Can Tho

Popular Seafood Dishes

1. Cá Lóc Nướng Trui (Grilled Snakehead Fish): A local specialty, this fish is often grilled over an open flame and served with fresh herbs and rice paper.

2. Tôm Khô (Dried Shrimp): A common ingredient in many dishes, dried shrimp is often used in stir-fries or as a topping for rice.

3. Mực Nướng (Grilled Squid): Fresh squid is marinated and grilled, often served with a spicy dipping sauce.

4. Cá Kho Tộ (Braised Fish in Clay Pot): Typically made with catfish, this dish is slow-cooked in a clay pot with caramelized sugar, fish sauce, and spices.

5. Gỏi Cá (Fish Salad): A refreshing dish made with raw fish, herbs, and a tangy dressing, often served with rice paper.

6. Sò Huyết (Blood Clams): These clams are usually grilled or steamed and served with a spicy dipping sauce.

Recommended Restaurants and Markets

1. Chợ Ninh Kiều (Ninh Kiều Market): A bustling market where you can find a variety of fresh seafood. It’s a great place to explore local ingredients and street food.

2. Nhà Hàng Sông Hậu (Song Hau Restaurant): Known for its fresh seafood dishes, this restaurant offers a pleasant riverside dining experience.

3. Quán Ốc Mười (Oc Muoi Restaurant): Specializes in shellfish and offers a variety of preparations, from grilled to steamed.

4. Nhà Hàng Hương Rừng (Huong Rung Restaurant): Offers a wide range of seafood dishes in a traditional setting, often frequented by locals.

5. Chợ Đêm (Night Market): A vibrant night market where you can sample various seafood dishes at affordable prices.

Average Costs

• Street Food: Expect to pay around 20,000 to 50,000 VND (approximately $1 to $2.50) for a seafood dish at a street vendor or market.
• Casual Restaurants: A meal at a casual restaurant may cost between 50,000 to 150,000 VND ($2.50 to $7.50).
• Mid-range Restaurants: Dining at a mid-range restaurant can range from 150,000 to 300,000 VND ($7.50 to $15).
• High-end Dining: Upscale restaurants may charge upwards of 300,000 VND ($15) for a seafood meal.

Dining Customs

• Sharing: Meals are often served family-style, with dishes placed in the center of the table for everyone to share.
• Chopsticks and Spoon: Use chopsticks for solid food and a spoon for soup or rice. It’s polite to use chopsticks to serve food to others.
• Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. Leaving small change or rounding up the bill is common in restaurants.
• Freshness: Seafood is best enjoyed fresh. Look for busy restaurants or markets, as they are likely to have fresher ingredients.

Local Tips and Considerations

• Timing: Seafood is best enjoyed in the evening when many restaurants and markets come alive with activity.
• Ask for Recommendations: Don’t hesitate to ask locals for their favorite seafood spots; they often know hidden gems.
• Be Mindful of Allergies: If you have seafood allergies, communicate this clearly, as some dishes may contain shellfish or fish sauce.
• Try Local Beverages: Pair your seafood with local drinks like fresh coconut water or Vietnamese beer (Bia Hơi) for a refreshing experience.

Conclusion

Can Tho offers a delightful seafood experience that reflects the region's rich culture and culinary traditions. By exploring local markets and restaurants, you can enjoy a variety of fresh seafood dishes while immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this Mekong Delta city. Enjoy your culinary adventure in Can Tho!