As we approach the end of our time here in Da Nang, one of the biggest things I will miss is the food.
Food here in Vietnam is generally affordable, especially local cuisines. Food is also very accessible, as you will see a variety of restaurants and food stalls lining every street here in Da Nang. Due to the popularization of only certain Vietnamese dishes in Canada, like pho, I think it may be a common misconception for some, that similar Vietnamese dishes, like noodle soups, all seem to be the same. However, I have found each bowl of noodles, though they use common ingredients, are unique in their own way.
Here we have 4 different bowls of noodles. Each bowl has their own unique ingredients and different names based on the type of noodle, broth, and topping ingredients.
In addition to the variety of noodles that will be missed, there are specific foods that have become my favorites, and will definitely be missed when I leave. As a graduate of the culinary arts, I would try and recreate them, but it simply would not do it any justice.
But when given the opportunity please give the following dishes a try!
Bánh xèo: A savory pancake//crepe-like dish, commonly filled with things like beef or shrimp, and bean sprouts.
Bánh Tráng Nướng: A grilled rice paper snack filled with a variety of things including, quail egg, fried onions, and fried shrimp… the fillings vary depending on the food stall and region of Vietnam you are in.
Bò né: This dish is similar to the North American steak and eggs breakfast. Served on a sizzling cast iron plate, with a side of soup, baguette, and fresh veggies. Although, I have found that each restaurant has slight variations to this dish.
In addition to those dishes, I have much more to recommend, like the fresh seafood in Da Nang, but those have definitely been the top 3 dishes that I have eaten on almost a weekly basis.
Finally, I would like to mention a food experience that may be unexpected when you think of Vietnam, classical fine dining. Vietnam gives a great opportunity to experience classical fine dining, as it offers a wonderful experience for a great price. I have also discovered that many Vietnamese Chefs will train overseas, in places like France, and return to Vietnam to open up for business. Meaning, they are trained professionals and experts in their field.
One place in Da Nang that I would recommend for this experience, is a restaurant called The Temptation. The front of house staff will give you a very wonderful classical fine dining experience, and the chef, who trained in France, does not only make food that is delicious, but offers the creativity and artistry that inherently comes with fine dining.
Overall, the food experience has been one of the highlights of my stay in Da Nang. While I have quite an adventurous palate, I feel that cuisine here has much to offer to all kinds of eaters. One thing I definitely recommend to all travelers is to know your limits when it comes to stomach health, but other than that… happy snacking!!