Halong Bay Cuisine: Top Dishes, Costs & Eco-Tours

Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Halong Region, Vietnam, is renowned for its breathtaking limestone karsts and emerald waters, but its vibrant cuisine is equally captivating. Rooted in the Gulf of Tonkin’s rich seafood bounty and the region’s coal-mining heritage, Halong Bay’s dishes, like Bề Bề Noodle, pure squid patties, and Bánh Mì Mỏ, offer a unique blend of coastal and cultural flavors. From bustling markets to serene fishing villages, the region’s culinary scene reflects its maritime traditions and innovative spirit. Following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, Ha Long City has transitioned into Halong Region, reinforcing its global tourism prominence while prioritizing sustainability. Aligned with Quang Ninh’s “Green Tourism” initiative, Halong Bay promotes eco-friendly dining through sustainable fisheries and community-supported markets. Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours pair culinary experiences with responsible exploration—book your adventure via the links throughout this guide!

Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, specializes in sustainable Southeast Asia journeys, emphasizing environmental and cultural preservation. Our Halong Bay tours feature eco-friendly transport—electric boats, bamboo rowboats, and low-emission shuttles—guided by local experts who share the region’s culinary and cultural heritage. Supporting communities in Halong Region and Van Don, we align with Quang Ninh’s sustainability goals. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless experience. Contact us at sales@legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp +84825862222 to book eco-tours and savor Halong Bay’s cuisine responsibly!

Vietnam’s administrative reorganization has integrated Ha Long City into Halong Region under Quang Ninh Province, enhancing access to Halong Bay’s culinary hubs, including Hạ Long Market, Cai Rong Night Market, and Bãi Cháy’s eateries. Supported by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND1.7 trillion coastal preservation project—Halong Region facilitates eco-conscious dining and exploration, making it a premier destination for food lovers.

Halong Bay’s cuisine is a celebration of fresh seafood, unique local specialties, and mining-inspired dishes. Below are the must-try dishes, with details on where to enjoy them, costs, and sustainable dining tips:

1. Pure Squid Patties (Chả Mực)

A Halong Bay icon, pure squid patties are made from fresh squid caught in local waters, hand-pounded with pepper and dill, then fried to golden perfection. Their crispy exterior and fragrant, chewy interior are unforgettable.

• Where to Try: Hạ Long Market stalls ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND per serving) or onboard eco-cruises like Indochina Junk ($10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND, included in meals).

• Sustainability: Sourced from local fishers using low-impact methods.

• Tip: Dip in spicy fish sauce with sticky rice, included in our Halong Bay Foodie Cruise ($85–$120).

2. Bề Bề Noodle (Bún Bề Bề)

A warming seafood dish, Bề Bề Noodle features sweet mantis shrimp over rice noodles in a tangy, tamarind-infused broth, topped with fried tofu, shrimp, squid, and vegetables. Perfect for autumn or winter.

• Where to Try: Bãi Cháy eateries like Quán Bún Hải Sản ($1.50–$3 or 37,500–75,000 VND) or Vung Vieng Fishing Village ($3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND).

• Sustainability: Mantis shrimp are sustainably harvested from local waters.

• Tip: Add chili and fresh herbs for extra zest, included in our Halong Bay Heritage Cruise ($100–$150).

3. Nodding Cake (Bánh Gật Gù)

A Quang Ninh specialty, Bánh Gật Gù is a soft, sticky rice roll resembling banh cuon, served with minced pork, fried shallots, and fish sauce dip. Its name, meaning “nodding,” comes from its pliable texture.

• Where to Try: Cai Rong Night Market, Van Don ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND) or local Bãi Cháy stalls ($1.50–$2.50 or 37,500–62,500 VND).

• Sustainability: Made with locally sourced rice, supporting regional farmers.

• Tip: Pair with Vietnamese iced coffee ($0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND), included in our Halong Bay Discovery Tour ($90–$130).

4. Tien Yen Hill Chicken (Gà Đồi Tiên Yên)

From Tien Yen, this free-range “hill chicken” is prized for its firm, sweet meat and crispy, golden skin. Boiled or steamed, it offers a pure, aromatic flavor unique to the region.

• Where to Try: Tien Yen restaurants like Quán Gà Đồi ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND per dish) or Halong Bay cruises ($15–$25 or 375,000–625,000 VND, included in meals).

• Sustainability: Raised naturally by local farmers, preserving traditional methods.

• Tip: Enjoy with lime-salt dip, included in our Halong Bay Eco-Cruise ($95–$140).

5. Seafood Medley

Halong Bay’s seafood bounty includes peanut worms (sá sùng), sea crabs, snails, oysters, surf clams, shrimp, and geoduck, served grilled, steamed, or stir-fried.

• Where to Try: Hạ Long Market ($1–$40 or 25,000–1,000,000 VND for oysters to crabs), Cai Rong Night Market ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND for snails), or cruises like Dragon Legend ($10–$50 or 250,000–1,250,000 VND, included in meals).

• Sustainability: Sourced from local fisheries and farms, ensuring eco-friendly practices.

• Tip: Try grilled oysters or tamarind crab, included in our Halong Bay Luxury Tour ($250–$400).

6. Bánh Mì Mỏ

A coal miners’ delicacy, Bánh Mì Mỏ is a small, golden baguette with a crispy crust and soft, sweet interior, made with milk and eggs. Originating in Mạo Khê’s mines, it’s a cultural staple.

• Where to Try: Hạ Long Market or Cẩm Phả bakeries ($0.50–$1.50 or 12,500–37,500 VND per piece) or cruise breakfasts ($80–$200 or 2,000,000–5,000,000 VND for 2D1N, meals included).

• Sustainability: Supports mining communities and local bakeries.

• Tip: Spread with butter for a simple treat, included in our Halong Bay Foodie Cruise ($85–$120).

• Hạ Long Market: A bustling hub for Bánh Mì Mỏ, pure squid patties, and seafood ($0.50–$40 or 12,500–1,000,000 VND). Accessible by taxi from Hon Gai Port ($5–$8 or 125,000–200,000 VND round-trip).

• Cai Rong Night Market (Van Don): Offers Bề Bề Noodle and grilled seafood ($1.50–$6 or 37,500–150,000 VND), 40 km from Halong Bay (shuttle bus $10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND round-trip).

• Bãi Cháy Eateries: Coastal restaurants serve Bề Bề Noodle and nodding cake ($1.50–$5 or 37,500–125,000 VND), 10 km from Hon Gai Port (taxi $5–$8 or 125,000–200,000 VND round-trip).

• Vung Vieng Fishing Village: Floating restaurants offer seafood and Bề Bề Noodle ($3–$30 or 75,000–750,000 VND), reached via bamboo boat tours ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).

• Eco-Cruises: Operators like Indochina Junk serve seafood feasts, pure squid patties, and Bánh Mì Mỏ ($80–$200 or 2,000,000–5,000,000 VND for 2D1N, meals included).

Tip: Dine on an eco-cruise for curated, sustainable meals, included in our Halong Bay Foodie Cruise ($85–$120).

Below are approximate costs for a sustainable culinary experience in Halong Bay:

• Dishes:

  • Market Stalls (Hạ Long, Cai Rong): $0.50–$6 (12,500–150,000 VND) for Bánh Mì Mỏ, nodding cake, or squid patties.

  • Restaurants (Bãi Cháy, Vung Vieng): $1.50–$30 (37,500–750,000 VND) for Bề Bề Noodle, hill chicken, or seafood.

  • Eco-Cruise Menus: Included in cruise packages ($80–$200 or 2,000,000–5,000,000 VND for 2D1N; $120–$350 or 3,000,000–8,750,000 VND for 3D2N). Premium dishes like geoduck cost $25–$50 (625,000–1,250,000 VND).

• Transportation:

  • Shuttle Bus (Hanoi to Hon Gai/Van Don): $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) one-way.

  • Private Car/Limousine: $50–$120 (1,250,000–3,000,000 VND) one-way for 2–4 people.

  • Local Taxi (e.g., Bãi Cháy to Hạ Long Market): $5–$8 (125,000–200,000 VND) round-trip.

  • Seaplane: $400 (10,000,000 VND) one-way.

• Accommodation (if not on a cruise):

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

  • Budget Hotels: $15–$30/night (375,000–750,000 VND).

  • Mid-Range Hotels: $30–$80/night (750,000–2,000,000 VND).

• Activities:

  • Bamboo Boat Tour (Vung Vieng): $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Cooking Class: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

  • Market Tours: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Drinks:

  • Bottled Water/Coconut Juice: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

  • Local Beer: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Total Daily Budget (per person, excluding cruise):

  • Budget Traveler: $20–$35 (500,000–875,000 VND).

  • Mid-Range Traveler: $40–$80 (1,000,000–2,000,000 VND).

  • Luxury Traveler: $100–$300 (2,500,000–7,500,000 VND).

Tip: Choose an all-inclusive cruise with culinary experiences to simplify costs, included in our Halong Bay Eco-Tour ($95–$140).

To ensure a comfortable and eco-friendly culinary experience, pack thoughtfully based on the season and activities:

• Clothing:

  • Spring/Autumn (March–May, September–November): Lightweight, breathable clothing (t-shirts, shorts, long pants for cultural sites), a light jacket for cooler evenings, and comfortable shoes for market visits.

  • Summer (June–August): Light clothing, sandals, and a hat for sun protection.

  • Winter (December–February): Warm layers (sweaters, fleece), a waterproof jacket, scarf, and closed-toe shoes for foggy days.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND), sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat for daytime market trips.

• Rain Gear (Summer): Lightweight raincoat ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND), waterproof bag, and umbrella for showers.

• Eco-Friendly Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), biodegradable toiletries, and a reusable tote to minimize plastic waste at markets.

• Dining Gear: Reusable straw or utensils for street food to reduce waste; a small container for leftovers ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND).

• Cultural Respect: Modest clothing (long pants, covered shoulders) for visiting fishing villages like Vung Vieng.

• Miscellaneous: Camera or smartphone for food photography, power bank, and offline maps (Maps.me) for navigating markets.

Tip: Pack light to reduce your environmental footprint, included in our Halong Bay Foodie Cruise ($85–$120).

• Book Early: Reserve eco-tours via Legend Travel Group 1–2 months in advance for peak seasons (March–May, September–November) to secure culinary-focused cruises or market tours.

• Sustainability: Choose dishes from local eateries or cruises sourcing from sustainable fisheries; avoid single-use plastics at markets to align with Quang Ninh’s green goals.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) for Halong Region, Hạ Long Market, and Cai Rong; save Hạ Long Market as a landmark for culinary stops.

• Safety: Ensure food is freshly prepared to avoid foodborne issues; wash hands before eating street food. Carry hand sanitizer ($1 or 25,000 VND).

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly at village eateries (long pants, covered shoulders); say “cảm ơn” (thank you) to vendors.

• Health: Stay hydrated with bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); avoid tap water with street food.

Our sustainable tours offer curated culinary experiences in Halong Bay, emphasizing local specialties:

• Halong Bay Foodie Cruise (2D1N, $85–$120/person): Bề Bề Noodle, pure squid patties, and Bánh Mì Mỏ tastings, cooking class, and Cai Rong Night Market visit with shuttle bus transfers. Includes eco-transfers, meals, and guide.

• Halong Bay Explorer (2D1N, $95–$140/person): Overnight cruise to Vung Vieng Fishing Village, Thien Canh Son Cave, and Tien Yen hill chicken lunch with kayaking. Includes guide, meals, and eco-transfers.

• Halong Bay Immersion (3D2N, $150–$300/person): Two-night cruise to Ba Mun Island, Minh Chau Beach, and seafood medley at Hạ Long Market. Includes guide, meals, and eco-transfers.

• Halong Bay Heritage Cruise (2D1N, $100–$150/person): Vung Vieng Fishing Village, nodding cake dining, and Cua Ong Temple visit with private car transfers. Includes lunch and guide.

• Halong Bay Discovery (2D1N, $90–$130/person): Hạ Long Market culinary tour, Quan Lan Island cycling, and Tuan Chau cultural shows. Includes snacks and guide.

• Halong Bay Luxury Tour (3D2N, $250–$400/person): Seaplane transfer, luxury cruise with gourmet seafood and Bánh Mì Mỏ breakfast, and Ba Mun rainforest hike. Includes meals and guide.

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

Halong Bay’s cuisine in Quang Ninh Province, a UNESCO World Heritage Site 160 km from Hanoi, offers a flavorful journey through its coastal and mining heritage, drawing thousands yearly. Savor fragrant pure squid patties (chả mực, $1–$3, 25,000–75,000 VND) at Hạ Long Market, hearty Bề Bề Noodle (bún bề bề, $1.50–$3, 37,500–75,000 VND) at spots like Bún Bề Bề Huy Chiên, or rustic Bánh Mì Mỏ ($0.50–$1, 12,500–25,000 VND), reflecting the region’s mining roots. Dining at Vung Vieng’s floating restaurants or on eco-cruises blends fresh seafood with sustainable practices like responsibly sourced ingredients and low-waste dining. Legend Travel Group’s Quang Ninh Tours ensure a sustainable Quang Ninh Travel experience, offering curated culinary adventures with visits to Cai Dam Food Street and cultural sites like Thien Canh Son Cave. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly culinary adventure today!
Ready to savor Halong Bay’s culinary treasures in Quang Ninh? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in Vietnam’s coastal flavors!

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:

• Halong Bay Cuisine Information: vietnamnomad.com, gtrip.vn, hanoilocaltour.com, paradisevietnam.com, vietnamdiscovery.com, getyourguide.com, indochinatour.com, orientalsails.com, emperorcruises.com, baithojunks.com, halongbaycruises.com