Why Can Tho specialties is special?
Nestled in the heart of the Mekong Delta, Can Tho isn’t just famous for its floating markets and tranquil river life—it’s also a culinary paradise bursting with flavor, tradition, and warmth. For travelers and food lovers alike, this vibrant city offers a rich tapestry of tastes that reflect the essence of Southern Vietnamese cuisine.
What sets Can Tho specialties apart is their perfect blend of freshness, local ingredients, and cultural influence. Whether you’re savoring a bowl of hủ tiếu đầy tôm thịt (clear rice noodle soup with shrimp and pork) by the riverside, or picking up a few packs of bánh tét lá cẩm (purple sticky rice cake) as gifts for loved ones back home, you’ll find that every dish here tells a story of community, heritage, and hospitality.
Beyond street food and traditional meals, Can Tho also offers a variety of unique souvenirs and edible gifts—from crispy bánh phồng cá sặc (snakehead fish rice crackers) to handcrafted dried fruits—that capture the region’s flavors in a way that’s perfect for sharing.
In this article, we’ll take you on a flavorful journey through the most iconic Can Tho foods and gift-worthy delicacies, helping you know exactly what to eat and what to bring home after your trip. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another taste, this guide will make sure you don’t miss the very best this riverside city has to offer.
Top 10 iconic Can Tho specialties you must taste
Known as the culinary capital of the Mekong Delta, Can Tho is home to a diverse food scene that reflects the richness of Southern Vietnamese culture. Here are 10 must-try Can Tho specialties that define the local flavor and leave visitors craving more.
1. Bánh xèo Can Tho (Crispy Mekong pancakes)
A symbol of Southern cuisine, bánh xèo in Can Tho is larger and crispier than its Central counterpart. Made with rice flour, coconut milk, turmeric, and stuffed with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, it’s served with fresh herbs and a sweet-savory dipping sauce. Locals often enjoy it with lá cách (wild betel leaves) for an earthy finish.
Tip: Visit the Cái Răng floating market early in the morning for freshly made bánh xèo on the boat!
2. Lẩu mắm (Fermented fish hotpot)
This intense and aromatic hotpot is not for the faint of heart, but it’s a true Mekong Delta delicacy. The broth is made from fermented fish (mắm), layered with lemongrass, chili, eggplant, and a variety of river fish and vegetables. It’s bold, hearty, and best enjoyed with a group.
Keyword tip: This dish is often listed among the top Can Tho food experiences due to its bold flavor and communal nature.
3. Bún mắm (Fermented noodle soup)
A cousin of lẩu mắm, this noodle soup features the same mắm base but with vermicelli, shrimp, squid, roast pork, and herbs. The rich umami flavor balanced with herbs and vegetables makes it one of the most memorable noodle dishes in the region.
4. Hủ tiếu Can Tho (Can Tho-style clear noodle soup)
This is a local take on the popular hủ tiếu, known for its lighter broth and a colorful mix of toppings like shrimp, minced pork, quail eggs, and liver. Served dry or with broth, it’s a favorite breakfast option for locals.
Where to try: Look for family-run stalls near Ninh Kiều Wharf for an authentic taste.
5. Bánh tét lá cẩm (Purple sticky rice cake)
This vibrant rice cake, wrapped in banana leaves and dyed naturally with magenta plant, is a staple during Tết (Lunar New Year). Inside, you’ll find mung beans and pork belly. It’s a popular edible gift from Can Tho thanks to its long shelf life and symbolic meaning.
6. Cá lóc nướng trui (Grilled snakehead fish)
A rustic Mekong specialty, this dish is grilled whole fish, traditionally skewered with bamboo and cooked over straw fires. It’s served with rice paper, herbs, and dipping sauce for a make-your-own-roll experience.
7. Bánh hỏi heo quay (Lacy rice noodles with roast pork)
Thin rice vermicelli is woven into lace-like sheets and served with succulent roast pork, scallion oil, pickled vegetables, and fish sauce. The combination of textures and flavors is simple yet satisfying.
8. Ốc nướng tiêu xanh (Grilled snails with green peppercorns)
Seafood is abundant in Can Tho night markets, and this dish stands out with its spicy, peppery sauce and smoky snail flavor. A must-try for adventurous foodies!
9. Cháo cá lóc (Snakehead fish porridge)
A comfort food in the South, this dish features tender pieces of fish simmered in fragrant rice porridge. Often topped with ginger, spring onions, and pepper, it’s both healing and hearty.
10. Nem nướng Cái Răng (Grilled pork rolls from Cái Răng)
Originating from the Cái Răng district, these juicy pork skewers are grilled over charcoal and served with rice paper, herbs, and peanut sauce. It’s a dish that perfectly showcases Can Tho’s culinary craftsmanship.
Bonus Mekong eats: Street snacks you’ll love
Beyond the iconic dishes, Can Tho street food offers an irresistible variety of light bites that reflect the casual charm of the Mekong Delta. These street snacks are not only affordable but also perfect for tasting the local life.
1. Chuối nếp nướng (Grilled banana in sticky rice)
A sweet treat you’ll find at street corners and night markets. Ripe bananas are wrapped in sticky rice, coated in banana leaves, grilled until slightly crispy, and topped with coconut cream and sesame seeds. It’s rich, creamy, and uniquely Southern.
2. Bánh chuối chiên (Fried banana fritters)
Sliced ripe bananas are dipped in a light batter and deep-fried to golden perfection. Crunchy on the outside, soft inside — this is a snack that kids and adults all love.
3. Bánh tráng nướng (Vietnamese pizza)
Often made to order at night markets, this snack is made with rice paper grilled over charcoal, topped with egg, dried shrimp, scallions, sausage, and chili sauce. It’s crispy, savory, and fun to eat while exploring Can Tho at night.
4. Gỏi cuốn (Fresh spring rolls)
These light, refreshing rice paper rolls are filled with shrimp, vermicelli, lettuce, and herbs. Served with peanut or hoisin dipping sauce, they’re the perfect healthy snack for hot days.
5. Xoài lắc (Shaken green mango with chili salt)
A must-try for fans of sour-spicy flavors. Sliced green mangoes are shaken in a mix of chili, salt, and sugar — a bold, addictive snack found at street carts near schools and public parks.
Souvenirs & edible gifts to bring home
Looking for the best edible souvenirs from Can Tho to share with friends and family? These local specialties not only taste amazing but also represent the soul of the Mekong Delta.
1. Bánh tét lá cẩm
This colorful sticky rice cake, dyed with magenta leaves, is filled with mung beans and pork. It’s beautifully packaged, making it an ideal Can Tho food gift for Tết or special occasions.
2. Khô cá (Dried fish)
Can Tho markets are packed with varieties of dried freshwater fish like snakehead, catfish, and anchovies. They’re vacuum-sealed and perfect for gifting or cooking at home.
Tip: Choose vacuum-packed options from reputable vendors at Tân An market or Ninh Kiều night market.
3. Trà mãng cầu (Soursop tea)
Made from dried soursop leaves and fruit, this tea has a mellow, naturally sweet taste. It’s gaining popularity as a healthy Mekong Delta souvenir.
4. Bánh phồng (Rice crackers)
These puffy, crispy rice crackers are often flavored with coconut or sesame and served as snacks or side dishes. Light, delicious, and long-lasting.
5. Rượu mận Sáu Tia (Sáu Tia plum wine)
Locally produced fruit wine from fermented plums. Slightly sweet, slightly tart — a favorite drinkable souvenir with a story behind it.
Best places to eat & shop souvenirs in Can Tho
Whether you’re hunting for authentic meals or meaningful gifts, Can Tho’s markets and eateries won’t disappoint. Here’s where to go:
1. Ninh Kiều Night Market
- What to eat: Try grilled seafood, bánh tráng nướng, and street desserts.
- What to buy: Snacks, dried fruits, rice paper rolls, local crafts.
- Vibe: Bustling, colorful, great for an evening food crawl.
2. Cái Răng Floating Market
- What to eat: Bánh xèo, hủ tiếu, cà phê sữa đá served straight from a boat.
- What to buy: Fresh fruit, handmade snacks, dried seafood.
- Vibe: A must-see Can Tho attraction and cultural highlight.
3. Tân An Market
- What to buy: A wide selection of dried goods, teas, and food gifts.
- Tip: Go early for the freshest products and best prices.
4. Nem nướng Thanh Vân (famous restaurant)
- Specialty: Nem nướng Cái Răng (grilled pork rolls)
- Why visit: Authentic, highly rated by locals and travelers alike.
5. Con Khuong Night Food Street
- What to try: Local seafood, snacks, and desserts
- Why go: More relaxed than Ninh Kiều but equally diverse in offerings.
How to eat like a local in Can Tho: Budget tips & dining etiquette
Exploring what to eat in Can Tho is not just about tasting dishes — it’s about immersing yourself in the rhythms of Mekong life. Eating like a local doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or flavor; in fact, it’s the best way to experience the region’s authentic spirit while keeping your budget in check.
Street food vs. restaurants: Where to eat on any budget
- Street stalls & markets: Expect to pay 10,000 – 40,000 VND per dish (under $2). These are ideal for bánh mì, chè, gỏi cuốn, and snacks. Quality is often surprisingly high, especially near Ninh Kiều Pier or local schools.
- Local eateries (quán ăn): Full meals like hủ tiếu or cơm tấm range from 30,000 – 70,000 VND. Look for places filled with locals — it’s always a good sign.
- Mid-range restaurants: For a slightly upscale experience with air-con and English menus, prices start around 80,000 – 150,000 VND per person.
- Floating market vendors: Enjoy a fresh bowl of noodles or cà phê sữa đá for around 20,000 – 40,000 VND from a boat at sunrise — a unique, must-try experience.
Tip: In Vietnam, most street food stalls don’t charge extra for fresh herbs, chili, or lime — so feel free to customize your meal!
Ordering tips for non-Vietnamese speakers
- Use gestures and smile — most vendors are friendly and used to tourists.
- Learn a few useful phrases:
- “Cho tôi món này” – I’ll have this (point while saying it)
- “Không cay” – No spicy
- “Mang về” – Take away
- Download Google Translate and take photos of menus to get real-time translations.
- Look for signs like “quán ăn gia đình” (family-owned eatery) or “bún riêu,” “hủ tiếu,” etc., to know the specialty of the shop.
Local dining customs to know
- Locals often eat breakfast early (from 6–8 AM) — this is when you’ll find the freshest bánh mì, xôi, and noodle soups.
- At casual spots, it’s common to pay after eating (not before).
- Sharing is encouraged — order a few dishes and taste together.
- Don’t be shy about slurping your noodles or picking up herbs with your hands — it’s all part of the experience.
Can Tho is more than just a Mekong Delta stop — it’s a flavor-packed journey into Southern Vietnamese culture, where every dish tells a story and every market whispers local life. From the sizzling bánh xèo at floating markets to the fragrant bánh tét lá cẩm wrapped in tradition, every bite is an invitation to connect with this land’s generous spirit.
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Whether you’re a backpacker on a tight budget or a food-lover chasing hidden gems, this vibrant city offers something to satisfy every craving. So grab your chopsticks, follow your nose down a lantern-lit alley, and get ready to discover what to eat in Can Tho — one unforgettable dish at a time.
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