The best specialty food in Da nang: 7 Locals Dishes to Devour

1. My Quang

When it comes to Da Nang’s culinary highlights, Mi Quang is an essential mention. This humble yet incredibly flavorful dish hails from the Quang Nam – Da Nang region and is famous for its tender, chewy noodles, savory broth, and a variety of toppings like shrimp, chicken, pork, quail eggs, and roasted peanuts. Its distinctive taste is sure to leave a memorable impression.

A few recommended places for authentic Mi Quang:

• Mi Quang Ba Mua: 19-21 Tran Binh Trong, Hai Chau, Da Nang

• Mi Quang Thi Gia Truyen: 251 Hoang Dieu, Hai Chau, Da Nang

• Mi Quang 1A: 1 Hai Phong, Thach Thang, Hai Chau, Da Nang

Price range: 30,000 – 50,000 VND per serving

2. Banh Xeo

Traditional places to enjoy Banh Xeo: Da Nang’s Banh Xeo is known for its small, crispy pancakes packed with flavorful fillings like shrimp, pork, beef, or other seafood, complemented by bean sprouts and green onions. It’s typically enjoyed with fresh herbs, rice paper, and a signature dipping sauce made from liver, peanuts, and sesame, delivering a rich and distinctive taste.

• Banh Xeo Ba Duong: 280/23 Hoang Dieu, Binh Hien, Hai Chau, Da Nang

• Banh Xeo Co Muoi: 363Q+7VP, Chau Thi Vinh Te, Bac Phu My, Ngu Hanh Son, Da Nang

3. Fish Cake Noodle Soup – Bun Cha Ca

Da Nang’s Fish Cake Noodle Soup is renowned not just for its delightful taste but also for its nutritional benefits. Crafted with premium fish cakes and fresh vegetables simmered for hours, the soup offers a sweet and savory flavor. Many shops also sell fish cakes separately, making them a great gift to bring home for your loved ones.

• Bun Cha Ca 109: 109 Nguyen Chi Thanh, Hai Chau, Da Nang
• Bun Cha Ca Ong Ta: 113A Nguyen Chi Thanh, Hai Chau, Da Nang

Price range: 20,000 – 45,000 VND per serving

4. Goi Ca

Hailing from a quaint fishing village along Da Nang’s coast, Nam O Fish Salad has won over food lovers with its fresh ingredients and distinctive flavors. The fish is seasoned with a blend of galangal, lemongrass, chili, garlic, and lime juice, creating a perfect balance of tangy and spicy notes. Served with fresh herbs and grilled rice paper, this dish delivers an unforgettable taste. It’s a one-of-a-kind culinary experience you shouldn't miss when visiting Da Nang.

For an authentic experience, visit:

• Goi Ca Nam O – Co Hong: 118 Huynh Thuc Khang, Nam Duong, Hai Chau, Da Nang

Price range: 50,000 – 80,000 VND per serving

5. Cao Lau

Cao Lau is a beloved specialty linked to the golden age of Da Nang’s port town history, and it's a must-try for any visitor. Its distinct ingredients and preparation set it apart, making it a truly unique dish that can't be found in the same form anywhere else in Vietnam.

To experience the authentic taste of Cao Lau, consider these places:

• Cao Lau Hoai Pho: 255 Nguyen Chi Thanh, Hai Chau, Da Nang

• Cau Lau Pho Hoi: 163 Phan Dang Luu, Hoa Cuong Nam, Hai Chau, Da Nang

Price range: 20,000 – 40,000 VND per serving

6. Banh Beo Banh Nam

Banh Beo and Banh Nam are two popular specialties from Central Vietnam that are commonly enjoyed together. Banh Beo features small, round rice flour cakes topped with dried shrimp and crispy fried shallots, typically served with a sweet and tangy fish sauce. Banh Nam, on the other hand, is a soft, rectangular dumpling filled with shrimp and pork, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed to perfection. Both dishes are tender, flavorful, and highly appealing.

Famous places for Banh Beo and Banh Nam:

• Banh beo Ba Be: 100 Hoang Van Thu, Hai Chau, Da Nang

• Banh beo Tam: 291 Nguyen Chi Thanh, Hai Chau, Da Nang

Price range: 15,000 – 30,000 VND per serving

7. Pho

Pho Da Nang delivers a genuine taste of Vietnam with its unforgettable traditional flavors. Every bowl features a deeply flavorful broth, slow-simmered to perfection and infused with fragrant herbs and spices that embody the spirit of classic Pho. Succulent beef slices, expertly cooked rice noodles, and a plentiful array of fresh garnishes come together to offer a well-balanced and satisfying culinary experience.

A few recommended places for authentic Pho