Da Nang, Vietnam’s coastal paradise, is not only famous for its stunning beaches and iconic bridges but also for its vibrant food culture. For first-time visitors, exploring Da Nang’s local cuisine is an essential part of the travel experience. From street food stalls to traditional family-run eateries, this guide highlights the best food in Da Nang that every visitor should try.
 1. Mi Quang (Quang Noodles)
Mi Quang is Da Nang’s most iconic noodle dish. Made with turmeric-yellow rice noodles, pork, shrimp, quail eggs, crushed peanuts, and crispy sesame crackers, it’s served with just a bit of flavorful broth. It’s light yet satisfying.
2. Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo (Pork Rolls with Rice Paper)
This refreshing and healthy dish includes thinly sliced boiled pork belly wrapped with herbs and fresh vegetables in soft rice paper, dipped in a savory fermented fish sauce (mam nem). It’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
3. Fresh Seafood by the Beach
As a coastal city, Da Nang is a seafood lover’s dream. You can pick your seafood fresh—fish, crab, clams, squid—and have it grilled, steamed, or stir-fried to your liking. Many restaurants line the My Khe Beach area and offer oceanfront dining.
Popular dishes:
-
Grilled scallops with spring onions
-
Tamarind crab
-
Clams in lemongrass broth
4. Bun Mam Nem (Noodles with Fermented Anchovy Sauce)
A bold, flavorful local specialty, bun mam nem features rice noodles topped with pork, young jackfruit, pickled vegetables, and crunchy peanuts, all brought together by a powerful fermented anchovy sauce (mam nem). Not for the faint of heart, but unforgettable!
5. Banh Xeo & Nem Lui (Crispy Pancakes and Lemongrass Pork Skewers)
Banh Xeo is a sizzling, crispy Vietnamese crepe filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, eaten wrapped in rice paper with herbs and dipped in peanut sauce. Nem Lui, minced pork grilled on lemongrass skewers, often accompanies it.
6. Com Ga (Vietnamese Chicken Rice)
Vietnamese-style chicken rice is another must-try. Shredded poached chicken is served over turmeric-infused rice, accompanied by fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and a side of light chicken broth or chili sauce.
7. Che (Vietnamese Sweet Soups)
Finish your culinary adventure with a bowl of che—a chilled Vietnamese dessert made from coconut milk, mung beans, jelly, tapioca, and seasonal fruits. Che Ba Mau (three-color dessert) is one of the most popular versions.
Food Tips for First-Time Visitors
-
Eat like a local: Street food is often fresher and more flavorful than upscale restaurants.
-
Look for crowds: A long line usually means good food and high turnover = freshness.
-
Use Google Maps reviews in English: Many locals leave helpful tips in reviews.
-
Don’t fear fish sauce: It’s the soul of Central Vietnamese cuisine.
 Conclusion
Da Nang’s local cuisine is bold, flavorful, and deeply rooted in tradition. Whether you’re sipping Mi Quang or sampling seafood by the beach, each dish tells a story of Central Vietnam’s rich culinary heritage. As a first-time visitor, exploring Da Nang through its food will leave you with unforgettable memories and tastes.
