Can Tho is the beating heart of the Mekong Delta. While many travelers come for the floating markets, they stay for the food. As the “Kitchen of the West,” this city offers a culinary landscape that ranges from humble street stalls serving 50-year-old family recipes to elegant dining spots overlooking the Hau River.
At Sunday Go, we have spent over 5 years guiding international guests through the Mekong Delta. We know that finding a safe, hygienic, and truly delicious Can Tho restaurant can be a challenge when you are unfamiliar with the language and local layout.
Whether you are looking for a romantic dinner on a cruise or an authentic local lunch, this guide covers the best spots curated by our travel experts.
Dining with a view: riverside & cruise experiences
For many international tourists, the highlight of Can Tho is the river itself. Dining by the water offers a cooling breeze and a stunning view of the Can Tho bridge at night.
Can Tho cruise restaurant
If you want to combine sightseeing with dining, a Can Tho cruise restaurant is the perfect choice. The experience typically lasts about 2 hours, taking you along the Hau River as you enjoy Southern Vietnamese specialties while listening to traditional folk music (Don Ca Tai Tu).
- Best for: Romantic dates, families, and sunset lovers.
- Top picks: The Ninh Kieu cruise or the Victoria Mekong cruise.
- Sunday Go tip: These cruises depart strictly on time (usually around 7:00 PM or 7:30 PM). We recommend booking your tickets in advance to secure a table near the railing for the best view.
Sao Hom Restaurant Can Tho
Located inside the historic Old Market Hall, Sao Hom restaurant Can Tho is arguably the most atmospheric dining spot in the city. It sits right on the riverbank, offering an open-air setting that feels both rustic and upscale.
The menu here is diverse, featuring classic Mekong dishes adapted for international palates. It is widely considered one of the best restaurants in Can Tho for its location alone.
- Must-try: Fresh Mekong spring rolls and “Elephant Ear Fish”.
- Vibe: Colonial charm meets tropical breeze.
A taste of heritage: Classic & Colonial styles
For travelers aged 40-60 or business travelers seeking a quiet, air-conditioned environment with impeccable service, these heritage spots are ideal.
Nam Bo Restaurant Can Tho
Stepping into Nam Bo restaurant Can Tho feels like stepping back in time. Housed in a preserved French-style villa, the restaurant features classic Indochine décor with wooden furniture and warm lighting.
This is a reliable restaurant in Can Tho for those who want high-quality food without the chaos of street vendors. The menu serves a mix of Western comfort food and Vietnamese staples, making it a safe choice for groups with diverse tastes.
- Best for: Business dinners and travelers seeking comfort.
- Location: Near the Ninh Kieu Wharf, making it an easy walk after your river tour.
L’Escale Sky Garden
Located on the top floor of the Nam Bo Boutique Hotel, L’Escale offers a fine dining experience with a panoramic view of the river. It is essentially a wine bar and restaurant that brings a touch of European luxury to the Delta.
Authentic Local Gems: Where the Locals Eat
To truly understand Can Tho, you must eat where the locals eat. However, hygiene is often a concern for international visitors. These selections strike the balance between authenticity and safety.
Ba Tu Rice Restaurant Can Tho
This is a true “insider” recommendation. Ba Tu Rice Restaurant Can Tho is a legendary spot with over 55 years of history. It is famous for Com Tam (Broken Rice), a signature dish of Southern Vietnam.
Unlike standard tourist spots, Ba Tu offers a deep, savory flavor profile developed over generations. The grilled pork here is marinated using a secret family recipe that keeps locals coming back for decades.
- What to order: Broken rice with grilled pork ribs and egg meatloaf.
- Why go: To taste a piece of Can Tho’s culinary history.
What to eat in Can Tho: A quick guide
If you are wondering what to eat in Can Tho, use this table to match the dish with the best local specialist:
| Dish name | Description | Best Place to Try |
|---|---|---|
| Banh Xeo (Sizzling Pancake) | Crispy turmeric crepe filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. | Banh Xeo 7 Toi (Famous for using duck meat and coconut core). |
| Lau Mam (Fermented Fish Hotpot) | A bold, savory hotpot packed with river fish, eggplant, and dozens of local herbs. | Lau Mam Da Ly (The most popular spot for this pungent delicacy) |
| Nem Nuong (Grilled Pork Rolls) | Savory pork sausages wrapped in rice paper with fresh herbs and pineapple. | Nem Nuong Thanh Van (A classic stop for a light, interactive meal). |
| Chuot Dong (Field Mouse) | Grilled field mouse—a delicacy of the rice paddies (for brave eaters!). | Cay Buoi Restaurant. |
Healthy & mindful dining: vegetarian options
The Mekong Delta has a rich tradition of vegetarian cooking, often driven by the large Buddhist community.
Vegetarian Restaurant Can Tho
Finding a vegetarian restaurant Can Tho is easy, but finding a great one requires local knowledge.
- Sen Vang: Known for its clean, modern presentation and creative use of tofu and mushrooms to mimic meat textures.
- Hakia Garden: Offers a peaceful, garden-like atmosphere perfect for a relaxing lunch.
These restaurants prove that plant-based food in Vietnam is never boring; it is fresh, herbal, and deeply flavorful.
Practical Guide for Travelers
- Reservations: For Nam Bo restaurant Can Tho, Sao Hom, and any Can Tho cruise restaurant, we highly recommend booking at least 24 hours in advance, especially during weekends or holidays like Tet.
- Transport: Taxis and Grab cars are plentiful. However, for a seamless experience, Sunday Go offers private car rentals that can take you on a “Food Tour” loop safely and comfortably.
- Payment: Upscale restaurants accept credit cards, but local gems like Ba Tu Rice Restaurant often prefer cash (VND).
Conclusion
From the historic charm of Nam Bo restaurant Can Tho to the bustling energy of Ba Tu Rice Restaurant, Can Tho offers a dining experience for every type of traveler. The key is to explore beyond the hotel buffet and taste the river’s bounty.
At Sunday Go, we believe that food is the fastest way to connect with a culture. We hope this guide helps you navigate the “Kitchen of the West” with confidence.
