Experience the allure of Ninh Binh, a province famed for its magnificent natural landscapes. For travelers, both local and international, a visit offers the chance to indulge in not only stunning views but also delectable food. To complete your Ninh Binh adventure, consider dining at these highly-rated restaurants.
The best restaurants in Ninh Binh for authentic flavours
For those with an adventurous palate, trying the local specialties is a highlight of any trip. Ninh Binh has some unique dishes that are worth exploring.
Chinh Thu Restaurant
This is arguably one of the most famous restaurants in Ninh Binh for Dê Núi (mountain goat). It’s a bustling, local favourite, known for its consistent quality and wide variety of goat dishes. They’ve been serving for a long time and have built a strong reputation.
What to try
They offer goat meat prepared in numerous ways:
- Dê Nướng: Grilled goat meat, often marinated with lemongrass and chili. This is a must-try for its smoky flavour.
- Dê Tái Chanh: “Rare” goat meat salad with lime, herbs, and roasted peanuts – a refreshing and zesty option.
- Dê Hấp Sả: Steamed goat with lemongrass – tender and aromatic, highlighting the natural flavour of the meat.
- Lẩu Dê: Goat hotpot, a communal and warming dish, perfect for cooler evenings, usually comes with plenty of fresh vegetables and herbs.
- Nem Dê: Fermented goat meat roll, a unique local delicacy with a tangy taste.
- Cơm Cháy Chấm Sốt Dê: Scorched rice served with a rich goat meat dipping sauce.
Indian suitability
Excellent for non-vegetarians keen on trying authentic local cuisine. The meat is well-cooked and flavourful. You can always request “ít cay” (less spicy) or “không cay” (not spicy). The variety of preparations means you can find something that suits your preference for either grilled, steamed, or soupy dishes.
Vibe/price
Genuinely local, can be crowded and lively, especially during peak meal times. It’s a no-frills place focused on the food. Mid-range prices (approx. 200,000 – 400,000 VND per person for a good meal).
Adress
Khe Thuong Village, Ninh Xuan Commune, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh.
READ MORE: Embracing the flavors of Vietnam
Trung Tuyet Restaurant
Trung Tuyet is another stalwart in Ninh Binh’s goat meat scene, often recommended by locals and tour guides for its authentic taste and slightly more organized, spacious setting compared to some older establishments. They pride themselves on fresh ingredients.
What to try
- Dê Nướng Ngũ Vị: Five-spice grilled goat, offering a complex and aromatic flavour profile.
- Dê Xào Lăn: Stir-fried goat with coconut milk and curry powder (Vietnamese style curry, milder than Indian). This might be an interesting option for Indian palates.
- Tiết Canh Dê: (For the truly adventurous) Goat blood pudding. This is a very local dish and might not be for everyone, but it’s a traditional offering.
- Their Cơm Cháy is also highly praised, often served with a flavourful pork floss topping or the goat sauce.
Indian suitability
A very good choice for non-vegetarians. The “Dê Xào Lăn” could be a familiar, albeit different, take on a curry-like flavour. As always, specify your spice preference. The environment might feel a bit more comfortable for some tourists.
Vibe/Price
Can be busy, but generally well-managed. It’s quite a large restaurant, suitable for groups. Clean and relatively modern for a local specialty restaurant. Mid-range.
Adress
14 Hoang Hoa Tham Str, Ninh Binh City
Duc De Restaurant
“Duc De” (often meaning Mr. Duc’s Goat Restaurant or similar) is a name you might hear frequently as it’s quite popular and often represents a cluster of family-run eateries specializing in goat. They typically offer a very traditional, rustic experience.
What to try
- Focus on the classic preparations: Dê Nướng (grilled goat), Dê Hấp (steamed goat), and Lẩu Dê (goat hotpot).
- They are also known for their Cơm Cháy, ensuring it’s perfectly crispy and served with a good quality ruốc (pork floss) or their special goat dipping sauce.
- Some might offer Cháo Dê (goat congee), a comforting and flavourful rice porridge.
Indian suitability
Great for an authentic, no-frills experience of Ninh Binh’s goat cuisine. The straightforward preparations allow the quality of the meat to shine. Requesting spice adjustments is usually possible.
Vibe/Price
Very local, can be basic in terms of decor but authentic in its food and atmosphere. Expect a bustling environment. Generally quite affordable to mid-range.
Adress
446 Nguyen Hue Str, Ninh Binh Province
Hoang Giang Restaurant
Hoang Giang is another well-regarded name among the best restaurants in Ninh Binh for local specialties, particularly goat. It often strikes a good balance between authentic local flavours and a comfortable dining environment suitable for tourists. They are known for their consistent quality and friendly service.
What to try
- Dê Quay Nguyên Con: (If available or for larger groups) Whole roasted goat, a spectacular sight and a delicious treat.
- Dê Nướng Mọi: Simply grilled goat, sometimes without heavy marinades, allowing the natural flavour to come through.
- Lẩu Dê Thuốc Bắc: Goat hotpot with traditional Northern medicinal herbs, offering a unique and aromatic flavour, believed to be very nutritious.
- Excellent Cơm Cháy is a staple here, often served with a generous portion of their signature dipping sauce.
Indian suitability
A strong contender for a satisfying goat meat experience. The “Lẩu Dê Thuốc Bắc” might appeal to those who appreciate herbal and aromatic broths. The staff are generally accustomed to tourists and can help with menu choices and spice levels.
Vibe/Price
Pleasant and often spacious, cleaner and more presentable than some purely local spots, making it comfortable for families and groups. Mid-range.
Adress
Truong Yen Commune, Hoa Lu Dist, Ninh Binh
Top vegetarian restaurants in Ninh Binh for veggie lovers
We know many of my Indian friends are vegetarian, and we are happy to say that finding delicious vegetarian food in Ninh Binh is getting easier!
An Lac Tam Coc Vegetarian Restaurant
- Address: Alley 34 Pham Than Duat, Bich Da, Ninh Binh
- Price range: 30,000 – 100,000 VND (~ $1.25 – $4.15)
An Lac Vegetarian Rice (Cơm Chay An Lạc) stands out as a beloved haven for anyone craving hearty and delicious vegetarian fare in Ninh Binh. Living up to its name, which means ‘peaceful happiness,’ the restaurant offers a tranquil dining experience with nutritious and flavorful dishes. Its convenient location, often near popular tourist spots, makes it a favourite for visitors looking to immerse themselves in traditional Vietnamese vegetarian traditions.
Specializing in ‘cơm chay’ (vegetarian rice plates), An Lac presents a delightful spread. Expect your rice to be paired with an enticing variety of savory sides, such as expertly prepared tofu in various styles, vibrant stir-fried vegetables that highlight local produce, and deeply satisfying vegan-friendly soups. Each dish is a testament to the fresh, high-quality ingredients used, offering a wholesome yet thoroughly enjoyable meal that skillfully balances rich Vietnamese flavors with the pure simplicity of plant-based dining.
Chay 1995 Restaurant
- Address: 118 Xuan Thanh, Tan Thanh, Ninh Binh
- Price range: 60,000 – 250,000 VND (~ $2.40 – $10.40)
Tucked away in the vibrant heart of Ninh Binh, 1995 Vegetarian Restaurant (Nhà Hàng Chay 1995) is a delightful find for anyone seeking an authentic and affordable vegetarian dining experience. This cozy eatery has earned a warm reputation for its genuinely homey atmosphere and unwavering commitment to serving wholesome, plant-based meals that appeal equally to locals and discerning travellers.
Dive into a menu brimming with traditional Vietnamese vegetarian delights. Expect to find satisfying stir-fried noodles (like mì xào chay), hearty rice plates (cơm suất chay) laden with flavourful accompaniments, and comforting, aromatic soups. Beyond the classics, they also impress with creative vegan interpretations of beloved Vietnamese dishes, all meticulously prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their dedication to quality ensures every dish is not just healthy but also deeply satisfying, making it a true gem among Ninh Binh’s vegetarian offerings.
READ MORE: Top places to visit in Ninh Binh
Tam Coc – Ngo Dong Vegan Restaurant
- Address: Ninh Hai, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh
- Price range: 50,000 – 200,000 VND (~ $2.10 – $8.30)
Drawing inspiration from the gentle flow of the iconic Ngo Dong River, Ngo Dong Vegan Restaurant offers a truly delightful experience for those seeking authentic Vietnamese flavours in a purely vegan setting. The restaurant’s name is more than just a label; it reflects the tranquil, natural essence that beautifully infuses both its inviting ambiance and its thoughtfully curated menu.
Step inside and discover a vibrant tapestry of classic Vietnamese vegan dishes alongside inventive plant-based creations. Savour specialties like flavourful vegan hotpots perfect for sharing, crisp garden-fresh salads bursting with vitality, and artfully presented rice plates. Everything is meticulously crafted using locally sourced ingredients, highlighting the region’s bounty. What truly elevates the experience is their commitment to seasonal dishes, allowing the menu to dynamically showcase the freshest produce, promising new and exciting flavours with each visit to this Ninh Binh gem.
Buddha Belly Vegetarian Restaurant
- Address: Van Lam, Ninh Xuan, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh, Ninh Binh
- Price range: 50,000 – 200,000 VND (~ $2.10 – $8.30)
Nestled conveniently near Ninh Binh’s breathtaking scenic landmarks, Buddha Belly Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurant offers a serene sanctuary where delicious, thoughtfully prepared food meets a truly peaceful atmosphere. Whether you’re yearning to explore authentic traditional Vietnamese vegetarian dishes or eager to savour unique and innovative vegan creations, this restaurant promises a dining experience that truly nourishes both body and soul. It’s an ideal retreat to enjoy a wholesome meal while unwinding and reflecting after a day of exhilarating sightseeing adventures.
The menu at Buddha Belly is thoughtfully curated, presenting a diverse array of options designed to delight every palate. Diners can discover an aromatic vegetarian pho that warms the senses, vibrant salads bursting with freshness, and hearty rice dishes that satisfy completely. Don’t miss their innovative vegan interpretations of beloved Vietnamese classics, each a testament to their culinary creativity. The restaurant’s unwavering emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients shines through, allowing the pure, natural flavours of each component to sing in every delightful dish.
Best restaurants in Ninh Binh for a taste of home
Sometimes, especially on a longer trip, you might crave something familiar. While dedicated, authentic Indian restaurants in Ninh Binh are very rare (if any), here are some places where you might find comforting or adaptable options.
Aroma Indian Restaurant
- Adress: Tam Coc – Ninh Binh
- Price range: $5 – $50
For those craving the comforting and vibrant flavours of home, Aroma Indian Restaurant (Tam Coc) consistently shines as a standout choice in Ninh Binh. It’s widely celebrated for its authentic taste, generous portions that promise a hearty meal, and genuinely warm, friendly service that makes you feel instantly welcome.
Their Butter Chicken is often lauded as a must-try star dish – picture succulent, tender chicken pieces bathed in a luscious, creamy tomato gravy that’s rich with aromatic spices. No Indian meal here is complete without their Garlic Naan, invariably served warm, perfectly crisp on the edges, and glistening with just the right amount of butter. And to kick things off, their crispy, flavour-packed Samosas make for a delightful appetiser. Beyond these highlights, Aroma’s menu offers a comprehensive selection of beloved Indian classics, all thoughtfully priced, ensuring a delicious and deeply satisfying experience that offers excellent value.
Curry King Indian Restaurant
- Adress: Tam Coc – Ninh Binh
- Price range: $1 – $8
For a reliable and satisfying taste of India in Ninh Binh, Curry King Indian Restaurant stands out, conveniently offering its vibrant and flavorful dining experience at two locations across the province. One of their great strengths is an extensive menu that truly understands the diverse Indian palate, expertly catering to all desired spice levels – from a gentle warmth to the fiery challenge of a vindaloo.
Among their popular meat dishes, the Lamb Rogan Josh is a consistent favorite, featuring incredibly tender lamb simmered to perfection in a rich, aromatic tomato-based sauce, fragrant with traditional spices. Vegetarian diners are equally well-catered for, with their Palak Paneer being a highly recommended choice – a delightful preparation of soft Indian cottage cheese (paneer) enveloped in a smooth, creamy spinach gravy, subtly spiced. Whether you’re seeking a familiar comfort or an adventurous flavour journey, Curry King aims to please.
Tips for dining in Ninh Binh for Indian travellers
- Communicate clearly:
- “Tôi ăn chay” (Toy an chai) – I am vegetarian.
- “Không thịt” (Khom thit) – No meat.
- “Không hành, không tỏi” (Khom hanh, khom toi) – No onion, no garlic (for Jain food, though it can be challenging for some kitchens to accommodate fully, it’s worth asking).
- “Ít cay” (It kai) – Less spicy. “Không cay” (Khom kai) – Not spicy. “Nhiều cay” (Nhee-ew kai) – More spicy.
- “Không bột ngọt / mì chính” (Khom bot ngọt / mee chin) – No MSG.
- Water: Always drink bottled water. “Nước suối” (Nuoc soo-ee).
- Street food: Choose wisely. Opt for stalls that are busy (good turnover) and look clean.
- Payment: Cash (Vietnamese Dong – VND) is preferred in most local eateries and smaller shops. Larger restaurants and hotels in tourist areas may accept credit cards.
- Tipping: Not obligatory in Vietnam, but a small tip (5-10%) for good service in restaurants is always appreciated.
READ MORE: Best time to visit Ninh Binh
Conclusion
Ninh Binh is truly a province of stunning beauty, and its culinary offerings add another layer to its charm. I hope this guide to the best restaurants in Ninh Binh helps you explore the diverse food in Ninh Binh with confidence and delight. Don’t be afraid to try new things, communicate your preferences, and most importantly, enjoy the fresh, flavourful food this region has to offer.