Phu Quoc Island, nestled in the sparkling Gulf of Thailand, is Vietnam’s tropical crown jewel. With its powdery white beaches, crystal clear emerald waters, and lush jungles, it’s no wonder this island has become a magnet for travelers worldwide.
The island’s dining scene is equally enticing, with everything from rustic seafood shacks to gourmet restaurants serving international cuisine. Add to that its vibrant culture, with fishing villages and pepper farms waiting to be explored, and you’ve got a destination that’s as authentic as it is indulgent. Ready to uncover the best food and things to do in Phu Quoc? Let’s dive into the island’s culinary delights and thrilling attractions, and don’t miss booking a tour with Travel Sense Asia to experience it all effortlessly.
Best Food in Phu Quoc: 9 Local Specialties
Phu Quoc’s cuisine is deeply rooted in its maritime culture, with fresh seafood and locally produced ingredients stealing the show. Here are the dishes you can’t miss:
1. Herring Salad (Gỏi Cá Trích)
This refreshing dish combines thinly sliced fresh herring with coconut shavings, herbs, and a drizzle of Phu Quoc’s world-famous fish sauce. The tangy, savory flavors make herring salad a perfect appetizer or light meal, often served with rice paper for wrapping.
2. Bún kèn
Bún kèn is a Cambodian-influenced specialty of Phu Quoc. Its name comes from the Khmer word “ken,” used for dishes made with coconut milk. This fragrant soup features rice vermicelli with a pleasantly chewy bite, topped with a rich, coconut-based broth often infused with minced fish, lemongrass, and spices, creating a savory-sweet flavor unique to the island.
3. Bún quậy
This quirky dish is a local favorite, featuring freshly made rice noodles tossed with shrimp, fish, and squid. What makes bún quậy special is the interactive experience, where you mix your own dipping sauce from fish sauce, chili, and lime, tailoring it to your taste.
4. Grilled Sea Urchin (Nhum Biển Nướng)
These creamy, briny sea urchins (nhum biển) are grilled with scallions or fat for a rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience, showcasing Phu Quoc’s fresh seafood.
5. Grilled Horse Mackerel (Cá Sòng Nướng)
Grilled horse mackerel fish (cá sòng), marinated with local spices, offers a smoky, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with a side of Phu Quoc fish sauce.
6. Ham Ninh Crab (Ghẹ Hàm Ninh)
Sourced from the waters of Ham Ninh Fishing Village, these crabs are prized for their sweet, succulent meat. Enjoy them steamed or grilled with a sprinkle of Phu Quoc pepper.
7. Phu Quoc Fish Sauce
Known as “nước mắm,” this pungent, amber-hued condiment is a global icon. Made from fermented anchovies, it’s a staple in Vietnamese cuisine and a must-buy souvenir.
8. Phu Quoc Pepper
The island’s peppercorns are prized for their bold, aromatic flavor. Visit a pepper farm to see how they’re grown and grab a bag to elevate your home cooking.
9. Sim Wine (Rượu Sim Rừng)
Made from wild sim fruit (a local rose myrtle), this sweet yet potent wine is a Phu Quoc specialty. Sip it chilled or buy a bottle as a unique souvenir.
Top Dining Spots in Phu Quoc: Where to Eat?
Phu Quoc’s dining scene caters to every palate, from budget-friendly street food to luxurious gourmet experiences. Here are the best places to savor the island’s flavors:
1. Phu Quoc Night Market
A must-visit for foodies, this bustling market is a seafood lover’s paradise. Stalls brim with grilled squid, prawns, and clams, all at wallet-friendly prices. Located right in the center of Phu Quoc, it’s a vibrant spot to soak up the local atmosphere.
Address: Bach Dang Street, Phu Quoc
2. Ra Khơi Restaurant
Known for its authentic Vietnamese dishes, Ra Khơi serves up classics like herring salad and grilled sea urchin in a chic, open-air setting. The oceanfront location adds to the experience.
Address: No. 131, 30/4 Street, Phu Quoc
3. Kiến Xây Bún Quậy
This no-frills eatery is the go-to spot for bún quậy. Watch the chefs whip up fresh noodles on the spot, and customize your dipping sauce for a fun, interactive meal.
Address:
- 222 Tran Phu Street, Phu Quoc
- 28 Bach Dang Street, Phu Quoc
4. Ham Ninh Fishing Village
For an authentic experience, head to this rustic village to enjoy seafood straight from the ocean. Pick your crab or lobster from the tanks and have it cooked to order while enjoying beachfront views.
Address: East coast of Phu Quoc Island
5. Xin Chào Seafood
This open-air restaurant offers panoramic sea views and a menu packed with fresh catches. Their grilled prawns and fish sauce marinated squid are local favorites.
Address: 66 Tran Hung Dao Street, Phu Quoc
6. Crab House Restaurant (Nhà Ghẹ Phú Quốc)
Specializing in crab and lobster dishes, this restaurant delivers generous portions and bold flavors. Their garlic butter crab is a must-try.
Address: 26 Nguyen Trai Street, Phu Quoc
7. Ớt Ngọt Restaurant
A cozy, family-run spot serving authentic Phu Quoc dishes like bún quậy and seafood hotpots. The warm service and local vibe make it a hidden gem.
Address: 129 Tran Hung Dao Street, Phu Quoc
8. The Pepper Tree (La Veranda Resort):
Located in the elegant La Veranda Resort, this restaurant offers a refined blend of European and Vietnamese cuisine. Try their seafood platters or fusion dishes like fish sauce-glazed scallops, served in a colonial-style setting with ocean views.
Address: La Veranda Resort, Tran Hung Dao Street, Phu Quoc
Source: La Veranda Resort Phu Quoc
Things to Do in Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc Island is a playground for adventurers, nature lovers, and those seeking relaxation. From thrilling water activities to cultural explorations, here are the top things to do in Phu Quoc to make your trip unforgettable.
1. Night squid fishing: Join a night squid fishing tour for a unique adventure. Board a boat, cast your line, and catch fresh squid under the stars, often followed by a meal prepared onboard.
2. Snorkeling at Hòn Thơm: Dive into Phu Quoc’s underwater world at Thon Island, where vibrant coral reefs and colorful marine life await. Snorkeling tours are widely available and perfect for all skill levels.
3. Discover Rạch Vẹm Fishing Village: This charming village is home to Starfish Beach, where shallow waters teem with bright red starfish. Enjoy fresh seafood at local shacks and soak in the laid-back vibe.
4. Tour pepper farms and fish sauce factories: Learn about Phu Quoc’s agricultural heritage with a visit to a pepper farm or fish sauce factory. These tours offer insight into the island’s iconic products and make for unique souvenirs.
5. Visit VinWonders and Vinpearl Safari: VinWonders is Vietnam’s largest theme park, packed with roller coasters, water slides, and live shows. Adjacent to it, Vinpearl Safari offers a chance to see elephants, tigers, and giraffes in a sprawling open zoo – a hit with families.
6. Trek to Suối Tiên: This scenic waterfall and lush jungle trail is ideal for light trekking and nature lovers. Pack a picnic and enjoy the tranquil surroundings, especially during the rainy season (May to October) when the falls are at their fullest.
These activities highlight why Phu Quoc Island is a top destination for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Whether you’re exploring vibrant coral reefs or lounging on a beach, there’s no shortage of things to do in Phu Quoc.
Source: Travel Sense Asia
Book your Phu Quoc Tours with Travel Sense Asia
To enhance your Phu Quoc adventure, consider booking a tour with a reputable operator like Travel Sense Asia, which has over 15 years of experience specializing in premium Phu Quoc tours designed for international travelers. Our offerings include personalized itineraries that cover Phu Quoc Island’s top attractions, from snorkeling journeys to cultural tours of pepper farms, fish sauce factories, and fishing villages.
Why choose Travel Sense Asia?
- Professional guides: Knowledgeable, English speaking guides ensure a seamless experience, especially for international visitors.
- Customizable itineraries: Whether you want a luxury focused trip or an adventure-packed journey, they tailor the experience to your preferences.
- Hassle free planning: Tours include transportation, entrance fees, and dining recommendations, saving you time and effort.
Source: Travel Sense Asia
Conclusion
Phu Quoc Island is a tropical masterpiece that blends stunning beaches, mouthwatering cuisine, and thrilling activities. From savoring grilled sea urchins at a lively night market to snorkeling in crystal waters or unwinding at a 5-star resort, there’s something for every traveler.
With this guide to the best foods and things to do in Phu Quoc, you’re set for an unforgettable adventure. Don’t wait, book your dream trip with Travel Sense Asia and dive into the magic of Phu Quoc Island here!
