How to Enjoy Safe and Delicious Seafood in Halong Bay: A Local Expert’s Guide

If you’re planning a Halong Bay day trip or a weekend getaway from Hanoi, you’re in for a treat, Halong isn’t just famous for its emerald waters and towering limestone cliffs, but also for its incredible seafood. From freshly grilled squid cakes to steamed mantis shrimp, every dish here tells the story of Vietnam’s coastal culture. However, as with any seafood paradise, food safety and freshness are key, especially for international travelers like Indian families or honeymooners who may not be used to local cooking styles.

In this friendly, insider guide, we’ll show you how to enjoy Halong’s seafood safely and deliciously, where to eat with confidence and how to spot truly fresh catches, whether you’re dining at a luxury hotel like Halong Plaza Hotel or sampling seafood on a day cruise.

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Why Halong Bay Is Famous for Its Seafood

A Legacy of the Sea

Halong Bay’s culinary identity is deeply connected to its geography. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts over 1,600 limestone islands surrounded by nutrient-rich waters, making it one of Vietnam’s most abundant fishing zones. For centuries, fishing families living in floating villages such as Cua Van and Ba Hang have harvested seafood for both local and international markets. That’s why when you sit down to a plate of cha muc (grilled squid cakes) or steamed crab, you’re tasting generations of coastal heritage.

What Makes Halong Seafood Special

Unlike mass-farmed seafood found in many beach towns, Halong’s seafood is caught fresh daily, often within a few hours of being served. The signature dishes here are simple yet flavorful, highlighting freshness over heavy seasoning:

Cha Muc (Grilled Squid Cake): A chewy, aromatic squid patty made from locally caught squid, recognized as a specialty of Quang Ninh Province.
Grilled Oysters with Green Onion Oil: Fresh oysters roasted right at your table.
Steamed Mantis Shrimp: A delicate crustacean served with lemongrass and chili salt.
Clam Soup and Crab Hotpot: Perfect for family-style dining, especially on cooler evenings.

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How to Choose Safe and Hygienic Seafood Restaurants

While seafood is plentiful, not every restaurant maintains the same hygiene standards. As a traveler, it’s worth being selective, especially if you’re dining with children or older family members.

Look for These Signs of Safety

When choosing where to dine, keep these practical tips in mind:

Open kitchen areas: Restaurants that allow you to see how food is prepared often maintain better standards.
Live seafood tanks: Fresh seafood is kept in tanks and cooked on demand.
High turnover: Busy, popular spots are a good indicator of daily freshness.
Visible hygiene certificates: Many reputable restaurants display their food safety ratings from local authorities.

Recommended Safe and Reputable Seafood Restaurants Near Halong Plaza Hotel

Here are a few tried-and-tested seafood spots within a short distance from Halong Plaza Hotel (Bai Chay area):

Linh Dan Restaurant

Google map

Address: 104 Bai Chay Street, Ha Long
Overview: Clean, spacious and perfect for families. Known for its cha muc and steamed crab.
Contact: 0914 634 598

Phuong Nam Ha Long Restaurant

Google map

Address: Bo Hon, Ha Long, Bai Chay.
Overview: Offers stunning bay views with a broad seafood selection. The grilled oyster platter is a must-try.
Contact: 090 901 2002

Cua Vang (Golden Crab) Restaurant

Google map

Address: 32 Phan Chu Trinh Street, Bai Chay.
Overview: Slightly upscale but impeccable hygiene. Ideal for couples seeking a romantic seafood dinner.
Contact: 0203 3819 919

Using Google Maps & Reviews Smartly

When exploring new places, always check customer photos and comments, particularly about cleanliness and freshness. Look for keywords like “live seafood,” “fresh tanks,” “clean restaurant,” or “well-cooked.”

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How to Identify Fresh and Safe Seafood

Even if you’re not a seafood expert, you can easily spot freshness with a few quick checks.

Visual and Sensory Clues

Fish: Clear eyes, shiny scales, mild sea scent.
Shellfish: Closed shells that open only after cooking.
Squid: Translucent and firm, not mushy.
Shrimp: Firm, not slimy or discolored.

If seafood looks dull or smells overly “fishy,” it’s best avoided.

Best Seasons for Specific Seafood

Halong Bay’s seafood is available year-round, but some months are particularly good for certain species:

Squid: March to August (night squid fishing season).
Mantis Shrimp: April to September.
Crab & Clam: October to January (cooler weather enhances flavor).

Avoid eating shellfish right after heavy storms or in low-tide periods, as water conditions can temporarily affect quality.

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Hygiene and Food Safety Tips for Travelers

Simple Precautions

To ensure a comfortable dining experience:

Eat well-cooked dishes, avoid raw seafood unless from high-end restaurants.
Choose bottled or filtered water.
Use sanitizing wipes before and after meals.
Avoid street food that’s been sitting out for hours.

How to Order Safely

For international or Indian travelers:

Use phrases like “well-cooked, please” when ordering.
If you have dietary restrictions (vegetarian, Jain, Halal), specify clearly.
Ask for separate cooking utensils if cross-contamination is a concern.

Vegetarian and Non-Seafood Alternatives

If seafood isn’t your preference, Halong offers plenty of vegetarian-friendly options, especially at Halong Plaza Hotel, where chefs are accustomed to serving diverse international guests. Recommended dishes:

Vegetable hotpot (lau chay).
Fried rice with egg and mixed vegetables.
Tofu with tomato sauce.
Fresh fruit platters and tropical desserts.

Restaurants like Nha Hang Chay Tam Nhu also serve delicious plant-based meals just a few minutes away from the hotel.

Safe Seafood Experiences on a Halong Day Trip

Lunch on a Halong Day Cruise

Most high-quality cruises like Reina Day Cruise, Otis Day Cruise and Paradise Elegance serve fresh seafood lunches on board. These vessels maintain international food safety standards with temperature-controlled kitchens and experienced chefs. Typical onboard menu:

Fresh grilled prawns.
Halong squid cakes.
Steamed crab or clams.
Seasonal fruits and desserts.

Tip: If you’re sensitive to shellfish, inform the cruise staff before departure, They’ll arrange substitutes like chicken, tofu or fish dishes.

Exploring Seafood Markets Safely

Visiting Bai Chay Market or Hon Gai Market can be a cultural highlight. Go early in the morning for the freshest selections and always:

Choose vendors with clean stalls and gloves.
Watch your seafood being cooked fresh to order.
Avoid uncooked marinades or sauces if you’re unsure about hygiene.

Must-Try Safe Seafood Dishes in Halong

Cha Muc — Halong’s Signature Dish

Made from finely pounded squid and lightly fried, cha muc is flavorful, protein-rich and perfectly safe when freshly prepared. Try it with sticky rice or banh cuon (rolled rice pancakes).

Grilled Oysters with Scallion Oil

Halong oysters are small yet rich in flavor. This dish is usually cooked right in front of you, ensuring freshness.

Steamed Mantis Shrimp

Known as tom tit, this crustacean is steamed with lemongrass, a safe and fragrant preparation method that keeps it tender.

Crab Hotpot

Ideal for sharing. The broth is boiled to perfection, making it one of the safest (and most delicious) ways to enjoy shellfish.

Halong Bay is more than a breathtaking seascape

It’s a culinary journey waiting to be explored. By choosing the right restaurants, understanding freshness indicators and taking basic safety precautions, you can savor Halong’s seafood with full confidence and joy. Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic dinner on the bay, a family planning a safe day trip or an Indian traveler curious about local cuisine, Halong welcomes you with open arms and a plate full of the ocean’s best.

Experience the best of Halong’s seafood in total comfort at Halong Plaza Hotel, where international hygiene standards meet authentic Vietnamese flavors.