1. What is the most popular local dish in Ninh Binh?
The most popular local dish in Ninh Binh is “com chay” or burnt rice. It is made by lightly frying cooked rice until it turns golden brown and crispy, then served with a variety of toppings such as pork, chicken, shrimp, and vegetables. Other popular dishes in Ninh Binh include “cha ke” (fried chopped goat meat), “banh cuon tam” (steamed rice flour rolls with pork and shrimp), and “don xuan” (spring rolls).
2. Is it easy to find vegetarian or vegan options at local restaurants in Ninh Binh?
It may be a bit challenging to find vegetarian or vegan options at local restaurants in Ninh Binh, as the traditional cuisine in this region often includes meat and seafood. However, there are some restaurants that offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, especially in the more touristy areas. It’s recommended to do some research beforehand and ask for recommendations from locals or your hotel staff. Also, communicating any dietary restrictions or preferences to restaurant staff will likely help them accommodate your needs.
3. Are there any specific food markets or local vendors that are must-visit for food lovers in Ninh Binh?
Some popular food markets and local vendors to visit in Ninh Binh are: – Van Long Night Market (Thuong Lan Street, Gia Van Commune): This market is known for its variety of local street food such as banh mi, pho, cha ca (grilled fish), and nem chua (fermented pork roll).
– Tam Coc Market (Hoa Lu District): This bustling market offers a wide range of fresh produce, meats, and seafood, as well as prepared foods like banh bao (steamed buns) and fried snacks.
– Local Vendors on Tam Coc River: Along the river that flows through Tam Coc, you can find numerous floating restaurants serving up freshly caught seafood dishes like grilled clams or steamed crabs.
– Thung Nham Bird Ecological Tourist Area: In addition to bird-watching tours, this area also has a market with local delicacies such as bamboo-tube rice cooked with chicken or goat meat.
4. What dishes or types of cuisine is the province known for?
Ninh Binh is known for its traditional Vietnamese cuisine and many dishes featuring fresh seafood from the nearby rivers and lakes. Some popular dishes include:
– “Com Chay” (Roasted Rice Crust): Made of roasted rice grains mixed with peanuts and sesame seeds, Com Chay can be eaten alone or used as a topping for other dishes.
– “Banh Bo Tron” (Mixed Sticky Rice Cake): A popular street food made of glutinous rice balls mixed with shredded pork, dried shrimp, shallots, fish sauce, herbs and seasoning.
– “Banh Chung” (Sticky Rice Cake Wrapped in Banana Leaves): A special dish usually served during the Lunar New Year celebration. It consists of sticky rice stuffed with mung bean paste and pork belly then wrapped in banana leaves before being boiled.
– Seafood dishes such as “Nem Ca Na” (Fermented Fish Roll), “Cha Ca” (Grilled Fish), and “Muc Nhoi Thit” (Stuffed Squid). These dishes make use of the abundant seafood in Ninh Binh’s rivers and lakes.
– “Nom Yen” Ninh Binh: This popular dessert consists of creamy ice cream, sweet red beans, coconut milk, and colorful jelly.
4. What is the best place to try authentic Vietnamese pho in Ninh Binh?
One highly recommended place to try authentic Vietnamese pho in Ninh Binh is Pho Co Hoa restaurant, located at 59 Truong Han Sieu street. This restaurant is known for its delicious and flavorful pho, made with fresh ingredients and traditional techniques. It also has a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a hot bowl of pho on a chilly day.
5. Are there any traditional cooking classes available for tourists in Ninh Binh?
Yes, there are several traditional cooking classes available for tourists in Ninh Binh. Some popular options include:1. Happy Heart Cooking Class: This class offers a hands-on experience of learning how to cook traditional dishes from the local food market to the dining table. The duration is around 3 hours and it includes a visit to the market, cooking lesson, and lunch.
2. Local Food Cooking Class: Run by a local family, this class teaches participants how to cook authentic Vietnamese dishes using fresh ingredients from their own garden. The class also includes a trip to a nearby pagoda and an optional cycling tour.
3. Vuon Quat Ba Hang (Pomelo Garden): This cooking class takes place in the beautiful setting of a pomelo orchard and offers visitors an opportunity to learn how to make traditional dishes such as banh xeo (Vietnamese pancake) and nem ran (fried spring rolls).
4. Eco Cooking Tour at Tam Coc Village: This tour not only teaches participants how to prepare local delicacies but also provides an insight into the local agricultural practices by visiting a farm and rice paddies.
5. Ninh Binh Countryside Experience: This tour offers visitors a chance to learn about traditional farming techniques and participate in activities like fishing, gardening, cooking, and more.
6. Can you recommend a good street food tour or walking food tour in Ninh Binh?
Yes, Nam Hong Street Food Tour and Ninh Binh Food Adventure are both highly recommended for their walking food tours in Ninh Binh. They offer a variety of tours that will take you to some of the best local street food spots and markets, giving you the chance to try traditional Vietnamese dishes and learn about the culture and history behind them. Both companies have experienced guides who are passionate about food and provide great insights into the local cuisine. Prices for these tours range from $20-$35 per person depending on the length and inclusions.
7. Is seafood readily available at restaurants in Ninh Binh, and if so, what are some must-try dishes?
Yes, seafood is readily available at restaurants in Ninh Binh. The region’s proximity to Ha Long Bay and the Red River Delta make it a popular location for fresh seafood dishes. Some must-try dishes include grilled fish on bamboo, clam hotpot, and crab spring rolls. There are also many different types of fish and shrimp dishes that are unique to the region and worth trying. Be sure to ask for recommendations from locals or restaurant staff for the freshest and most delicious options.
8. How does the cuisine in Ninh Binh differ from other regions of Vietnam?
The cuisine in Ninh Binh is heavily influenced by its geographical location and agricultural practices. Compared to other regions of Vietnam, the cuisine in Ninh Binh tends to be more diverse and reflects a combination of both Northern and Southern styles.
One significant difference is the focus on rice and dishes made from rice in Ninh Binh cuisine. This is due to the fact that Ninh Binh is known as the “rice bowl” of Vietnam, with vast rice paddies covering much of its landscape. As a result, rice dishes such as com tam (broken rice), banh cuon (steamed rice rolls) and xoi (sticky rice) are staples in Ninh Binh cuisine.
Additionally, since Ninh Binh is located along the Red River Delta, seafood plays a significant role in its cuisine. Freshwater fish and crustaceans from the nearby rivers and lakes are commonly used in dishes such as ca nuong (grilled fish), ga loc bap tieu (stir-fried chicken with lemongrass) or ca chien don (deep-fried fish).
Due to its proximity to Hanoi, some similarities can be found between the two regions’ cuisines. However, Ninh Binh’s cuisine tends to be less spicy and more reserved in terms of seasonings compared to other regions.
Overall, Ninh Binh’s cuisine offers a unique blend of flavors, incorporating ingredients from both land and sea that reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage.
9. Are there any hidden gem restaurants that locals love but may not be well-known to tourists in Ninh Binh?
Yes, there are a few hidden gem restaurants that locals love in Ninh Binh:
1. Thang Trang Restaurant: This small family-owned restaurant serves delicious local dishes made with fresh and high-quality ingredients. The menu changes daily according to what’s available at the local market, but their green bean soup and bun cha (grilled pork with rice noodles) are highly recommended.
2. Duy Khanh Restaurant: Located near Hang Mua viewpoint, this restaurant offers stunning views of the surrounding greenery and mountains while enjoying a meal. They serve traditional Vietnamese cuisine including specialties like goat hotpot and grilled fish.
3. Chez Loan Restaurant: Tucked away in a quiet corner of Tam Coc village, this cozy restaurant is run by a friendly local couple who take great pride in serving authentic Vietnamese dishes using organic produce from their own garden. Try their famous pumpkin flower salad or crispy tofu with lemongrass sauce.
4. Bao Da Banh Mi Stall: This humble street-side stall is known for making some of the best banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich) in Ninh Binh. Their freshly baked baguettes are filled with a variety of fillings such as pate, cold cuts, grilled pork, fried eggs and pickled vegetables.
5. Van Lam Floating Seafood Restaurant: For a unique dining experience on the water, head to this floating seafood restaurant on Van Long Nature Reserve. They serve an array of seafood dishes including snails, clams, prawns, and fish cooked in different ways – all at reasonable prices.
11. Does Ninnh Bình have a vibrant coffee scene and if so, where can I find the best cup of coffee?
Yes, Ninh Bình has a growing coffee scene. Some popular places to find the best cup of coffee include:
– Meli Café: This café is known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious traditional Vietnamese coffee.
– Cong Café: This café offers a unique experience with a rustic and vintage décor, serving excellent quality coffee.
– Hidden Charm Coffee: Located in Tam Coc, this café has a great view of the rice fields and offers a variety of coffee drinks, including traditional drip coffee.
– Here & There Coffee: This café offers an outdoor garden setting and serves specialty coffees made from beans sourced from different regions in Vietnam.
– Hoa Lu House Cafe: Set in a traditional Vietnamese house, this café serves organic Arabica coffee while offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
12. Can you recommend a restaurant with a beautiful view for a romantic dinner in Ninnh Bình?
Yes, I can recommend “Pomelo Restaurant” in Ninh Binh. It offers a stunning view of the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex and serves delicious Vietnamese cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner with your loved one.
13. Is street food safe to eat in Ninnh Bình for tourists with more sensitive stomachs?
Street food in Ninh Binh is generally safe to eat, but for tourists with more sensitive stomachs, it is recommended to stick to hot and freshly cooked dishes. Avoid eating raw or uncooked vegetables and fruits, and make sure to drink only bottled or boiled water. It is also a good idea to eat at popular local establishments that have a higher turnover of customers, as this typically indicates the freshness of the food.
14. Which local fruits should I try during my visit to Ninnh Bình?
There are several delicious local fruits you can try during your visit to Ninh Binh, such as:
1. Pomelo: This large citrus fruit is a popular specialty in Ninh Binh. It has a thick outer skin and juicy, sweet flesh.
2. Starfruit: Also known as carambola, this fruit has a unique star shape when sliced and a tart flavor that pairs well with other fruits.
3. Dragonfruit: This vibrant pink fruit has a mild, slightly sweet taste and is filled with small black seeds.
4. Longan: Similar to lychee, longan has a sweet flavor and soft texture. It is often used in drinks and desserts.
5. Rambutan: Another red-colored fruit with sweet, juicy flesh and a unique spiky appearance.
6. Persimmon: These orange-colored fruits are slightly tangy when unripe, but become incredibly sweet when fully ripe.
7. Passion Fruit: Known for its bright purple color and tangy taste, passion fruit is often used in juices and cocktails.
8. Jackfruit: This large fruit has a warty green exterior and contains many small yellow bulbs that have a sweet taste reminiscent of pineapple or mango.
9. Durian: A notoriously smelly fruit with creamy yellow flesh inside. Its taste is described as being either love it or hate it.
10. Pineapple: Sweet, juicy pineapples are grown in Ninh Binh and make for a refreshing snack on hot days.
16.Could you suggest some budget-friendly dining options around the city center of Ninnh Bình?
1. Pho Bo Hang: A popular local spot for delicious pho noodle soup at an affordable price.
2. Ninh Binh Market Food Court: Offering a variety of tasty and budget-friendly Vietnamese dishes.
3. Gia An Kitchen: A cozy restaurant serving authentic cuisine at affordable prices.
4. Ga Tan Ninh Binh: A highly rated restaurant specializing in chicken dishes with budget-friendly options.
5. Bun Thit Nuong Da Truong: Known for their grilled pork with vermicelli, this place offers great value for money.
6. Duong Anh Restaurant: Located by the river, this restaurant serves up delicious seafood dishes at reasonable prices.
7. Vegetarian Restaurant Kim Thach: For vegetarians or those looking for a healthy and budget-friendly option, this restaurant is a must-visit.
8. Duong’s Restaurant: The perfect spot to try traditional Vietnamese cuisine at budget-friendly prices.
9. Banh Mi que Me: A local favorite for tasty banh mi sandwiches at affordable prices.
10. Em Be Phuc Loc Tho: This casual eatery offers a range of Vietnamese dishes at wallet-friendly prices.
17.Can you recommend a restaurant with a variety of options suitable for families traveling with children?
One option could be a Cheesecake Factory location. They have a wide range of menu options, from pasta to burgers to pizza, that are suitable for both adults and children. They also offer a special kids menu with smaller portion sizes and kid-friendly items such as macaroni and cheese and chicken tenders. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, making it a great choice for families traveling with children.
18.Which local drinks do you recommend trying while visiting Ninnh Binhh?
Some local drinks to try while visiting Ninh Binh include:
1. Ruou Can: This is a traditional rice wine made by the Muong ethnic group in Ninh Binh and is usually served in bamboo pipes. It has a strong, slightly sweet taste.
2. Che Ba Mau: This is a popular three-color drink made with three layers of different flavors, usually red bean paste, green jelly, and yellow mung beans.
3. Chanh Muoi: This is a salty preserved lemon drink that is commonly sold on the streets of Ninh Binh. It is refreshing and helps to cool down on hot days.
4. Nuoc Mia: This is sugar cane juice that is freshly squeezed and served with ice – it’s perfect for quenching your thirst in the heat.
5. Tra La Sen: This lotus tea is made from dried lotus flowers and has a delicate floral flavor.
6. Ca Phe Trung: Also known as egg coffee, this unique drink is made with Vietnamese coffee, egg yolks, and condensed milk for a creamy and rich taste.
7. Nuoc Suong Sam: Made with boiled chrysanthemum flowers, this fragrant tea aids digestion and reduces stress.
8. Rau Ma: This herbal drink made from pennywort leaves has many health benefits, including improving blood circulation and reducing inflammation.
9. Nuoc Mat Dam But: Translated as “ink water,” this drink gets its name from the deep purple color created by mixing butterfly pea flower extract with lime juice or lemonade.
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These are just some of the many delicious local drinks to try while visiting Ninh Binh – be sure to ask locals for their favorite recommendations too!
19. Are there any local markets or food stalls where I can purchase ingredients to try cooking Ninnh Bình cuisine at home?
Yes, there are several local markets and food stalls where you can purchase the ingredients for Ninh Bình cuisine in Hanoi. Some popular options include Dong Xuan Market, Cho Hom Market, and Nghi Tam Village Market. These markets offer a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, and other ingredients commonly used in Ninh Bình dishes. You can also visit street food stalls or small shops selling traditional Vietnamese ingredients and spices to find everything you need for cooking at home.
20. Can you suggest some popular night markets or street food areas to try in Ninh Binh for a fun and delicious evening out?
1. Tam Coc Night Market: This lively market is located near the Tam Coc boat pier and offers a variety of street food stalls, souvenir shops, and cultural performances.
2. Phat Diem Night Market: Located in the heart of Phat Diem town, this night market is known for its authentic local cuisine and traditional products.
3. Ninh Binh Walking Street: This pedestrian-only area comes alive at night with vendors selling everything from grilled meats to fresh fruit shakes and souvenirs.
4. Van Lam Floating Village: This quaint village on the Hoang Long River hosts a floating market where you can sample fresh seafood dishes and local delicacies.
5. Cuc Phuong Night Market: Set against the backdrop of stunning limestone mountains, this market is a fantastic place to try traditional Vietnamese dishes like com nieu (claypot rice) and banh cuon (steamed rice rolls).
6. Hoa Lu Market: This bustling street market is located in front of the ancient Hoa Lu citadel and offers delicious local snacks such as banh tom (deep-fried shrimp cakes), che dau xanh (mung bean sweet soup), and nuoc mia (sugarcane juice).
7. Bai Dinh Pagoda Night Market: After visiting Vietnam’s largest pagoda, you can head to the nearby night market for some tasty street food options including banh mi sandwiches, skewered meats, and hotpot.
8. Trang An Night Market: Located near the famous Trang An Grottoes, this night market features a wide range of street food vendors serving up traditional dishes like bun thit nuong (grilled pork with noodles) and goi cuon (fresh spring rolls).
9. Dong Giao Night Market: This colorful market is popular among locals for its fresh seafood dishes cooked right in front of you on charcoal grills.
10. Yen Mo Night Market: Known for its lively atmosphere and delicious grilled meats, this market is a great place to experience the local food culture of Ninh Binh.