Places to eat on Phu Quoc

There is a wise saying that if you can’t see the ocean, don’t eat the sea food. Fortunately, a lack of a beach view is not a problem on Phu Quoc and neither is acquiring great food and seafood.

You will easily find beachside restaurants, cheap plates of local food, fine French dining, and lively, modern bars and cafes serving Western fare. While costs will be slightly higher than meals you will find on mainland Vietnam, there is still an abundance of cheap and delicious dining options.

Markets

The night market in Duong Dong is bursting with an abundance of seafood and tourists chowing down. It can get crowded, but many say you will find the best sea food in Vietnam right here.

Whole fish, grouper, crab, squid, lobster, urchins, scallops, shrimp and even small sharks are all displayed either fresh on ice or swim live in massive tanks of water. Pick whatever your tastes fancy and have it cooked to your liking. Grilled octopus, shrimp in tamarind sauce and scallops with peanuts are all must-try favorites. Indulge with a grilled lobster for USD30 paired with cold, cheap Vietnamese beer. (Duong Dong)

Vietnamese Food

For local fare, stop by numerous street stalls and casual restaurants that serve bowls of Phu Quoc’s traditional bowl of noodles called banh canh. While it may initially seem odd to eat noodles for breakfast as the Vietnamese do, it is quite tasty and wonderful!

We loved banh canh phung phu Quoc. This dish is also a great deal, costing a little over USD1. Washed down with some sugarcane juice or a freshly cracked coconut and we think it’s great breakfast. (Nguyen Trung Truc)

If you want to enjoy more local seafood but avoid the crowds and tourists of the night market, it is possible to find local restaurants not far from the Duong Dong. Song Xanh is a great spot for tourists and locals. Here for USD3 to USD10 a plate you can enjoy plates piled high with prawns, steamed fish dishes, and stir-fried morning glory with garlic. (30 Thang 4, Duong Dong)

Western & International Food

While we always like eating like the locals do, sometimes it feels good to enjoy the comfort food that is delicious and familiar! There are a growing number of quaint cafes and bars that cater to foreigners’ love of ice cream, French fries, burgers, pasta, and pizza.

There are numerous options that are all very affordable, but we particularly love Buddy Ice Cream. This cute corner spot has some of the best Western food in Phu Quoc. If noodles for breakfast have you missing Western morning meals, Buddy Ice Cream has you covered. They serve great breakfasts, including eggs, bacon, and sausage. Did we mention breakfast is served all day? Additionally, after a hot day exploring the island, the delicious ice cream served here with a side of French fries will hit the spot. (6 Bach Dang, Phu Quoc)

Cafes and Bars

Hot beach weather always calls for ice cream and Phu Quoc has plenty. We love the modern and fun bar/café called The Embassy. Here you will find great music, good eats, and excellent coffee for decent prices. People rave about the desserts, wine and atmosphere, so this spot is a must-go. (Tran Hung Dao St, Duong Dong)

Nightlife

The nightlife in Phu Quoc is not what you’ll find in a large urban center, but there are still a number of bars where you can enjoy good drinks and music. Coco Bar has a fun, lively atmosphere, traditional cocktails, and always attracts people looking for a good time. (118 Khu Pho 7)