Top 13 Must-Try Winter Dishes in Hai Phong

When you think of Hai Phong's seaside tourism, fresh seafood likely comes to mind. Snails are among the most beloved dishes by both locals and tourists. These snails come in many varieties, including aroma snails, fat snails, clam snails, and more. The reason why Hai Phong Snails are so popular is the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients and the intricate cooking methods. Particularly, the chefs' secret seasoning recipes, often considered 'magical,' elevate the flavors, making each dish unforgettable. A great spot to try these delicious snails is at Ốc Thương restaurant.

Hai Phong Snails captivate food lovers with various mouthwatering preparations. For example, stir-fried snails in Hai Phong are served with a sweet, sour, spicy sauce that tingles the taste buds with a hint of coconut water. Boiled snails are best enjoyed with dipping sauces, and the quality of the sauce is what sets the best restaurants apart. Snails are a perfect option for students, who often flock to Ốc Thương and other popular spots like Ốc Thủy Dương (30/263 Lạch Tray, Ngô Quyền, Hai Phong) and Ốc Thùy Linh (96 Đường 208, An Đồng, An Dương, Hai Phong) for their fresh, flavorful offerings.

While the Mekong Delta is famous for its rich, meaty fish hotpot, Hai Phong also offers a flavorful version with its Crab Hotpot. This dish features a rich broth filled with crab meat and golden crab roe, creating a visually appealing and mouthwatering dish. The bright red of tomatoes and the fresh green of spring onions add to its attractiveness. One of the best places to try this hotpot in Hai Phong is at Minh Quỳnh Restaurant located at 188 Văn Cao, Ngô Quyền, Hai Phong.

Every winter, hotpot vendors line the streets, offering delicious crab hotpots at affordable prices along major roads like Lạch Tray, Cầu Đất, and Chu Văn An. The broth, made by simmering crab shells and pork ribs, has a rich, savory taste with a natural sweetness from the bones. When enjoying Crab Hotpot, it's common to dip familiar items such as beef, fried tofu, fish cakes, and even duck eggs, along with vegetables like water spinach, cabbage, and a mix of fresh herbs. If you're tired of the usual chicken or frog hotpot, trying the crab hotpot in Hai Phong will give you a new, exciting experience. A must-try side dish is the local red crab noodle (Bánh đa cua), which will elevate the flavor even further. Minh Quỳnh Restaurant is a great choice for a top-quality crab hotpot experience.

What should you eat during the cold winter in Hai Phong? Of course, something hot and spicy! This isn't just a trend in the port city, as hot and spicy dishes are a go-to for warming up during winter. While the dish itself might not seem extraordinary at first glance, it's actually a special version of traditional porridge like eel, clam, rib, or mixed porridge, with a unique twist: a special chili sauce that gives the dish a bold, spicy kick, making it a famous local specialty called Spicy Porridge.

On a chilly day, enjoying a warm, velvety spoonful of porridge made from simmered bones, topped with crispy fried onions, and flavored with a spicy chili sauce, is an experience that will make you forget the cold weather. However, the chili sauce is very spicy, so if you're not used to the heat, be sure to use it sparingly. Trần Bình Trọng's Spicy Porridge in Hai Phong is particularly renowned for its intense spiciness. If you’re a fan of fiery dishes, this is the ultimate spicy porridge for you. The restaurant also offers a variety of unique porridge dishes like eel porridge and clam porridge, all with a perfect balance of flavors. The crispy dough sticks served with it make the dish even more delightful. Trần Bình Trọng's Spicy Porridge has earned its fame across Hai Phong.

As the winter winds sweep through Hai Phong, the appearance of Sui Din & Sesame Paste Dessert on the streets signals that the cold season has arrived. This delightful treat is a unique snack of Hai Phong, and although its name might sound unfamiliar to some, it is a beloved winter food. Sui Din, also known as 'Chinese-style rice dumplings,' originated from the local Chinese community in Hai Phong. In the chilly evenings along Lạch Tray or Hàng Kênh streets, you'll often find people stopping by humble roadside stalls to enjoy this warming dish, even if the stalls are nothing more than a few tarps stretched up to block the wind. The round, plump dumplings, white and smooth, float in a small bowl of sweet syrup that steams up into the cool air, filling the surroundings with a delicate, sweet fragrance that’s irresistible on a cold winter’s night.

The dough for the dumplings is made from fragrant sticky rice, which is roasted, ground, and sifted to create a soft yet chewy texture. The filling is a mixture of toasted black sesame seeds, grated coconut, and crushed peanuts, all cooked together to form a deliciously rich and aromatic paste. Taking a sip of the sweet syrup infused with a hint of ginger and biting into a dumpling, you can savor the smooth, fragrant, and nutty flavor that blends perfectly together. This humble yet incredibly satisfying dish is one of Hai Phong’s signature snacks, and no luxurious food could quite compare to it. In addition to Sui Din, the thick, smooth, and fragrant black sesame dessert (chè vừng) is another popular choice for the colder days, sure to warm you up with every bite.

Here's another dish with an unusual name but is one of the top winter favorites in Hai Phong. Khoai Porridge is not only special because of its name but also due to its striking color and unique ingredients. The distinctive green hue of this porridge comes from the use of vegetable leaves like water spinach or pandan leaves, setting it apart from other regular porridges like rib porridge or clam porridge. So, when people mention khoai porridge, they immediately think of its signature green color.

Khoai Porridge brings back memories of the old street food culture of Hai Phong. On those chilly days, nothing beats a warm bowl of green, smooth porridge, filled with the aroma of green beans and crispy fried onions. It is said that the green color of the porridge comes from the infusion of water spinach or pandan leaves. The porridge has a consistency similar to rib porridge, with a sweet, savory broth made from simmered bones, blended with the fragrance of onions and the rich taste of green beans. There's nothing better than enjoying this comforting dish on a cold, misty day. Be sure to bring a friend to enjoy this delightful local treat together.

When talking about must-try foods in Hai Phong, many people excitedly mention Bánh Bèo. Unlike the bánh bèo from Central Vietnam, Hai Phong's version is made from rice flour with a savory filling of minced pork and wood ear mushrooms. What truly sets this dish apart is its unique dipping sauce, which is made from simmered bone broth, accompanied by meatballs and sliced sausage. The rich flavor of the bánh bèo combined with the distinct taste of the dipping sauce offers a delightful and memorable experience for your trip. Bánh Bèo Cô Mây is a great place to try this dish.

Whether in winter or summer, people in Hai Phong enjoy their Bánh Bèo while it's still steaming hot. That's when the simple, pure country flavors are best appreciated. The delicate essence of this traditional Vietnamese dish melts in your mouth, spreading warmth and love for this charming land, making you appreciate even the simplest things. Be sure to visit Bánh Bèo Cô Mây, where these delicious treats are waiting for you!

Around 3 PM, the streets of Hai Phong come alive with the bustling of local shops serving Bánh Đúc Tàu. This simple yet beloved dish attracts both locals and visitors alike. One must-visit spot to try this dish is Bánh Đúc Tàu Cát Dài.

Served hot in a large tray, Bánh Đúc Tàu in Hai Phong stands out from other regions with its vibrant toppings such as stir-fried pork belly and shrimp, julienned wood ear mushrooms sautéed with diced papaya, and crispy, flavorful pork cracklings. Dipping a piece of the smooth, chewy bánh đúc into the tangy vinegar, chili, and fish sauce blend, along with a bit of the colorful toppings, creates an irresistible balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy. It's so satisfying that one bowl can fill you up but still leave you craving more. Bánh Đúc Tàu Cát Dài, a favorite spot among young locals, is where this dish has been popular for over 27 years, thanks to its founder, Mrs. Chuyên Cát Dài.

One of the top spots for Bánh Mì Cay in Hai Phong is Bà Già Bánh Mì Cay, a small, humble stall located on the sidewalk of Lê Lợi Street. Despite its unpretentious setting, with just a simple seating area and space for parking, this place is famous for its quick service and its loyal local customers, who often come back not only to enjoy the flavors but also to take some home as gifts. At just 2,000 VND per sandwich, you'll find it hard to forget the unique flavor it offers.

When you think of Hai Phong, you think of the crispy, small Bánh Mì Cay sandwiches, slathered with rich, aromatic pâté, toasted to perfection, and served with just the right amount of filling—neither too dry nor too greasy. The final touch is the spicy chili sauce, which adds an extra kick that locals love. So tempting that some can finish a plate of these little sandwiches in no time. Despite the heat of the chili sauce, people can't help but dip generously. For a complete experience, pair it with a refreshing glass of green jelly-based Thai dessert drink, and enjoy with friends—it's a perfect combo!

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Address: 57 Lê Lợi, Ngô Quyền, Hai Phong

Phone: 0906 084 368

Website: https://banhmycaybagia.com/

Opening Hours: 07:00 - 22:30

Dừa Dầm Hiền Béo is one of the most popular spots for this refreshing dessert among those familiar with Hai Phong's food tours. Every day, the shop attracts a large number of visitors who come to indulge and take some to-go. There are several coconut dessert shops along Lạch Tray street, so a small tip is to make sure you're heading to Hiền Béo’s near the Hồ Đào intersection.

One serving of coconut dessert here may seem small at first, but it's surprisingly filling—enough to leave you satisfied after just one cup. The Dừa Dầm at Hiền Béo is known for its unique flavor, made from a special recipe passed down by the owner herself. Unlike the more common versions, the coconut is rich and creamy, with a wonderfully fragrant aroma, and it's not too sweet, so you won't feel overwhelmed by the sugar. The young coconut is incredibly soft, paired with fresh coconut, tapioca pearls, and a smooth, delicious coconut milk that will leave you wanting more. And don't worry if you can't make it to the shop; they offer delivery! Orders are packed securely to ensure the dessert stays fresh and smooth, with ice kept separate so you can add it yourself when you're ready to enjoy.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Address: 124 Lạch Tray, Ngô Quyền, Hai Phong

Phone: 0934 282 190

Opening Hours: 07:00 - 23:00

Grilled Nem at Cô Bắp is a popular spot, but due to its small space, it can get crowded during peak hours. The nem here is deliciously chewy, not dry or crumbly. You can enjoy the grilled nem with rice paper rolls or mix it with vermicelli, where the ingredients remain the same as in the rice paper rolls.

The shop is famous for its Grilled Nem, and a typical serving for one person includes nem, crispy fried rice paper, pineapple, pickled vegetables, cucumber, and vermicelli. The nem is perfectly seasoned, grilled to a fragrant golden brown, and tender. The dipping sauce is also unique, not as salty as the traditional shrimp paste but with a slightly sweet and thick consistency that provides a distinctive and delightful taste. The sauce is topped with minced meat, sweet red chili, garlic, and peanuts, making it visually appealing and delicious. In addition, you can also opt for shrimp paste or sweet-and-sour fish sauce if preferred. Don't wait any longer—head over to Cô Bắp's Grilled Nem Nha Trang for an unforgettable experience.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

• 400 Lạch Tray, Ngô Quyền, Hai Phong
• 164 Phan Đăng Lưu, Kiến An, Hai Phong
• 77 Lán Bè, Lê Chân, Hai Phong

Phone: 0971 666 922 & 0945 988 000
Fanpage: www.facebook.com/NemNuongCoBap/

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM

When it comes to Hai Phong, you can't miss the iconic Crab Noodle Soup—a dish that truly represents the spirit of the red-flowered port city. While it's become popular nationwide, no one can make Crab Noodle Soup quite like they do in Hai Phong. Perhaps it's the local pride and connection to this dish that makes it so unique. To taste the real deal, head to Quán Bánh Đa Bà Cụ at 179 Cầu Đất, Ngô Quyền, Hai Phong.

This dish is a delicious combination of red noodle sheets, minced pork wrapped in wild betel leaves, fried shallots, water spinach, crispy pork skin, tomatoes, mushrooms, and crab, all served in a sweet, fragrant broth made from fresh local crabs. Locals in Hai Phong enjoy this dish year-round, no matter the time of day or the season. It’s not just a meal, but a reminder of the heart of the city and a taste of home for those far away. You’ll definitely be satisfied with the quality of this dish at Bánh Đa Bà Cụ—be sure to stop by and give it a try!

Sea bean sprouts are not typical plants; they thrive in coastal sandy areas and resemble sprouting bean sprouts, which is why they are called 'sea bean sprouts' or 'marine bean sprouts.' This dish is not for the impatient, as you need to carefully peel off the outer shell to reveal the soft, sweet flesh inside. If you're up for the challenge, head to the Stir-Fried Sea Bean Sprouts & Beef Skin shop in Hàng Kênh.

Savoring a bowl of stir-fried sea bean sprouts on a cool winter evening, amidst the busy streets, feels like time slows down. The sea bean sprouts are stir-fried in their shells, absorbing the spices and releasing their most delicious flavors. Once you peel off the outer layer, a distinct seafood taste melds with the spicy sauce, and a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of finely chopped coriander elevate the experience, making each bite even more irresistible. The simplicity of this dish invites you to slow down and truly appreciate the flavors. Enjoy this unique dish at Stir-Fried Sea Bean Sprouts & Beef Skin in Hàng Kênh, and you're sure to be impressed with the quality of the food here.

Spicy Fish Noodles is perhaps the most famous winter dish in Hai Phong, a must-try for both locals and tourists during the chilly days. This dish is affordable, but the toppings are generous and varied: crispy fried fish, fish skin, fish intestines, fish cakes, and even sausage. A visit to Thắng Tồ’s Spicy Fish Noodles is highly recommended for an authentic experience.

What sets this dish apart is the broth, which is made from fish heads and bones, giving it a light and clear flavor. The Spicy Fish Noodles are seasoned with tamarind, making the soup tangier than the usual lemon or vinegar. The types of fish used are diverse, including mackerel, basa, and perch, all of which have firm flesh and are fried to minimize any fishy taste. When you enjoy a bowl of this savory, sour soup, it’s typically served with fresh herbs, banana flower, shredded water spinach, chili paste, and a variety of aromatic greens. The thick noodles are tender but not tough, the fried fish is golden and crispy, and the fish intestines offer a delightful chewy texture. Combined with the tangy broth and fresh vegetables, it creates a perfect balance of flavors that you’ll never get tired of. Don’t miss the chance to try the Spicy Fish Noodles at Thắng Tồ!