Banh Mi at Tang Nung, Phong Nha

Best Restauaurants in Phong Nha, Vietnam

The serenely beautiful town of Phong Nha was one of my favourite stops in Vietnam. The tourist industry is relatively new to the area, making for a welcome breather from the hustle and bustle of some of the more popular destinations. It also means that Phong Nha is slightly less developed, and thus less catered to travellers as many other stops on the traditional tourist route. That doesn’t mean there isn’t tasty food here – in fact I had some of my favourite dishes in the whole of Vietnam in Phong Nha. Check out my 6 best restaurants in Phong Nha, Vietnam.

 

1. Thang Nung BBQ

If there’s one restaurant you MUST go to in Phong Nha, it has to be Thang Nung. This hidden gem served up what was by far the best banh mi I have had in the whole of Vietnam. They specialise in spit-roast pork which is cooked to perfection in various dishes. The banh mi is served as a warm toasted baguette with crispy pork, fried onions, salad, and the most incredible lemon chilli sauce, for just 50K VND (£1.70). Seriously, this banh mi was so good that we both ordered a second as soon as we finished the first. Thang Nung serve lots of other Vietnamese noodle, rice, and pho dishes that looked equally delicious. Contrary to what the sign says, it’s definitely the best spit-roast pork shop in the world (in my opinion).


Thanh Nung Restaurant, Phong Nha

 

2. Bamboo Chopsticks

Bamboo Chopsticks serves a great range of Asian and Western dishes, including lots of incredible vegan and vegetarian food. I’d highly recommend the Vegetarian Volcano – a unique dish of grilled tomatoes stuffed with minced veg and tofu, and topped with the most amazing creamy coconut sauce. This is also one of the only places we visited in Vietnam serving draught beer!

 


Food at Bamboo Chopsticks Restaurant, Phong Nha

 

3. Phong Nha Coffee Station

This was our go-to brunch spot in Phong Nha. This healthy café has a minimal menu that doesn’t compromise on flavour. Choose between a nutritious granola bowl or delicious sourdough bread dish, paired with the best coffee we had in Phong Nha. We tried the smoothie bowl and the avocado, bacon and fried egg toast, and both were fresh and delicious. If you’re looking for a quick coffee & cake stop, the banana bread was also 10/10. Quick service, lovely setting, and free Wi-Fi if you’re looking for a nice spot to get  work done.

 

Smoothie bowl at Phong Nha Coffee Station

4. Phong Nha Vegan Restaurant

This was one of my favourite meals in Phong Nha. You absolutely do not have to be a vegan to enjoy the food here. The menu is packed with unique and interesting dishes that are full of flavour. I’d highly recommend the Korean fried sushi and the mushroom “beef” skewers – both were delicious and so different to anything else we’ve eaten in Vietnam. Phong Nha Vegan is located on the outskirts of the main town next to the river, so, depending on where you’re staying, you might want to cycle or scooter there. The riverside location adds to the charm of this place and the service was super friendly.

 

Sushi at Phong Nha Vegan Restaurant

5. Lantern Vietnamese

Lantern is a safe bet if you’re looking for a delicious and authentic Vietnamese meal in Phong Nha. They also serve a range of Western dishes and have an extensive breakfast menu. We tried the fried spring rolls, veggie ban xeo and a stir fried prawn dish – everything was so delicious and fresh. We also had a Nutella crepe which I wouldn’t really recommend. All round an amazingly tasty and authentic meal for a great price.

 

Food at Lantern Vietnamese Restaurant in Phong Nha

6. Tree House Café

If you need your fix of western food in Phong Nha, Tree House is where it’s at! They offer a selection of pizza, pasta, sandwiches, and a great drinks menu. I’ll be honest and say that the dishes varied in quality, so be wise with your choice. We ate here twice, and tried the falafel pitta and chicken burger (both really tasty), but we were very disappointed with the grilled cheese. I also tried a rice dish from the Vietnamese menu which was tasty. If you’re pressed for time in Phong Nha, I wouldn’t prioritise the Tree House in terms of food – but the vibe is nice if you’re in a big group or are looking for someplace nice to have a few drinks.

 

Falafel at Treehouse Cafe, Phong Nha

These are my top 6 best restaurants in Phong Nha, Vietnam. Vietnamese people are some of the nicest people I have ever met, but the locals of Phong Nha are particularly friendly and are so excited to welcome you to their town. Support local and a few of these amazing restaurants a try!