10 Must-Try Dishes in Soc Trang: A Culinary Adventure in the Mekong Delta

Soc Trang, a vibrant cultural hub in the Mekong Delta, now part of the expanded Can Tho City administrative region, is a food lover’s paradise, located 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City. Welcoming over 3 million visitors annually, Soc Trang is celebrated for its harmonious blend of Vietnamese (Kinh), Khmer, and Chinese cuisines, shaped by its diverse ethnic communities. From the iconic Bún Nước Lèo, an Asian Record dish, to the flaky Bánh Pía and savory Khô Trâu Thạnh Trị, Soc Trang’s dishes reflect its rich heritage and fresh, local ingredients. Committed to sustainable tourism through the “Mekong Green” initiative, Soc Trang offers eco-friendly dining experiences. Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, curates immersive food tours to savor these specialties. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to book your culinary adventure

Legend Travel Group specializes in authentic, sustainable Southeast Asian experiences across Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar. Our Soc Trang food tours use eco-friendly transport—bicycles, electric boats, and eco-vans—guided by local experts who share the region’s culinary and cultural stories. Supporting communities in Soc Trang’s central ward and Nga Nam, we align with Can Tho City’s vision to preserve its heritage. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless journey. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and taste Soc Trang responsibly

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has merged Soc Trang and Hau Giang into Can Tho City, with Can Tho as the administrative hub. District-level units are now wards or communes, making Can Tho City Vietnam’s largest by landmass. Enhanced by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric buses, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project—Soc Trang’s markets and eateries are easily accessible, offering a vibrant culinary landscape for exploration.

Soc Trang’s cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavors, showcasing the region’s diverse heritage. Below are the top 10 dishes, their origins, where to find them, and how to enjoy them sustainably.

1. Bánh Pía (Pia Cake) – Flaky Pastry Delight

Description: A Chinese-influenced layered pastry, Bánh Pía is Soc Trang’s signature treat, known for its golden, flaky crust and filling of mung bean, salted egg yolk, and durian. Its sweet-savory balance makes it a perfect snack or gift.

• Cost: $1–$3/pack (25,000–75,000 VND, 200–500g).

• Where to Find:

  • Tân Huê Viên (Ward 2, 149/8 Mậu Thân 68): HALAL-certified, durian-flavored, rated 4.5/5. Open 8:00 AM–8:00 PM. Contact: +84 299 382 2822.

  • Soc Trang Central Market (Ward 2): Fresh packs, $1–$2.50/pack. Open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

  • Vĩnh Châu Night Market (Vinh Chau Ward): Evening stalls, $1–$2/pack. Open 5:00 PM–10:00 PM.

• How to Enjoy: Pair with lotus tea ($0.50 or 12,500 VND) for a traditional experience. Buy vacuum-sealed packs for travel.

• Sustainability Tip: Choose vendors like Tân Huê Viên with biodegradable packaging.

• Included in: Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70).

2. Bún Nước Lèo – Soulful Vermicelli Soup

Description: An Asian Record dish (2023), Bún Nước Lèo is Soc Trang’s iconic noodle soup, featuring rice vermicelli in a spicy, clear broth made with fermented fish paste (mắm cá sặc), lemongrass, and ngải bún. Topped with snakehead fish, shrimp, roasted pork, and banana blossom, it’s a Khmer-Vietnamese-Chinese fusion.

• Cost: $1–$3.50 (25,000–87,500 VND/bowl).

• Where to Find:

  • Quán Quế Nhi (44 Phú Lợi, Ward 2): Bold broth, rated 4.5/5. Open 6:00 AM–10:00 PM. Contact: +84 299 361 6161.

  • Quán Trang (23 Dã Tượng, Ward 6): Artisanal, rated 4.4/5. Open 6:00 AM–10:30 PM.

  • Nga Nam Floating Market (Nga Nam Ward): Boat vendors, $1.50–$3.50/bowl, boat rental $10–$20/hour (250,000–500,000 VND). Open 4:00 AM–8:00 AM.

• How to Enjoy: Add chili and lime to the fish sauce dip for zest. Visit at dawn for market freshness.

• Sustainability Tip: Support family-run eateries like Quế Nhi using sustainable fish.

• Included in: Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70), Mekong River Adventure ($60–$80).

3. Bánh Cóng – Crispy Khmer Snack

Description: A Khmer specialty, Bánh Cóng is a deep-fried cake made with rice flour, mung bean, pork, and shrimp, fried in a “cóng” mold. Served with sweet-sour fish sauce, pickled vegetables, and herbs, it’s a crunchy street food favorite.

• Cost: $0.50–$1.50/cake (12,500–37,500 VND).

• Where to Find:

  • Quán Bánh Cóng Cô Lý (25 Lê Lợi, Ward 2): Iconic, rated 4.6/5. Open 10:00 AM–6:00 PM. Contact: +84 299 382 2822.

  • Soc Trang Central Market: Morning vendors, $0.50–$1/cake. Open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

  • Đại Tâm Market (Đại Tâm Commune, Mỹ Xuyên Ward): Authentic source, $0.50–$1.50/cake. Open 6:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• How to Enjoy: Wrap in lettuce with fish mint for freshness. Eat hot for maximum crispiness.

• Sustainability Tip: Choose stalls using locally sourced shrimp, like Cô Lý’s.

• Included in: Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70).

4. Bún Gỏi Dà – Tangy Vermicelli Salad

Description: A refreshing breakfast dish, Bún Gỏi Dà combines rice vermicelli with shrimp, pork, roasted peanuts, herbs, and a sweet-sour broth of tamarind and soybean sauce. This Vietnamese-Khmer fusion is light yet flavorful.

• Cost: $1–$2.50 (25,000–62,500 VND/bowl).

• Where to Find:

  • Quán Cô Hằng (13 Nguyễn Văn Hữu, Ward 1): Fresh herbs, rated 4.3/5. Open 6:00 AM–8:00 PM. Contact: +84 299 382 1234.

  • Quán 148 (148 Nguyễn Huệ, Ward 2): Affordable, rated 4.0/5. Open 7:00 AM–7:00 PM.

  • Vĩnh Châu Night Market: Evening stalls, $1–$2/bowl. Open 5:00 PM–10:00 PM.

• How to Enjoy: Mix thoroughly to blend flavors; add chili for heat.

• Sustainability Tip: Support vendors using homegrown herbs to reduce carbon footprint.

• Included in: Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70).

5. Khô Trâu Thạnh Trị – Dried Buffalo Jerky

Description: A savory specialty from Thạnh Trị Ward, this sun-dried or smoked buffalo jerky is marinated with lemongrass, garlic, and chili. Chewy and aromatic, it’s a popular beer snack or gift with a 6-month shelf life.

• Cost: $10–$20/500g (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Where to Find:

  • Thạnh Trị Market (Thạnh Trị Ward): Authentic, $12–$20/500g. Open 6:00 AM–5:00 PM.

  • Soc Trang Central Market: Specialty stalls, $10–$18/500g. Open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

  • Đặc Sản Sóc Trăng (25 Mậu Thân 68, Ward 2): Vacuum-sealed, $12–$20/500g. Open 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.

• How to Enjoy: Grill lightly, tear into strips, and dip in tamarind fish sauce ($0.50 or 12,500 VND). Pair with beer ($1 or 25,000 VND).

• Sustainability Tip: Buy from Thạnh Trị vendors using low-impact drying methods.

• Included in: Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70).

6. Bánh In – Festive Khmer Moon Cake

Description: A white, glutinous rice cake with a yellow mung bean filling, Bánh In is a Khmer offering during Ooc Om Bok Festival, symbolizing gratitude for harvests. Its sticky texture pairs well with tea.

• Cost: $0.50–$1.50/cake (12,500–37,500 VND).

• Where to Find:

  • Soc Trang Central Market: Peak availability during Ooc Om Bok (October–November), $0.50–$1/cake. Open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

  • Kh’leang Pagoda Stalls (Ward 6): Festival vendors, $0.50–$1.50/cake. Open during events.

  • Quán Đặc Sản Sóc Trăng (Ward 2): Year-round, $1–$1.50/cake. Open 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.

• How to Enjoy: Eat during Ooc Om Bok for cultural immersion; pair with green tea ($0.50 or 12,500 VND).

• Sustainability Tip: Buy from temple vendors to support Khmer initiatives.

• Included in: Soc Trang Festival Tour ($70–$90).

7. Mè Láo (Sesame Pies) – Deceptive Sweet Treat

Description: A Chinese-Khmer confection, Mè Láo (“sesame lie”) features taro balls coated in glutinous rice flour, fried, and rolled in maltose and sesame seeds. Its crispy shell and airy core make it a delightful snack.

• Cost: $0.50–$2/pack (12,500–50,000 VND, 200–500g).

• Where to Find:

  • Soc Trang Central Market: Morning vendors, $0.50–$1.50/pack. Open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

  • Vĩnh Châu Night Market: Evening stalls, $0.50–$2/pack. Open 5:00 PM–10:00 PM.

  • Tân Huê Viên (Ward 2): Packaged, $1–$3/pack. Open 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.

• How to Enjoy: Pair with green tea for balance; buy for souvenirs.

• Sustainability Tip: Choose vendors using local taro to support farmers.

• Included in: Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70).

8. Bún Tiêu Giò – Spicy Pork Vermicelli Soup

Description: This noodle soup features rice vermicelli in a clear, peppery broth with stewed pork leg, pork rolls, and optional duck or chicken, served with bean sprouts and herbs. Its bold black pepper flavor sets it apart.

• Cost: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND/bowl).

• Where to Find:

  • Quán Bún Tiêu Giò 68 (Mậu Thân 68, Ward 2): Bold flavors, rated 4.3/5. Open 6:00 AM–8:00 PM.

  • Quán Ăn 123 (Lê Hồng Phong, Ward 3): Hearty portions, rated 4.0/5. Open 6:00 AM–9:00 PM.

  • Soc Trang Central Market: Morning stalls, $1–$2/bowl. Open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• How to Enjoy: Dip toppings in fish sauce with extra pepper and lime for a spicy-tangy kick.

• Sustainability Tip: Choose eateries sourcing local pork, like Quán 68, to support sustainable farming.

• Included in: Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70).

9. Bánh Ống (Pipe Cake) – Green Sticky Delight

Description: A Khmer dessert, Bánh Ống is a glutinous rice cake dyed green with pandan leaves, filled with tender coconut and sesame salt. Its chewy texture and aromatic flavor shine at festivals.

• Cost: $0.50–$1/cake (12,500–25,000 VND).

• Where to Find:

  • Nga Nam Floating Market: Boat vendors, $0.50–$1/cake. Open 4:00 AM–8:00 AM.

  • Soc Trang Central Market: Morning stalls, $0.50–$0.80/cake. Open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

  • Ooc Om Bok Festival Stalls: Peak availability, $0.50–$1/cake.

• How to Enjoy: Eat fresh for stickiness; pair with tea for balance.

• Sustainability Tip: Support vendors using natural pandan dye for eco-friendly practices.

• Included in: Soc Trang Festival Tour ($70–$90).

10. Bánh Gừng (Gingerbread) – Crunchy Sweet Snack

Description: Despite its name, Bánh Gừng contains no ginger but is made from chicken eggs, glutinous rice flour, fresh lemon, and cuttlefish powder, shaped like ginger and coated in sugar for crunch. Its long shelf life makes it a popular gift.

• Cost: $0.50–$2/pack (12,500–50,000 VND, 200–500g).

• Where to Find:

  • Soc Trang Central Market: Morning vendors, $0.50–$1.50/pack. Open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

  • Vĩnh Châu Night Market: Evening stalls, $0.50–$2/pack. Open 5:00 PM–10:00 PM.

  • Quán Đặc Sản Sóc Trăng (Ward 2): Packaged, $1–$2/pack. Open 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.

• How to Enjoy: Munch as a snack or pair with tea; buy for souvenirs.

• Sustainability Tip: Choose vendors with minimal plastic packaging to reduce waste.

• Included in: Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70).

The dry season (November–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) is ideal for market visits and outdoor dining, with February–April offering mild weather. The rainy season (May–October, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F) enhances the appeal of hot dishes like Bún Nước Lèo, though August–October flooding may limit rural access. Ooc Om Bok Festival (October–November) and Tet (January–February) are peak times for festive foods like Bánh In and Bún Tiêu Giò, with prices rising 10–20%. Visit markets early mornings (6:00 AM–9:00 AM) for fresh ingredients or evenings (5:00 PM–10:00 PM) for vibrant night markets. Check AccuWeather for updates.

Tip: Book tours 3–5 weeks in advance for festival seasons to secure spots. Visit Nga Nam Floating Market at dawn for unique dining.

• By Air: Fly to Can Tho International Airport (VCA), 60 km away, from Ho Chi Minh City ($70–$140 or 1,750,000–3,500,000 VND) or Hanoi ($100–$180 or 2,500,000–4,500,000 VND). Eco-van transfers to Soc Trang cost $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

• By Bus: From Ho Chi Minh City (5–6 hours, $6–$15 or 150,000–375,000 VND) or Cần Thơ (1–1.5 hours, $3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND). Book via Baolau or Vexere.

• By Car/Motorbike: Drive 230–250 km from Ho Chi Minh City via National Highway 1A (3.5–5 hours, fuel $15–$30 or 375,000–750,000 VND) or the ferry route through Ben Tre and Trà Vinh (4–6 hours, ferry $1–$4 or 25,000–100,000 VND).

Tip: Book eco-van transfers via Legend Travel Group for sustainable travel. Download MyCanTho app for bus schedules.

Food Costs:

• Bánh Pía, Mè Láo, Bánh Gừng: $1–$3/pack (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Bún Nước Lèo, Bún Gỏi Dà, Bún Tiêu Giò: $1–$3.50/bowl (25,000–87,500 VND).

• Bánh Cóng, Bánh In, Bánh Ống: $0.50–$1.50 (12,500–37,500 VND).

• Khô Trâu Thạnh Trị: $10–$20/500g (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Cooking Classes: $25–$45 (625,000–1,125,000 VND).

Transport in Soc Trang:

• Taxi/Grab (1–5 km): $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND).

• Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND); fuel $1–$2/liter (25,000–50,000 VND).

• River Boat: $10–$20/hour (250,000–500,000 VND, shared).

• Bicycle Rental: $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND).

Dining (Other Dishes):

• Street Food: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Restaurants: $3–$12 (75,000–300,000 VND).

• Drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

Accommodation (Soc Trang Central Ward):

• Hostels/Guesthouses: $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).

• Hotels: $30–$100/night (750,000–2,500,000 VND).

• Resorts: $120–$300/night (3,000,000–7,500,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Excluding Tours):

• Budget: $15–$40 (street food, bike rental, guesthouse).

• Mid-range: $40–$70 (restaurants, taxi, hotel).

• Luxury: $70–$110 (upscale dining, resort, private boat).

Tip: Use ATMs in Soc Trang Central Ward; carry VND for stalls. Bargain gently for bulk food purchases.

• Book Early: Reserve flights, hotels, and tours 3–5 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group (+84 938 987 654) or Klook for peak seasons or festivals.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) or MyCanTho app. Central wards are walkable; use bikes or boats for rural sites like Nga Nam.

• Sustainability: Choose bicycles or electric boats; buy from local vendors using sustainable ingredients; use reusable utensils to align with Mekong Green initiatives.

• Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip vendors or guides ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND); respect market etiquette by not handling food excessively.

• Health Precautions: Apply mosquito repellent for morning market visits; stay hydrated; ensure food is freshly prepared.

• Safety: Secure valuables in crowded markets; avoid flooded rural routes in August–October.

Savor Soc Trang’s culinary delights with our sustainable tours:

• Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70/person): Soc Trang Central Market, Nga Nam Floating Market, Bún Nước Lèo, Bánh Pía, cooking class. Includes eco-transfers and meals.

• Mekong River Adventure ($60–$80/person): Nga Nam Floating Market, Hau River cruise, Bún Nước Lèo, Bánh Cóng vendors. Includes electric boat transfers and lunch.

• Soc Trang Cultural Tour ($55–$75/person): Bún Tiêu Giò eateries, Kh’leang Pagoda, Khmer Museum. Includes bike rentals and snacks.

• Soc Trang Festival Tour ($70–$90/person, October–November): Bún Nước Lèo stalls, Bánh In, Ooc Om Bok Festival. Includes eco-transfers and dining.

• Mekong Delta Explorer ($250–$400/person, 2–3 days): Bún Nước Lèo, Bánh Pía, pagodas, markets, eco-tours across Soc Trang. Includes all activities, meals, and eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, entrance fees, and meals/snacks. Enjoy 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book now via links around this page

Soc Trang Region, Can Tho City, a Mekong Delta gem 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City, captivates with its top 10 dishes, from soul-warming Bún Nước Lèo ($1–$2, 25,000–50,000 VND) to crispy Bánh Cóng ($0.50–$1, 12,500–25,000 VND) and aromatic Khô Trâu Thạnh Trị ($5–$10, 125,000–250,000 VND), offering a flavorful journey through its Kinh, Khmer, and Hoa heritage. Savor these specialties at bustling Nga Nam Market, festive stalls during the Oc Om Boc Festival(mid-10th lunar month), or local eateries like Bún Nước Lèo Trang (23 Dã Tượng, Phường 6). Each bite, from the fishy-sweet broth of Bún Nước Lèo with mắm bò hóc to Bánh Cóng’s shrimp-topped crunch, tells a story of cultural unity. Legend Travel Group’s Soc Trang Tours ensure a sustainable Soc Trang Travel experience, blending eco-friendly food tours with visits to Chùa Dơi and Nga Nam Floating Market, supporting local artisans and preserving Soc Trang’s legacy. Contact Legend Travel Group at www.legendtravelgroup.com, info@legendtravelgroup.com, or (+84) 825862222 to browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to taste Soc Trang’s iconic dishes? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable culinary journey!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources:

• Soc Trang Culinary Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamnews.vn, vietravel.com, mytour.vn, timtour.vn, vemekong.com, vietnamtourism.org.vn