Discover the top 10 must-try dishes in Can Tho City, from Bánh Xèo to Lẩu Bần, with costs and eco-friendly food tours. Book sustainable culinary adventures with Legend Travel Group for an authentic Mekong Delta experience!
Capture the sustainable charm of Can Tho’s ecotourism
What are 10 Best local Foods "must-try" in Can Tho City? (Source: Internet)Can Tho City, the vibrant heart of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, is a foodie’s paradise, offering a rich tapestry of flavors shaped by its fertile lands and intricate waterways. Following the merger of Soc Trang and Hau Giang, Can Tho has become Vietnam’s largest city by landmass, drawing millions to its bustling floating markets, lush orchards, and vibrant street food scene. Known as “Tây Đô” or the “Western Capital,” Can Tho’s cuisine features fresh vegetables, tropical fruits, and riverine seafood, creating dishes like Bánh Xèo and Lẩu Bần that reflect the Delta’s agrarian soul. Aligned with Can Tho’s “Green Delta” sustainability initiatives, local eateries and eco-friendly food tours promote farm-to-table dining and support small vendors. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable culinary tours offer an immersive taste of Can Tho’s gastronomy—book your tour via the links throughout this guide!
Violet cylindrical glutinous Rice Cake - “Bánh tét lá cẩm” (Source: Internet)Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, specializes in sustainable Southeast Asia adventures. Our Can Tho food tours feature eco-friendly transport—bicycles, electric boats, and eco-taxis—guided by English-speaking experts who share the Delta’s culinary heritage. Supporting vendors in Ninh Kieu, Cai Rang, and Phong Dien Wards, we align with Can Tho’s eco-vision. 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 Can Tho responsibly!
Baked sticky Rice Banana Nun - “Chuối nếp nướng” (Source: Internet)Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has merged Soc Trang and Hau Giang into Can Tho City, with Ninh Kieu as the central hub. District-level units are now wards or communes, enhancing access to culinary hotspots like Cai Rang Floating Market and Tran Phu Night Market. Supported by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project—Can Tho offers seamless exploration of its food scene.
Vietnamese Noodles in Coconut Cream - “Bánh tầm bì” (Source: Internet)Located on the Hậu River, Can Tho City is the Mekong Delta’s largest urban center, with a population of 1.6 million across 1,409 km². Its tropical monsoon climate, with a dry season (December–April, 25–36°C or 77–96.8°F) and rainy season (May–November, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F), nurtures abundant produce, from mangosteens to river fish, fueling a vibrant culinary culture. Can Tho’s cuisine blends Vietnamese and Khmer influences, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients and bold flavors. Dishes like Cong Cake and Violet Cylindrical Glutinous Rice Cake are staples at markets, street stalls, and riverside eateries, reflecting the Delta’s resourcefulness and hospitality. Can Tho’s commitment to sustainable tourism ensures dining supports local farmers and vendors, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking authentic, eco-conscious experiences.
Key Culinary Features:
Ingredients: Fresh vegetables, tropical fruits, river fish, and local herbs.
Influences: Vietnamese-Khmer fusion with bold, tangy, and sweet flavors.
Dining Venues: Floating markets, night markets, street stalls, and family-run restaurants.
Sustainability: Farm-to-table practices and support for local vendors.
Tip: Sample street food at Ninh Kieu Night Market for an authentic taste, included in our Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85).
Grilled green Pepper Snails - “Ốc nướng tiêu xanh” (Source: Internet)Here are the top 10 must-try dishes in Can Tho City, with updated costs, where to find them, and eco-friendly dining options, ensuring a sustainable culinary adventure.
Overview: A Tet holiday staple, this vibrant purple sticky rice cake is made from glutinous rice soaked in “lá cẩm” (magenta plant) leaves, stuffed with green beans, pork fat, salted egg yolk, and banana, then wrapped in banana leaves and boiled for hours. Its rich, savory-sweet flavor and striking color make it a cultural icon.
Why Try It: Reflects Can Tho’s festive traditions; perfect as a gift ($2–$4 or 50,000–100,000 VND per cake).
Where to Eat:
Ninh Kieu Night Market: Stalls sell fresh cakes ($2 or 50,000 VND).
Huynh’s Cake Shop (Binh Thuy Ward): Renowned for traditional recipes ($3 or 75,000 VND).
Cost: $2–$4/cake (50,000–100,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Tip: Buy from vendors using biodegradable packaging, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).
Overview: A beloved street dessert, ripe bananas are wrapped in sticky rice, grilled over charcoal, and served without coconut milk in Can Tho’s unique style, offering a smoky, sweet, and chewy bite.
Why Try It: Affordable and iconic; captures Can Tho’s street food charm ($0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND).
Where to Eat:
Tran Phu Night Market: Freshly grilled by vendors ($0.50 or 12,500 VND).
Đề Thám Street: Stalls near Quán Bánh Xèo 7 Tới ($0.75 or 18,750 VND).
Cost: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Tip: Choose stalls with minimal plastic waste, included in our Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85).
Overview: Thick rice noodles topped with shredded pork skin (bì), fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and coconut cream, served with tangy fish sauce, create a creamy, savory dish popular across the Delta.
Why Try It: A Southern classic with rich textures ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND).
Where to Eat:
Cai Rang Floating Market: Floating vendors serve fresh bowls ($1.50 or 37,500 VND).
Quán Bánh Tầm Bà Sáu (Ninh Kieu Ward): Local favorite ($1 or 25,000 VND).
Cost: $1–$2/bowl (25,000–50,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Tip: Opt for vendors using reusable bowls, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).
Overview: Medium-sized black snails are soaked, steamed, and grilled with a spicy mix of green pepper, fish sauce, garlic, and sugar, delivering a crunchy, aromatic flavor.
Why Try It: A bold Delta delicacy with a unique spice blend ($2–$4 or 50,000–100,000 VND).
Where to Eat:
Hẻm Vịt Nấu Cháo (Ninh Kieu Ward): Alley eateries grill fresh snails ($2.50 or 62,500 VND).
Tay Do Night Market: Popular stalls ($2 or 50,000 VND).
Cost: $2–$4/serving (50,000–100,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Tip: Support vendors sourcing local snails, included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).
Overview: A communal hotpot with a tangy broth made from mangrove apples, pork bones, tamarind, and herbs, served with river fish, water lily stems, banana blossoms, and rice noodles.
Why Try It: Refreshing and interactive; embodies Delta’s riverine flavors ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND for 2–4 people).
Where to Eat:
Đà Lý Fish Sauce Hotpot (Ninh Kieu Ward): Famous for authentic broth ($7 or 175,000 VND).
My Khanh Eco-Tourism Village: Farm-to-table setting ($8 or 200,000 VND).
Cost: $5–$10/pot (125,000–250,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Tip: Dine at eco-gardens using local produce, included in our Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80).
Overview: Minced pork is shaped into meatballs, grilled over charcoal, and wrapped with rice paper, vermicelli, herbs, and soy-based dipping sauce, offering a smoky, fresh taste.
Why Try It: A Delta staple with vibrant flavors ($1.50–$3 or 37,500–75,000 VND).
Where to Eat:
Cai Rang Floating Market: Floating stalls ($1.50 or 37,500 VND).
Quán Nem Nướng Thanh Vân (Cai Rang Ward): Local gem ($2 or 50,000 VND).
Cost: $1.50–$3/serving (37,500–75,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Tip: Choose vendors with local ingredients, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).
Overview: A crispy, muffin-like fritter named after the “cong” mold, made from rice and wheat flour, filled with green beans, pork, and shrimp, served with fish sauce and herbs.
Why Try It: A savory snack with a rich, buttery texture ($0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND).
Where to Eat:
Tran Phu Night Market: Freshly fried cakes ($0.50 or 12,500 VND).
Quán Bánh Cống Cô Út (Ninh Kieu Ward): Famous for quality ($1 or 25,000 VND).
Cost: $0.50–$1/cake (12,500–25,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Tip: Support vendors using sustainable oils, included in our Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85).
Overview: A golden, turmeric-infused rice flour pancake filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and mung beans, served with herbs, lettuce, and fish sauce, named for its “xèo” sizzling sound.
Why Try It: Iconic Southern dish with crispy, savory goodness ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND).
Where to Eat:
Muoi Xiem Pancake (Binh Thuy Ward): Renowned for freshness ($3 or 75,000 VND).
Ninh Kieu Night Market: Street stalls ($1 or 25,000 VND).
Cost: $1–$3/pancake (25,000–75,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Tip: Dine at stalls with local herbs, included in our Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85).
Overview: Thin, chewy rice noodles served on a plate with braised pork, shrimp, egg, and herbs, topped with a rich broth on the side, offering a sweet-savory balance.
Where to Eat:
Hủ Tiếu Dậu Chị (Nguyen Tat Thanh, Cai Rang Ward): Authentic Sa Dec style ($1.50 or 37,500 VND).
Tran Phu Street Eateries: Local stalls ($1 or 25,000 VND).
Cost: $1–$2/plate (25,000–50,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Tip: Support vendors using local rice, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).
Overview: Purple-shelled rock crabs from Can Tho’s rocky shores are fried with salt and pepper, served with rau răm herbs and lemon-pepper dip, offering a tender, aromatic flavor.
Why Try It: A rare Delta seafood dish with bold seasoning ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND).
Where to Eat:
Tay Do Night Market: Seafood stalls ($3 or 75,000 VND).
Quán Hải Sản Cua Đá (Ninh Kieu Ward): Fresh catches ($5 or 125,000 VND).
Cost: $3–$6/serving (75,000–150,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Tip: Choose vendors sourcing local crabs, included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).
Mangrove Apple Hotpot - “Lẩu bần phù sa” (Source: Internet)Location: Ninh Kieu Ward, Can Tho City, 169 km from Ho Chi Minh City; key dining spots in Cai Rang, Ninh Kieu, and Phong Dien Wards.
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND); carry small notes (50,000–500,000 VND) for street vendors.
Dining Costs: Street food $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND); restaurant meals $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND); drinks $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).
Tipping: Optional; $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) for guides or exceptional service.
Transport:
Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND) for market visits.
Motorbike Rental: $5–$15/day (125,000–375,000 VND) for rural eateries.
Taxi/Grab: $3–$8 (75,000–200,000 VND) within 1–15 km.
Electric Boat: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND, 2–3 hours) for floating markets.
Accessibility: Street stalls and markets are open-air; some restaurants offer indoor seating but limited wheelchair access.
Hygiene: Choose busy stalls for fresh food; carry hand sanitizer; drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND).
Cai Rang grilled Pork Roll - “Nem nướng Cái Răng” (Source: Internet)Dry Season (December–April): Sunny weather (25–36°C or 77–96.8°F) is ideal for market visits and outdoor dining. Tet (January–February) features festive dishes like Bánh Tét Lá Cẩm.
Rainy Season (May–November): Cooler temperatures (22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F) and abundant produce enhance dishes like Lẩu Bần; fewer crowds at markets. Summer (June–August) offers peak fruit availability for fresh ingredients.
Daily Timing: Early mornings (5:30–8:00 AM) for floating market breakfasts; evenings (5:00 PM–11:00 PM) for night market street food.
Tip: Visit in September–November for fresh fruits and quieter dining, included in our Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80).
Cong Cake - “Bánh cống” (Source: Internet)Book Tours Early: Reserve eco-tours via Legend Travel Group (sales@legendtravelgroup.com, WhatsApp +84825862222) 2–3 weeks in advance, especially for December–April or Tet.
Allergies and Diets: Inform vendors of allergies (e.g., shellfish, pork); vegetarian options like Bánh Xèo without meat are available at some stalls.
Sustainability: Support vendors using local, organic ingredients; avoid plastic waste with reusable utensils; choose eco-friendly transport like bicycles.
Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) for Ninh Kieu, Cai Rang, and Phong Dien Wards; save landmarks like Ninh Kieu Wharf or Cai Rang Pier.
Safety: Secure valuables at markets; choose busy stalls for hygiene; avoid raw seafood unless from reputable vendors.
Cultural Respect: Say “ngon” (delicious) or “cảm ơn” (thank you) to vendors; eat with chopsticks or hands for street food to blend in.
Health: Carry mosquito repellent ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for evening markets; stay hydrated with bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND).
Capture the crispy essence of Can Tho’s culinary gem (Source: Internet)Our sustainable food tours showcase Can Tho’s culinary gems with eco-friendly transport:
Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Cai Rang Floating Market, Ninh Kieu Night Market, Bánh Xèo and Bánh Cống tasting, cooking class via bicycle. Includes meals, English-speaking guide, and eco-transfers.
Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75/person): Cai Rang and Phong Dien Floating Markets, floating breakfast with Bánh Tầm Bì, canal cruise via electric boat. Includes guide and breakfast.
Can Tho City Explorer ($45–$65/person): Tran Phu Night Market, Đề Thám Street, local stalls for Nem Nướng and Chuối Nếp Nướng via bicycle. Includes snacks and guide.
Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70/person): Binh Thuy Ancient House, local eateries for Lẩu Bần and Ốc Nướng, market visit via electric taxi. Includes lunch and guide.
Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80/person): Tra Su Bird Sanctuary, My Khanh Eco-Village, homestay dining with Cua Đá Rang Muối via electric boat. Includes transfers and guide.
Mekong Delta Immersion ($250–$400/person, 2–3 days): Markets, homestays ($10–$25/night or 250,000–625,000 VND), cooking classes for Bánh Tét Lá Cẩm, rural dining via mixed eco-transport. Includes meals, activities, 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!
Sa Dec dry clear Rice Noodles - “Hủ tiếu Sa Đéc” (Source: Internet)Can Tho City, the Mekong Delta’s bustling hub 169 km from Ho Chi Minh City, offers a vibrant culinary scene celebrating its fertile lands and riverine bounty, drawing millions yearly. Must-try dishes like Bánh Xèo ($1–$2, 25,000–50,000 VND), a crispy pancake stuffed with shrimp and bean sprouts, Lẩu Bần ($5–$10, 125,000–250,000 VND), a tangy tamarind fish hotpot, and Cong Cake ($0.50–$1, 12,500–25,000 VND), a savory mung bean dumpling, reflect Can Tho’s Vietnamese-Khmer heritage. Savor these at Cai Rang Floating Market (6 km from city center) or Ninh Kieu Night Market, supported by sustainable practices like locally sourced ingredients and biodegradable bowls. Legend Travel Group’s Can Tho Tours ensure a responsible, immersive Can Tho Travel experience, blending eco-friendly food tours with visits to Binh Thuy Ancient House, Ong Pagoda, and other local specialties like hủ tiếu ($1–$2, 25,000–50,000 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 adventure today!
Ready to savor Can Tho’s Delta flavors? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into the Mekong’s culinary heart!
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:
Can Tho Culinary Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, mekong-delta-tours.com, asiakingtravel.com, lilystravelagency.com, canthorivertour.com, vietnamnet.vn, scootersaigontour.com, impresstravel.com, asiaeyestravel.com, klook.com, tripadvisor.com
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