Binh Dinh, located in the heart of central Vietnam, is known for its pristine shores and historic spots, but its food stands out as a true highlight. The local food in Binh Dinh are influenced by centuries of tradition and feature locally-sourced ingredients. If you're a foodie, here’s your guide to traditional Binh Dinh dishes you need to taste.
The Rich Culinary Heritage of Binh Dinh Binh Dinh’s cuisine is rooted in its geography and history. With rich farmland and vast stretches of coast, Binh Dinh offers plenty of seafood, fruits and vegetables that blend together to create flavorful dishes. Finding harmony between different tastes, Binh Dinh’s dishes provide a culinary experience like no other.
Now, let’s discover the famous dishes from Binh Dinh that are essential for any visitor.
1. Banh It La Gai – Black Leaf Rice Cake One of the most famous Binh Dinh specialties is Banh It La Gai. This famous dessert is crafted using glutinous rice and wrapped in “la gai” leaves, giving it a characteristic dark hue. The cake has a sweet mung bean or coconut filling. Commonly seen during festivals, Banh It La Gai symbolizes local traditions.
(Image: https://shotstash.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/shot-stash-asphalt-highway.jpg)Where to try: You can find it at markets in Quy Nhon, especially in Tam Quan.
2. Banh Xeo Tom Nhay – Jumping Shrimp Pancake A local favorite, Banh Xeo Tom Nhay is a delightful Vietnamese pancake made with fresh shrimp, adding a fun element to the meal. The shrimp is quickly cooked, and served with herbs, rice paper, and a sweet dipping sauce.
Where to try: Coastal restaurants in Quy Nhon serve the best versions of this pancake.
3. Bun Cha Ca Quy Nhon – Fish Cake Noodle Soup A popular breakfast dish, Bun Cha Ca is a light but flavorful soup made with fresh fish cakes and rice vermicelli. The soup's broth is simmered with fish and vegetables, resulting in a flavorful, savory base. Topped with herbs and spices, this dish exemplifies the simplicity.
Where to try: Street vendors in Quy Nhon or restaurants like Bun Cha Ca Phuong Te offer the most authentic versions.
4. Banh Hoi Long Heo – Steamed Rice Vermicelli with Pork Intestines Banh Hoi is a delicate rice vermicelli dish that originated in Binh Dinh. The rice noodles are lightly oiled and garnished with chopped chives. The dish is eaten with pork offal and wrapped in rice paper.
Where to try: You can try this dish at Banh Hoi Diem Tieu.
5. Nem Cho Huyen – Grilled Pork Sausage A well-loved dish, Nem Cho Huyen is a tasty grilled pork roll that is crispy and flavorful. The pork is seasoned before grilling, then wrapped in banana leaves.
Where to try: Visit the bustling Cho Huyen market for a taste of this well-loved snack.
6. Rượu Bầu Đá – Binh Dinh Rice wine (buildolution.com) Binh Dinh’s famous rice wine, Rượu Bầu Đá is a powerful rice wine and pure spring water. Locals drink it during celebrations.
Where to try: Available at markets in Bau Da or specialty shops in Quy Nhon.
7. Tre – Fermented Pork Skin A standout fermented dish, Tre is crafted from pork skin, ear, and meat, which are fermented with galangal, garlic, and sesame seeds. This fermentation process creates a subtle sourness and a unique chewy texture.
Where to try: Available in local markets, especially in markets in Tay Son.
8. Cua Huỳnh Đế – King Crab If you love seafood, Cua Huỳnh Đế (King Crab) is a luxurious treat known for its juicy and flavorful meat. Usually enjoyed grilled or steamed, this crab is typically served with salt, pepper, and lime to complement its natural flavor.
Where to try: Quy Nhon's beachfront eateries like Hai San Hoang Thao are well-known for offering this premium seafood dish.
9. Mắm Nhum Mỹ An – Sea Urchin Sauce Mắm Nhum Mỹ An is a rare and unique sauce made from locally harvested sea urchins, resulting in a deeply umami flavor. This strong-flavored condiment is traditionally used as a dipping sauce.
Where to try: Available in My An village and specialty markets around Quy Nhon.
Conclusion The culinary delights of Binh Dinh are a must-try for any food enthusiast. From unique street foods to traditional cakes, the flavors you’ll experience in this region are unforgettable. Whether you’re visiting for the beaches, don't miss the chance to try these regional dishes and discover the best that Binh Dinh has to offer.