Phu Quy Island has recently gained a new culinary treasure: rock crabs. This wild species has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors thanks to its sweet, fragrant meat and uniquely satisfying flavor.
Rock crabs resemble common crab species, but they are much smaller—only about the size of a clenched fist. Their shells have a brownish-purple hue, while the underside turns a warm golden yellow. These crabs are incredibly strong and fast, living in rocky crevices around the island, especially in the Hòn Tranh area. They usually leave their dens to forage at night.
Islanders have discovered that the meat of this crab is exceptionally delicious—firm, white, and subtly aromatic in a way that’s hard to describe. As a result, rock crab has quickly become a signature dish at many local eateries and seafood stalls across Phú Quý.
Rock crabs reproduce naturally between June and September. During this season, female crabs often migrate toward coastal areas to release their eggs. From October to December, they retreat into their rocky dens to molt.
A simple, rustic ingredient of the island has now become a must-try specialty — and one more delicious reason to fall in love with Phú Quý.
