What to Eat in Lý Sơn Island: A Local Food Guide

Garlic salad and king crab are the two dishes you should plan your meals around on Lý Sơn Island. These local specialties rely on the island's unique volcanic soil and fresh daily catches from the surrounding East Sea. The island's signature dish is gỏi tỏi (garlic salad). Locals make this dish using only the young green stalks of Lý Sơn garlic. They steam the stalks to remove the sharp bite, then toss them with herbs, crushed peanuts, and a simple sweet-and-sour fish sauce. You can find this dish at local home-style restaurants near the main pier, such as quán Phát Hải or quán Út Ngọc. A plate of garlic salad costs from $3 (approximate). It is usually eaten with crispy grilled rice paper.

For fresh seafood, head to the night market near the Lý Sơn Port or the restaurants along the western coastal road. Cua huỳnh đế (king crab) and cua dẹt (flat crab) are the local highlights. King crab has thick, sweet meat and is usually steamed to preserve its natural flavor. Prices for king crab vary by season and size, starting from $35 per kilogram (approximate). Ask the restaurant to weigh the live crab in front of you before cooking. If you need help finding reputable seafood suppliers during your trip, contact a Trip2VN specialist for current recommendations.

Cháo nhum (sea urchin congee) is a popular local breakfast on the island. Fishermen collect sea urchins from the coral reefs around the island daily. Chefs cook the rich, yellow urchin meat with fragrant local rice, green onions, and black pepper. The dish is creamy, slightly sweet, and highly nutritious. You can find sea urchin congee at small breakfast stalls near the An Vĩnh market or at local guesthouses. A bowl of hot congee starts from $2 (approximate). It is a warm, comforting way to start your day of exploring.