Where to Enjoy the Best Squid Patties in Halong: Top Spots & How to Choose

When people think of Halong, stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters come to mind. But ask any local, and they’ll tell you the true pride of the city isn’t only the bay — it’s cha muc Halong, or Halong squid patties.

Golden, crispy on the outside, chewy yet tender inside, and made from freshly caught squid, cha muc is a culinary symbol of the region. In fact, the dish is so iconic that it has been recognized among the top specialties of Vietnam.

If you’re heading to Halong and wondering “Where can I find the best squid patties?”, this guide covers everything: where to eat them fresh, how to spot authentic hand-pounded patties, what they cost, and even how to bring them home as a foodie souvenir.

Why cha muc Is Halong’s Must-Try

What is cha muc?

cha muc is a squid patty made by hand-pounding fresh squid into a sticky paste, then shaping and frying it until golden brown. Unlike machine-ground versions you might find elsewhere, Halong’s hand-pounded method gives it a unique, springy texture and rich flavor.

Flavor and texture

Expect a slightly sweet seafood flavor with a bouncy, elastic bite. When fried properly, the crust is crisp while the inside remains moist and aromatic.

Who will love it?

Anyone who enjoys seafood will fall in love with cha muc. It’s family-friendly, pairs beautifully with rice dishes, and makes an easy-to-carry snack.

Best Places to Try Squid Patties in Halong

Bai Chay — Tourist-Friendly and Convenient

Bai Chay, the main tourist hub, offers plenty of restaurants and seafood streets where you can sample freshly fried cha muc in a comfortable setting. Many places serve it alongside sticky rice (xoi cha muc) or with vermicelli for a complete meal.

Good for: first-time visitors, families, anyone who prefers an English menu.
What to try: order a mixed seafood platter that includes squid patties.

Hon Gai — Authentic and Local

For a more authentic experience, head to Hon Gai, where local morning stalls and markets showcase freshly pounded squid. This is also the best spot to buy vacuum-sealed cha muc to take home.

Good for: foodies, early risers, those who want to see the hand-pounding process.
What to try: sticky rice with squid patties for breakfast.

Halong Night Market — Street-Style Fun

The night market in Bai Chay buzzes with energy, making it a great place to try cha muc as a quick snack. While quality can vary, the atmosphere is unbeatable.

Good for: travelers who want to snack, shop, and soak in the nightlife.
Tip: look for stalls frying patties on the spot, rather than reheating.

Sit-Down Restaurants Worth Trying

Some recommended places where both locals and travelers rave about the squid patties include:

Cua Vang Restaurant (Golden Crab) — seafood platters featuring squid patties.

Hong Hanh Seafood — a long-established local favorite with consistently good cha muc.

How Real cha muc Is Made

The difference between authentic Halong squid patties and imitations lies in the process:

Fresh squid selection — caught in the waters around Halong.
Hand-pounding — squid is chopped and pounded with a wooden pestle until sticky.
Shaping — the paste is formed into small, round patties.
Frying — cooked in hot oil until golden and fragrant.

Hand-pounding may take longer, but it preserves texture and enhances flavor — something machines can’t replicate.

How to Spot Authentic Squid Patties

When buying or ordering, use this quick checklist:

Texture: bouncy and slightly fibrous (not smooth like fish balls).
Smell: fresh, mildly sweet seafood aroma.
Appearance: golden-brown crust with visible squid fibers.
Packaging: if buying sealed packs, check for vacuum-seal integrity and clear labeling.

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Price Guide

Restaurants: A serving (3–5 patties) costs around 80,000–120,000 VND ($3–5).
Markets: Vacuum-sealed packs are usually sold by weight, around 350,000–450,000 VND per kg ($14–18).
Tip: Always confirm weight and price before purchase, especially at markets.

Where to Buy Squid Patties as a Souvenir

Markets in Hon Gai

The most authentic take-home options are sold here. Vendors vacuum-pack the patties for freshness.

Supermarkets & Specialty Shops

Safe and reliable, though sometimes more expensive. Look for recognized local brands.

Packing Tips

Keep them cold (most vendors provide ice packs).
For flights, check airline rules on fresh/frozen food.
Best stored in the freezer and reheated by pan-frying or air-frying.

Best Pairings

With sticky rice (xoi cha muc) — the ultimate breakfast combo.
With banh cuon (steamed rice rolls) — adds a rich, chewy bite.
With dipping sauce — fish sauce mixed with chili, garlic, and lime.
Drinks — iced tea for day, cold beer for evening.

A Half-Day Foodie Itinerary

Morning: Head to Hon Gai for sticky rice with squid patties and visit the local market.
Midday: Watch vendors pound squid by hand and pick up a vacuum-sealed pack.
Evening: Enjoy a seafood dinner at Hong Hanh or Cua Vang in Bai Chay, then stroll through Halong Night Market for a quick snack.