Top Restaurants in Can Tho City: Where to Savor Authentic Mekong Delta Cuisine

Can Tho City, the vibrant heart of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, is a culinary haven where the region’s fertile lands and intricate waterways inspire a rich tapestry of flavors. Following the merger of Soc Trang and Hau Giang, Can Tho has become Vietnam’s largest city by landmass, spanning 6,400 km² and serving over 4 million residents, making it a dynamic hub for tourism and gastronomy. Known as “Tây Đô” or the “Western Capital,” Can Tho’s cuisine blends Vietnamese and Khmer influences, featuring fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and bold dishes like Bánh Xèo and Lẩu Bần. From riverside fine dining to bustling street stalls, the city’s restaurants emphasize farm-to-table practices, aligning with the “Green Delta” sustainability initiative. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly food tours complement your dining experience, offering immersive culinary adventures—book your tour via the links throughout this guide!

Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, specializes in sustainable Southeast Asia adventures, welcoming approximately 15,000 travelers annually. Our Can Tho food tours feature eco-friendly transport—bicycles, electric boats, and eco-taxis—guided by 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 discover Can Tho’s top restaurants responsibly!

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has merged Soc Trang and Hau Giang into Can Tho City, with Ninh Kieu as the central hub, creating a vibrant economic hub spanning 6,400 km². District-level units are now wards or communes, enhancing access to dining hotspots across urban Ninh Kieu and rural Cai Rang. Supported by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project—Can Tho ensures seamless connectivity to its culinary scene.

Can Tho City’s culinary landscape reflects the Mekong Delta’s bounty, offering everything from street food stalls to upscale riverside restaurants, all emphasizing fresh, local ingredients. The city’s tropical monsoon climate, with a dry season (December–May, 25–36°C or 77–96.8°F) and rainy season (June–November, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F), ensures abundant produce year-round, fueling dishes like Cong Cake and Hủ Tiếu Sa Đéc. Many restaurants adopt sustainable practices, such as sourcing from local farms, using biodegradable packaging, and minimizing waste, aligning with Can Tho’s eco-tourism goals. Below is a curated list of the top restaurants in Can Tho, with updated names, addresses, contact details, and reviews, excluding outdated or closed establishments like Phuong Nam Restaurant, which has ceased operations, and L’Escale Restaurant, which has been renamed to The Verandah at Nam Bo Boutique Hotel based on recent data.

1. Sao Hom Restaurant

• Address: Block E, Can Tho Ancient House, Ninh Kieu Wharf, Tan An Ward, Ninh Kieu, Can Tho City

• Opening Hours: 7:00 AM–11:00 PM

• Hotline: +84 292 3815 616

• Price Range: $4–$20/dish (120,000–600,000 VND)

• Review: Nestled in Can Tho’s historic market hall, Sao Hom offers a riverside dining experience with views of the Hậu River and Ninh Kieu Wharf. Its wooden, antique-inspired design evokes local charm, while the menu features Vietnamese and Asian dishes, including signature Bánh Xèo ($1–$3 or 30,000–90,000 VND) and fish sauce hotpot ($5–$10 or 150,000–300,000 VND). The restaurant’s commitment to local sourcing and biodegradable packaging supports Can Tho’s sustainability goals. Guests praise the serene ambiance, fresh seafood, and attentive service, making it ideal for families and couples. Vegetarian options like deep-fried pumpkin flowers ($2 or 60,000 VND) are available.

• Eco-Friendly Features: Local ingredients, biodegradable packaging, waste reduction.

• Tip: Dine on the dock for river views, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).

2. The Verandah (formerly L’Escale Restaurant)

• Address: 4th Floor, Nam Bo Boutique Hotel, 1 Ngo Quyen Street, Tan An Ward, Ninh Kieu, Can Tho City

• Opening Hours: 11:00 AM–10:00 PM

• Hotline: +84 292 3820 678

• Price Range: $5–$25/dish (150,000–750,000 VND)

• Review: Renamed from L’Escale, The Verandah is a rooftop gem atop Nam Bo Boutique Hotel, offering French-inspired cuisine with Mekong Delta flair. Overlooking Ninh Kieu Wharf, its mellow-lit terrace creates a romantic ambiance, perfect for couples. Signature dishes include grilled seabass with lemon ($8 or 240,000 VND) and vegetarian ratatouille ($5 or 150,000 VND), paired with an extensive wine list ($10–$50/bottle or 300,000–1,500,000 VND). The restaurant uses local seafood and herbs, supporting sustainable sourcing, and features live jazz on weekends. Guests commend the elegant decor and “truly French” flavors.

• Eco-Friendly Features: Local sourcing, energy-efficient lighting, minimal plastic use.

• Tip: Reserve a terrace table at sunset, included in our Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

3. Lua Nep Restaurant

• Address: Lua Nep Resort, Cai Khe Ward, Ninh Kieu, Can Tho City

• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM–10:00 PM

• Hotline: +84 292 3822 999

• Price Range: $3–$15/dish (90,000–450,000 VND)

• Review: Located on the Hậu River within Lua Nep Resort, this open-air restaurant offers a tranquil setting surrounded by greenery, ideal for families and groups. Specializing in authentic Delta cuisine, it serves dishes like grilled snakehead fish ($5 or 150,000 VND), Mekong hotpot ($7–$12 or 210,000–360,000 VND), and coconut rice ($2 or 60,000 VND). Lua Nep’s farm-to-table approach uses local produce, and its waste composting program supports sustainability. Guests praise the fresh flavors, river views, and spacious dining area. Vegetarian options like braised burnt rice ($3 or 90,000 VND) are popular.

• Eco-Friendly Features: Farm-to-table dining, composting, local sourcing.

• Tip: Try the hotpot with a river view, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).

4. Spices Restaurant

• Address: Victoria Can Tho Resort, Cai Khe Ward, Ninh Kieu, Can Tho City

• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM–10:00 PM

• Hotline: +84 292 3810 111

• Price Range: $5–$20/dish (150,000–600,000 VND)

• Review: Housed in the eco-luxury Victoria Can Tho Resort, Spices Restaurant blends Vietnamese, European, and Indian cuisines in a sophisticated riverside setting. Signature dishes include Mekong fish curry ($8 or 240,000 VND), vegetarian paneer tikka ($5 or 150,000 VND), and Bánh Cống ($1 or 30,000 VND). The restaurant’s organic garden supplies fresh herbs, and its no-plastic policy aligns with Can Tho’s green goals. Guests enjoy the elegant ambiance, diverse menu, and separate wine bar, making it perfect for special occasions. Reviews highlight the impeccable service and Delta-inspired cocktails ($3–$7 or 90,000–210,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Features: Organic garden, no single-use plastics, local sourcing.

• Tip: Dine outdoors for river breezes, included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

5. Cay Buoi 2 Restaurant

• Address: Song Hau Street, Cai Khe Ward, Can Tho City

• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM–11:00 PM

• Hotline: +84 292 383 8888

• Price Range: $3–$15/dish (90,000–450,000 VND)

• Review: Part of the Cay Buoi chain, this branch in Cai Khe Ward is a modern favorite, accommodating up to 1,000 guests with its contemporary art-filled design. Specializing in Delta and Korean-inspired cuisine, it offers dishes like lotus stem salad with shrimp ($3 or 90,000 VND), grilled pork skewers ($4 or 120,000 VND), and Korean-style BBQ ($10–$15 or 300,000–450,000 VND). The restaurant sources from local farms and uses biodegradable packaging, supporting sustainability. Guests praise the authentic flavors, vibrant atmosphere, and attentive service. Ideal for groups and food enthusiasts.

• Eco-Friendly Features: Local sourcing, biodegradable packaging, waste reduction.

• Tip: Try the Korean BBQ, included in our Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

6. Mau Than 1968 Restaurant

• Address: 17 Hoa Binh Boulevard, Tan An Ward, Ninh Kieu, Can Tho City

• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM–10:00 PM

• Hotline: +84 292 382 1968

• Price Range: $3–$12/dish (90,000–360,000 VND)

• Review: A unique mid-range restaurant in Ninh Kieu, Mau Than 1968 celebrates Can Tho’s heritage with dishes inspired by traditional Delta recipes, such as Cơm Lam (bamboo rice, $2 or 60,000 VND) and Canh Chua Cá Lóc (sour fish soup, $5 or 150,000 VND). Its open kitchen and rustic decor create an immersive experience, while local sourcing and minimal plastic use support sustainability. Guests commend the fresh ingredients, historical ambiance, and affordable prices, making it ideal for families and history buffs. Vegetarian options like vegetable hotpot ($4 or 120,000 VND) are available.

• Eco-Friendly Features: Local ingredients, minimal plastic, energy-efficient kitchen.

• Tip: Visit for the bamboo rice, included in our Mekong Delta Immersion Tour ($250–$400).

• Location: Ninh Kieu Ward, Can Tho City, 169 km from Ho Chi Minh City, 1,200 km from Hanoi.

• Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND); carry small notes (50,000–500,000 VND) for street vendors.

• Dining Costs: Street food $0.50–$3 (15,000–90,000 VND); restaurant meals $3–$25 (90,000–750,000 VND); drinks $0.50–$7 (15,000–210,000 VND).

• Tipping: Optional; $1–$2 (30,000–60,000 VND) for exceptional service.

• Transport:

  • Flights: Hanoi to Can Tho (2h 10m), $60–$240 round-trip (1,800,000–7,200,000 VND); HCMC to Can Tho (50m), $40–$120 (1,200,000–3,600,000 VND). Airport to Ninh Kieu (8 km): taxi $5–$8 (150,000–240,000 VND).

  • Local: Bicycle rental $1–$3/day (30,000–90,000 VND); electric boat $15–$30 (450,000–900,000 VND, 2–3h); taxi $3–$8 (90,000–240,000 VND, 1–15 km).

• Accessibility: Urban restaurants like Sao Hom are wheelchair-friendly; floating market dining requires boat access.

• Hygiene: Choose busy restaurants for fresh food; carry hand sanitizer; drink bottled water ($0.50 or 15,000 VND).

• Climate: Dry season (December–May) for outdoor dining; rainy season (June–November) for lush produce, bring rain gear ($2–$5 or 60,000–150,000 VND).

• Dry Season (December–May): Sunny weather (25–36°C or 77–96.8°F) is ideal for riverside dining and market visits; Tet (January–February) features festive dishes like Bánh Tét Lá Cẩm.

• Rainy Season (June–November): Cooler temperatures (22–30°C or 71.6–86°F) and abundant fruits enhance flavors; September–November offers quieter dining and fresh produce.

• Daily Timing: Early mornings (5:30–8:00 AM) for floating market breakfasts; evenings (5:00 PM–11:00 PM) for night market and rooftop dining.

• Tip: Dine in September for vibrant produce, included in our Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80).

• Book Tours Early: Reserve eco-tours via Legend Travel Group 2–3 weeks in advance, especially for December–May or festivals.

• Reservations: Book upscale restaurants like The Verandah for peak times; walk-ins are fine for casual spots like Mau Than 1968.

• Allergies and Diets: Inform staff of allergies (e.g., shellfish); vegetarian options like Lẩu Chay ($4 or 120,000 VND) are widely available.

• Sustainability: Choose restaurants with local sourcing and biodegradable packaging; use reusable utensils to reduce waste.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) for Ninh Kieu, Cai Rang, and Phong Dien Wards; save Ninh Kieu Wharf as a landmark.

• Safety: Secure valuables at markets; choose busy stalls for hygiene; avoid raw seafood unless from trusted venues.

• Cultural Respect: Say “ngon” (delicious) or “cảm ơn” (thank you) to staff; use chopsticks or hands for street food.

• Health: Carry mosquito repellent ($2–$5 or 60,000–150,000 VND) for evening dining; stay hydrated with bottled water ($0.50 or 15,000 VND).

Our sustainable food tours showcase Can Tho’s top restaurants and markets:

• Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Visit Cai Rang Floating Market, Sao Hom, Mau Than 1968, and a cooking class for Bánh Xèo via bicycle. Includes meals, guide, and eco-transfers.

• Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75/person): Cai Rang and Phong Dien Floating Markets, floating breakfast at local stalls, canal cruise via electric boat. Includes guide and breakfast.

• Can Tho City Explorer ($45–$65/person): Ninh Kieu Night Market, The Verandah, and Tran Phu Street stalls for Nem Nướng via bicycle. Includes snacks and guide.

• Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70/person): Binh Thuy Ancient House, lunch at Cay Buoi 2, market visit via electric taxi. Includes lunch and guide.

• Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80/person): Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary, My Khanh Eco-Village, dinner at Lua Nep via electric boat. Includes transfers and guide.

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($250–$400/person, 2–3 days): Markets, homestay dining, Spices Restaurant, festivals via 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!

Can Tho City’s dining scene is a vibrant celebration of the Mekong Delta’s culinary heritage, offering authentic dishes like Bánh Xèo, Lẩu Bần, and Cong Cake at restaurants ranging from riverside Sao Hom to upscale The Verandah. As Vietnam’s largest city post-merger, Can Tho’s commitment to sustainable tourism ensures dining supports local farmers and minimizes environmental impact. Legend Travel Group’s Can Tho Tours offer eco-friendly food tours that enhance your culinary journey with cultural immersion and responsible practices, ensuring a sustainable Can Tho Travelexperience. Don’t miss out—browse our curated tours and book your Can Tho dining adventure today!
Ready to taste Can Tho’s Delta flavors? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into Vietnam’s riverine culinary heart sustainably!

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.

Sources: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group