Vietnam never ceases to surprise you upon each visit. Its natural resources are rich and full of fresh produce due to the abundance of nature; from the stunning rivers to the forested mountains to the blue sea.
You might find yourself at a hip tapas bar, sipping on a glass of sangria and relishing a good polbo á feira made with the freshest octopus from Ha Long Bay. Alternatively, you could be picking at delectable snails from the Mekong Delta, using a petit safety pin, at a hole-in-the-wall eatery with zero English signs in an alley. Experiencing their sauce dripping down your elbows makes it a truly finger-licking good experience.
Whichever one you choose, here are 5 MICHELIN-recommended seafood restaurants in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City that we don’t want you to miss.
Large melo melos grilled until soft, served with scallions and fried garlic. (© Michelin)
Ốc Di Tú (Recommended, MICHELIN Guide Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City 2023)
This simple eatery focuses on Vietnamese snail, Ốc, offering a menu that includes pila polita, tiger moon, shark eye, and canarium snails. The grilled melo melo, known for its great taste, is served with scallions and fried garlic, and its price varies based on size. The menu also features a rich variety of seafood options such as prawns, Halong squid, Venus clams, and blood cockles. One standout dish is the steamed Venus clams with lemongrass, chilli, and pineapple, which boasts a deep umami flavour.Address: 144C Quan Thanh Street, Ba Dinh, Hanoi, Vietnam. Tel. +84 90 436 44 88.
Shellfish lovers won’t be disappointed at Bà Cô Lốc Cốc. (© Michelin)
Bà Cô Lốc Cốc (Recommended, MICHELIN Guide Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City 2023)
Known for its high-quality seafood and an excellent variety of snail dishes prepared in different styles, this establishment is sure to please shellfish enthusiasts. Although the menu may not offer translations into English, the staff and menu photos are available to assist in placing your order. The snails, prepared in coconut soup, curry, and steamed with fresh peppercorn, are particularly outstanding. Another standout dish is the apple snail with ginger and lemongrass. Each dish is accompanied by a selection of sauces complemented by fresh herbs, providing an extra oomph.Address: 222 Khanh Hoi, Ward 6, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Tel. +84 839 024 282.
Snails are the specialty here at Ốc Vi Saigon. (© Michelin)
Ốc Vi Saigon (Recommended, MICHELIN Guide Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City 2023)
The comprehensive and reasonably priced menu predominantly consists of seafood dishes, featuring a diverse selection of shellfish, ranging from oysters to white clams, snails, cockles, and scallops. Snails take center stage as the specialty, prepared in various ways and sauces. The stir-fried white clams in garlic butter release a robust aroma, while the stir-fried cockles with tamarind offer an irresistible umami flavour. According to our inspectors, consider ordering a mini baguette to mop up the delicious sauce!Address: 21 Gia Ngu Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, 100000, Vietnam. Tel. +84 888 323 342.
Don't forget to try their famous bivalves and sea snails. (© Michelin)
Ốc Đào (Recommended, MICHELIN Guide Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City 2023)
Aside from standard fish and crustacean dishes, this renowned restaurant is particularly celebrated for its bivalves and sea snails. The menu boasts a variety of different species, many of which are seldom found elsewhere. The live critters are cooked in traditional Vietnamese condiments, with ample seasoning to enhance the natural umami without overpowering it. The vibrant atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for casual gatherings.Address: 212B/D48 Nguyen Trai, Nguyen Cu Trinh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Tel. +84 90 943 70 33.
A creation of shellfish by head chef Bernard Nguyễn of Tanh Tách. (© Dang Minh Thanh/ Tanh Tách)
Tanh Tách (Recommended, MICHELIN Guide Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City 2023)
Situated in a historic French colonial villa, the restaurant spans two storeys. Head chef Bernard Nguyễn gained experience in Australia, where he developed a talent for seafood dishes rooted in textbook European techniques, which is why they take a prominent place on the à la carte menu. Before indulging in his skillfully crafted fish or shellfish, start your meal with nori or kimchi rice crackers and a tom yam mayo dip. The black chicken consommé is another dish you won't want to miss.Address: 3 Yet Kieu, Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi, 112605, Vietnam. Tel. +84 559 905 599.
RELATED: Nobody Leaves Vietnam Without Trying These Dishes
Illustration image: © Michelin, Dang Minh Thanh/ Tanh Tách
Illustration image: © Michelin, Dang Minh Thanh/ Tanh Tách
