Top 7 Must-Try Foods in Dong Thap: A Culinary Journey in the Mekong Delta

Nestled in the vibrant Mekong Delta, now part of Tien Giang Province, Dong Thap Ward is a culinary paradise renowned for its rustic, flavorful dishes that reflect the region’s fertile lands and waterways, attracting food enthusiasts worldwide. Known as the “Land of Pink Lotus,” Dong Thap offers over 200 lotus-based recipes and unique specialties like fermented pork rolls and field rat meat, drawing thousands of visitors annually. Legend Travel Group, a leading sustainable tour operator, enhances your culinary journey with eco-friendly food tours, connecting you to Dong Thap’s rich traditions and local communities. Book your adventure via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Update

As of July 1, 2025, Dong Thap Province has merged into Tien Giang Province, with My Tho as the administrative center. Dong Thap is now a ward, but its culinary fame remains strong, supported by upgraded infrastructure like cycling paths, electric boat networks, and a VND600 billion flood control project, ensuring easy access to dining and eco-tourism sites.

With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group is Southeast Asia’s premier sustainable tourism operator, dedicated to preserving Vietnam’s culinary and cultural heritage. Our Dong Thap food tours pair authentic tastings with eco-friendly activities like cycling and electric boat rides, guided by local experts who share the region’s traditions and sustainable practices. Supporting communities in Dong Thap, My Tho, and Sa Dec, we align with Tien Giang’s “Green Delta” initiative. Enjoy transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support. Book our tours via links on this page for an authentic, eco-conscious culinary experience!

Located 160 km southwest of Ho Chi Minh City in the Dong Thap Muoi region, Dong Thap Ward boasts a tropical monsoon climate with a dry season (December–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) and a rainy season (May–November, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F, with peak rainfall of 100–400 mm in August–October). The area’s fertile alluvial soils, fed by the Tien and Hau rivers, produce fresh ingredients like lotus, field crabs, and snakehead fish, shaping a cuisine celebrated for its vibrant, sustainable flavors. Below are the top 7 must-try foods in Dong Thap, perfect for food lovers seeking authentic Mekong Delta experiences.

1. Rice Steamed in Lotus Leaves (Cơm Hấp Lá Sen)

A fragrant dish of glutinous rice, lotus seeds, green beans, and sesame, steamed in lotus leaves for a nutty, aromatic flavor.

• Cost: $2–$10 (50,000–250,000 VND) per portion.

• Where to Try: Sen Le Bo Ecotourism Area (My Hoa, Thap Muoi, Tel: +84 918 107 132), Nha Hang Sen Viet (85 Nguyen Hue, Sa Dec).

• Tips: Pair with lotus tea; best in August–October for fresh lotus leaves; included in our Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

2. Hotpot with Paddy Crab Paste (Lẩu Riêu Cua Đồng)

A tangy, golden broth made from pounded field crabs, tomatoes, and tamarind, served with pork ribs, tofu, and fresh greens like water spinach.

• Cost: $4–$12 (100,000–300,000 VND, serves 2–4).

• Where to Try: Nha Hang Sen Viet (Sa Dec, Tel: +84 927 345 678), Sa Dec Night Market (Tran Hung Dao Street).

• Tips: Add chili for spice; best in August–October for fresh crabs; included in our Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

3. Sa Dec Rice Noodle Soup (Hủ Tiếu Sa Đéc)

Milky-white, chewy noodles in a pork broth with toppings like minced pork, shrimp, and herbs, served wet (nước) or dry (khô).

• Cost: $2–$8 (50,000–200,000 VND) per bowl.

• Where to Try: Hu Tieu My Ngoc (154 Hung Vuong, Sa Dec, Tel: +84 936 789 456), Di Nam Sa Dec (75 Tran Hung Dao, Tel: +84 938 234 567).

• Tips: Try dry style with coconut milk; included in our Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

4. Snakehead Fish Smoked in Rice Straw (Cá Lóc Nướng Rơm)

Wild snakehead fish wrapped in lotus leaves, smoked in rice straw for a smoky, tender flavor, served with rice paper and tamarind sauce.

• Cost: $3–$10 (75,000–250,000 VND) per portion.

• Where to Try: Sen Le Bo Ecotourism Area (My Hoa), Cao Lanh Market (Le Loi Street).

• Tips: Best during flood season (August–October); included in our Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

5. Hotpot with Linh Fish and Cork Flower (Lẩu Cá Linh Với Bông Điên Điển)

A flood-season specialty featuring sweet linh fish and yellow cork flowers (Sesbania sesban) in a tangy broth with rice noodles and greens.

• Cost: $4–$12 (100,000–300,000 VND, serves 2–4).

• Where to Try: Tam Nong Local Eatery (Tam Nong), Sa Dec Night Market.

• Tips: Visit in August–October for fresh linh fish; included in our Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

6. Lai Vung Fermented Pork Roll (Nem Lai Vung)

Tangy, savory pork rolls fermented with pork skin, roasted rice powder, and spices, wrapped in banana leaves, perfect as a snack or souvenir.

• Cost: $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND) per portion.

• Where to Try: Nem Ba Be (Tan Thanh, Lai Vung, Tel: +84 936 789 456), Lai Vung Market (Tan Duong).

• Tips: Buy vacuum-sealed packs; included in our Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

7. Dong Thap Rat Meat (Chuột Đồng)

Lean, flavorful field rat meat, grilled or stir-fried with lemongrass and chili, served with lemon pepper salt and herbs.

• Cost: $2–$10 (50,000–250,000 VND) per portion.

• Where to Try: Sen Le Bo Ecotourism Area (My Hoa), Cao Lanh Market.

• Tips: Best during rice harvest (January–February); included in our Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

• Sen Le Bo Ecotourism Area (My Hoa, Thap Muoi): Offers lotus rice, rat meat, and smoked fish in a scenic lotus field setting. $3–$15 (75,000–375,000 VND). Open: 9:00 AM–7:00 PM. Tel: (+84) 918 107 132.

• Nha Hang Sen Viet (Sa Dec): Specializes in lotus dishes, crab hotpot, and rice noodle soup. $4–$15 (100,000–375,000 VND). Address: 85 Nguyen Hue. Open: 10:00 AM–9:00 PM. Tel: (+84) 927 345 678.

• Sa Dec Night Market (Sa Dec): Vibrant stalls with noodle soup, hotpots, and fermented rolls. $2–$8 (50,000–200,000 VND). Address: Tran Hung Dao Street. Open: 4:00 PM–10:00 PM.

• Cao Lanh Market (Cao Lanh): Fresh rat meat, smoked fish, and local snacks. $1–$6 (25,000–150,000 VND). Address: Le Loi Street. Open: 5:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Lai Vung Market (Tan Duong, Lai Vung): Fermented pork rolls and seasonal fruits. $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND). Open: 5:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• By Bus:

  • Ho Chi Minh City (Mien Tay Bus Station) to Cao Lanh/Sa Dec: $10–$18 (250,000–450,000 VND, 3–4 hours).

  • My Tho to Cao Lanh/Sa Dec: $4–$7 (100,000–175,000 VND, 1–1.5 hours). Providers: Phuong Trang (+84) 1900 6067.

• By Car/Taxi:

  • Ho Chi Minh City to Cao Lanh/Sa Dec: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND, 3–4 hours). Route: Ho Chi Minh City–Trung Luong Expressway–National Highway 1A–National Route 80.

  • My Tho to Cao Lanh/Sa Dec: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND, 1–1.5 hours). Providers: Mai Linh Taxi (+84) 2773 686 868, Grab app.

• By Motorbike:

  • Ho Chi Minh City to Cao Lanh/Sa Dec: $6–$12/day (150,000–300,000 VND, 3–4 hours). Rent at Mekong Moto Rentals (+84) 938 456 789.

• Tips:

  • Book buses online via VeXeRe or Baolau; use offline maps (Maps.me) with Cao Lanh Market as a landmark.

  • Transfers included in our Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450).

• Rainy Season (May–November): Ideal for flood-season dishes like linh fish hotpot and smoked fish, with peak crab and fish availability in August–October; 15–25% tour discounts.

• Dry Season (December–April): Perfect for rat meat, rice noodle soup, and Tet festivals (January–February); book 3–4 weeks in advance.

• Tips: Visit in August for lotus-based dishes or January for festive dining; check AccuWeather for rainy season updates.

• Hotels and Homestays:

  • Lotus Haven Homestay: Tan Quy Dong, Sa Dec (4 km). $15–$30/night (375,000–750,000 VND). Tel: (+84) 939 123 456.

  • Mekong Charm Hotel: 120 Tran Hung Dao, Sa Dec. $25–$60/night (625,000–1,500,000 VND). Tel: (+84) 927 345 678.

  • Sen Vang Resort: Cao Lanh (10 km). $90–$180/night (2,250,000–4,500,000 VND). Tel: (+84) 913 789 123.

• Restaurants:

  • Pho Sa Dec (Sa Dec, 1 km): Rice noodle soup, lotus dishes. $3–$8 (75,000–200,000 VND). Open: 7:00 AM–8:00 PM.

  • Tam Nong Local Eatery (Tam Nong, 40 km): Rustic rat meat, hotpots. $3–$10 (75,000–250,000 VND). Open: 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.

• Cafes:

  • Sa Dec River Cafe (Sa Dec, 500 m): Riverside views, coffee $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND). Open: 7:00 AM–10:00 PM.

  • Tam Nong Lotus Cafe (Tam Nong, 40 km): Lotus tea, coffee $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND). Open: 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.

Tip: Support local eateries using organic ingredients; carry VND for small vendors.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable culinary visit:

• Clothing: Lightweight attire for dry season; waterproof jacket ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND) for rainy season. Modest clothing for cultural respect.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.

• Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella.

• Tech Gear: Smartphone for photos; portable charger for market visits.

• Documents: Passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (50,000–200,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag for souvenirs (e.g., Nem Lai Vung), straw to support sustainability.

Tip: Use a small backpack for convenience; carry VND for market vendors.

• Dining:

  • Dishes: $2–$15 (50,000–375,000 VND) per portion.

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

• Activities:

  • Cooking classes: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

  • Market visits: Free entry; snacks $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

  • Boat tours to attractions: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Accommodation:

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

  • Hotels: $25–$60/night (625,000–1,500,000 VND).

• Transport to Dong Thap:

  • Bus from Ho Chi Minh City: $10–$18 (250,000–450,000 VND).

  • Taxi from My Tho: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost:

• Budget: $20–$50 (homestay, market dining, local transport).

• Mid-range: $50–$100 (hotel, cooking classes, dining).

• Luxury: $100–$200 (hotel, private tours, upscale dining).

Tip: Carry VND for small transactions; ATMs are available in Cao Lanh and Sa Dec.

• Book Early: Reserve tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222, email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com) 3–4 weeks in advance, especially for Tet or flood season (August–October).

• Seasonal Tips:

  • Rainy Season: Best for flood-season dishes like linh fish hotpot; bring waterproof gear.

  • Dry Season: Ideal for markets and rat meat; pack sunscreen.

• Sustainability: Support eateries using local, organic ingredients; avoid single-use plastics.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me); save Nha Hang Sen Viet as a landmark.

• Safety: Secure valuables at markets; confirm prices before ordering.

• Cultural Respect: Greet vendors with “xin chào” (hello); tip chefs or guides $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Health: Stay hydrated ($0.50 or 12,500 VND per bottle); apply mosquito repellent near waterways.

Our eco-friendly tours showcase Dong Thap’s culinary delights:

• Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Taste Cơm Hấp Lá Sen, Hủ Tiếu Sa Đéc, and Nem Lai Vung at top eateries, join a cooking class. Includes eco-transfers, meals, guide.

• Dong Thap Eco-Tour ($70–$90/person): Enjoy Cá Lóc Nướng Rơm, cycle through Sa Dec Flower Village, take an electric boat tour in Tram Chim National Park. Includes transfers, snacks, guide.

• Dong Thap Cultural Tour ($60–$80/person): Savor Lẩu Riêu Cua Đồng, visit Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House, Thap Muoi Lotus Festival. Includes eco-transfers, lunch, guide.

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450/person, 2–3 days): Try all 7 dishes, explore Xeo Quyt, stay at homestays ($15–$30/night). Includes meals, activities, eco-transfers.

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

Dong Thap Province, a vibrant culinary hub in the Mekong Delta 130 km from Ho Chi Minh City, weaves a tapestry of flavors with iconic dishes, drawing food enthusiasts yearly. Here are the top 7 local foods to savor:

1. Hủ tiếu Sa Đéc ($1–$2, 25,000–50,000 VND), rice noodle soup with pork and herbs.

2. Lotus rice ($1–$3, 25,000–75,000 VND), fragrant sticky rice wrapped in lotus leaves.

3. Crab hotpot ($3–$6, 75,000–150,000 VND), tangy broth with fresh crab.

4. Bánh xèo ($1–$2, 25,000–50,000 VND), crispy pancakes with shrimp and mung bean.

5. Cá lóc nướng trui ($2–$4, 50,000–100,000 VND), grilled snakehead fish.

6. Nem chua Lai Vung ($0.50–$2, 12,500–50,000 VND), fermented pork rolls.

7. Kẹo dừa ($0.50–$1, 12,500–25,000 VND), sweet coconut candy.

Supported by sustainable practices like locally sourced ingredients and eco-friendly dining, Legend Travel Group’s Dong Thap Tours ensure a responsible, immersive Dong Thap Travel experience, blending culinary adventures at Sa Dec Market with eco-tourism sites like Tram Chim National Park ($2–$5 entry, 50,000–125,000 VND) and Gao Giong Eco-Tourism Area. 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 taste Dong Thap’s top 7 local foods? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse in the Mekong Delta’s culinary charm!

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:

• Dong Thap Culinary Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, mekong-delta-tours.com, vietnamamazingtours.com, scootersaigontour.com, tripadvisor.com