When visiting Phu Quy Island, one dish you simply cannot miss is banh xeo—a traditional delicacy that captures the authentic taste of the sea. It’s flavorful, filling, and deeply tied to the daily life of islanders.
For the people of Phu Quy, banh xeo is a familiar everyday dish. But for first-time visitors, it often becomes an unforgettable surprise. Many are amazed that on this small island—shaped by sun, wind, and sudden rains—there exists a dish so delicious, comforting, and uniquely crafted.
Phu Quy’s banh xeo is cooked in small clay molds placed inside a round stove that typically holds four to five molds at once. Very little oil is needed; the batter is poured just thick enough to keep the cake crispy on the outside while maintaining a soft, chewy texture inside.
When served, the dish is enjoyed with fresh island-grown herbs. The dipping sauce is a lightly seasoned fish sauce—intentionally mild—often accompanied by boiled duck eggs. This allows diners to submerge the entire banh xeo into the sauce without it becoming too salty. The eating style is different from mainland traditions, where banh xeo is usually wrapped in rice paper with herbs. It may feel unusual at first, but one bite is enough to win you over.
Some eateries on the island also offer special variations such as baby squid banh xeo, baby oyster banh xeo, shrimp banh xeo, and pork banh xeo. This diversity, while still preserving the rustic cooking method, has made Phu Quy banh xeo a truly delightful and memorable culinary experience.
