If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, especially to Phu Quoc Island, here are some local tips that will add extra flavor to your journey—just like adding the perfect seasoning to a dish.
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1. Rau Muống Xào Tỏi (Morning Glory with Garlic)
This stir-fried morning glory dish is a staple across Southeast Asia. It’s simple, delicious, and almost impossible to go wrong with—no matter which restaurant you visit.
It pairs wonderfully with both beer and vodka, making it the perfect side dish to order. Kids love it too.
Morning glory earned its nickname because it’s packed with health benefits, so make sure to try it at least once during your trip.
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2. Men Vodka & Tiger Beer
In Vietnam, Tiger beer is almost like water—locals often order it by the case.
Men Vodka is one of my personal favorites. Stronger than Korean soju but surprisingly smooth, it’s a popular choice because it causes less of a hangover (though of course, too much is always tough the next morning!).
There are several varieties—ginseng, black, red, and Hanoi versions—so ask at the restaurant what they have. If they don’t carry it, you can often buy it elsewhere and bring it in. My recommendation: start with the black-cap Men Vodka.
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3. Cà Phê Đá & Cà Phê Sữa Đá
Vietnam is famous for its coffee—it’s one of the country’s top exports, even to South Korea.
Skip Starbucks and try a local café instead. After breakfast, order a coffee with a glass of green tea on the side, just like locals do before heading to work.
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Cà Phê Đá = strong iced black coffee (similar to iced Americano)
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Cà Phê Sữa Đá = sweet iced milk coffee with condensed milk
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4. Mangoes
In some towns, even the roadside trees are mango trees.
Locals enjoy firmer, slightly sour mangoes, while visitors from places like Korea usually prefer softer, sweeter varieties like apple mango.
Small shops and street vendors sell mangoes cheaply, so enjoy them often during your stay.
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5. Cơm Sườn (Grilled Pork with Rice)
One of my absolute favorites—Com Suon is grilled pork served over rice with a flavorful Vietnamese sauce.
It’s a common lunch dish for locals, simple but incredibly tasty. When cooked over charcoal, it’s at its best. While I couldn’t find a perfect charcoal-grill version in Phu Quoc, many restaurants still serve decent plates.
Tip: Try a spot like NGON 83, where you can sample a wide variety of popular Vietnamese dishes in one place.
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6. Motorbike Rental
The best way to get around Phu Quoc is by motorbike—fast, cheap, and convenient. A full-day rental usually costs around 10,000 KRW (~8 USD).
Make sure you have an international driver’s license. Most accommodations offer rentals, or you can search “rental bike” on Google Maps.
Locals are skilled riders since they’ve been on bikes from a young age. Drive calmly and safely—people will make way for you if you don’t rush.
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7. Fishing
Near the Phu Quoc Night Market, you’ll find a breakwater where you can try casual fishing. You’ll mostly catch small fish, so think of it as a relaxing pastime.
For bigger catches, you’ll need to go on a boat trip up north, where small fishing ports are located.
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8. King Kong Mart
Phu Quoc’s King Kong Mart is like Vietnam’s version of E-Mart.
It’s perfect for buying souvenirs, snacks, accessories, and especially alcohol. You’ll find a wide variety of Vietnamese beers and vodkas here. It’s definitely worth a visit during your stay.
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9. Phu Quoc Night Market
A lively spot where you can browse stalls, shop for souvenirs, and soak in the atmosphere.
Although I didn’t find the T-shirts I was looking for, it’s still worth walking through once. I ended up picking up a few small fridge magnets instead.
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Final Tip: Phu Quoc offers much more than just beaches—explore local food, coffee culture, markets, and simple activities like motorbike rides or fishing. These little touches will make your trip truly memorable.
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