1. Introduction to Cat Ba Cuisine
Cat Ba is an appealing destination for food lovers. (Photo: Collected)
Cat Ba is known not only as a popular coastal destination with Lan Ha Bay, clear beaches, and impressive natural landscapes, but also as an appealing destination for food lovers. Thanks to its location in the coastal waters of Hai Phong, Cat Ba has an abundant supply of fresh seafood and a wide range of dishes that capture the flavors of the sea. This is also why many visitors consider the island a culinary destination where local ingredients, traditional cooking methods, and modern dining styles come together.
The highlight of Cat Ba cuisine is its fresh seafood. Visitors can easily enjoy popular specialties such as geoduck, mantis shrimp, green crab, grouper, horseshoe crab, oysters, squid, sea shrimp, and seasonal sea snails. Many restaurants in Cat Ba have live seafood tanks where diners can select their seafood before it is prepared, helping ensure freshness while adding to the distinctive coastal dining experience. Seafood is commonly prepared in various ways, including steaming with lemongrass, grilling with scallion oil, salt-roasting, stir-frying with garlic butter, or cooking in hotpot, catering to different tastes.
Beyond seafood, Cat Ba is also known for local dishes associated with Hai Phong, such as Cat Ba shrimp noodle soup, crab noodle soup, squid cakes, fried fermented pork rolls, spicy bread, and various street snacks. These dishes not only have distinctive flavors but are also reasonably priced, making them suitable for independent travelers, families, and groups of friends.
Today, Cat Ba's restaurant scene has become increasingly diverse, ranging from affordable local eateries to upscale restaurants, sea-view venues, floating restaurants, and places that combine dining with entertainment. Many restaurants also serve Asian and European dishes, vegetarian options, brunch, beverages, and craft beer to cater to both Vietnamese and international visitors.
Some of the areas with the highest concentration of restaurants in Cat Ba include 1/4 Street, the town center, Tung Dinh, Cai Beo Pier, Cat Co beaches, and the waterfront areas. Each area offers a different dining atmosphere, from lively seafood restaurants near the main streets to sea-facing venues where visitors can enjoy their meals while taking in the views. With its diverse ingredients, varied dining styles, and range of settings, Cat Ba cuisine is an essential part of any trip to the island.
2. Top 20+ Restaurants to Try in Cat Ba
Cat Ba is known not only for its fresh seafood but also for its diverse range of restaurants, from affordable local eateries and floating restaurants to modern dining venues serving Vietnamese and European cuisine. If you're looking for a place to eat after exploring the island, the list of more than 20 restaurants below will help you choose based on your preferences, budget, and preferred dining atmosphere.
2.1. Hai Yen Restaurant
Hai Yen Restaurant is a popular seafood dining spot among visitors to Cat Ba. (Photo: Collected)
Hai Yen Restaurant is one of the seafood dining spots chosen by many visitors to Cat Ba, particularly those looking for fresh live seafood and a diverse menu. The restaurant is located in the center of Cat Ba Town, making it convenient to reach from hotels, accommodations, and popular attractions. One of Hai Yen's highlights is its live seafood tank area, where diners can select seafood such as geoduck, mantis shrimp, green crab, grouper, shrimp, and squid before they are prepared. Popular dishes include salt-roasted mantis shrimp, grilled geoduck with scallion oil, steamed green crab, steamed sea fish, seafood hotpot, and other local specialties. The reference price is around VND 300,000–800,000 per person, depending on the types and quantities of seafood ordered. With its spacious setting, quick service, and diverse menu suitable for different groups, Hai Yen Restaurant is a suitable choice for families, groups of friends, tour groups, or visitors looking to enjoy Cat Ba seafood in a traditional style.
2.2. Quan Cat Ba
Quan Cat Ba is a familiar seafood restaurant in Cat Ba Town, appreciated by many visitors for its diverse menu, reasonable prices, and cooking styles suited to different tastes. The restaurant specializes in local seafood such as geoduck, mantis shrimp, crab, squid, shrimp, and sea fish, along with various specialties from the coastal area of Hai Phong. Popular dishes include salt-roasted mantis shrimp, garlic-fried mantis shrimp, grilled geoduck, steamed crab, stir-fried squid, and seafood hotpot for larger groups. The restaurant has a comfortable setting, making it suitable for family meals or gatherings with friends after exploring the island. The reference price is around VND 250,000–700,000 per person, depending on the type of seafood and cooking method. One of Quan Cat Ba's advantages is its diverse menu and relatively clear pricing, making it a suitable option for visitors who want to enjoy good seafood while keeping their spending under control. It is particularly suitable for families, groups of young travelers, and independent travelers.
2.3. Lang Chai Restaurant
Lang Chai Restaurant is a popular choice among groups looking to enjoy Cat Ba seafood in a spacious setting suitable for larger parties. The restaurant stands out for its approachable service style and menu centered on fresh seafood and local specialties. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dishes, including steamed geoduck, salt-roasted mantis shrimp, green crab, grouper, shrimp, squid, oysters, and seafood hotpot. The ingredients are selected daily to help ensure freshness and quality, in line with the island's coastal cuisine. The reference price is around VND 300,000–800,000 per person, depending on the dishes ordered. With its spacious setting, Lang Chai Restaurant is suitable for multigenerational families, groups of friends, tour groups, or companies organizing trips to Cat Ba. It is also a suitable place for a seafood dinner after exploring Lan Ha Bay or visiting attractions around the island.
2.4. The Three M Restaurant
The Three M Restaurant is a popular dining spot among visitors to Cat Ba. (Photo: Collected)
The Three M Restaurant is a popular choice among visitors thanks to its combination of Vietnamese cuisine, international dishes, and modern service. In addition to local seafood, the restaurant offers a diverse menu suitable for different groups, including traditional Vietnamese dishes, European-style cuisine, beverages, and several options for international guests. Popular choices include fresh seafood, meat dishes, salads, pasta, pizza, and modern-style dishes. The restaurant features a clean and comfortable setting, making it suitable for relaxed meals during a trip to Cat Ba. The reference price is around VND 200,000–600,000 per person. With its diverse menu and professional service, The Three M Restaurant is suitable for international visitors, couples, families, or anyone looking for a place that serves both Vietnamese and European-style dishes in the same setting.
2.5. Cat Ba Vu Duong Seafood Restaurant
Cat Ba Vu Duong Seafood Restaurant specializes in fresh seafood and is a popular choice among visitors looking to enjoy dishes featuring the flavors of Cat Ba's coastal waters. The restaurant stands out for its diverse selection of ingredients, with seasonal seafood such as geoduck, mantis shrimp, crab, shrimp, squid, sea fish, and various types of sea snails. The dishes are prepared in different styles, including steaming, grilling, salt-roasting, stir-frying with garlic butter, and hotpot, helping preserve the natural sweetness of the seafood. The restaurant has a clean setting, quick service, and is suitable for meals after exploring the island. The reference price is around VND 300,000–800,000 per person, depending on the dishes ordered. With its fresh ingredients and seafood-focused menu, Cat Ba Vu Duong Seafood Restaurant is suitable for families, groups of friends, or visitors looking to enjoy Cat Ba seafood in a comfortable setting.
2.6. Marigold Restaurant
Marigold Restaurant is a popular choice among visitors looking for a modern dining setting and a menu that combines Vietnamese cuisine with international dishes. Located in central Cat Ba, the restaurant is convenient for visitors to stop for a meal after exploring Lan Ha Bay, Cat Co Beach, or the town at night. One of Marigold Restaurant's highlights is its professional service, clean setting, and diverse menu, with options ranging from local seafood to familiar dishes suited to both Vietnamese and international guests. Popular choices include fresh seafood, sea fish, shrimp, squid, and seasonal geoduck, along with European-style dishes such as pizza, pasta, salads, and beverages. The reference price is around VND 250,000–700,000 per person, depending on the dishes and quantities ordered. With its comfortable setting, diverse menu, and friendly service, Marigold Restaurant is suitable for families, groups of friends, international visitors, or anyone looking for a quality meal during a trip to Cat Ba.
2.7. Blue Pearl Restaurant (Anh Thu)
Blue Pearl Restaurant (Anh Thu) is a dining spot known by many visitors to Cat Ba for its diverse menu, particularly fresh seafood featuring the flavors of Hai Phong's coastal cuisine. The restaurant is conveniently located in the central area, allowing visitors to combine a meal with their sightseeing and leisure itinerary on the island. The menu at Blue Pearl Restaurant focuses on popular seafood such as green crab, mantis shrimp, geoduck, squid, shrimp, and sea fish, along with various dishes prepared to order. Popular choices include steamed seafood, seafood grilled with scallion oil, salt-roasted seafood, stir-fried seafood with garlic butter, and seafood hotpot for larger groups. The spacious setting is suitable for family meals and tour groups. The reference price is around VND 300,000–800,000 per person, depending on the type of seafood selected. With fresh ingredients, a diverse menu, and approachable service, Blue Pearl Restaurant (Anh Thu) is a suitable choice for visitors looking to enjoy Cat Ba seafood specialties at a reasonable cost.
2.8. Little Vietnam Restaurant
Little Vietnam Restaurant combines Vietnamese cuisine with a selection of international dishes, making it suitable for both domestic and international visitors to Cat Ba. The restaurant features a cozy setting, approachable decor, and a diverse menu ranging from traditional Vietnamese dishes to light meals and beverages served throughout the day. Popular choices include local seafood, fried spring rolls, traditional Vietnamese dishes, rice, noodles, salads, and other options suited to international tastes. It is also a popular choice among international visitors thanks to its accessible menu and friendly service. The reference price is around VND 200,000–500,000 per person. Little Vietnam Restaurant is suitable for various groups, including couples, small families, international visitors, and those looking for a relaxed place to eat after exploring Cat Ba. It is also a suitable option for visitors who want to enjoy Vietnamese cuisine in a comfortable setting without a crowded atmosphere.
2.9. Quiri Cocktail & Restaurant
Quiri Cocktail & Restaurant is one of Cat Ba's notable dining spots for visitors looking to combine food and drinks in a relaxed setting. Unlike traditional seafood restaurants, Quiri has a more youthful style, combining a restaurant, cocktail bar, and entertainment space. The menu is diverse, featuring seafood, Vietnamese dishes, European-style cuisine, snacks, and a range of cocktails, beer, and other beverages suitable for an evening out. Popular choices include modern-style seafood dishes, burgers, salads, sharing dishes for groups of friends, and cocktails. The reference price is around VND 250,000–600,000 per person. The setting at Quiri Cocktail & Restaurant is suitable for meeting friends, going on a date, or relaxing after a day of exploring the island. With its modern service style, soft music, and menu combining food and drinks, it is a suitable choice for younger visitors, couples, and international travelers looking for a different dining atmosphere in Cat Ba.
2.10. Yummy 1 Restaurant
Yummy 1 Restaurant is a popular choice among visitors thanks to its diverse menu, reasonable prices, and flexible serving hours throughout the day. The restaurant serves familiar Vietnamese dishes such as pho, noodles, fried rice, breakfast items, seafood, and several options suitable for international guests. It is a convenient choice for visitors looking for a place to eat after exploring popular attractions around the island. Popular dishes at Yummy 1 Restaurant include fresh seafood, fried rice, stir-fried noodles, traditional Vietnamese dishes, and quick meals suitable for families. The restaurant has a comfortable setting and quick service, making it suitable for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The reference price is around VND 150,000–500,000 per person, depending on the dishes ordered. With its diverse menu and accessible prices, Yummy 1 Restaurant is suitable for families, groups of friends, independent travelers, or anyone looking for a convenient place to eat in central Cat Ba.
2.11. Casa Bonita Restaurant
Casa Bonita Restaurant offers a variety of appealing seafood dishes. (Photo: Collected)
Casa Bonita Restaurant is a popular dining spot in Cat Ba, known for its tropical-style setting, abundant greenery, and menu combining Vietnamese, European-style, and modern light dishes. The restaurant offers a comfortable atmosphere with a nature-inspired design, making it suitable for visitors looking for a place to enjoy good food in a relaxing setting. The menu at Casa Bonita Restaurant is diverse, featuring local seafood, pizza, pasta, salads, brunch, coffee, and beverages. Popular choices include modern-style seafood dishes, bread, European-style breakfast items, and dishes suited to international tastes. The reference price is around VND 200,000–600,000 per person. With its attractive setting, friendly service, and accessible menu, Casa Bonita Restaurant is suitable for families, couples, groups of young travelers, and international visitors. It is also a convenient place for breakfast, a light lunch, or a rest stop after exploring Cat Ba.
2.12. Secret Garden Restaurant
Secret Garden Restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, making it suitable for visitors who prefer a quiet and welcoming setting. One of the restaurant's highlights is its greenery-filled decor, creating the feel of a small garden in the middle of Cat Ba's busy tourist area. The menu combines Vietnamese dishes, international cuisine, and several vegetarian options to cater to different dining preferences. Popular choices include local seafood, traditional Vietnamese dishes, salads, light meals, and beverages. The reference price is around VND 200,000–500,000 per person. Secret Garden Restaurant is suitable for those looking for a relaxing meal after exploring the island, particularly couples, international visitors, and small families. Its peaceful setting, friendly service, and diverse menu make it a dining option worth considering in central Cat Ba.
2.13. The Little Leaf Restaurant
The Little Leaf Restaurant, also known by many visitors as Tiem La Nho, combines a café with a dining space and is a popular choice in Cat Ba. The restaurant stands out for its cozy atmosphere, attractive seating areas, and friendly service, making it suitable for breakfast, lunch, or a break during the day. The menu at The Little Leaf Restaurant focuses on healthy options such as brunch, salads, bread, coffee, and fresh juices, along with several Vietnamese and international dishes. Coconut coffee, breakfast dishes, and refreshing drinks are among the choices popular with customers. The reference price is around VND 150,000–400,000 per person. With its quiet setting, suitable for reading or working remotely, The Little Leaf Restaurant is popular among younger visitors, international travelers, couples, and families. It is also a convenient place to take a break after exploring Cat Ba or before continuing with the day's itinerary.
2.14. Nhat Anh Floating Restaurant
Nhat Anh Floating Restaurant offers a distinctive seafood dining experience, allowing guests to dine on a floating restaurant near Ben Beo Pier, one of the departure points for many trips to explore Lan Ha Bay. The setting on the water creates an open atmosphere where visitors can enjoy their meals while taking in views of the sea and passing boats. The restaurant specializes in fresh seafood such as geoduck, mantis shrimp, green crab, grouper, shrimp, squid, and seasonal sea snails. Popular choices include grilled geoduck with scallion oil, salt-roasted mantis shrimp, steamed green crab, steamed sea fish, and seafood hotpot. The reference price is around VND 400,000–1,000,000 per person, depending on the type of seafood. With its location and floating dining setting, Nhat Anh Floating Restaurant is suitable for families, groups of friends, tour groups, or visitors looking to combine a Lan Ha Bay outing with a seafood meal.
2.15. Mai Hoa Floating Restaurant
Mai Hoa Floating Restaurant is a popular choice among visitors looking to enjoy seafood in a floating setting around Cat Ba. Located on a floating raft, the restaurant offers a setting closely connected to the local fishing village lifestyle and the island's characteristic coastal scenery. The menu mainly features fresh seafood sourced daily, including geoduck, mantis shrimp, crab, shrimp, squid, sea fish, and various types of sea snails. Visitors can choose from different cooking styles, including steaming with lemongrass, grilling with scallion oil, salt-roasting, stir-frying with garlic butter, and hotpot. The reference price is around VND 400,000–1,000,000 per person, depending on the type of seafood and number of dishes ordered. One of Mai Hoa Floating Restaurant's highlights is its spacious setting, sea views, and the opportunity to enjoy seafood surrounded by natural scenery. The restaurant is suitable for families, groups of friends, tour groups, or visitors looking for a memorable meal after exploring Lan Ha Bay.
2.16. Lau Ha
Lau Ha is a popular dining spot among visitors looking for hot and comforting dishes, particularly suitable for evenings in Cat Ba. The restaurant is known for its variety of hotpots, with seafood hotpot being a popular choice thanks to the use of fresh ingredients from the local waters. The menu also includes side dishes such as steamed, stir-fried, and grilled seafood, meat dishes, and vegetables, making it suitable for larger groups. The flavorful hotpot broth combined with fresh seafood creates a distinctive taste associated with coastal cuisine. The reference price is around VND 200,000–500,000 per person, depending on the dishes ordered and group size. With its comfortable setting, reasonable prices, and group-friendly service, Lau Ha is suitable for families, groups of friends, or visitors looking for a warm and satisfying dinner after a full day exploring Cat Ba.
2.17. LePont Restaurant
LePont Restaurant is a popular dining spot among visitors thanks to its attractive setting, combining a restaurant with a beverage area overlooking the sea. The restaurant is located in a convenient area for sightseeing and relaxation, particularly in the late afternoon when the sunset creates an appealing backdrop. The menu combines Vietnamese dishes, European-style cuisine, and several local seafood options. Visitors can choose from fresh seafood, pizza, pasta, salads, light meals, and a variety of beverages. The reference price is around VND 300,000–700,000 per person. One of the restaurant's highlights is its open setting, allowing guests to enjoy a meal while taking in views of the Cat Ba sea. LePont Restaurant is suitable for couples, groups of young travelers, international visitors, or anyone looking for a place to combine dining, relaxation, and photography during a trip to Cat Ba.
2.18. Hong Que Beer Garden
Hong Que Beer Garden is a suitable choice for visitors looking to combine food, beer, and a lively evening atmosphere in Cat Ba. The restaurant features a spacious beer garden-style setting, making it suitable for gatherings with friends or larger groups. The menu is diverse, focusing on dishes that pair well with beer, including grilled seafood, fried dishes, Vietnamese drinking food, sharing dishes, and familiar Vietnamese specialties. Visitors can enjoy local seafood such as squid, shrimp, crab, and sea fish prepared with flavorful seasonings. The reference price is around VND 250,000–600,000 per person. With its open setting, friendly service, and menu suited to group gatherings, Hong Que Beer Garden is a suitable choice for groups of friends, tour groups, or anyone looking to enjoy a relaxed evening after exploring Cat Ba.
2.19. Sun Bavaria Cat Ba
Sun Bavaria Cat Ba is a notable dining destination in Cat Ba. (Photo: Collected)
Sun Bavaria Cat Ba is one of the notable dining destinations in Cat Ba, particularly for visitors looking to enjoy a European-style beer hall combined with local cuisine. Located in Xanh Island – Cat Ba Central Bay City, the restaurant features a modern beer hall inspired by the Bavarian style. One of its highlights is Sun KraftBeer, a craft beer range served alongside a menu featuring European-style dishes, Vietnamese cuisine, and local seafood. Popular choices include Texas-style grilled ribs, German sausages, German-style pork knuckle, grilled seafood, geoduck, mantis shrimp, and various sharing dishes suitable for larger groups. The reference price is around VND 400,000–900,000 per person, depending on the menu. With its spacious setting, distinctive design, and combination of food and craft beer, Sun Bavaria Cat Ba is suitable for families, groups of friends, tour groups, or couples looking for a special dinner spot in Cat Ba.
2.20. Green Mango Cat Ba Restaurant
Green Mango Cat Ba is one of the long-established restaurants popular among international visitors for its combination of Vietnamese and European-style cuisine. The restaurant stands out for its modern setting, refined decor, and diverse menu catering to different tastes. Popular choices at Green Mango Cat Ba include local seafood, meat dishes, salads, pasta, pizza, vegetarian options, and a variety of beverages. The restaurant focuses on modern cooking techniques while maintaining balanced flavors, making it suitable for both Vietnamese and international guests. The reference price is around VND 300,000–700,000 per person. With its convenient central location, comfortable setting, and professional service, Green Mango Cat Ba is suitable for various groups, including couples, families, international visitors, and those looking for a quality meal in a more refined setting. It is also a suitable option for dinner or casual gatherings in Cat Ba.
3. Suggested 2-Day-1-Night Cat Ba Itinerary
Plan a 2-day-1-night itinerary to explore Cat Ba. (Photo: Collected)
With 2 days and 1 night, you have enough time to explore Cat Ba's highlights, enjoy popular activities, and try the island's diverse cuisine. The itinerary below is arranged to make the most of your travel time while allowing you to enjoy the island's natural beauty.
Day 1: Explore Cat Ba's sea and islands and enjoy local cuisine – Visitors can reach Cat Ba by Sun World cable car, speedboat, or Dong Bai Ferry Terminal, then check in and begin exploring Lan Ha Bay. The itinerary can include a boat or speedboat trip, kayaking, a visit to Monkey Island, and swimming. In the late afternoon, return to the town center to relax and enjoy seafood at local restaurants such as Hai Yen Restaurant, Quan Cat Ba, or The Three M Restaurant. In the evening, you can visit VUI-Fest Cat Ba, explore food stalls, go shopping, and enjoy the nightlife. VUI-Fest is currently open from 9:30 a.m. to midnight.
Book your Cat Ba Cable Car tickets here!
Day 2: Explore Cat Ba's nature and history – After breakfast, visit Cat Ba National Park, Quan Y Cave, and Trung Trang Cave to explore the island's ecosystem, learn about its history, and admire the cave landscapes. If time allows, you can also visit Cannon Fort for panoramic views of the town and surrounding sea and islands. After lunch, spend some time shopping for local specialties or relaxing in the town center before leaving the island. A 2-day-1-night itinerary is suitable for combining Cat Ba's sea and islands, nature, history, and cuisine.
4. Tips for Choosing Restaurants in Cat Ba
Important tips to remember when choosing a restaurant in Cat Ba. (Photo: Collected)
Cat Ba has a wide range of restaurants with different styles and price points, from affordable seafood eateries to modern restaurants serving a variety of cuisines. The tips below can help you choose a suitable dining spot, enjoy good food, and keep your meal comfortable and within budget.
Prioritize restaurants with clearly listed prices to make it easier to choose dishes and manage your spending. When dining in Cat Ba, particularly at seafood restaurants, visitors should look for places with publicly available menus and price lists.
Choose a restaurant with live seafood tanks if you want to enjoy fresh seafood. Ask the staff to weigh the seafood in front of you, confirm the price beforehand, and agree on the cooking method to make the meal more straightforward.
Book a table in advance on weekends, during summer, or around public holidays. These are periods when Cat Ba receives more visitors, and popular restaurants can fill up quickly in the evening.
Seafood combos often include several signature dishes, giving visitors the opportunity to sample different flavors in one meal. They are also a practical choice for families and groups of friends who want to explore Cat Ba cuisine while keeping their budget under control.
Restaurants offering a variety of seafood, Vietnamese, and European-style dishes are suitable for groups with different tastes. It is also worth prioritizing places with spacious seating, quick service, and convenient parking to make the meal more comfortable.
Cat Ba has a diverse restaurant scene catering to different dining needs, from fresh seafood and local specialties to meals combined with scenic views and relaxation. Hopefully, the suggestions in this list of the top 20+ restaurants to try in Cat Ba will help you find a suitable place based on your itinerary, preferences, and budget. Remember to check the menu and prices and book a table in advance during peak periods for a more enjoyable and comfortable meal during your Cat Ba trip.