10 Must-Try Dishes in Phong Nha-Ke Bang, Quang Binh

1. Noodle (Chao canh Quang Binh)

“Chao” is porridge and “canh” is soup. When hearing about "chao canh" in Quang Binh, many people might picture a pot of rice porridge bubbling away. But it's more like pho or noodles than your typical porridge.

The toppings in cháo canh are also very simple: pork bones, shrimp, meat, sausage, and soft, chewy noodles, sprinkled with aromatic herbs to enhance the flavor. Nowadays, people often enjoy bánh canh porridge with fried spring rolls to increase its appeal.

What makes chao canh in Quang Binh stand out is how it's served with finely chopped green veggies, not the usual raw bean sprouts or lettuce. Mixing the hot chao canh with those green veggies adds color and freshness. And the taste? Sweet, spicy, and oh-so-refreshing.

When you join the tours with Oxalis Adventure, you can enjoy it at breakfast. If you're in Phong Nha and craving some cháo canh, just head to any eatery in town. And the best part? It won't break the bank, starting from just $1.

Chao canh with ram cuon for breakfast.

2. Grilled Fish dishes in Quang Binh

Phong Nha National Park, in central Vietnam, boasts stunning rivers, such as Chay river or Son River. That’s why one dish that stands out is grilled snakehead fish with vegetables.

The star of the dish is the snakehead fish, a freshwater predator. Known for its firm, white flesh and mild flavor, it's caught fresh from the region's rivers and lakes. Traditionally, the snakehead is cooked over charcoal or open flames.

This imparts a smoky aroma and a crispy char to the skin. As the fish is done, the vegetables are prepared. Local Phong Nha cuisine often features a medley of fresh seasonal produce.

Once cooked through, the snakehead is presented on a platter, surrounded by the fresh vegetables. The aroma is a delightful mix of smoky char, savory spices, and fresh herbs. The crispy skin gives way to flaky, flavorful flesh, perfectly complemented by the fresh vegetables. A dip in a nuoc cham (fish sauce dressing) adds a tangy contrast.

3. Stir-fried snails with La lot

Stir-fried snails with la lot combines the plump meat of freshwater snails with the flavors of la lot, a herb native to the region.

The snails, typically harvested in surrounding Phong Nha. Meanwhile, la lot leaves are carefully selected for their freshness and earthy aroma. Some chefs even incorporate the young la lot shoots, adding a delightful crunch to the dish.

When stir-frying begins, the aroma of shallots, garlic, and chilies fills the air. The boiled snails are introduced to the hot pan, absorbing the fragrant oils.

La lot leaves are then added, their vibrant green hue contrasting beautifully with the glistening snails. A splash of fish sauce and a touch of sugar enhance the savory and slightly sweet undertones.

4. Grilled Chicken with Cheo Salt Specialty

Grilled chicken in Phong Nha, Quang Binh, is a culinary delight that embodies the essence of natural flavors and traditional techniques. Cooked from free-range chickens raised using natural methods, the meat is imbued with a chewy texture and a rich, sweet taste.

Prepared on charcoal stoves, the chicken retains its natural essence, offering a pure and authentic dining experience. To elevate the enjoyment, the chicken is typically accompanied by sticky rice, enhancing its savory profile.

When indulging in this delectable dish, locals and visitors alike often opt for Cheo salt, a specialty of Phong Nha. This unique salt blend, composed of chili, lime leaves, coriander leaves, and Doi seeds, adds a spicy kick and an extra layer of flavor to each succulent bite of grilled chicken.

Numerous restaurants in Phong Nha serve this beloved dish, such as Chay Lap Farmstay, East Hill Phong Nha, O O Lake Silence, May Dang Hill, and Len Con.

Grilled chicken with Cheo salt and sticky rice.

5. Wild edible vegetables in Phong Nha

A special dish emerges from the bounty of wild edible vegetables, such as “rau dớn”. These nutritious greens, foraged from the surrounding forests and fields, form the basis of a culinary tradition that celebrates both flavor and health benefits.

The dish, prepared simply by boiling or stir-frying, showcases the natural freshness and vibrant colors of the wild vegetables. Each ingredient contributes its own unique texture and taste, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that reflect the region's rich biodiversity.

As the vegetables are cooked to perfection, their flavors intensify, releasing earthy aromas and subtle sweetness. The dish is often served with a light dipping sauce, adding a tangy kick that enhances the overall experience.

6. Tasty Braised Eel Bananas And Tofu

The unique flavors of Phong Nha National Park can be found in a local specialty dish: braised eel with bananas and tofu. This dish combines savory braised eel with the sweetness of bananas and the heartiness of tofu, creating a textural and taste bud explosion.

Succulent eel pieces, browned and flaky from braising, nestled alongside firm tofu cubes that have absorbed the rich sauce. The bananas, a surprising but delightful addition, add pops of sweetness that balances the savory eel.

The braising sauce is a key element, typically crafted with a base of fish sauce and sugar. This combination creates a deep, savory flavor that permeates the eel, tofu, and bananas. Herbs and spices, like lemongrass and chilies, might be added for a touch of aromatics and a hint of heat.

This dish is often served with steamed rice or noodles, providing a neutral base to complement the robust flavors. Fresh herbs, like cilantro or basil, might be used as a garnish to add a pop of color and a refreshing element.

7. Bánh bèo Phong Nha

One of the special treats enjoyed mainly every morning, Bánh bèo from Quang Binh, is like a "welcome," adding extra energy to the stomach of diners. With such popularity, you can find eateries serving Bánh bèo along many different streets.

Visiting Phong Nha without trying the famous crispy shrimp Bánh bèo would be a miss. With abundant seafood, locals always choose fresh shrimp to fry. The Bánh bèo here is soft and fragrant with the scent of fresh rice, golden crispy shrimp, and richly flavored sweet and salty fish sauce, which is incredibly delicious.

These are plates filled with delicate, pure white cakes adorned with evenly scattered golden crispy shrimp and a little bit of fried shallots on top. 20 round cakes, all neatly arranged on the plate, with a simple yet beautiful presentation.

Besides them are two bowls of diluted fish sauce, one without chili and one with chili. When eating, you use a spoon to spread the fish sauce on the cakes evenly.

Banh beo with golden crispy shrimp.

8. Bánh lọc: Quang Binh local dishes

When you visit Phong Nha, stop by a small eatery to try some delicious little cakes called Bánh lọc. You'll immediately taste the unique flavor many food enthusiasts have praised about these modest Quang Binh local dishes.

The sweetness of fresh tiny pink shrimp is complemented by the earthiness of mung bean and the savory notes of braised meat. The sautéed or fresh chopped spring onions lend a refreshing bite. The steaming process with banana leaves ensures that all flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a delightful and aromatic culinary experience.

As for the dipping sauce, it adds another layer of richness to the Bánh lọc. Not overly sour or sweet, with thick slices of chili floating in the red bowl, yet it won't overwhelm you with spiciness.

It's tasty because of the quality fish sauce and the skillful preparation, embodying the distinctive taste of Quang Binh. The combination creates perfect harmony for those enjoying these simple banh loc cakes and their dipping sauce.

Two types of banh loc Phong Nha Ke Bang.

9. Bún chả cá trắm

“Cá Trắm” or Tram Fish raised in the Son River, Phong Nha always have tender, tasty meat that's highly nutritious because they are usually raised in cages suspended in the river and fed various types of algae and aquatic plants collected from the riverbed.

As a result, Tram Fish meat has become a specialty product, bearing one of the most famous dishes in Phong Nha Ke Bang.

Here is one Phong Nha travel tip: To enjoy this dish, visit local restaurants or Chay Lap Farmstay. The fish is meticulously seasoned and mixed with fennel before being finely ground. Then, it's formed into small cakes and fried in oil.

The final product is evenly cooked, golden brown fish cakes, visually appealing, with a fragrant aroma of herbs. The taste blends the delicate flavor of tender, delicious fish with the rich taste of herbs. Combined with noodles and broth, it creates a harmonious, irresistible flavor profile that's unforgettable.

Bún chả cá trắm at Chay Lap Farmstay.

10. Vegetarian dishes in Phong Nha-Ke Bang

In Phong Nha, you'll find a delightful array of vegetarian dishes that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. These dishes are not only delicious but also reflective of the region's vibrant culinary culture.

One popular choice among vegetarians is a hearty noodle soup featuring a flavorful broth filled with fresh vegetables, tofu, and fragrant herbs. This dish offers a comforting blend of textures and aromas, perfect for warming up on cooler days or satisfying your hunger after exploring the nearby caves and landscapes.

For those seeking a lighter option, plenty of fresh salads incorporate local produce, such as crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and tangy fruits, all tossed together with zesty dressings or savory sauces.

If you're craving something savory and indulgent, look no further than crispy spring rolls or stuffed tofu parcels. These bite-sized delights are typically filled with a savory mixture of vegetables, mushrooms, and spices and then fried to golden perfection.

The Oxalis Experience.