Phu Quoc, known for its stunning natural landscapes, is not just a tropical paradise with beautiful beaches, lush forests, and luxury resorts; it also offers a rich and diverse culinary experience. The island’s cuisine is a true reflection of its culture and lifestyle, characterized by unique and flavorful dishes that are a must-try for any visitor. From fresh seafood to traditional Vietnamese specialties, Phu Quoc’s food scene is an essential part of the island’s charm. Here’s a guide to the top dishes you should not miss when visiting this coastal gem.
1. Gỏi Cá Trích – Phu Quoc’s Famous Herring Salad
Gỏi cá trích (herring salad) is one of Phu Quoc’s most iconic dishes. Fresh herring is thinly sliced, cleaned, and mixed with fragrant herbs like onion, Vietnamese coriander, and basil. It is then garnished with roasted peanuts and shredded coconut. The dish is typically served with rice paper and fresh vegetables. What makes it stand out is the dipping sauce—a sweet and sour mixture made from Phu Quoc’s renowned fish sauce, garlic, chili, and lime juice. The freshness of the herring combined with the herbs and sauce creates a refreshing and tantalizing flavor profile that showcases the essence of Phu Quoc’s seafood cuisine.
2. Bún Quậy Kiến Xây – Stirred Noodle Soup
Bún quậy is another signature dish from Phu Quoc, specifically from Kiến Xây, a local favorite restaurant. This unique noodle soup features fresh fish-based broth with handmade noodles and seafood paste. The name “quậy” (which means “stir”) comes from the way diners must stir the broth themselves and customize the seasoning to their taste. With a robust and flavorful broth made from fresh seafood, this dish offers a truly distinctive taste that’s hard to forget, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
3. Nhum Biển Nướng – Grilled Sea Urchin
Sea urchin, or nhum biển, is a delicacy in Phu Quoc. These spiky creatures are grilled over charcoal, then seasoned with herbs, scallions, and sometimes butter for extra richness. The tender, sweet meat of the sea urchin pairs beautifully with the salty, smoky flavor from the grill. Typically served with a squeeze of lime or a dipping sauce of pepper and lime, grilled sea urchin is a must-try for adventurous food lovers who want to taste the ocean’s freshest offerings.
4. Cá Sòng Nướng – Grilled Mackerel
Cá sòng, or mackerel, is commonly found in Phu Quoc’s waters and is often served grilled. The fish is seasoned with salt and chili, then grilled over an open flame until the skin is crispy and the flesh is tender. Served with rice paper, fresh herbs, and a sweet and sour fish sauce, grilled mackerel is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the freshness of the local seafood. Its smoky aroma and tender meat make it a popular choice for casual beachside meals.
5. Canh Nấm Tràm – Tram Mushroom Soup
Nấm tràm, or tram mushrooms, are a rare and prized ingredient in Phu Quoc’s cuisine, only available during the rainy season. Tram mushrooms are known for their unique flavor and medicinal properties. Canh nấm tràm, a soup made from these mushrooms, is a beloved local dish. It’s often prepared with chicken or pork and flavored with fresh herbs, resulting in a delicate, earthy broth that is both nourishing and comforting. The soup’s subtle sweetness and aromatic fragrance make it a must-try during mushroom season.
6. Bánh Tét Lá Cẩm – Sticky Rice Cake Wrapped in Purple Leaves
Bánh tét lá cẩm is a traditional Vietnamese sticky rice cake made with glutinous rice, purple cẩm leaves, mung beans, and pork belly. The cẩm leaves give the cake its signature purple color, adding both beauty and flavor. The cake is tightly wrapped and boiled for several hours, resulting in a rich, sticky texture with a savory-sweet filling. This traditional dish is often enjoyed during Tet (Lunar New Year) but can be found year-round in Phu Quoc, where the locals have perfected the art of making this iconic treat.
7. Hàu Nướng Mỡ Hành – Grilled Oysters with Scallion Oil
Grilled oysters with scallion oil (hàu nướng mỡ hành) is a popular seafood dish in Phu Quoc. Fresh, plump oysters are grilled over an open flame, then topped with sizzling scallion oil and roasted peanuts. The rich flavor of the oysters, combined with the fragrant scallion oil and crunchy peanuts, creates an unforgettable taste experience. Often served with lime and pepper dipping sauce, this dish is a hit with seafood lovers looking to savor the freshest catches of the day.
8. Bún Kèn – Coconut Fish Noodle Soup
Bún kèn is a unique and hearty breakfast dish originating from Phu Quoc. It consists of thin vermicelli noodles, shredded snakehead fish, and a rich, coconut-based broth spiced with turmeric, lemongrass, and chili. The dish is garnished with fresh herbs like mint, bean sprouts, and pickled vegetables, creating a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. This local specialty is a must-try for anyone looking to experience authentic Phu Quoc cuisine.
9. Mực Trứng Nướng – Grilled Squid with Eggs
Mực trứng nướng, or grilled egg squid, is a popular seafood dish that you’ll find in most Phu Quoc restaurants. The squid, filled with roe, is grilled until the exterior is charred and crispy, while the interior remains tender and flavorful. It’s typically seasoned with chili, garlic, and scallions, enhancing the natural sweetness of the squid. This dish is usually served with a dipping sauce made from fish sauce, lime, and chili, adding a spicy kick that complements the squid’s rich taste.
10. Cháo Nhum – Sea Urchin Porridge
Cháo nhum (sea urchin porridge) is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is especially popular in coastal regions like Phu Quoc. Fresh sea urchins are cleaned and cooked with rice to create a thick, hearty porridge. The natural sweetness of the sea urchins adds depth to the dish, while herbs and spices enhance its flavor. This porridge is often eaten for breakfast or as a light dinner, offering a warm, comforting meal that is both delicious and healthy.
Conclusion
Phu Quoc’s cuisine is a delightful journey through flavors, offering a mix of fresh seafood, traditional dishes, and unique local specialties. From the famous herring salad and grilled sea urchin to the rare tram mushroom soup, the island’s food scene is as rich and diverse as its natural beauty. Whether you’re enjoying a beachside barbecue or indulging in a traditional sticky rice cake, each dish reflects the local culture and culinary expertise that make Phu Quoc a must-visit destination for food lovers.