Top Affordable Dining in Ben Tre: Cheap Eats & Local Specialties to Savor

Ben Tre, the heart of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, is a culinary gem known as the “Coconut Kingdom” for its coconut-infused dishes and vibrant food scene. From crispy snail pancakes to sweet coconut candy, this region offers a delightful array of affordable dining options that showcase its rich agricultural heritage and riverine culture. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite at a bustling market stall or savoring a meal at a riverside eatery, Ben Tre’s cheap eats promise bold flavors and authentic experiences without breaking the bank.

At Legend Travel Group, we’re passionate about guiding you to Ben Tre’s best dining spots through our expertly curated culinary tours. Our local knowledge ensures you taste the region’s iconic specialties while exploring its scenic waterways and villages. Dive into our guide to the top affordable restaurants and street food stalls in Ben Tre, complete with updated prices and tour options to make your foodie adventure unforgettable.

Ben Tre’s cuisine is a celebration of its lush environment—coconut groves, rice fields, and Mekong River tributaries provide fresh ingredients that define its dishes. Affordable dining here ranges from street-side stalls serving piping-hot noodle soups to family-run restaurants offering multi-course meals. The region’s specialties, like elephant earfish and coconut rice, are both budget-friendly and packed with flavor, making Ben Tre a must-visit for food lovers. Pair your meals with Legend Travel Group’s food tours to discover hidden gems and learn the stories behind each dish.

Dining Highlights:

• Coconut-Infused Flavors: From coconut milk in soups to coconut candy desserts.

• Fresh and Local: Ingredients sourced from nearby rivers, farms, and orchards.

• Budget-Friendly: Most meals cost under 100,000 VND (~$4 USD).

• Variety: Street food, markets, and riverside restaurants cater to all tastes.

Below is a curated list of Ben Tre’s best cheap eats, featuring street food stalls, local restaurants, and market vendors. Prices are approximate, based on standard portions, and include taxes unless stated otherwise. All locations are accessible and pair perfectly with Legend Travel Group’s culinary tours.

1. Vermicelli Tu Dien

Description: A beloved local spot for hearty vermicelli noodle soups, Tu Dien serves classics like bún nước lèo (rice noodle soup with fish and herbs) and bún riêu (crab noodle soup). The cozy, open-air setting is perfect for a quick, flavorful meal.
Must-Try: Bún nước lèo with freshwater fish and banana flower.
Price: 30,000–50,000 VND (~$1.20–$2 USD) per bowl.
Address: 10F Nguyen Hue, Phu Khuong Ward, Ben Tre.
Hours: 6:00 AM–8:00 PM.
Tour Option: Our Ben Tre Market & Food Tour includes a stop at similar noodle stalls for authentic tastings.

• Tour Price: 900,000 VND (~$36 USD) per person. Book at info@legendtravelgroup.com or (+84) 825862222.

2. Thanh Tung Seafood

Description: Located on the outskirts of Ben Tre, this no-frills restaurant specializes in fresh river catches, including shrimp, crab, and Mekong Delta staples like elephant earfish. Its casual vibe and generous portions make it a local favorite.
Must-Try: Deep-fried elephant earfish wrapped in rice paper with herbs.
Price: 150,000–250,000 VND (~$6–$10 USD) per fish, serving 2–3 people.
Address: Highway 60 bypass, opposite VIP Cafe, Ben Tre.
Hours: 10:00 AM–9:00 PM.
Tour Option: Our Mekong Delta Boat & Culinary Tour features a riverside lunch with elephant earfish.

• Tour Price: 1,400,000 VND (~$56 USD) per person. Reserve at (+84) 825862222.

3. Phu Hung Porridge Shop

Description: A late-night gem, Phu Hung is renowned for its silky rice porridge (cháo) topped with pork, century eggs, or seafood. It’s a comforting, budget-friendly option for evening cravings.
Must-Try: Seafood porridge with shrimp and squid.
Price: 25,000–40,000 VND (~$1–$1.60 USD) per bowl.
Address: Nguyen Thi Dinh Street, Phu Hung Commune, Ben Tre.
Hours: 6:00 PM–6:00 AM.
Tour Option: Our Ben Tre Night Market & Food Tour includes late-night street food stops.

• Tour Price: 900,000 VND (~$36 USD) per person. Book at info@legendtravelgroup.com.

4. Cast Iron Soup Cakes (Bánh Canh)

Description: This roadside stall serves bánh canh, a thick rice noodle soup with duck or pork, paired with a tangy fish sauce dip. Its rustic charm and bold flavors draw crowds, especially at the Ca Lo Bridge location.
Must-Try: Duck bánh canh with ginger fish sauce.
Price: 30,000–50,000 VND (~$1.20–$2 USD) per bowl.
Address: Cho Lac Hong, Ward 1, or Ca Lo Bridge, Ward 8, Ben Tre.
Hours: 7:00 AM–7:00 PM.
Tour Option: Our Rural Ben Tre Food Adventure visits similar stalls for local soups.

• Tour Price: 1,500,000 VND (~$60 USD) per person. Call (+84) 825862222.

5. Ms. Hai’s Rice Snail Pancakes

Description: A legendary stall near Ben Tre Market, Ms. Hai’s serves bánh xèo ốc gạo, crispy pancakes stuffed with rice snails, bean sprouts, and herbs. Best enjoyed seasonally (April–July) at Phu Da or Lach Market.
Must-Try: Rice snail pancake with lime-chili fish sauce.
Price: 30,000–50,000 VND (~$1.20–$2 USD) per pancake.
Address: Near Ben Tre Market or Phu Da Island, Ben Tre.
Hours: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM (seasonal at Phu Da).
Tour Option: Our Ben Tre Market & Food Tour includes snail pancake tastings.

• Tour Price: 900,000 VND (~$36 USD) per person. Reserve at info@legendtravelgroup.com.

6. Snail Shop 6 Phung

Description: A cozy eatery specializing in snails cooked in coconut milk or stir-fried with lemongrass. Its affordable prices and vibrant atmosphere make it a go-to for local delicacies.
Must-Try: Snails in coconut milk (ốc dừa) with rice.
Price: 70,000–100,000 VND (~$2.80–$4 USD) per portion.
Address: 29 Dong Khoi Boulevard, Ward 4, Ben Tre.
Hours: 11:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Tour Option: Our Mekong Delta Culinary Tour features snail dishes at local venues.

• Tour Price: 1,400,000 VND (~$56 USD) per person. Book at (+84) 825862222.

7. Ben Tre Night Market Stalls

Description: The bustling night market along Phan Ngoc Tong Street offers a variety of street foods, including shredded pork rolls (bì cuốn), fattened bananas (chuối đập), and coconut candy. Perfect for sampling multiple dishes in one spot.
Must-Try: Shredded pork rolls and fattened bananas.
Price: 10,000–25,000 VND (~$0.40–$1 USD) per item.
Address: Phan Ngoc Tong Street, Ben Tre.
Hours: 5:00 PM–10:00 PM.
Tour Option: Our Ben Tre Night Market & Dinner Tour includes guided street food tastings.

• Tour Price: 900,000 VND (~$36 USD) per person. Call (+84) 825862222.

• Best Times: Visit morning markets for fresh breakfast options or evening stalls for vibrant street food scenes.

• Hygiene: Choose busy stalls with high turnover for the freshest ingredients. Our tours ensure hygienic dining at trusted venues.

• Cash: Most vendors accept cash only; carry small denominations (10,000–50,000 VND).

• Language: Basic Vietnamese phrases like “Bao nhiêu?” (How much?) help with ordering. Our guides assist with communication.

• Seasonal Specialties: Snail pancakes are best from April to July; ask locals for seasonal recommendations.

As a trusted local tour operator, Legend Travel Group offers food-focused tours to explore Ben Tre’s affordable dining scene. Our experiences combine tastings with cultural and scenic adventures:

1. Ben Tre Market & Food Tour

Explore Ben Tre Night Market and local stalls, sampling snail pancakes, shredded pork rolls, and fattened bananas.

• Duration: 4 hours

• Price: 900,000 VND (~$36 USD) per person.

• Book Now: info@legendtravelgroup.com or (+84) 825862222.

2. Mekong Delta Boat & Culinary Tour

Cruise Ben Tre’s canals, visit a coconut candy workshop, and enjoy a riverside lunch with elephant earfish and coconut rice.

• Duration: 6–8 hours

• Price: 1,400,000 VND (~$56 USD) per person (group tour); private tours from 2,800,000 VND (~$112 USD).

• Book Now: Reserve online or call (+84) 825862222.

3. Rural Ben Tre Food Adventure

Venture into villages for coconut worms, snails in coconut milk, and other local dishes, with a homestay lunch.

• Duration: 5–6 hours

• Price: 1,500,000 VND (~$60 USD) per person.

• Book Now: info@legendtravelgroup.com.

4. Ben Tre Night Market & Dinner Tour

Savor street foods like shredded pork rolls and fattened bananas, paired with a riverside dinner.

• Duration: 4 hours

• Price: 900,000 VND (~$36 USD) per person.

• Book Now: Call (+84) 825862222 or book online.

As of late 2025, Ben Tre will transition from a province to a ward within the restructured Vinh Long Province, following the merger of Ben Tre, Vinh Long, and Tra Vinh provinces. This change will not affect tourism, dining, or accessibility. Legend Travel Group ensures all dining and tour plans reflect the latest regional updates for a seamless experience.

Legend Travel Group is your go-to local partner for authentic Ben Tre culinary experiences. Here’s why foodies trust us:

• Local Expertise: Our Mekong Delta-native guides know the best eateries and recipes.

• Tailored Tours: Customize your food adventure with private or group options.

• Affordable Rates: Transparent pricing with no hidden costs.

• Seamless Booking: Reserve online, via email, or through our hotline for instant confirmation.

Ben Tre’s cheap eats offer a delicious journey into the Mekong Delta’s culinary heart, from coconut-infused specialties to fresh river dishes. Whether you’re dining at a lively market or a quiet riverside stall, every bite is a taste of local tradition. Legend Travel Group’s Ben Tre Tours elevate your experience with guided culinary adventures, ensuring a sustainable Ben Tre Travel journey designed to satisfy your palate and spark your wanderlust. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your food adventure today!
Ready to savor Ben Tre’s flavors? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on a delicious journey!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys. By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group.