Can Tho

๐Ÿฒ

Local Cuisine

Sections

Popular Dishes

  1. Bรกnh Xรจo (Vietnamese Sizzling Pancakes)

    • Ingredients: Rice flour, turmeric, coconut milk, shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and herbs.
    • Preparation: The batter is mixed and poured into a hot skillet, filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, then folded and served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.
    • Typical Cost: 30,000 - 50,000 VND per serving.
    • Where to Find: Local eateries and street vendors, especially around Ninh Kieu Wharf.

  2. Cรก Lรณc Nฦฐแป›ng Trui (Grilled Snakehead Fish)

    • Ingredients: Snakehead fish, lemongrass, banana leaves, and various herbs.
    • Preparation: The fish is marinated with spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and grilled over an open flame, often served with rice paper and fresh herbs.
    • Typical Cost: 100,000 - 150,000 VND per dish.
    • Where to Find: Restaurants specializing in river fish, such as those along the riverside.

  3. Hแปง Tiแบฟu (Noodle Soup)

    • Ingredients: Rice noodles, pork, seafood, vegetables, and a clear broth.
    • Preparation: The noodles are served in a savory broth with various toppings, often garnished with herbs and lime.
    • Typical Cost: 25,000 - 50,000 VND per bowl.
    • Where to Find: Street stalls and local restaurants, particularly in the morning.

  4. Gแปi Cuแป‘n (Spring Rolls)

    • Ingredients: Rice paper, shrimp, pork, vermicelli noodles, and fresh vegetables.
    • Preparation: Ingredients are wrapped in rice paper and served with a peanut or hoisin dipping sauce.
    • Typical Cost: 20,000 - 40,000 VND per roll.
    • Where to Find: Available at many street food vendors and restaurants.

  5. Chรจ (Vietnamese Sweet Soup)

    • Ingredients: A variety of beans, fruits, coconut milk, and tapioca.
    • Preparation: Ingredients are cooked and served in a sweet syrup, often enjoyed as a dessert.
    • Typical Cost: 10,000 - 30,000 VND per bowl.
    • Where to Find: Dessert stalls and markets, especially in the evening.

Dining Etiquette

  • Chopsticks and Spoons: In Can Tho, chopsticks are commonly used for most dishes, while a spoon is typically used for soups and rice. Itโ€™s polite to use chopsticks to pick up food from shared dishes.
  • Sharing Dishes: Meals are often served family-style, with several dishes shared among diners. Itโ€™s customary to take small portions and share.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. Leaving small change or rounding up the bill is common in restaurants.
  • Dress Code: Casual attire is acceptable, but itโ€™s respectful to dress modestly, especially in local eateries.

Practical Considerations

  • Food Safety: Street food is a highlight in Can Tho, but ensure that the vendor maintains cleanliness. Look for busy stalls, as high turnover often indicates fresher food.
  • Language: While many locals speak basic English, learning a few Vietnamese phrases can enhance your dining experience and help with ordering.
  • Payment: Cash is widely accepted, and while some places may accept credit cards, itโ€™s advisable to carry cash, especially for street food.

Where to Eat

  • Ninh Kieu Wharf: A popular area with numerous restaurants and street food vendors offering a variety of local dishes.
  • Local Markets: Markets like Cai Rang Floating Market provide an authentic experience where you can sample local specialties directly from vendors.
  • Street Food Stalls: Scattered throughout the city, these stalls offer some of the best and most affordable local cuisine.

Conclusion

Can Thoโ€™s culinary scene is vibrant and diverse, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures that reflect the region's agricultural bounty. Whether youโ€™re dining at a local market or enjoying a meal by the riverside, the food in Can Tho is sure to be a memorable part of your visit. Enjoy your culinary adventure!