Where to Eat in Buon Ma Thuot, Dak Lak: Vietnam Eco-Tours Dining Guide

A Culinary Haven in Vietnam’s Coffee Capital

Buon Ma Thuot, the vibrant capital of Dak Lak, Vietnam, is a culinary gem in the Central Highlands, renowned for its 210,480 hectares of coffee plantations, producing over 520,000 tons annually, and its rich M’nong and Ede culinary traditions. Located 350 km northeast of Ho Chi Minh City and 175 km south of Da Nang, this ward, now including former Phu Yen wards like Tuy Hoa after Vietnam’s 2025 administrative merger, attracts over 500,000 visitors annually. With a temperate climate (dry season: December–April, 18–28°C or 64.4–82.4°F; rainy season: May–November, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F), dining experiences, costing $2–$10 (50,000–250,000 VND), offer authentic flavors in sustainable settings, from bustling markets to cozy longhouses.

Legend Travel Group, a pioneer in sustainable tourism, champions eco-friendly dining tours that reject practices like elephant riding, using locally sourced ingredients and biodegradable materials. Our tours support M’nong and Ede communities and align with Dak Lak’s “Green Highlands” initiative. Book your culinary adventure via the links in this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com

Administrative Note

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, effective from mid-2025, has unified Dak Lak, with Buon Ma Thuot as the central ward and former Phu Yen, including Tuy Hoa, as a ward under Dak Lak’s administration, simplifying navigation with ward-based maps for dining exploration.

With over 17 years as a leader in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, Legend Travel Group is the first local operator to ban elephant riding, offering eco-conscious dining tours in Dak Lak tailored for food enthusiasts. Our tours use low-emission transport like electric taxis, guided by English-speaking experts who share insights into M’nong and Ede culinary traditions, sustainable sourcing, and Dak Lak’s coffee culture. Supporting local artisans and farmers, we align with Dak Lak’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, planning your foodie journey is seamless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page!

Buon Ma Thuot offers a diverse culinary scene, blending Ede and M’nong specialties with vibrant markets and sustainable eateries. Below are top dining spots and experiences, with costs ranging from $2–$10, emphasizing eco-friendly practices:

1. Thanh Tram Grilled Pork Roll Restaurant

• Address: 22 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, Thang Loi Ward, Buon Ma Thuot, Dak Lak

• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM–9:00 PM

• Contact: +84 262 385 9561

• Price Range: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND)

• Description: Renowned for its grilled pork rolls (chả lụi), a Vietnamese culinary gem, Thanh Tram offers a sustainable dining experience with locally sourced pork and herbs. Roll tender pork with rice vermicelli, fresh vegetables, and rice paper, then dip in a soy-based or peanut sauce. The open-air setting and biodegradable utensils enhance its eco-friendly appeal.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Uses local, organic ingredients; composts food waste.

• Tip: Try with a side of M’nong pickles ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); included in Legend Travel Group’s Food Eco-Tour ($60–$90).

2. Quan Dau Restaurant

• Address: 41 Tran Binh Trong Street, Tan Loi Ward, Buon Ma Thuot, Dak Lak

• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM–9:00 PM

• Contact: +84 905 107 749

• Price Range: $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND)

• Description: A must-visit for “bún đậu mắm tôm,” a Vietnamese street food classic featuring vermicelli, fried tofu, shrimp paste, pork, and spring rolls. This eco-conscious eatery sources ingredients from local farms and serves dishes with biodegradable plates. Also offers grilled pork rolls for variety.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Partners with local farmers; uses solar-powered lighting.

• Tip: Pair with iced coffee ($0.50–$1.50 or 12,500–37,500 VND); included in Legend Travel Group’s Food Eco-Tour ($60–$90).

3. Mr. BBQ Restaurant

• Address: 42 Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street, Thang Loi Ward, Buon Ma Thuot, Dak Lak

• Opening Hours: 4:00 PM–12:00 AM

• Contact: +84 909 099 226

• Price Range: $4–$10 (100,000–250,000 VND)

• Description: A popular spot for BBQ lovers, offering sustainably sourced beef, pork, and chicken grilled tableside, served with forest herbs and chili sauce. Its spacious, airy venue is perfect for groups, with eco-friendly practices like reusable grills and local produce.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Sources meat from ethical farms; uses biodegradable napkins.

• Tip: Try the beef skewers with “muối kiến vàng” (yellow ant salt, $1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND); included in Legend Travel Group’s Food Eco-Tour ($60–$90).

4. DakMe Restaurant

• Address: 143 Ngo Quyen Street, Tan Loi Ward, Buon Ma Thuot, Dak Lak

• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM–10:00 PM

• Contact: +84 262 395 5666

• Price Range: $3–$8 (75,000–200,000 VND)

• Description: Specializing in bagrid catfish hotpot (lẩu cá lăng) and sour soup, DakMe uses fish from local rivers and sustainable ingredients like sour bamboo shoots and turmeric. The open-air setting and biodegradable serving materials make it a refreshing, eco-conscious choice for warm days.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Supports local fishermen; uses compostable waste management.

• Tip: Order with soft noodles; included in Legend Travel Group’s Food Eco-Tour ($60–$90).

5. Longhouse Dining at Jun Village

• Address: Jun Village, Lien Son Ward, Lak Lake (56 km from Buon Ma Thuot)

• Opening Hours: 11:00 AM–8:00 PM (pre-booking recommended)

• Contact: Arrange via Legend Travel Group or local homestays

• Price Range: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND)

• Description: Experience M’nong hospitality with a communal meal in a traditional longhouse, featuring “cơm lam” (bamboo rice), “vech” (herbivore intestine), and “rượu cần” (tube wine). Hosts share cultural stories, using locally grown ingredients and biodegradable utensils.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Supports M’nong families; uses solar-powered homes.

• Tip: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Cultural Eco-Tour ($70–$100); dress modestly and bring small gifts ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for hosts.

• Dry Season (December–April): Cool, dry weather (18–28°C or 64.4–82.4°F) is ideal for outdoor dining at markets or restaurants. The Buon Ma Thuot Coffee Festival (March, biennial) draws 50,000+ visitors, featuring food stalls with local specialties. Book dining tours 1–2 weeks in advance.

• Rainy Season (May–November): Lush greenery enhances cozy longhouse meals, with fewer crowds (200–500 daily visitors), ideal for dishes like bagrid catfish hotpot. The M’nong New Rice Ceremony (October–November) offers communal feasts. Rain gear is essential.

• Tip: Weekdays (500–1,000 daily visitors) are less crowded than weekends (2,000–5,000); afternoons (3:00–6:00 PM) suit market dining, evenings (6:00–9:00 PM) for restaurant or longhouse meals.

Buon Ma Thuot is accessible via eco-friendly transport options:

• By Air: Fly to Buon Ma Thuot Airport (Phung Duc) from Hanoi (1.5 hours, $45–$115 or 1,125,000–2,875,000 VND one-way) or Ho Chi Minh City (1 hour, $35–$80 or 875,000–2,000,000 VND). Taxi to city center: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND, 10 km). Operators: Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet, Bamboo Airways.

• By Bus: From Ho Chi Minh City’s Mien Dong Station (6–7 hours, $10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND) or Hanoi (28–36 hours, $30–$45 or 750,000–1,125,000 VND). Operators: Mai Linh, Phuong Trang.

• By Private Car: Drive from Ho Chi Minh City via QL14 (6 hours, $80–$120 or 2,000,000–3,000,000 VND round-trip for 4 people). Book via Legend Travel Group.

• Navigation Tip: Save “Buon Ma Thuot, Dak Lak” in offline maps (Maps.me); follow QL14 signs. Parking: $0.80–$1.50 (20,000–37,500 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Use Xanh SM electric taxis or group buses to reduce emissions; cycling locally minimizes impact.

• Safety: Confirm taxi fares; avoid night travel on rural roads.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable foodie trip:

• Clothing: Light layers, comfortable shoes for markets; raincoat ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND) for rainy season; modest attire (cover shoulders/knees) for longhouses.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, hat.

• Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND), mosquito repellent ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), hand sanitizer ($0.50).

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).

• Culinary Gear: Small backpack, reusable container for leftovers, notebook for recipes.

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

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for market buys ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND); biodegradable wipes.

• Extras: Snacks for tours; cash for vendors (no cards at markets or villages).
  Tip: Carry small VND notes for meals ($2–$10), activities ($5–$15), or souvenirs ($3–$10); secure valuables.

Costs for Dining Experiences in Buon Ma Thuot, Dak Lak

Dining Costs

• Thanh Tram Grilled Pork Roll: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).

• Quan Dau Bún Đậu Mắm Tôm: $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND).

• Mr. BBQ Dishes: $4–$10 (100,000–250,000 VND).

• DakMe Bagrid Catfish Hotpot: $3–$8 (75,000–200,000 VND).

• Jun Village Longhouse Meal: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Local Snacks (e.g., Cơm Lam): $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

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

• Souvenirs (e.g., Coffee Beans): $3–$10 (75,000–250,000 VND).

• Guided Dining Eco-Tour: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).

Transportation (Round-Trip, from Ho Chi Minh City)

• Flight + Taxi: $70–$160 (1,750,000–4,000,000 VND).

• Bus: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).

• Private Car: $80–$120 (2,000,000–3,000,000 VND).

• Parking: $0.80–$1.50 (20,000–37,500 VND).

• SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $15–$30 (bus, market dining, snacks).

• Mid-range: $40–$70 (taxi, restaurant meals, guided tour).

• Luxury: $100–$150 (flight, longhouse feast, premium tour).
  Tip: Budget for meals ($2–$10), transport ($10–$160), and souvenirs ($3–$10); carry cash (no cards at markets or villages).

• Timing: Visit March for the Coffee Festival with food stalls or October–November for New Rice Ceremony feasts. Weekdays for fewer crowds (500–1,000 vs. 2,000–5,000 on weekends). Book dining tours early for festivals.

• Booking: Reserve Legend Travel Group tours 1–2 weeks ahead for March or 48 hours for off-peak. Confirm restaurant reservations for groups at Mr. BBQ or DakMe.

• Sustainability: Support eateries using local, organic ingredients (e.g., Thanh Tram, Quan Dau); use biodegradable utensils. Respect ecosystems during village visits.

• Navigation: Save “Phan Dinh Giot Market, Buon Ma Thuot, Dak Lak” in offline maps; ask locals for restaurant directions. Avoid night travel to rural eateries.

• Safety: Confirm dish ingredients for dietary needs; secure valuables at markets. Carry a flashlight for evening longhouse dining.

• Weather: Dry season for market dining; rainy season needs rain gear ($3–$7) and waterproof bags ($5–$10). Check AccuWeather.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly in longhouses (cover shoulders/knees); say “xin chào” to locals. Respect communal dining traditions.

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50); carry mosquito repellent and hand sanitizer.

Our eco-friendly tours highlight Buon Ma Thuot’s culinary scene:

• Food Eco-Tour ($60–$90/person, 1 day): Visit Phan Dinh Giot market, Thanh Tram or Quan Dau dining, coffee pairing, with lunch ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND). Includes guide, eco-transport.

• Cultural Eco-Tour ($70–$100/person, 2 days): Jun Village longhouse feast, Lak Lake, M’nong homestay with “rượu cần.” Includes meals, guide.

• Central Highlands Immersion ($300–$450/person, 3 days): DakMe dining, Yok Don, Krong Pac farms, with homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!

Buon Ma Thuot, Dak Lak, Vietnam, offers a vibrant dining scene with sustainable eateries like Thanh Tram, Quan Dau, and Jun Village longhouses, serving specialties like grilled pork rolls and “vech” for $2–$10 (50,000–250,000 VND). Legend Travel Group’s Buon Ma Thuot Tours ensure eco-friendly dining experiences that immerse you in M’nong and Ede flavors while preserving Dak Lak’s heritage, as the first to reject elephant riding. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-journey today!
Ready to dine in Buon Ma Thuot, Dak Lak? Reserve your sustainable eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable culinary adventure!

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