Discovering Sapa is like uncovering a treasure trove of natural beauty, a respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Nestled in the majestic landscapes of the Northwest of Vietnam, Sapa enchants visitors with its cool, refreshing weather and rich tapestry of culture. However, amidst its scenic splendour and cultural allure, Sapa also tantalizes the taste buds, earning its reputation as a regional culinary haven.
So, if you visit Sapa, indulge in the culinary delights that await you. To guide your epicurean exploration, we’ve curated a list of Top 10+ Best Foods in Sapa that capture the essence of Sapa’s gastronomic landscape. From hearty stews to fragrant stir-fries, each dish experiences the culinary heritage of this enchanting region. So, savour the flavours, soak in the scenery, and let Sapa weave its magic upon your senses.
1. Sticky rice cooked in bamboo tube (com lam)
Top 10+ Best Foods in Sapa is Com Lam, or sticky rice cooked in bamboo tubes. It’s a staple in local markets and street corners, loved for its simple yet delightful taste.
Making Com Lam is a straightforward process. Rice is packed into bamboo tubes wrapped in banana leaves and roasted over hot coals. As the bamboo chars, it infuses the rice with a subtle smoky flavor, creating a unique and aromatic dish.
The aroma of Com Lam is irresistible, drawing in hungry travelers with its tempting scent. Each bite offers a blend of flavors, with the sticky rice absorbing the essence of the bamboo.
Com Lam is often enjoyed with salted roasted peanuts for crunch or paired with grilled pork or chicken skewers for a satisfying meal. It’s a must-try for anyone visiting Sapa, offering a taste of the region’s culinary heritage in a simple and delicious package.
Where to eat?
BBQ area
- Location: Along Cau May St, Sapa
- Opening hours: 4.00 pm – 10.00 pm
- Price: $1 – $5
Bon Mua Restaurant
- Location: 9 Thac Bac Street, Sapa Town
- Opening hours: 6:30 AM – 11 PM
- Price: $3 – $15
Sapa Grilling Area
- Location: Cau May Street, Sapa Town
- Opening hours: Every evening
- Price: $1.5 – $4.5
2. Thang Co (Horsemeat Soup)
Thang Co is more than just a dish, a cultural tradition that has stood the test of time in Sapa. Originating over 200 years ago among the Hmong ethnic people, this top best foods in Sapa carries a special aroma and a rich history.
The name “Thang Co” translates to “soup cooked in a big pan,” reflecting the communal aspect of its preparation. The dish features a hearty combination of meat, bones, and offal from horses, pork, and buffalo, simmered with over 20 botanical herbs. From cardamom to citronella, each ingredient adds its distinct flavour to the robust broth, creating a symphony of tastes that is quintessentially Sapa.
Traditionally reserved for special occasions and cultural festivals, Thang Co has become must-eat food in Sapa, thanks to the rapid growth of tourism in the region. Whether you stumble upon a steaming pot at a local market stall or encounter it on a restaurant’s menu, you will surely be greeted by the unmistakable aroma of this MUST-TRY dishes for a wonderful food tour.
While the initial taste of Thang Co’s slightly bitter broth may catch you off guard, it’s worth taking a moment to savor the complexities of flavor that unfold with each spoonful. Between the chilly air of Sapa, a warm bowl of Thang Co fills the stomach and warms the soul, offering a taste of the region’s rich cultural heritage.
So, if you find yourself in Sapa, don’t miss the chance to experience the unique allure of Thang Co, a dish that truly encapsulates the spirit of this enchanting destination.
Where to eat:
A Quynh Restaurant
- Location: 15 Thach Son Street, Sapa Town
- Opening Hours: 7 AM – 10:30 PM
- Price: $4 – $15
Moment Romantic Restaurant
- Location: 26 Muong Hoa Street, Sapa Town
- Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 10 PM
- Price: $3 – $10
A Phu Restaurant
- Location: 15 Fansipan, Sapa Town
- Opening hours: 10:00 – 22:00
- Price: $2 – $23
3. Lau Ca Tam (Salmon and sturgeon hotpot)
In the chilly climes of Sapa, there’s nothing quite like a comforting hotpot to warm the body and soul. Regarding hotpots, the salmon and sturgeon varieties are true stars of the show, and they are celebrated for their firm texture and rich nutritional profile.
Sourced locally, the salmon and sturgeon of Sapa boast a quality that sets them apart. Thanks to the region’s unique aquaculture techniques, these prized fish thrive in the cool mountain waters, yielding succulent and flavorful meat.
The hotpot itself is a masterpiece of flavor and aroma. A steaming pot filled with a tangy broth made from fish bones, fresh vegetables, and locally grown mushrooms, it’s a symphony of tastes that perfectly complements the delicate flavors of the seafood.
Whether a local or a tourist, indulging in a salmon and sturgeon hotpot is a must-do on any Sapa street food tour, especially on a brisk day. The warmth of the broth, the freshness of the ingredients, and the satisfaction of sharing a meal with loved ones make it an experience to remember.
So, if you find yourself in Sapa on a cold day, seek out this unique Vietnamese hotpot and treat yourself to a culinary adventure. With its blend of tradition, innovation, and unbeatable flavor, the salmon and sturgeon hotpot is sure to warm both body and spirit alike.
Where to eat:
Hoa Dao restaurant
- Location: 48 Le Van Tam St, Sapa
- Opening hours: 9.00 am-10.00 pm
- Price: $9 – $20
Lotus Sapa
- Location: 34 Cau May, Sapa
- Opening hours: 9.00 am-10.00 pm
- Price: $6 – $22
Song Nhi Restaurant
- Location: O Quy Ho ward
- Opening hours: 7:00 – 23:00
- Price: $3 – $25
4. Thit Trau Gac Bep (Dried Buffalo Meat)
Buffalo meat holds a special place among the culinary treasures of Sapa and is Top Best Foods in Sapa with “Thit Trau Gac Bep” reigning as the most beloved dried meat in the region. This unique delicacy, cherished by locals and tourists alike, is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of the Black Thai ethnic people.
The name “Thit Trau Gac Bep” translates to “buffalo meat hanging above the kitchen’s firewood,” a fitting description of the traditional preservation method employed by the Black Thai community. The process begins with marinating the meat in a blend of salt, pepper, garlic, and ginger, infusing it with a distinctive flavor profile. The marinated meat is left to hang in the kitchen for an extended period, typically from a year to 18 months.
As the meat hangs above the kitchen’s smoky firewood, it transforms, developing a deep, rich aroma and flavor that sets it apart. The exterior takes on a dark brown hue, while the interior remains a vibrant red, a testament to the careful preservation process.
When it comes time to savor “Thit Trau Gac Bep,” a squeeze of lime juice adds a refreshing zing to each bite. While the first bite may offer a slight resistance, subsequent tastes reveal a symphony of flavors—sweetness, tanginess, and a hint of smokiness—all dancing on the palate.
So, the next time you find yourself in this enchanting corner of Vietnam, indulge in the culinary delight of “Thit Trau Gac Bep”—an authentic taste of Sapa’s culinary heritage.
Where to eat:
Sapa Grilling Area
- Location: Cau May Street, Sapa Town
- Opening Hours: in the evening
- Price: $26 – $30/kg
Fansipan Restaurant
- Location: 25 Cau May Street, Sapa Town
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 10 PM
- Price: $24 – $33/kg
Sapa Night Market
- Location: Dien Bien Phu Street, Sapa Town
- Opening hours: 17:00 – midnight
- Price: $30 – $33/kg
5. Ga Den (Black Chicken)
When it comes to Top 10+ Best Foods in Sapa, there’s one delicacy that stands out among the rest: black chicken. With its distinctive appearance and reputed health benefits, this unique dish is a must-try for visitors.
As the name suggests, black chicken boasts dark-colored meat and bones, giving it an intriguing allure. Across Asia, this chicken is celebrated for its purported ability to treat heart disease, making it a popular choice for those seeking flavor and wellness.
In Sapa, black chicken takes center stage in various dishes, from frying and boiling to steaming. However, the grilled black chicken marinated with honey steals the spotlight. After being infused with the sweetness of honey, the chicken is grilled directly over hot charcoal, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify. The result? An unforgettable culinary experience that tantalizes the taste buds and satisfies the soul.
But black chicken is more than just a dish—it symbolises tradition and healing. Allowed to roam freely in their natural environment, these chickens feed on a diverse array of nutrients, resulting in meat that is not only delicious but also exceptionally tender and sweet. And with its reputed benefits for heart health, it’s no wonder that black chicken is one of the most sought-after dishes in the region.
So, if you find yourself in Sapa, look for this best local dishes in Sapa and experience the magic of black chicken. With its unique flavor profile and potential health benefits, it’s a dish that promises to delight and nourish in equal measure.
Where to eat:
Hoa Dao Restaurant:
- Location: 48 Le Van Tam Street, Sapa Town
- Hours: 9 AM – 10 PM
- Price: $2 – $27
Sapa Cuisine Restaurant
- Location: 17 Xuan Vien Street, Sapa Town
- Hours: 6:30 AM – 9 PM
- Price: $5 – $25
Red Dao Restaurant
- Location: 4B Thac Bac, Sapa Town
- Opening hours: 8:00 – 22:30
- Price: $3 – $30
6. Thit Lon Cap Nach (Pig theft armpit)
One sight in Sapa’s markets is hard to miss: locals carrying pigs by their armpits, showcasing the renowned delicacy of Cap Nach Pork. This unique dish holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors, thanks to its exceptional flavor and traditional preparation methods.
What sets Cap Nach Pork apart is the way the pigs are raised. Allowed to roam freely in fields and forests, these pigs lead a natural lifestyle that results in leaner, less fatty, and more aromatic meat than traditional pork. This dedication to quality makes Cap Nach Pork a true standout in Top 10+ Best Foods in Sapa.
When cooking Cap Nach Pork, numerous preparation methods exist, including steaming, grilling, stir-frying, and frying. However, the most beloved approach is to cook it over charcoal, imparting a crispy outer layer and succulent meat that is sure to tantalize the taste buds.
For an authentic taste of Sapa, pair it with Ruou Tao Meo, a traditional wine made from the local fruit “tao meo,” and prepare to fall in love with this iconic dish.
Where to eat:
Sapa Grilling Area
- Address: Cau May Street, Sapa Town
- Hours: in the evening
- Price: $4 – $20
Anh Dung restaurant
- Add: 69 Xuan Vien St, Sapa town
- Opening hours: 8.00 AM- 10.30 PM
- Price: $3 – $25
Hoang Minh restaurant
- Add: number 23-24 Sapa food court
- Opening hours: 9.00 am- 10.00 pm
- Price: $5 – $22
7. Grilled Food
One of the fun things to do in Sapa at night is stroll around the Grill area. From succulent Grilled Fish to savory grilled pork, beef, rice, and sausages, there’s something to tantalize every palate in this bustling nighttime hub. As you wander through the misty streets, the tantalizing aroma of sizzling meats and vegetables fills the air, inviting you to partake in the feast.
Located on Cau May Street, the Sapa Grill Area is a bustling culinary haven with rows of shops and stalls offering a wide array of grilled delights. Here, you’ll find vendors skillfully grilling skewers of marinated meats and vegetables, ready to be enjoyed on the spot.
Where to eat:
Red Dao Restaurant
- Address: 4B Thac Bac Street, Sapa Town
- Opening hours: 07:00 – 22:00
- Price: $1 – $2
Hoang Lien Barbecue Restaurant
- Address: Hoang Lien Street, Sapa Town
- Opening hours: 17:00 – 23:00
- Price: $1 – $4
8. Men Men (Steamed Corn Flake)
Nestled in the high mountains of the North of Vietnam, the Hmong people have crafted a culinary treasure known as Men Men, a dish reflecting both their ingenuity and reliance on corn as a primary food source.
In the harsh conditions of the high mountains, where wet rice cultivation is impractical, corn takes center stage as the mainstay of the Hmong diet. To transform this humble grain into a delectable dish, the Hmong people developed the art of making Men Men, which has become one of top 10+ Best Foods in Sapa.
The process begins after the corn harvest, with the kernels being ground to remove the grit. In the past, this task was labour-intensive, requiring hand-grinding, but modern machines have since eased the workload. Once the cornmeal is prepared, it’s mixed with just the right amount of water and cooked in a pan.
After the initial cooking, the dish is steamed not once but twice, resulting in a unique sweet and soft texture. The double-steaming process imbues Men Men with a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart from other dishes.
When enjoy Men Men, it’s often served with chili sauce and fresh herbs, enhancing its already exquisite taste.
Where to eat:
Sapa Grilling Area
- Address: Cau May Street, Sapa Town
- Opening hours: Everyday evening
- Price: $1 – $3
Sapa Market
- Address: 4D National Road, Sapa Town
- Opening hours: 6:00 – 18:00
- Price: $1.5 – $3
9. Xoi Ngu Sac (Five-Color Sticky Rice)
The Tay ethnic group is famous for their five-color sticky rice, a beloved Vietnamese dish. Known as xoi ngu sac, this Sapa speciality features five vibrant colours—red, green, yellow, black, and white—symbolizing balance and harmony.
Crafted from high-quality glutinous rice, xoi ngu sac has a chewy texture and fragrant aroma. Infused with mountainous herbs like ginger and turmeric, this dish offers a delightful blend of flavors that captivates the palate.
For the Tay people, xoi ngu sac is more than just food—it’s a cultural symbol, reflecting their deep connection to nature. Whether enjoyed as a snack or as part of a meal, this iconic dish offers a taste of Sapa’s rich culinary heritage.
Xôi Bà Bầm
- Address: Muong Hoa, Sapa town, Lao Cai.
- Hours: from 7am.
- Price range: $4 – $6
Xôi Anh Dũng
- Address: Xuan Vien, Sapa town, Lao Cai province.
- Hours: 08:00 – 22:30.
- Price from: $3 – $7
10. Tao Meo wine
In the heart of Sapa, amidst the majestic Hoang Lien Son Mountain, lies a unique treasure cherished by the H’mong people: Tao Meo wine. This authentic whiskey, crafted from Tao Meo fruit, embodies the essence of the mountain and offers a taste of the region’s rich heritage.
Tao Meo wine is a beloved tradition among the H’mong people, known for its distinctive flavor and natural ingredients. The Tao Meo fruit, also known as Assam apple, thrives in the mountainous terrain of Hoang Lien Son, imparting a unique essence to the wine.
Harvested from August to October, the fresh Assam apples are carefully collected and used to create this exquisite libation. After soaking in water for days, the fruit undergoes a meticulous fermentation process, yielding a rich and flavorful wine that captures the essence of the mountain.
After six to eight months of fermentation, Tao Meo wine is ready to be enjoyed. With each sip, you can taste the natural flavors of the mountain, a testament to the H’mong people’s deep connection to their land.
Hoang Minh restaurant
- Address: number 23-24 Sapa food court
- Opening hours: 9.00 am- 10.00 pm
- Price: $3 – $5 / 1 liter
Quoc Cuong Liquor Store
- Address: 74 Thach Son, Sapa Town
- Opening hours: 9:00 – 22:00
- Price: $4/ 1 liter
Tay Bac Liquor Store
- Address: 9 Thac Bac, Sapa Town
- Opening hours: 08:00 – 23:00
- Price: $4/ 1 liter
