Top 5 Places to Eat in Can Tho

Vibrant scene of the Cai Rang Floating Market in Cần Thơ, Vietnam.
Vietnam Tri Duong Photographer, Pexels

Can Tho's dining scene offers a vibrant array of authentic Southern Vietnamese flavors, ranging from bustling street food stalls to elegant riverside establishments, catering to diverse palates with high-quality and often affordable dishes.

1. Bánh Cống Cô Út

Cuisine: Vietnamese (Deep-fried shrimp cake)

This family-run street food stall is a local favorite, renowned for its crispy Bánh Cống, a savory deep-fried shrimp cake. These delightful cakes are crafted from a blend of rice flour, mung beans, shrimp, and minced pork, fried until golden brown. They are served hot with fresh herbs and a sweet-sour dipping sauce, offering a delightful combination of textures and authentic flavors.

Price: Approximately 10,000 - 15,000 VND per cake (approx. $0.40 - $0.60 USD)

Getting There: Tucked away in a small alley, it is often a stop on local food tours. It is typically within walking distance or a short taxi/ride-hail ride from central areas.

2. Nem nướng Thanh Vân

Cuisine: Vietnamese (Grilled Pork Skewers)

A popular local spot specializing in Nem nướng, flavorful grilled pork skewers. The skewers are perfectly seasoned and served with rice paper, a variety of fresh herbs, and a distinctive tangy dipping sauce known for its balance of sweetness and richness. Arriving early is recommended as these skewers sell out quickly due to their popularity.

Price: Around 18,000 - 25,000 VND per serving (approx. $0.70 - $1.00 USD)

Getting There: While a specific address isn't consistently provided in recent reviews, it is widely recognized by locals, suggesting easy accessibility by foot or a short taxi/ride-hail from central Can Tho.

3. Sao Hôm Restaurant

Cuisine: Vietnamese, Mekong Delta Specialties

Nestled within the historic old market hall at Ninh Kieu Wharf, Sao Hôm Restaurant offers a picturesque riverside dining experience. The menu highlights traditional Mekong Delta specialties, complemented by some Western options. The setting provides captivating views of the Can Tho River, especially enchanting in the evening, making it a pleasant choice for a relaxed meal.

Price: 150,000 - 300,000 VND per person (approx. $6 - $12 USD)

Getting There: Located directly at Ninh Kieu Wharf, it is easily accessible on foot from many central accommodations, or by a brief taxi/ride-hail.

4. Quán Hồi Đó

Cuisine: Authentic Southern Vietnamese Home-cooked

This unique eatery offers a nostalgic ambiance, designed to evoke the warmth of a traditional Southern Vietnamese home from the 1980s. The menu features a wide array of authentic home-cooked dishes, from traditional sweets like *sương sa hạt lựu* and *bánh chuối* to savory options and main courses such as *cá lòng tong* stew. The food is celebrated for its genuine, comforting taste.

Price: 50,000 - 150,000 VND per person (approx. $2 - $6 USD)

Getting There: Located at 54 Trần Bình Trọng, Ninh Kiều District, Can Tho. It is a short taxi or ride-hail trip from the city's main tourist areas.

5. L'Escale Sky Garden & Lounge

Cuisine: French, International

Situated on the top floor of Nam Bo Boutique Hotel, L'Escale provides an elegant, upscale dining experience with a romantic atmosphere. It boasts a rooftop terrace that offers captivating panoramic views of the Mekong River and the bustling riverfront promenade. The restaurant specializes in French and international cuisine, with notable steak dishes and a comprehensive wine list.

Price: 400,000 - 1,000,000+ VND per person (approx. $15 - $40+ USD)

Getting There: Located at 1 Ngo Quyen, Tân An, Ninh Kiều, Can Tho. It is easily accessible by taxi or ride-hail, and is within walking distance from the Ninh Kieu Wharf area.