Hòn Sơn Island, part of Kiên Hải Special Zone, An Giang Province, is not only admired for its pristine and rustic beauty but also wins travelers over with its rich coastal cuisine. Among local specialties, Hòn Sơn squid stands out as an iconic delicacy, renowned for its exceptional freshness and the distinctive flavors of Vietnam’s southwestern seas.
Fresh Live Squid
One unforgettable experience for visitors to Hòn Sơn is enjoying live squid prepared right at the table. Just caught by local fishermen in Kiên Hải Special Zone, the squid are still translucent, bright-eyed, and incredibly fresh, then cooked immediately on the spot. Simply steamed with ginger, charcoal-grilled, or dipped in mustard, the squid reveals its natural sweetness and crisp texture—creating a truly unique sensation of “tasting the sea while still at sea.”
Fresh Hòn Sơn squid is typically caught close to shore and never stored for long, ensuring firm, sweet, and aromatic flesh. Local residents often turn fresh squid into familiar yet delicious dishes such as squid steamed with coconut water, stir-fried squid with chili paste, salt-and-chili grilled squid, or squid dipped in seafood hotpot. Each dish carries the pure, briny essence of island life.
A Perfect Souvenir to Take Home
Dried squid is the most popular choice for travelers looking to buy local specialties as gifts. The squid is sun-dried naturally under the distinctive sea breeze and sunshine of Kiên Hải Special Zone, without heavy seasoning. This traditional process preserves its beautiful pale pink color, thick flesh, and rich sweetness. Simply grilling it over charcoal, tearing it into strips, and dipping it in salt, pepper, and lime is enough to savor the full depth of ocean flavors.
Alongside traditional dried squid, one-sun-dried squid and squid rim from Hòn Sơn are also highly favored. One-sun-dried squid strikes the perfect balance between freshness and chewiness, releasing an irresistible aroma when grilled. Squid rim, cooked with fish sauce, sugar, and chili, offers a harmonious sweet–salty–spicy taste, making it an addictive snack that pairs perfectly with rice.
Visiting Hòn Sơn Island in Kiên Hải Special Zone, An Giang Province, travelers not only immerse themselves in crystal-clear seas and tranquil island scenery but also have the chance to enjoy these famous squid specialties—flavors rich in both the taste of the ocean and the warmth of local hospitality, leaving a lasting impression on anyone who sets foot on the island.
