Coastal FoodDinner FoodFresh Catch

    Seafood

    Hải sản

    4.8₫150k - 800kBest at lunch or dinner when the day’s catch is freshest; evening seafood meals are especially popular on the island
    Chirido Lai
    Overview

    Fresh island seafood from Co To

    Co To Island is known for very fresh seafood caught locally and served simply to highlight natural sweetness and texture. Common choices include grilled squid, steamed clams, mantis shrimp, crab, sea urchin, and fish prepared with local herbs and dipping sauces.
    Gallery

    Photos

    What's in it

    • Fresh fish
    • Squid
    • Clams
    • Shrimp
    • Crab
    • Sea urchin
    • Garlic
    • Lime
    • Chili
    • Fish sauce
    • Local herbs
    When to eat

    Best moments to enjoy it

    LunchDinner

    Best at lunch or dinner when the day’s catch is freshest; evening seafood meals are especially popular on the island

    The story

    Origin & history

    Co To Island in Quang Ninh Province has long relied on fishing and marine life, so seafood became the island’s signature food culture. As tourism grew, local homestyle seafood meals and market-fresh catches became one of the main reasons visitors come to eat on the island.

    At the stall

    How to order & pay

    Ordering

    For solo diners, order one grilled or steamed item plus a small soup or rice dish instead of a large seafood platter. Ask for 'one portion' or 'half portion' if available, and confirm the price before choosing live seafood by weight. If you want a lighter meal, choose steamed clams, grilled squid, or a single fish dish rather than mixed platters.

    Paying

    Carry cash in small bills, since smaller island eateries and market stalls may not accept cards or may prefer cash. Ask the price per kilogram before selecting live seafood, and keep the receipt or confirm the total before cooking starts.

    Good to know

    Allergens, nutrition & health

    Allergens

    Contains shellfish, crustaceans, and fish; sauces may contain soy or seafood-based seasonings

    Nutrition & benefits

    High in protein, iodine, omega-3 fats, and minerals, especially when steamed or grilled with minimal oil

    Health notes

    Choose well-cooked seafood if you have a sensitive stomach, and avoid raw or undercooked shellfish in hot weather. Drink bottled water and be cautious with very spicy dipping sauces if you are not used to them.

    How to eat it

    Eat grilled or steamed seafood with lime, chili, and fish sauce to taste. Use chopsticks or your hands for shellfish, and pair the meal with rice or noodles if you want a more filling solo portion.

    Where to eat it

    Best spots in Co To Island

    • Ngọc Quỳnh Hotel & Restaurant

      3.8

      2P3M+CC3, Bãi tắm Vàn Chảy, Cô Tô, Quảng Ninh, Vietnam

      Hours
      Open 24 hours
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    • Nhà Hàng Hải Âu Cô Tô

      3.8

      Nam Hải, Co To, Quang Ninh, Vietnam

      Hours
      10:00 AM–11:00 PM
      View on map