What to Eat in Soc Trang: A Culinary Guide to Mekong Delta’s Finest Flavors

Soc Trang, a vibrant cultural hub in the Mekong Delta, now part of the expanded Can Tho City administrative region, is a food lover’s paradise, located 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City. Welcoming over 3 million visitors annually, Soc Trang is celebrated for its harmonious blend of Vietnamese (Kinh), Khmer, and Chinese cuisines, shaped by its diverse ethnic communities. From the iconic Bún Nước Lèo, an Asian Record dish, to flaky Bánh Pía and crispy Bánh Cóng, Soc Trang’s dishes reflect its rich heritage and fresh, local ingredients. Committed to sustainable tourism through the “Mekong Green” initiative, Soc Trang offers eco-friendly dining experiences. Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, curates immersive food tours to savor these specialties. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to book your culinary adventure!

Legend Travel Group specializes in authentic, sustainable Southeast Asian experiences across Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar. Our Soc Trang food tours use eco-friendly transport—bicycles, electric boats, and eco-vans—guided by local experts who share the region’s culinary and cultural stories. Supporting communities in Soc Trang’s central ward and Nga Nam, we align with Can Tho City’s vision to preserve its heritage. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless journey. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and taste Soc Trang responsibly!

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has merged Soc Trang and Hau Giang into Can Tho City, with Can Tho as the administrative hub. District-level units are now wards or communes, making Can Tho City Vietnam’s largest by landmass. Enhanced by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric buses, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project—Soc Trang’s markets and eateries are easily accessible, offering a vibrant culinary landscape for exploration.

Soc Trang’s cuisine is a tapestry of flavors, blending fresh Mekong Delta produce with centuries-old recipes. Below are the must-try dishes, their origins, where to find them, and how to enjoy them sustainably.

1. Bánh Pía (Pia Cake) – Flaky Pastry Perfection

Description: Bánh Pía, a Chinese-influenced layered pastry, is Soc Trang’s most famous treat, known for its flaky, golden crust and rich filling of mung bean, taro, salted egg yolk, and durian. Its buttery texture and sweet-savory balance make it a perfect gift or tea-time snack. Cost: $1–$3/pack (25,000–75,000 VND, 200–500g).
Where to Find:

• Tân Huê Viên (Ward 2, 149/8 Mau Than 68): Renowned for durian-flavored Bánh Pía, rated 4.5/5. Open 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.

• Soc Trang Central Market (Ward 2): Vendors sell fresh packs, ideal for souvenirs. Open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Vĩnh Châu Night Market (Vinh Chau Ward): Evening stalls, $1–$2.50/pack. Open 5:00 PM–10:00 PM.
  How to Enjoy: Pair with lotus tea ($0.50 or 12,500 VND) for a traditional experience. Buy vacuum-sealed packs for travel.
  Sustainability Tip: Choose vendors using eco-friendly packaging, like Tân Huê Viên’s biodegradable wraps.
  Included in: Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70).

2. Bún Nước Lèo – Iconic Vermicelli Soup

Description: Recognized as an Asian Record dish in 2023, Bún Nước Lèo is Soc Trang’s soul food, featuring rice vermicelli in a clear, spicy broth made with fermented fish paste (mắm cá sặc), lemongrass, and ngải bún. Topped with snakehead fish, shrimp, roasted pork, and herbs like banana blossom, it’s a Khmer-Vietnamese-Chinese fusion. Cost:$1–$3.50 (25,000–87,500 VND/bowl).
Where to Find:

• Quán Quế Nhi (44 Phú Lợi, Ward 2): Famous for bold broth, rated 4.5/5. Open 6:00 AM–10:00 PM. Contact: +84 299 361 6161.

• Quán Trang (23 Dã Tượng, Ward 6): Artisanal bún, rated 4.4/5. Open 6:00 AM–10:30 PM.

• Nga Nam Floating Market (Nga Nam Ward): Boat vendors, $1.50–$3.50/bowl, boat rental $10–$20/hour (250,000–500,000 VND). Open 4:00 AM–8:00 AM.
  How to Enjoy: Add chili and lime to the fish sauce dip for a zesty kick. Visit at dawn for market freshness.
  Sustainability Tip: Support family-run eateries like Quế Nhi, using local, sustainable fish.
  Included in: Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70), Mekong River Adventure ($60–$80).

3. Bánh Cóng (Cong Cake) – Crispy Khmer Delight

Description: A Khmer specialty, Bánh Cóng is a crispy, deep-fried cake made with rice flour, mung bean, pork, and shrimp, fried in a “cóng” (metal mold). Served with sweet-sour fish sauce, pickled vegetables, and herbs like fish mint, it’s a beloved street food. Cost: $0.50–$1.50/cake (12,500–37,500 VND).
Where to Find:

• Quán Bánh Cóng Cô Lý (Ward 2, 25 Lê Lợi): Iconic stall, rated 4.6/5. Open 10:00 AM–6:00 PM. Contact: +84 299 382 2822.

• Soc Trang Central Market: Morning vendors, $0.50–$1/cake. Open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Nga Nam Floating Market: Boat stalls, $1–$1.50/cake. Open 4:00 AM–8:00 AM.
  How to Enjoy: Wrap in lettuce with herbs for a fresh crunch. Eat hot for maximum crispiness.
  Sustainability Tip: Choose stalls using locally sourced shrimp and mung beans, like Cô Lý’s.
  Included in: Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70).

4. Bún Gỏi Dà – Refreshing Vermicelli Salad

Description: Bún Gỏi Dà is a tangy breakfast dish of rice vermicelli mixed with shrimp, pork, roasted peanuts, herbs, and a sweet-sour broth with tamarind and soybean sauce. A Vietnamese-Khmer fusion, it’s light yet flavorful, ideal for hot days. Cost: $1–$2.50 (25,000–62,500 VND/bowl).
Where to Find:

• Quán Cô Hằng (13 Nguyễn Văn Hưu, Ward 1): Popular for fresh herbs, rated 4.3/5. Open 6:00 AM–8:00 PM.

• Quán 148 (148 Nguyễn Huệ, Ward 2): Affordable, rated 4.0/5. Open 7:00 AM–7:00 PM.

• Vĩnh Châu Night Market: Evening stalls, $1–$2/bowl. Open 5:00 PM–10:00 PM.
  How to Enjoy: Mix thoroughly to blend flavors. Add chili for extra heat.
  Sustainability Tip: Support small vendors using homegrown herbs to reduce carbon footprints.
  Included in: Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70).

5. Bún Tiêu Giò – Spicy Pork Vermicelli Soup

Description: Bún Tiêu Giò features rice vermicelli in a clear, peppery broth with stewed pork leg, pork rolls, and optional duck or chicken, served with bean sprouts and herbs. Its fiery black pepper distinguishes it from other Vietnamese noodle soups. Cost: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND/bowl).
Where to Find:

• Quán Bún Tiêu Giò 68 (Mau Than 68, Ward 2): Renowned for bold flavors, rated 4.3/5. Open 6:00 AM–8:00 PM.

• Quán Ăn 123 (Le Hong Phong, Ward 3): Hearty portions, rated 4.0/5. Open 6:00 AM–9:00 PM.

• Soc Trang Central Market: Morning stalls, $1–$2/bowl. Open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.
  How to Enjoy: Dip toppings in fish sauce with extra pepper and lime for a spicy-tangy kick.
  Sustainability Tip: Choose eateries sourcing local pork, like Quán 68, to support sustainable farming.
  Included in: Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70).

6. Mè Láo (Sesame Pies) – Crunchy Sweet Treat

Description: Mè Láo, meaning “sesame lie,” is a Chinese-Khmer confection of taro balls coated in glutinous rice flour, fried, and rolled in maltose and sesame seeds. Its crispy shell and airy core make it a deceptive, delightful snack. Cost:$0.50–$2/pack (12,500–50,000 VND, 200–500g).
Where to Find:

• Soc Trang Central Market: Morning vendors, $0.50–$1.50/pack. Open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Vĩnh Châu Night Market: Evening stalls, $0.50–$2/pack. Open 5:00 PM–10:00 PM.

• Tân Huê Viên (Ward 2): Packaged Mè Láo, $1–$3/pack. Open 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.
  How to Enjoy: Pair with green tea ($0.50 or 12,500 VND) for a balanced treat. Buy for souvenirs.
  Sustainability Tip: Opt for vendors using local taro to support regional farmers.
  Included in: Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70).

7. Bánh In – Festive Khmer Moon Cake

Description: Bánh In, a white, glutinous rice cake with a yellow mung bean filling, is a Khmer offering during Ooc Om Bok Festival, symbolizing gratitude for harvests. Its sticky texture and sweet core pair well with tea.
Cost: $0.50–$1.50/cake (12,500–37,500 VND).
Where to Find:

• Soc Trang Central Market: Peak availability during Ooc Om Bok (October–November), $0.50–$1/cake. Open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Kh’leang Pagoda Stalls (Ward 6): Festival vendors, $0.50–$1.50/cake. Open during events.

• Local Shops (Ward 2): Year-round, $1–$1.50/cake. Open 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.
  How to Enjoy: Eat during Ooc Om Bok for cultural immersion. Pair with lotus tea.
  Sustainability Tip: Buy from temple vendors to support Khmer community initiatives.
  Included in: Soc Trang Festival Tour ($70–$90).

8. Khô Trâu Thạnh Trị – Dried Buffalo Meat

Description: A specialty from Thạnh Trị Ward, this sun-dried or smoked buffalo meat is marinated with spices, offering a chewy, savory flavor. It’s a popular beer pairing or gift, known for its long shelf life.
Cost: $10–$20/500g (250,000–500,000 VND).
Where to Find:

• Thạnh Trị Market (Thạnh Trị Ward): Authentic source, $12–$20/500g. Open 6:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Soc Trang Central Market: Specialty stalls, $10–$18/500g. Open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Vĩnh Châu Night Market: $10–$15/500g. Open 5:00 PM–10:00 PM.
  How to Enjoy: Pair with cold beer ($1 or 25,000 VND) or gift vacuum-sealed packs.
  Sustainability Tip: Purchase from Thạnh Trị vendors using traditional, low-impact drying methods.
  Included in: Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70).

9. Bánh Ông – Green Sticky Rice Cake

Description: Bánh Ông, a Khmer dessert, features glutinous rice flour dyed green with pandan leaves, filled with tender coconut and sesame salt. Its chewy texture and aromatic flavor make it a festival favorite.
Cost: $0.50–$1/cake (12,500–25,000 VND).
Where to Find:

• Nga Nam Floating Market: Boat vendors, $0.50–$1/cake. Open 4:00 AM–8:00 AM.

• Soc Trang Central Market: Morning stalls, $0.50–$0.80/cake. Open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Ooc Om Bok Festival Stalls: Peak availability, $0.50–$1/cake.
  How to Enjoy: Eat fresh for stickiness; pair with tea for balance.
  Sustainability Tip: Support vendors using natural pandan dye to promote eco-friendly practices.
  Included in: Soc Trang Festival Tour ($70–$90).

The dry season (November–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) is ideal for market visits and outdoor dining, with February–April offering mild weather. The rainy season (May–October, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F) enhances the appeal of hot dishes like Bún Nước Lèo, though August–October flooding may limit rural access. Ooc Om Bok Festival (October–November) and Tet (January–February) are peak times for festive foods like Bánh In and Bún Tiêu Giò, with prices rising 10–20%. Visit markets early mornings (6:00 AM–9:00 AM) for fresh ingredients or evenings (5:00 PM–10:00 PM) for vibrant night markets. Check AccuWeather for updates.

Tip: Book tours 3–5 weeks in advance for festival seasons to secure spots. Visit Nga Nam Floating Market at dawn for unique dining.

• By Air: Fly to Can Tho International Airport (VCA), 60 km away, from Ho Chi Minh City ($70–$140 or 1,750,000–3,500,000 VND) or Hanoi ($100–$180 or 2,500,000–4,500,000 VND). Eco-van transfers to Soc Trang cost $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

• By Bus: From Ho Chi Minh City (5–6 hours, $6–$15 or 150,000–375,000 VND) or Can Tho (1–1.5 hours, $3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND).

• By Private Transfer: Eco-vans from Can Tho or Ho Chi Minh City cost $50–$80 (1,250,000–2,000,000 VND) for 2–4 passengers.

Tip: Book eco-van transfers via Legend Travel Group for sustainable travel. Download MyCanTho app for bus schedules.

Food Costs:

• Bánh Pía: $1–$3/pack (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Bún Nước Lèo, Bún Tiêu Giò, Bún Gỏi Dà: $1–$3.50/bowl (25,000–87,500 VND).

• Bánh Cóng, Bánh In, Bánh Ông: $0.50–$1.50 (12,500–37,500 VND).

• Mè Láo: $0.50–$2/pack (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Khô Trâu Thạnh Trị: $10–$20/500g (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Cooking Classes: $25–$45 (625,000–1,125,000 VND).

Transport in Soc Trang:

• Taxi/Grab (1–5 km): $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND).

• Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND); fuel $1–$2/liter (25,000–50,000 VND).

• River Boat: $10–$20/hour (250,000–500,000 VND, shared).

• Bicycle Rental: $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND).

Dining (Other Dishes):

• Street Food: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Restaurants: $3–$12 (75,000–300,000 VND).

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

Accommodation (Soc Trang Central Ward):

• Hostels/Guesthouses: $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).

• Hotels: $30–$100/night (750,000–2,500,000 VND).

• Resorts: $120–$300/night (3,000,000–7,500,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Excluding Tours):

• Budget: $15–$40 (street food, bike rental, guesthouse).

• Mid-range: $40–$70 (restaurants, taxi, hotel).

• Luxury: $70–$110 (upscale dining, resort, private boat).

Tip: Use ATMs in Soc Trang Central Ward; carry VND for stalls. Bargain gently for bulk food purchases.

• Book Early: Reserve flights, hotels, and tours 3–5 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group (+84 938 987 654) or Klook for peak seasons or festivals.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) or MyCanTho app. Central wards are walkable; use bikes or boats for rural sites.

• Sustainability: Choose bicycles or electric boats; buy from local vendors using sustainable ingredients; use reusable utensils to align with Mekong Green initiatives.

• Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip vendors or guides ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND); respect market etiquette by not handling food excessively.

• Health Precautions: Apply mosquito repellent for morning market visits; stay hydrated; ensure food is freshly prepared.

• Safety: Secure valuables in crowded markets; avoid flooded rural routes in August–October.

Savor Soc Trang’s culinary delights with our sustainable tours:

• Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70/person): Soc Trang Central Market, Nga Nam Floating Market, Bún Nước Lèo, Bánh Pía, cooking class. Includes eco-transfers and meals.

• Mekong River Adventure ($60–$80/person): Nga Nam Floating Market, Hau River cruise, Bún Nước Lèo, Bánh Cóng vendors. Includes electric boat transfers and lunch.

• Soc Trang Cultural Tour ($55–$75/person): Bún Tiêu Giò eateries, Kh’leang Pagoda, Khmer Museum. Includes bike rentals and snacks.

• Soc Trang Festival Tour ($70–$90/person, October–November): Bún Nước Lèo stalls, Bánh In, Ooc Om Bok Festival. Includes eco-transfers and dining.

• Mekong Delta Explorer ($250–$400/person, 2–3 days): Bún Nước Lèo, Bánh Pía, pagodas, markets, eco-tours across Soc Trang. Includes all activities, meals, and eco-transfers.

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

Soc Trang’s culinary scene is a delicious reflection of its Kinh, Khmer, and Chinese heritage, offering everything from spicy Bún Nước Lèo to flaky Bánh Pía and crispy Bánh Cóng. Whether dining at bustling markets or festive stalls, each dish tells a story of cultural unity and local pride. Legend Travel Group’s Soc Trang Tours let you savor these flavors sustainably, ensuring a sustainable Soc Trang Travel experience that supports Soc Trang’s artisans and preserves its legacy. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your culinary adventure today!
Ready to taste Soc Trang’s iconic dishes? Reserve your eco-friendly tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on a flavorful journey!

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: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group