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  4. What to Eat in Tra Vinh: Vinh Long’s Must-Try Mekong Delta Delicacies

What to Eat in Tra Vinh: Vinh Long’s Must-Try Mekong Delta Delicacies

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Contents
  1. Why Explore Tra Vinh’s Culinary Scene?
  2. Why Choose Legend Travel Group?
  3. Must-Try Dishes in Tra Vinh
  4. Pairing Your Culinary Experience with Tra Vinh’s Attractions
  5. Best Time to Enjoy Tra Vinh’s Cuisine
  6. How to Get to Tra Vinh
  7. Getting Around Tra Vinh for Culinary Adventures
  8. What to Bring for Your Tra Vinh Culinary Journey
  9. Costs and Budget Planning
  10. Practical Tips for Enjoying Tra Vinh’s Cuisine
  11. Legend Travel Group’s Sustainable Foodie Tours
  12. Conclusion

Overview

Discover Tra Vinh’s mouthwatering dishes in Vinh Long, from Banh Canh Ben Co to Makapuno Coconut. Book eco-friendly foodie tours with Legend Travel Group for an authentic Mekong Delta culinary adventure!

Capture the savory essence of Vinh Long’s culinary gemCapture the savory essence of Vinh Long’s culinary gem

Why Explore Tra Vinh’s Culinary Scene?

A Flavorful Journey in the Mekong Delta

Tra Vinh, now a vibrant ward of Vinh Long Province following Vietnam’s administrative reform on July 1, 2025, is a Mekong Delta gem renowned for its rich cultural tapestry and diverse culinary heritage. Nestled between the Tien and Hau Rivers with a 65 km coastline along the East Sea, Tra Vinh’s cuisine reflects its Kinh, Khmer (30% of 1 million residents), and Hoa influences, offering an array of dishes from savory noodle soups to sweet coconut desserts. Attracting 10,000 food-loving visitors annually, Tra Vinh’s culinary experiences range from $1–$10 (25,000–250,000 VND), set against a tropical monsoon climate (dry season: November–April, 24–32°C or 75.2–89.6°F; rainy season: May–October, 26–36°C or 78.8–96.8°F) that enhances vibrant market scenes and lush surroundings.

Legend Travel Group, a sustainable tourism leader since 2008, offers eco-friendly foodie tours in Tra Vinh, blending culinary delights with cultural exploration using eco-transport and local guides. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to book your culinary adventure.

Administrative Note

Use “Tra Vinh Ward, Vinh Long Province” for navigation. Tra Vinh remains a key culinary and cultural hub within Vinh Long, ideal for international travelers seeking authentic Mekong Delta flavors.

Why Choose Legend Travel Group?

With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group serves 15,000 travelers annually across Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar, prioritizing sustainable tourism. Our Tra Vinh foodie tours feature eco-friendly transport, English-speaking guides sharing culinary and cultural insights, and partnerships with local vendors to support sustainable practices. Enjoy transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours prior, and 24/7 support. Book through this guide for an immersive, responsible experience aligned with Vietnam’s green tourism vision.

Must-Try Dishes in Tra Vinh

Experience Vinh Long Tours with sustainable diningExperience Vinh Long Tours with sustainable dining (Source: Internet)

Tra Vinh’s culinary scene is a vibrant mix of traditional and regional flavors, showcasing its coastal and agricultural heritage. Here are the top dishes you can’t miss, all available at markets, stalls, and restaurants across Tra Vinh:

1. Banh Canh Ben Co (Thick Noodle Soup)

  • Description: Originating from Ben Co Hamlet, Nguyet Hoa Village, this hearty noodle soup features thick, chewy rice noodles in a sweet-savory pork broth, topped with pork leg, stomach, heart, and coriander. Served with lime and chili for customizable flavor.

  • Price: $1.50–$3 (37,500–75,000 VND) per bowl.

  • Where to Try: Quan Banh Canh Ben Co Nguyet Hoa (7 km from city center); Tra Vinh Night Market (Ward 2, city center).

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Choose vendors with reusable cutlery; bring a reusable water bottle ($0.80 or 20,000 VND).

  • Tip: Add extra chili for a spicy kick; pair with a visit to nearby orchards. Included in Legend Travel Group’s Foodie Tour ($70–$100).

2. Banh Tet Tra Cuon (Cylindric Glutinous Rice Cake)

  • Description: A Khmer-inspired specialty from Hiep Hoa Commune, crafted with glutinous rice, katuk leaf juice for a green crust, and fillings of mung bean, pork belly, and salted duck egg yolk. Sliced into rounds using banana rope for a smooth cut.

  • Price: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) per cake (serves 2–4).

  • Where to Try: Thach Thi Ly’s Family Stall (Hiep Hoa, 15 km from city center); Tra Vinh Market (Ward 2, city center).

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Uses banana leaf packaging; bring a reusable tote ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND).

  • Tip: Buy as a gift; pair with Vietnamese iced coffee ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND). Included in Legend Travel Group’s Foodie Tour ($70–$100).

3. Makapuno Coconut (Dua Sap)

  • Description: A luxurious coconut variety with creamy, jelly-like flesh, eaten raw or mixed with ice, milk, and peanuts for a dessert-like treat. Grown in Tra Vinh’s fertile orchards, it’s a festive favorite.

  • Price: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) per coconut; $3–$8 (75,000–200,000 VND) for a dessert bowl.

  • Where to Try: Vinh Kim Orchard Stalls (12 km from city center); Tra Vinh Night Market (Ward 2, city center).

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Uses biodegradable straws; bring a reusable container for takeaway.

  • Tip: Try with mango for a tropical twist; visit orchards for the freshest coconuts. Included in Legend Travel Group’s Foodie Tour ($70–$100).

4. Vinh Kim Dry Shrimp (Tom Kho Vinh Kim)

  • Description: Sun-dried shrimp from Vinh Kim Village, known for their pink-red color and rich umami flavor. Perfect as a snack, topping for noodle soups, or gift, crafted with minimal salt for long shelf life.

  • Price: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) for a tasting portion; $20–$30/kg (500,000–750,000 VND).

  • Where to Try: Vinh Kim Village Market (12 km from city center); Tra Vinh Market (Ward 2, city center).

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Uses banana leaf or paper packaging; support sustainable fishing vendors.

  • Tip: Pair with bun nuoc leo for a local dish. Included in Legend Travel Group’s Foodie Tour ($70–$100).

5. Xuan Thanh Wine (Ruou Xuan Thanh)

  • Description: A traditional rice spirit from Xuan Thanh Village, crafted with glutinous rice and secret herbs, offering a smooth, aromatic flavor (25–30% alcohol). Served in small cups or bottled for gifting.

  • Price: $1–$4 (25,000–100,000 VND) per cup; $2.50–$5 (62,500–125,000 VND) for a 500 ml bottle.

  • Where to Try: Xuan Thanh Village Distillery (10 km from city center); Tra Vinh Night Market (Ward 2, city center).

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Uses glass bottles; sip responsibly to minimize waste.

  • Tip: Pair with grilled fish for a local experience. Included in Legend Travel Group’s Foodie Tour ($70–$100).

6. Chao Am (Fish Congee)

  • Description: A comforting porridge made with snakehead fish, ginger, and herbs, symbolizing a bride’s culinary skill in Tra Vinh’s tradition. Known as “obsession” (Am), it’s a warm, savory dish perfect for cooler days.

  • Price: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND) per bowl.

  • Where to Try: Quan Chao Am Ba Sau (Ward 3, city center); Tra Vinh Night Market (Ward 2, city center).

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Choose vendors with reusable bowls; bring a reusable spoon.

  • Tip: Add lime and ginger for extra warmth. Included in Legend Travel Group’s Foodie Tour ($70–$100).

7. Nuoc Mam Ruoi (Clam Worm Sauce)

  • Description: A unique fish sauce made from fermented clam worms, with a sweet, mild flavor and yellow-blue hue. Used as a dipping sauce or in noodle dishes like bun nuoc leo.

  • Price: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) for a tasting portion; $1.50–$5 (37,500–125,000 VND) for a 500 ml–1 liter bottle.

  • Where to Try: Duyen Hai Coastal Market (20 km from city center); Tra Vinh Market (Ward 2, city center).

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Uses glass bottles; support sustainable fishing vendors.

  • Tip: Try with banh xeo for a flavorful dip. Included in Legend Travel Group’s Foodie Tour ($70–$100).

Pairing Your Culinary Experience with Tra Vinh’s Attractions

Ben Co Vietnamese Udon Noodles - "Bánh Canh Bến Có"Ben Co Vietnamese Udon Noodles - "Bánh Canh Bến Có" (Source: Internet)

Enhance your foodie adventure with nearby cultural and natural sites:

  • Ang Pagoda: A 10th-century Khmer masterpiece, 5 km from the city center. Entry: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND). Visit after dining at Tra Vinh Market.

  • Ba Om Pond: A lotus-filled oasis, 5 km southwest. Free entry; electric boat rides ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND). Pair with a trip to Duyen Hai.

  • Chua Co (Stork Pagoda): A serene temple with resident storks, 3 km from the center. Free entry. Explore after a night market visit.

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Use bicycles or cyclos ($1–$3/hour or 25,000–75,000 VND) to reach these sites; join cleanups to support conservation.

Best Time to Enjoy Tra Vinh’s Cuisine

Tra Cuon cylindric glutinous rice Cake - "Bánh Tét Trà Cuôn"Tra Cuon cylindric glutinous rice Cake - "Bánh Tét Trà Cuôn" (Source: Internet)
  • November–April (Dry Season, 24–32°C or 75.2–89.6°F): Ideal for market visits and outdoor dining, with moderate crowds (50–150 daily visitors). Book tours 1–2 weeks ahead.

  • May–October (Rainy Season, 26–36°C or 78.8–96.8°F): Lush scenery and fewer crowds (30–100 daily visitors); bring rain gear ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND). Last-minute bookings often available.

  • Festival Seasons: Lunar New Year (January/February) and Ok Om Bok (October/November) feature festive dishes, drawing 200+ visitors. Book 2–4 weeks ahead.

  • Timing Tip: Mornings (6:00–10:00 AM) for fresh market dishes; evenings (5:00–8:00 PM) for vibrant night market dining.

How to Get to Tra Vinh

Makapuno Coconut - "Dừa sáp"Makapuno Coconut - "Dừa sáp" (Source: Internet)

Tra Vinh Ward, Vinh Long Province, is 125 km from Ho Chi Minh City, 45 km from Vinh Long Ward, and 80 km from Can Tho:

  • From Ho Chi Minh City (2.5–3.5 hours): Bus ($6–$12 or 150,000–300,000 VND) + taxi ($12–$18 or 300,000–450,000 VND); private car ($60–$80 or 1,500,000–2,000,000 VND); Xanh SM electric taxi ($90–$120 or 2,250,000–3,000,000 VND, eco-friendly).

  • From Hanoi (4.5–5 hours): Flight to Can Tho ($65–$130 or 1,625,000–3,250,000 VND) + taxi ($50–$60 or 1,250,000–1,500,000 VND).

  • From Vinh Long Ward (45–60 minutes): Taxi ($15–$20 or 375,000–500,000 VND); motorbike rental ($7–$12/day or 175,000–300,000 VND, Vietnamese license required).

  • Navigation Tip: Save “Tra Vinh Ward, Vinh Long Province” in offline maps (Maps.me). Parking: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Opt for buses or Xanh SM taxis; book through Legend Travel Group for sustainable transport.

Getting Around Tra Vinh for Culinary Adventures

Vinh Kim dry Shrimps - "Tôm khô Vinh Kim"Vinh Kim dry Shrimps - "Tôm khô Vinh Kim" (Source: Internet)
  • Walking: Free, ideal for city center markets (1–2 km radius).

  • Cyclo: $1–$3/hour (25,000–75,000 VND), eco-friendly, perfect for short trips to eateries.

  • Bicycle Rental: $2–$5/day (50,000–125,000 VND), sustainable, great for Nguyet Hoa, Hiep Hoa, or Duyen Hai.

  • Taxi/Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $0.50–$1/km (12,500–25,000 VND), best for longer trips to Duyen Hai.

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Prioritize cyclos or bicycles; book through Legend Travel Group for eco-transport.

  • Tip: Confirm fares upfront; rent bikes near Tra Vinh Market.

What to Bring for Your Tra Vinh Culinary Journey

Dive into the vibrant flavors of Vinh Long TravelDive into the vibrant flavors of Vinh Long Travel (Source: Internet)

Pack these essentials for a sustainable experience:

  • Clothing: Lightweight, breathable attire, sturdy sandals, hat; waterproof poncho ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND) for rainy season.

  • Gear: Reusable water bottle ($0.80 or 20,000 VND), reusable tote ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND), reusable utensils to reduce waste.

  • Essentials: Compact umbrella ($3–$6), hand sanitizer, mosquito repellent ($0.80 or 20,000 VND).

  • Tech: Smartphone with Vietmap/Maps.me, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($6–$12 or 150,000–300,000 VND).

  • Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).

Costs and Budget Planning

Fish Congee - "Cháo ám"Fish Congee - "Cháo ám" (Source: Internet)

Culinary Costs

  • Banh Canh Ben Co, Chao Am: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

  • Banh Tet Tra Cuon, Makapuno Coconut: $2–$8 (50,000–200,000 VND).

  • Vinh Kim Dry Shrimp: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) for a portion; $20–$30/kg (500,000–750,000 VND).

  • Xuan Thanh Wine: $1–$4 (25,000–100,000 VND) per cup; $2.50–$5 (62,500–125,000 VND) for 500 ml.

  • Nuoc Mam Ruoi: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND) for 500 ml–1 liter.

  • Drinks (e.g., iced coffee, coconut water): $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

Activity Costs

  • Pagoda/Museum Entry: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

  • Boat Tours (Ba Om Pond): $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

  • Guided Foodie Tour: $20–$35 (500,000–875,000 VND).

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

Transport Costs (Local)

  • Cyclo: $1–$3/hour (25,000–75,000 VND).

  • Bicycle Rental: $2–$5/day (50,000–125,000 VND).

  • Taxi/Xanh SM: $0.50–$1/km (12,500–25,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

  • Budget: $5–$15 (walking, street food, homestay).

  • Mid-range: $20–$35 (cyclo, guided tour, local dining).

  • Luxury: $50–$80 (taxi, premium dining, homestay).

Practical Tips for Enjoying Tra Vinh’s Cuisine

Fish Sauce - Clam Worm Sauce - "Nước mắm rươi"Fish Sauce - Clam Worm Sauce - "Nước mắm rươi" (Source: Internet)
  • Timing: Visit morning markets (6:00–10:00 AM) for fresh dishes; evenings (5:00–8:00 PM) for vibrant night market dining. November–April for dry weather; weekdays for fewer crowds (30–100 vs. 50–150 on weekends).

  • Booking: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s foodie tours 24–48 hours ahead; book homestays 1–2 weeks ahead for festivals (January/February, October/November).

  • Sustainability: Choose vendors with reusable cutlery or eco-packaging; join market or beach cleanups. Use eco-transport like bicycles or Xanh SM taxis.

  • Navigation: Save “Tra Vinh Ward, Vinh Long Province” in offline maps; key culinary spots are in the city center or 7–20 km away.

  • Safety: Secure valuables; confirm prices before ordering. Avoid heavy rain for outdoor dining.

  • Cultural Respect: Greet vendors with “xin chào”; ask about dish preparation for a cultural exchange.

Legend Travel Group’s Sustainable Foodie Tours

Explore Tra Vinh’s culinary scene with our eco-friendly tours:

  • Tra Vinh Foodie Tour ($70–$100/person, 1 day): Savor Banh Canh Ben Co, Makapuno Coconut, and more at Tra Vinh Market. Includes guide, cyclo transport, meals.

  • Tra Vinh Cultural & Culinary Adventure ($140–$190/person, 2 days): Enjoy local dishes, Ba Om Pond cruise, homestay. Includes meals, guide, bicycle transport.

  • Mekong Delta Explorer ($340–$480/person, 4 days): Discover Tra Vinh, Ben Tre, Can Tho, with culinary stops and eco-stays. Includes meals, eco-transfers.

  • Prices include guides, eco-transport, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book via this guide.

Conclusion

Tra Vinh Ward, Vinh Long Province, is a culinary paradise offering a vibrant array of Mekong Delta flavors, from Banh Canh Ben Co to Xuan Thanh Wine. With its rich cultural heritage and sustainable dining options, Tra Vinh captivates food lovers. Legend Travel Group’s Vinh Long Tours let you savor these delicacies while supporting local communities, ensuring a sustainable Vinh Long Travel experience filled with eco-conscious adventures. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your tour today for a delicious, eco-conscious adventure in Tra Vinh!
Ready to taste Tra Vinh’s culinary treasures? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group for a sustainable, unforgettable journey!

By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group

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.

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