusion dishes, Dinosaurs also has a fantastic banh mi sandwich on their menu.
5. Sunflower Cafe – located in the Mission district, this casual eatery serves up tasty and affordable banh mi sandwiches.