Savor Nam Dinh’s Culinary Scene: Top Local Restaurants & Street Food in Ninh Binh Province

The Nam Dinh region, now a ward of Ninh Binh Province following Vietnam’s administrative merger, is a culinary haven in the Red River Delta, celebrated for its rich flavors and cultural heritage. From the iconic Nam Dinh phở to savory bánh xíu páo and vibrant street food stalls, this region offers a delightful mix of traditional eateries and bustling food markets. Whether you’re savoring a bowl of steaming noodles or indulging in grilled seafood by Thinh Long Beach, Nam Dinh’s cuisine captivates both local and international travelers. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, invites you to explore this gastronomic paradise through our eco-friendly food tours—book via links throughout this guide. Discover the best local restaurants, street food experiences, costs, and travel tips for an unforgettable culinary journey in Ninh Binh’s Nam Dinh region.

Nam Dinh’s culinary scene is a compelling reason to visit:

• Authentic Flavors: Iconic dishes like Nam Dinh phở and xôi xíu showcase the region’s unique blend of sweet, savory, and aromatic profiles.

• Street Food Culture: Bustling stalls offer affordable, freshly prepared delicacies, from bánh mì chân cầu to barbecued meats.

• Cultural Heritage: Family-run restaurants and markets reflect Nam Dinh’s agricultural and coastal traditions.

• Sustainable Dining: Legend Travel Group’s tours partner with local vendors to promote eco-conscious practices and support communities.

• Diverse Options: From upscale restaurants to roadside eateries, there’s something for every palate and budget.

Our sustainable tours, displayed around this article, ensure an authentic dining experience while supporting Ninh Binh’s culinary heritage. Book now to taste Nam Dinh’s flavors responsibly!

Following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, the former Nam Dinh Province is now a ward within Ninh Binh Province, with Ninh Binh City as the provincial hub. The district level has been abolished, enhancing infrastructure and access to Nam Dinh’s dining hotspots. This guide refers to the Nam Dinh region, ensuring seamless planning within Ninh Binh’s tourism framework.

1. Phở Cường

A legendary spot in Giao Cù village, renowned for its authentic Nam Dinh phở, featuring a sweet, aromatic broth and tender beef.

• Must-Try: Phở bò (beef noodle soup).

• Cost: ~50,000–70,000 VND (~$2–$2.80 USD/bowl).

• Location: Giao Cù, Nam Dinh region.

• Highlights: “The best phở in Vietnam” (Tripadvisor, 4.7/5 stars).

• Tip: Visit early morning (6:00–9:00 AM) for the freshest broth; add quẩy (fried dough sticks) for ~10,000 VND (~$0.40 USD).

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Phở Foodie Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD) includes a visit to Phở Cường.

2. Quán Hải Sản Tươi Sống

A coastal gem near Thinh Long Beach, offering fresh seafood dishes like grilled shrimp and steamed crab in a scenic setting.

• Must-Try: Tôm nướng (grilled shrimp).

• Cost: ~100,000–300,000 VND (~$4–$12 USD/dish).

• Location: Hai Hau, Nam Dinh region.

• Highlights: “Seafood paradise with beach views” (Vietnam Tourism, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tip: Dine at sunset; bring cash for smaller vendors.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Foodie Coastal Tour (~1,750,000 VND, ~$70 USD) includes seafood dining.

3. Phở Tăng

A cozy eatery known for its robust phở broth and generous beef portions, located centrally in the Nam Dinh region.

• Must-Try: Phở tái (rare beef noodle soup).

• Cost: ~60,000–80,000 VND (~$2.40–$3.20 USD/bowl).

• Location: Nam Dinh region center.

• Highlights: “Soul-warming flavors” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tip: Arrive for lunch (11:00 AM–1:00 PM); request extra herbs for no charge.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Culinary Explorer Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD) includes a stop at Phở Tăng.

4. Nhà Hàng Hương Quê

A modern restaurant in Ninh Binh City, offering local specialties like mountain goat and burnt rice in a luxurious setting.

• Must-Try: Dê núi (mountain goat with ginger sauce).

• Cost: ~150,000–400,000 VND (~$6–$16 USD/dish).

• Location: 05 Nguyen Luong Bang, Ninh Binh City (near Nam Dinh region).

• Highlights: “Upscale yet authentic” (Hanoi Explore Travel, 4.4/5 stars).

• Tip: Ideal for groups; book tables for peak hours (6:00–8:00 PM).

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Ninh Binh Food Tour (~1,750,000 VND, ~$70 USD) includes Hương Quê dining.

1. Bánh Mì Chân Cầu at Đỗ Quang Bridge

Savor this iconic “under bridge” sandwich with stir-fried pâté, eggs, cucumber, and pickled veggies at vibrant stalls.

• Cost: ~15,000–25,000 VND (~$0.60–$1 USD/sandwich).

• Location: Phan Đình Phùng Street, near Đỗ Quang Bridge.

• Highlights: “Addictive street food” (Foody.vn, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tip: Visit at dawn (5:00–7:00 AM) or evening (6:00–9:00 PM); pair with iced tea (~10,000 VND, ~$0.40 USD).

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Street Food Adventure Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD) includes bánh mì tasting.

2. Xôi Xíu at Thai Lien Sticky Rice Stall

Enjoy sticky rice topped with char siu pork and a savory meat sauce, a breakfast favorite for over 40 years.

• Cost: ~15,000–25,000 VND (~$0.60–$1 USD/bowl).

• Location: Bac Ninh Street, Nam Dinh region.

• Highlights: “A local institution” (Vietnam Tourism, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tip: Morning visits (6:00–8:00 AM) for freshness; add chili sauce for extra flavor.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Foodie Trail Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD) includes xôi xíu stops.

3. Bánh Xíu Páo at Xíu Páo Dư Dư

Taste this flaky pastry with char siu pork and boiled egg, a unique Nam Dinh snack with Chinese influences.

• Cost: ~10,000–15,000 VND (~$0.40–$0.60 USD/piece).

• Location: Hoang Van Thu Street, Nam Dinh region.

• Highlights: “Crispy and savory perfection” (Foody.vn, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tip: Buy fresh in the morning (7:00–10:00 AM); ideal for souvenirs.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Nam Dinh Snack Tour (~1,000,000 VND, ~$40 USD) includes bánh xíu páo tasting.

4. Grilled BBQ and Hotpot on Dong A Street

Indulge in smoky grilled meats and communal hotpot at lively street stalls, a favorite for evening dining.

• Cost: ~100,000–200,000 VND (~$4–$8 USD/person).

• Location: Dong A Street, Nam Dinh region.

• Highlights: “Vibrant street food scene” (Tripadvisor, 4.4/5 stars).

• Tip: Evening visits (6:00–9:00 PM) for the best atmosphere; groups of 4+ ideal for hotpot.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Street BBQ Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD) includes Dong A Street dining.

• Timing:

  • Morning (6:00–9:00 AM): Best for phở and xôi xíu at stalls like Phở Cường and Thai Lien; freshest ingredients.

  • Evening (6:00–9:00 PM): Ideal for street food on Dong A Street or Đỗ Quang Bridge; lively atmosphere.

• Navigation:

  • Use offline maps (e.g., Maps.me) to locate eateries; many are in central Nam Dinh or near Thinh Long Beach.

  • Combine dining with nearby attractions (e.g., Tran Temple ~10 km from Phở Cường) for efficient itineraries.

• Language: English may be limited; bring a translation app or book a guided tour for ease.

• Hygiene: Choose busy stalls with high turnover for fresh food; carry hand sanitizer.

• Sustainability: Support family-run businesses; use reusable utensils to reduce waste; opt for Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours.

• Cost:

  • Street food: ~10,000–80,000 VND (~$0.40–$3.20 USD).

  • Restaurant dishes: ~100,000–400,000 VND (~$4–$16 USD).

  • Drinks: ~10,000–30,000 VND (~$0.40–$1.20 USD).

From Hanoi (90–100 km, ~1.5–2 hours)

• Bus: Giap Bat Station to Nam Dinh City (~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD), then taxi (~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD).

• Train: Reunification Express to Nam Dinh Station (~75,000–150,000 VND, ~$3–$6 USD), then taxi (~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD).

• Motorbike: Rental ~100,000–250,000 VND (~$4–$10 USD/day), fuel ~50,000 VND (~$2 USD).

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Foodie Transport Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD) includes eco-transfers.

From Ho Chi Minh City (1,300 km, ~4–5 hours by flight + road)

• Flight + Road: Fly to Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport (~750,000–1,750,000 VND, ~$30–$70 USD), then bus/taxi (~200,000–1,200,000 VND, ~$8–$48 USD).

• Train + Road: Reunification Express to Nam Dinh (~750,000–2,000,000 VND, ~$30–$80 USD, 32–35 hours), then taxi (~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD).

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Flight & Food Tour (~3,500,000 VND, ~$140 USD) includes flights and transfers.

From Ninh Binh City Center (15–30 km, ~20–45 minutes)

• Motorbike: ~120,000–200,000 VND (~$5–$8 USD/day), fuel ~20,000 VND (~$0.80 USD).

• Taxi/Grab: ~100,000–150,000 VND (~$4–$6 USD/trip).

• Bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day), ~45–60 minutes.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Local Food Tour (~1,000,000 VND, ~$40 USD) includes transfers.

Within the Nam Dinh Region (1–15 km, ~5–30 minutes)

• Bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day).

• Motorbike: ~120,000–200,000 VND (~$5–$8 USD/day), fuel ~10,000–20,000 VND (~$0.40–$0.80 USD).

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Street Food Shuttle (~750,000 VND, ~$30 USD) includes eco-transfers.

Route Tip: Use Highway 38B for central Nam Dinh eateries or 37B for coastal spots like Thinh Long; offline maps recommended. Parking: ~5,000–15,000 VND (~$0.20–$0.60 USD/motorbike).

• Plan Ahead: Book tours 1–2 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group or Baolau.com (+84 938 123 456), especially during festivals (lunar January–March).

• Budget Wisely: Expect ~500,000–1,750,000 VND (~$20–$70 USD/day) for dining, transport, and activities; confirm prices at stalls.

• Health and Safety:

  • Inform vendors of allergies; carry a translation app for dietary needs.

  • Choose high-turnover stalls for freshness; use hand sanitizer.

  • Secure valuables in crowded markets like Dong A Street.

• Cultural Respect: Greet vendors with “xin chào” (hello); thank them with “cảm ơn”; tip ~5,000–25,000 VND (~$0.20–$1 USD) for great service.

• Sustainability: Support family-run eateries; use reusable items; choose eco-tours to preserve Nam Dinh’s culinary culture.

• Weather Considerations:

  • Spring/Autumn (February–April, September–November): Mild (15–28°C), ideal for outdoor dining.

  • Summer (May–August): Hot, rainy (25–35°C); opt for indoor restaurants during downpours.

  • Winter (December–January): Cool (10–20°C); warm dishes like phở are perfect.

Our sustainable food tours immerse you in Nam Dinh’s gastronomic wonders:

• Phở Foodie Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD/person): Phở Cường, bánh mì chân cầu, local markets. Includes eco-transfers and lunch.

• Foodie Coastal Tour (~1,750,000 VND, ~$70 USD/person): Quán Hải Sản Tươi Sống, Thinh Long Beach, xôi xíu stalls. Includes transfers and meals.

• Street Food Adventure Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD/person): Dong A Street BBQ, bánh xíu páo at Xíu Páo Dư Dư, guided tastings. Includes bike rentals and snacks.

• Ninh Binh Culinary Odyssey (~8,500,000–13,500,000 VND, ~$340–$540 USD/person, 3–4 days): Nam Dinh cuisine, Tran Temple, homestays (~300,000–600,000 VND, ~$12–$24 USD/night). Includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, activities, and meals/snacks. Group discounts (10% off for 10+ travelers) available. Book now via links around this page!

Nam Dinh Region, Ninh Binh Province, 90 km from Hanoi, is a culinary paradise where traditional restaurants and vibrant street food stalls offer unforgettable flavors, drawing food enthusiasts yearly. Savor soul-warming phở at Phở Cường ($1–$3, 25,000–75,000 VND) or smoky BBQ on Dong A Street ($2–$5, 50,000–125,000 VND), each dish telling a story of Red River Delta heritage. Supported by sustainable practices like locally sourced ingredients and eco-friendly dining, Legend Travel Group’s Nam Dinh Tours ensure a responsible, immersive Nam Dinh Travel experience, blending culinary adventures with visits to Tran Temple, Phu Day Relic Complex, and local specialties like bánh cuốn ($0.50–$2, 12,500–50,000 VND). Contact Legend Travel Group at www.legendtravelgroup.com, info@legendtravelgroup.com, or (+84) 825862222 to browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly culinary adventure today!
Ready to savor Nam Dinh’s culinary treasures? Reserve your sustainable food tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable gastronomic 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.

Sources:

• Nam Dinh Culinary Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, vinpearl.com, localvietnam.com, tripadvisor.com