Top 4 Places to Eat in Ha Long Bay

Stunning aerial view of cruise ships navigating the scenic Halong Bay in Vietnam.
Quang Nguyen Vinh, Pexels

Ha Long Bay's dining scene is primarily shaped by the abundance of fresh seafood, offering a spectrum of culinary experiences from high-end, view-laden establishments to bustling local eateries, suitable for various preferences and budgets.

1. Pavilion Restaurant

Cuisine: European, French, Seafood

Perched on Reu Island within the Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long, Pavilion offers an exquisite fine-dining experience with breathtaking overwater architecture and panoramic views of Ha Long Bay. The culinary team expertly blends fresh local seafood with refined European and French techniques. Signature offerings include succulent seafood towers featuring fresh oysters and lobster, alongside gourmet selections of foie gras, duck, and lamb. The ambiance is one of understated elegance, perfect for a special evening or celebration.

Price: From 2,500,000 VND per couple (approximately $100+ USD)

Getting There: Located on Reu Island. Access is typically via taxi to Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long, then a short walk within the resort. Taxis are readily available throughout Bai Chay and Ha Long City, with fares typically starting around 5,000 VND ($0.25 USD) and increasing by approximately 14,000 VND ($0.70 USD) per kilometer.

2. Cua Vang Bai Chay Restaurant

Cuisine: Vietnamese Seafood

Situated in a prime location in Bai Chay, Cua Vang (Golden Crab) is renowned for its exceptional fresh seafood, allowing diners to select live catches directly from the tanks. The expansive, multi-floor restaurant offers bay views and a luxurious yet welcoming atmosphere, ideal for families and larger groups. Must-try dishes include their unique golden crab hotpot and various crab preparations, often cooked in traditional clay pots to enhance natural flavors.

Price: 250,000 – 550,000 VND per person (approximately $10 – $22 USD)

Getting There: Located at 32 Phan Chu Trinh, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long. It is often within walking distance from many hotels in the central Bai Chay area. Alternatively, a short taxi ride is convenient and affordable.

3. Hong Hanh 3 Restaurant

Cuisine: Vietnamese Seafood, Local Specialties

As a highly popular establishment in Ha Long City, Hong Hanh 3 at 50 Ha Long Street, Bai Chay, is a go-to for authentic Vietnamese seafood. This spacious restaurant consistently delivers fresh catches prepared in traditional styles, from grilled prawns and squid to flavorful seafood hotpots and local 'nem hải sản' (seafood spring rolls). The vibrant setting is a favorite among both locals and tourists, making advance reservations advisable, especially for groups.

Price: 250,000 – 450,000 VND per person (approximately $10 – $18 USD)

Getting There: Located at 50 Ha Long Street, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long. This central location makes it easily accessible by walking from many nearby accommodations or via a short taxi ride.

4. Nhà Hàng Thiên Anh

Cuisine: Vietnamese Seafood

Nhà Hàng Thiên Anh is a well-established seafood restaurant known for its quality and attentive service. The inviting interior, decorated in warm, deep tones, creates a comfortable setting suitable for couples, families, and friends. Diners can enjoy the fresh sea breeze while savoring a wide selection of seafood dishes, including their popular seafood hotpot and various preparations of crab, shrimp, and squid. The restaurant offers a delightful dining experience with value for money.

Price: 150,000 – 350,000 VND per person (approximately $6 – $14 USD)

Getting There: Found at 11 Phan Boi Chau Street, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City. Its location within the Bai Chay area ensures easy access by foot from local hotels or a brief taxi journey.