Phu Yen Cuisine Guide: Sustainable Food Tours in Tuy Hoa

Overview

Discover Phu Yen’s delicious dishes, from Cá Nục Hấp to Cháo Hàu! Explore costs, top eateries, and Legend Travel Group’s sustainable food tours in Tuy Hoa. Book your culinary adventure now!

Bo mot nang - Dive into the smoky charm of Dak Lak Travel

Why Savor Phu Yen’s Cuisine in Tuy Hoa?

Squid noodle "Bún Mực" - Capture the sustainable charm of Dak Lak’s ecotourism (Source: Internet)

A Culinary Fusion of Sea and Forest

Phu Yen, a coastal gem with Tuy Hoa as its vibrant hub, located 450 km northeast of Ho Chi Minh City and 560 km south of Hanoi, is renowned for its cuisine that blends the briny flavors of the South China Sea with the earthy notes of its highlands. Following Vietnam’s 2025 administrative merger with Dak Lak Province, Phu Yen’s culinary scene, featuring dishes like Cá Nục Hấp, Bún Sứa, and Bò Một Nắng, attracts over 1.18 million visitors annually, with dishes priced at $1.50–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND). This gastronomic haven is a must-visit for eco-conscious foodies seeking authentic Central Vietnamese flavors.

Rooted in Tuy Hoa’s fishing and farming traditions, Phu Yen’s cuisine reflects sustainable practices, from regulated seafood sourcing to biodegradable packaging. The tropical climate (dry season: January–August, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F; rainy season: September–December, 20–28°C or 68–82.4°F) supports year-round dining. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly food tours immerse you in Phu Yen’s culinary treasures, supporting local communities and aligning with Vietnam’s 2030 tourism goals. Book via links in this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Note

Vietnam’s 2025 restructuring merged Phu Yen into Dak Lak Province, with Phu Yen and Tuy Hoa now wards. Tuy Hoa remains Phu Yen’s culinary capital, easily accessible and enhanced by regional connectivity with Dak Lak’s highlands.

Why Choose Legend Travel Group?

Rice spaghetti combined with chives "Bún chả Cá" - Photograph the savory allure of Dak Lak’s heritage (Source: Internet)

With over 17 years as Southeast Asia’s leading sustainable tourism operator, Legend Travel Group crafts eco-friendly culinary tours in Phu Yen, blending gastronomic exploration with cultural immersion. Our low-impact transport (electric scooters, bicycles) and English-speaking guides share insights on local seafood traditions, sustainable farming, and green practices. Supporting Tuy Hoa’s fishers and artisans, our tours align with Vietnam’s sustainability goals, contributing to the region’s 685,612 overnight visitors in Q1 2025. Enjoy transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support. Sign up for a Legend Travel Group account to track our guides and book eco-tours via links on this page

Phu Yen’s Cuisine: A Sea-to-Forest Feast

Tuna Soup "Súp mắt cá Ngừ" (Source: Internet)

Phu Yen’s cuisine, centered in Tuy Hoa, showcases a vibrant fusion of coastal seafood and highland ingredients, rooted in the region’s 189-km coastline and fertile Van Hoa Plateau. Signature dishes include Sò Huyết from O Loan Lagoon, Sup Mắt Cá Ngừ with medicinal herbs, and Bánh Xèo stuffed with fresh shrimp. Sustainable practices, such as regulated aquaculture and organic vegetable farming in Ngoc Lang, ensure freshness and environmental care. From bustling markets to serene homestays, Phu Yen’s culinary scene, celebrated in festivals like Lunar April’s seafood events, offers an authentic taste of Central Vietnam’s soul.

Top 10 Eco-Friendly Culinary Experiences in Phu Yen

Steamed Round Scad "Cá Nục hấp" (Source: Internet)

These sustainable dishes and activities, costing $1.50–$15, blend flavor and culture:

1. Sò Huyết (Blood Cockles) at O Loan Lagoon

Savor charcoal-grilled cockles with salt-pepper-lime dip, best at 5:00 PM, costing $1.50–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) at lagoon-side stalls.

Cost: $1.50–$3; boat dining $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 4:00 PM–8:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Choose stalls with biodegradable utensils; support local fishers.
Tip: Try at Quan Cau Pass; included in Legend Travel Group’s O Loan Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

2. Sup Mắt Cá Ngừ (Tuna Eye Soup)

Taste herb-infused tuna eye soup, best at 6:00 PM, costing $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) at Tuy Hoa eateries.

Cost: $2–$5; market visits free.
Hours: Daily, 5:00 PM–9:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Choose eateries with biodegradable serveware; support local vendors.
Tip: Visit “30 Tháng 4” Square; included in Legend Travel Group’s Phu Yen Culinary Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

3. Cá Nục Hấp (Steamed Round Scad)

Enjoy steamed round scad with rice paper and fish sauce dip, best at 6:00 PM, costing $1.50–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

Cost: $1.50–$3; market visits free.
Hours: Daily, 5:00 PM–9:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Support sustainable fishing; use reusable containers.
Tip: Try at Phuoc Dong Market; included in Legend Travel Group’s Phu Yen Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

4. Bún Sứa (Jellyfish Noodle Salad)

Relish crunchy jellyfish salad with herbs, best at 12:00 PM, costing $1.50–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

Cost: $1.50–$3; market visits free.
Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM–3:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Choose vendors with biodegradable packaging; support local fishers.
Tip: Visit Nguyen Cong Tru Street; included in Legend Travel Group’s Phu Yen Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

5. Cháo Hàu (Oyster Porridge)

Start your day with creamy oyster porridge, best at 7:00 AM, costing $1.50–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

Cost: $1.50–$3; market visits free.
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–10:00 AM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Support sustainable aquaculture; use biodegradable bowls.
Tip: Try at Tuy Hoa Central Market; included in Legend Travel Group’s Phu Yen Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

6. Bún Mực (Squid Noodle Soup)

Savor squid noodle soup with pineapple broth, best at 6:00 PM, costing $1.50–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

Cost: $1.50–$3; market visits free.
Hours: Daily, 5:00 PM–9:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Choose eco-friendly eateries; support local fishers.
Tip: Try at “30 Tháng 4” Square; included in Legend Travel Group’s Phu Yen Culinary Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

7. Bún Chả Cá (Fish Cake Noodle Soup)

Enjoy chewy noodles with chive-topped fish cakes, best at 7:00 AM, costing $1.50–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

Cost: $1.50–$3; market visits free.
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–10:00 AM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Support sustainable fishing; use reusable containers.
Tip: Visit Le Thanh Ton Street; included in Legend Travel Group’s Phu Yen Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

8. Bánh Xèo (Crispy Pancakes)

Taste shrimp-stuffed pancakes, best at 5:00 PM, costing $1.50–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

Cost: $1.50–$3; market visits free.
Hours: Daily, 4:00 PM–8:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Choose vendors with biodegradable plates; support local farmers.
Tip: Try at Tuy Hoa night market; included in Legend Travel Group’s Phu Yen Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

9. Cơm Gà (Chicken Rice)

Relish yellow rice with tender chicken and fish sauce dip, best at 6:00 PM, costing $1.50–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

Cost: $1.50–$3; market visits free.
Hours: Daily, 5:00 PM–9:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Support free-range farming; use eco-friendly packaging.
Tip: Visit Le Thanh Ton Street; included in Legend Travel Group’s Phu Yen Culinary Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

10. Bò Một Nắng (Sun-Dried Beef)

Grill sun-dried beef with yellow ant salt, best at 6:00 PM, costing $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).

Cost: $2–$5; market visits free.
Hours: Daily, 5:00 PM–9:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Support sustainable ranching; use biodegradable serveware.
Tip: Try at Tuy Hoa Central Market; included in Legend Travel Group’s Phu Yen Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

Best Time to Enjoy Phu Yen’s Cuisine

Porridge combined with oysters "Cháo Hàu" (Source: Internet)

Visit from January to August for dry, warm weather (22–30°C or 71.6–86°F), ideal for market tours and outdoor dining. The rainy season (September–December) enhances coastal greenery but may require rain gear. Weekdays (Monday–Thursday) see 50–150 visitors at eateries, compared to 200–600 during weekends and Lunar April’s seafood festivals. Early mornings (6:00–9:00 AM) are best for breakfast dishes like Cháo Hàu, while evenings (5:00–8:00 PM) suit dinner specialties like Cá Nục Hấp.

How to Get to Tuy Hoa for Phu Yen’s Cuisine

Phu Yen pancakes "Bánh Xèo" (Source: Internet)

Tuy Hoa, in Phu Yen, is 450 km from Ho Chi Minh City (7–8 hours) and 560 km from Hanoi (9–10 hours):

By Private Car: Drive 7–8 hours from Ho Chi Minh City via National Highway 1A, costing $80–$120 (2,000,000–3,000,000 VND) round-trip for 4 people. Book via Legend Travel Group.
By Electric Taxi (Xanh SM): Eco-friendly VinFast taxis, 7–8 hours from Ho Chi Minh City, $70–$100 (1,750,000–2,500,000 VND) one-way. Use Xanh SM app.
By Motorcycle: Ride from Ho Chi Minh City, 7–8 hours, $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND) fuel; rental $7–$12/day (175,000–300,000 VND). Helmets mandatory (fines up to $40 or 1,000,000 VND).
By Public Bus: Sleeper buses from Ho Chi Minh City to Tuy Hoa (7–8 hours, $10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND) via Phuong Trang. Book online.
By Train: SE trains to Tuy Hoa Station from Ho Chi Minh City (8–9 hours, $15–$25 or 375,000–625,000 VND). Book via Vietnam Railways.
By Flight: Fly to Tuy Hoa Airport (VTS) from Ho Chi Minh City (1 hour, $30–$60 or 750,000–1,500,000 VND), then Xanh SM taxi to city center (15 min, $3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND).
Navigation Tip: Save “Tuy Hoa, Phu Yen” in offline maps (Maps.me); follow signs to Tuy Hoa Central Market. Parking: $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Note: Xanh SM taxis or trains reduce emissions; bicycles in Tuy Hoa minimize impact.
Safety: Secure valuables; confirm taxi fares.

What to Bring for Your Phu Yen Culinary Adventure

Jellyfish Noodles "Nộm Sứa" (Source: Internet)

Pack these essentials for a sustainable trip:

Clothing: Light layers, comfortable shoes; waterproof jacket ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND) for rainy season.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses.
Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5), mosquito repellent ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), hand sanitizer ($0.50).
Tech Gear: Smartphone with Grab/Xanh SM apps, offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10).
Culinary Gear: Small backpack, reusable tote for market purchases ($1–$2).
Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).
Eco-Friendly Items: Biodegradable wipes; reusable containers for leftovers.
Extras: Cash for vendors; notebook for recipe notes.
Tip: Carry small VND notes for dining ($1.50–$5) or souvenirs ($2–$5).

Costs and Budget Planning

The cockles in O Loan lagoon "Sò huyết" - Capture the briny essence of Dak Lak’s coastal gem (Source: Internet)

Costs for Phu Yen Culinary Experiences

Culinary and Activity Fees

Dishes (e.g., Sò Huyết, Cá Nục Hấp): $1.50–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
Cooking Class: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Market Tour: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND).
Eco-Homestay with Meal: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).
Festival Dishes: $1.50–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
Snacks (e.g., Sticky Rice): $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).
Drinks (Water, Coffee): $0.30–$1 (7,000–25,000 VND).
Souvenirs (e.g., Local Crafts): $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).
Guided Eco-Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

Transportation (Round-Trip, from Tuy Hoa Center)

Private Car: $5–$8 (125,000–200,000 VND).
Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $6–$10 (150,000–250,000 VND).
Motorcycle: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND) fuel; rental $7–$12/day.
Bicycle Rental: $2–$5/day (50,000–125,000 VND).
Walking: Free.
Parking: $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND).
SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person, from Tuy Hoa)

Budget: $5–$15 (walking, dining).
Mid-range: $20–$35 (taxi, dining, cooking class).
Luxury: $50–$80 (private car, premium tour, homestay).
Tip: Budget for dining ($1.50–$5) and transport ($0–$10); carry cash for vendors (no cards accepted).

Practical Tips for Enjoying Phu Yen’s Cuisine

Chicken rice or "Cơm gà" (Source: Internet)

Timing: Visit markets at 6:00–9:00 AM for fresh ingredients; January–August for dry weather. Weekdays for fewer crowds (50–150 vs. 200–600 during festivals). Plan for Lunar April’s seafood festivals.
Booking: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead for guided culinary experiences. Book cooking classes at Tuy Hoa Central Market.
Sustainability: Choose vendors with biodegradable packaging; bring reusable containers. Support local fishers for snacks ($0.50–$2) or crafts ($2–$5).
Navigation: Save “Tuy Hoa Central Market, Phu Yen” in offline maps; ask locals for eateries on Le Thanh Ton or Nguyen Cong Tru Streets.
Safety: Secure valuables; confirm taxi fares. Verify dish authenticity at eateries.
Weather: Dry season for easy market visits; rainy season needs rain gear ($3–$7) and waterproof bags ($3–$7). Check AccuWeather.
Cultural Respect: Greet with “xin chào”; respect vendor spaces. Avoid haggling excessively.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50); carry mosquito repellent and sanitizer.

Legend Travel Group’s Sustainable Food Tours

Sun-dried Beef or "Bò một nắng" (Source: Internet)

Our eco-friendly tours showcase Phu Yen’s culinary diversity:

Phu Yen Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Electric scooter from Tuy Hoa for Sò Huyết, Sup Mắt Cá Ngừ, and cooking class, with local lunch ($1.50–$5). Includes guide, transport.
Phu Yen Culinary Eco-Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Cá Nục Hấp, Bún Sứa, O Loan Lagoon, and eco-homestay. Includes meals, eco-transfers.
Phu Yen Coastal & Culinary Explorer ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Bò Một Nắng, Ganh Da Dia, Tuy Hoa markets, and homestays. Includes meals, guides. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Sign up for an account to track tours and book now via links!

Conclusion

Phu Yen’s cuisine in Tuy Hoa Ward, Dak Lak Province (formerly Phu Yen), captivates with dishes like Sò Huyết’s briny sweetness from O Loan Lagoon and Bò Một Nắng’s smoky richness with tangy muối kiến vàng, priced at $1.50–$5 (37,500–125,000 VND), drawing 1.18 million visitors in Q1 2025, located 440 km from Ho Chi Minh City. This culinary haven blends coastal and highland heritage with sustainable practices, including eco-friendly dining at Tuy Hoa Market and regulated seafood sourcing from Vung Ro Bay. Legend Travel Group’s Dak Lak Tours ensure a green, immersive Dak Lak Travel experience, guiding you through market tastings, homestay dining in Son Hoa District, and visits to cultural sites like Ganh Da Dia and Nhan Ancient Tower. Don’t miss out—sign up for a Legend Travel Group account, browse our featured tours, and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to savor Phu Yen’s delicious dishes in Tuy Hoa, Dak Lak? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable culinary eco-adventure!

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.

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