Binh Dinh, positioned along Vietnam's central coastline, is renowned for its beautiful coastline and cultural landmarks, but its cuisine stands out as a true highlight. Binh Dinh's cuisine reflect a deep cultural heritage and make use of fresh, local ingredients. If you're someone who enjoys culinary adventures, here’s your guide to must-try Binh Dinh delicacies.

Binh Dinh’s Unique Food Culture
Binh Dinh’s food culture is rooted in its geography and history. With abundant agriculture and vast stretches of coast, Binh Dinh offers an abundance of seafood, locally grown produce that create unique taste experiences. Finding harmony between different tastes, Binh Dinh’s dishes present flavors that are hard to forget.

Now, let’s dive into the must-try foods in Binh Dinh that are essential for any visitor.

1. Banh It La Gai – Black Leaf Rice Cake
One of the most iconic Binh Dinh specialties is Banh It La Gai. This famous dessert is crafted using glutinous rice and covered with the herbal "la gai" leaves, giving it a unique dark color. The cake has a sweet mung bean or coconut filling. Frequently enjoyed at family gatherings, Banh It La Gai symbolizes local traditions.

Where to try: You can find it at local vendors in Quy Nhon, especially in Tam Quan.

2. Banh Xeo Tom Nhay – Jumping Shrimp Pancake
One of Binh Dinh's culinary highlights, Banh Xeo Tom Nhay is a crispy pancake made with live shrimp, adding a fun element to the meal. The shrimp is fried until crispy, and served with herbs, rice paper, and fish sauce for dipping.

Where to try: Coastal restaurants in Quy Nhon are your best bet.

3. Bun Cha Ca Quy Nhon – Fish Cake Noodle Soup
An ideal way to start your day, Bun Cha Ca is a light but flavorful soup made with fresh fish cakes and thin rice noodles. The soup's broth is simmered with fish and vegetables, resulting in a flavorful, savory base. Served with fresh greens, this dish shows how simple ingredients can create amazing flavors.

Where to try: Street vendors in Quy Nhon or restaurants like Bun Cha Ca Phuong Te offer the most authentic versions.

4. Banh Hoi Long Heo – Steamed Rice Vermicelli with Pork Intestines
Banh Hoi is made from fine steamed vermicelli that originated in Binh Dinh. The rice noodles are lightly oiled and topped with chives. The dish is eaten with pork offal and often wrapped in rice paper.

Where to try: You can sample it at local eateries in Quy Nhon.

5. Nem Cho Huyen – Grilled Pork Sausage
A favorite snack in Binh Dinh, Nem Cho Huyen is a grilled pork sausage that packs a smoky, savory flavor. The pork is marinated with a blend of spices, and grilled to perfection.

Where to try: Visit the bustling Cho Huyen market for a taste of this well-loved snack.

6. Rượu Bầu Đá – Binh Dinh Rice Wine
Binh Dinh’s famous rice wine (https://www.divephotoguide.com), Rượu Bầu Đá is a powerful rice wine and filtered water from Bau Da. Locals drink it during celebrations.

Where to try: Available at markets in Bau Da or specialty shops in Quy Nhon.

7. Tre – Fermented Pork Skin
An unusual but flavorful specialty, Tre is made from pork skin, meat, and ears, which are naturally fermented with a mixture of galangal, garlic, and sesame. This fermentation process results in a mildly sour flavor and a chewy texture.

Where to try: Available in local markets, especially in the Tay Son district.

8. Cua Huỳnh Đế – King Crab
If you love seafood, Cua Huỳnh Đế (King Crab) is a delicacy known for its juicy and flavorful meat. Often grilled or steamed, this crab is best eaten with a simple mix of salt, pepper, and lime to enhance its delicious taste.

Where to try: Quy Nhon's beachfront eateries like Hai San Hoang Thao are the best spots to try this delicacy.

9. Mắm Nhum Mỹ An – Sea Urchin Sauce
Mắm Nhum Mỹ An is a rare and unique sauce made from fermented sea urchins, resulting in a deeply umami flavor. This bold-flavored sauce is traditionally used as a dipping sauce.

Where to try: Available in My An village and specialty markets around Quy Nhon.

Conclusion
The traditional dishes of Binh Dinh provide an incredible taste of central Vietnam. From unique street foods to traditional cakes, the flavors you’ll experience in this region are sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether your trip is centered around sightseeing, don't miss the chance to try these regional dishes and discover the best that Binh Dinh has to offer.