Mui Ne Binh Thuan is a treasure trove of vibrant flavors and unique dishes that reflect the country’s rich culinary heritage. From fresh seafood to fragrant herbs and creative street food, the food here is a celebration of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy balance. In this guide, we’ll dive into some of the most iconic Mui Ne food that make this region a must-visit for foodies, showcasing the diversity and charm of the local cuisine.
1/My Quang
My Quang, a beloved noodle dish from central Vietnam, takes on a unique character in Mui Ne. Unlike its Da Nang counterpart, my Quang Mui Ne is distinguished by its vibrant yellow rice noodles and a lighter, yet flavorful, bone broth seasoned with fish sauce, black pepper, shallots, and garlic. The dish often features an array of ingredients like river shrimp, boiled quail eggs, and grilled pork, topped with fresh herbs such as basil, cilantro, lettuce, and thinly sliced banana blossoms. A sprinkle of roasted peanuts and sesame rice crackers adds a delightful crunch.
What makes this dish special is its versatility. It means there’s no fixed recipe, allowing home cooks and street vendors to add their personal touch. You’ll find this Mui Ne food served with a side of chili paste for those who crave extra heat.
2/Rang muc, trung muc
For seafood enthusiasts, rang muc (squid teeth) and trung muc (squid eggs) are must-try delicacies in Mui Ne. These bite-sized morsels, often grilled or stir-fried, offer a unique texture and rich, briny flavor. Rang muc, the small, chewy beak of the squid, is typically marinated with chili, garlic, and fish sauce before being grilled over charcoal, resulting in a smoky, savory treat. Trung muc, on the other hand, is prized for its creamy, slightly sweet taste and is often stir-fried with tamarind sauce or black pepper.
Served at local seafood stalls along the coast, these dishes are perfect for sharing over a cold beer. They highlight the resourcefulness of Mui Ne food, where every part of the squid is transformed into something delicious. Pair them with a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of salt and pepper for an authentic taste of the sea.
3/Banh hoi long heo
Banh hoi long heo is a delicate dish featuring fine, woven rice vermicelli paired with boiled pork offal, such as heart, liver, and intestines. The vermicelli is drizzled with scallion oil and served with fresh herbs, lettuce, and a fish sauce dipping sauce. Diners often wrap the ingredients in rice paper for a satisfying bite. This dish is a favorite Mui Ne food, reflecting the intricate balance of flavors in local specialties.
4/Lau ca bop
Nothing brings people together like a steaming pot of bop hotpot, a fragrant fish hotpot that’s a staple in Binh Thuan. Made with fresh bop fish (grouper), this hotpot features a tangy, tamarind-based broth that’s both refreshing and comforting. The fish is sliced into tender chunks and cooked alongside vegetables like water spinach, banana blossoms, and okra, which soak up the broth’s complex flavors.
Diners gather around the bubbling pot, adding fresh herbs, rice noodles, and chili to their bowls for a personalized experience. Its bright, balanced flavors showcase the essence of Vietnamese cuisine, where local fresh ingredients and bold seasonings create harmony in every bite.
5/Banh hon
Banh hon is a chewy, bite-sized rice cake that’s a hidden gem in Mui Ne’s culinary scene. Made from glutinous rice flour and filled with mung bean or coconut, these cakes are steamed and coated with sesame seeds or ground peanuts. Their subtle sweetness and satisfying texture make them a popular snack or breakfast item. This understated treat is a reminder of the simplicity and charm of Mui Ne food, where humble ingredients shine.
6/Goi ca mai
Goi ca mai, a raw fish salad, is a refreshing dish that captures the essence of Mui Ne food culture. Made with fresh ca mai (anchovy-like fish), the dish features thinly sliced fish marinated in lime juice, chili, and fish sauce, then tossed with herbs, shredded green mango, and roasted peanuts. The result is a vibrant salad that’s crunchy, tangy, and slightly spicy.
Served with rice paper for wrapping, goi ca mai is often enjoyed as a light appetizer or shared dish. Its bright flavors and fresh ingredients make it a perfect example of coastal specialties, where the ocean’s bounty is celebrated in every bite. Be sure to try it at a seaside restaurant for the freshest experience.
7/Banh mi cho
Banh mi cho, or “waiting banh mi,” is a quirky street food unique to Mui Ne. Named for the anticipation of watching vendors prepare it fresh, this sandwich is a twist on the classic Vietnamese cuisine staple, banh mi. The baguette is filled with grilled pork, fish cakes, or even seafood like squid, then layered with pickled carrots, cucumber, cilantro, and a smear of chili sauce.
What sets banh mi cho apart is the theatrical preparation: vendors often grill the ingredients right in front of you, building excitement as the aromas fill the air. It’s a quick, affordable meal that’s perfect for a snack on the go, and showcases the creativity of Mui Ne specialties in street food form at the same time.
8/Banh canh cha ca
Banh canh cha ca is a comforting noodle soup that highlights Mui Ne’s love for seafood. The dish features thick, chewy rice noodles in a light, savory broth made from fish bones. The star of the show is cha ca, a bouncy fish cake made from fresh fish paste, seasoned with dill and pepper, and either steamed or fried. Served with a side of fresh herbs, chili, and a squeeze of lime, banh canh cha ca is a soul-warming dish that’s popular for breakfast or lunch.
9/Cha cuon ca trich
Cha cuon ca trich is a fresh, herbaceous dish made with grilled herring wrapped in rice paper. The fish is marinated with turmeric and dill, grilled to perfection, and served with rice noodles, herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce. The combination of smoky fish, crisp vegetables, and fragrant herbs creates a refreshing yet satisfying meal. This dish is a perfect example of how regional cuisine transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
10/Goi oc giac
Goi oc giac is a bold, flavorful salad made with oc giac, a type of sea snail found along Vietnam’s coast, including Mui Ne. The snails are boiled, sliced, and tossed with herbs, green mango, and a tangy fish sauce dressing, creating a dish that’s crunchy, sour, and slightly spicy. Roasted peanuts and fried shallots add texture and richness. It’s often served with rice crackers for scooping, making it a fun, interactive dish to share. Look for it at local seafood markets or restaurants for a true taste of the region.
11/Banh beo la dua
Banh beo la dua is a delightful twist on the classic Vietnamese steamed rice cake. Infused with pandan leaves, these delicate cakes are vibrant green and subtly fragrant. Each cake is topped with ground shrimp, fried shallots, and a drizzle of scallion oil, then served with a side of sweet fish sauce for dipping. The pandan flavor adds a unique touch to this food Mui Ne, making it a popular snack or appetizer in Mui Ne. Its light, airy texture and vibrant presentation make it a crowd-pleaser, especially at street food stalls or local eateries.
12/Cha lui Ham Tan
Cha lui Ham Tan, a beloved street food from Binh Thuan. These savory pork and shrimp patties are skewered, grilled over charcoal, and served golden and fragrant. Wrapped in rice paper with fresh herbs, green mango, and cucumber, it’s paired with a rich, tangy peanut-fish sauce dip. The dish’s unique “lui” name comes from the quick grilling process, taking just minutes. Best enjoyed by hand, this affordable and flavorful snack captivates locals and tourists alike.
Read more: Escape to Mui Ne: The complete travel guide for your perfect trip
13/Dong nuong muoi ot
Dong nuong muoi ot, or grilled sandworms with chili salt, is a daring dish that’s surprisingly delicious. These small, worm-like creatures, harvested from sandy beaches, are marinated with a vibrant blend of chili, salt, garlic, and spices, then grilled over charcoal until golden and crispy. The result is a crunchy, savory snack with a unique texture often likened to fried shrimp, offering a burst of umami and subtle heat. Popular at seaside bars and restaurants, Dong nuong muoi ot is a bold choice for adventurous eaters.
14/Che bong co
Che bong co is a sweet, refreshing dessert that’s unique to Mui Ne. Made with bong co (a type of seaweed), coconut milk, and palm sugar, this chilled dessert has a jelly-like texture and a delicate sweetness. It’s often served with crushed ice, making it a perfect treat for hot coastal days. The use of seaweed highlights the creativity of Mui Ne food, turning an oceanic ingredient into a beloved dessert. You’ll find chè bông cỏ at local markets or dessert stalls, offering a sweet end to any meal.
15/Ca loi xoi mo cuon banh trang
Ca loi xoi mo cuon banh trang is a Mui Ne food that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious. Ca loi, a slippery, eel-like fish, is steamed and drizzled with sizzling scallion oil, then served with a variety of fresh herbs, lettuce, cucumber, and rice noodles. Diners wrap the fish and accompaniments in thin rice paper, dipping the rolls in a tangy fish sauce.
The dish’s appeal lies in its balance of textures and flavors: the tender, sweet fish pairs perfectly with the crisp vegetables and aromatic herbs. You’ll find this dish at seafood restaurants along Pham Van Dong or Nguyen Dinh Chieu in Mui Ne, also places to spot other best food in Mui Ne.
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If you’re unsure about the best food in Mui Ne or where to eat in Mui Ne? Trust Lily’s Travel, your expert guide since 2007. With over 15 years in the industry, we’re renowned for crafting unforgettable itineraries, thrilling adventures, and providing 24/7 support. As one of Vietnam’s top travel agencies, we offer a diverse range of tours to suit every traveler. Let us handle the details, so you can focus on creating lasting memories with your Mui Ne food adventure.
The Mui Ne food is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, textures, and traditions. From the hearty noodles of Mỳ Quảng to the delicate sweetness of chè bông cỏ, each dish tells a story of the region’s connection to the sea and its love for fresh, bold ingredients. Head to Mui Ne’s bustling markets, seaside restaurants, or street food stalls to experience the magic of Vietnam’s coastal flavors.
