Squid instant noodles emerge as must-try dish for visitors to Da Nang

Although it is just a familiar packet of instant noodles combined with freshly caught squid of the day, the dish has gained popularity thanks to its coastal-style preparation and distinctive local flavor. The simple meal is gradually creating its own unique appeal on Da Nang’s food map.

From fishermen’s meal to a “must-try” specialty

At around 5:30 am along the road by Man Thai Beach, groups of visitors fill roadside squid noodle stalls.

A bowl of instant noodles with fresh squid is simple yet visually inviting: instant noodles cooked just right and served in a broth simmered from bones or seafood, topped with several whole fresh squid, bean sprouts, spring onions and herbs.

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Neither luxurious nor elaborate, the dish appeals to diners through its simplicity and the everyday character that reflects life in the coastal city.

From a humble dish enjoyed by coastal residents, squid instant noodles are gradually making their way onto the list of dishes visitors should try when coming to Da Nang.

Mr. Nguyen Van Thanh, the owner of a squid instant noodle stall near the Man Thai Beach, said that the dish was previously served mainly to night workers and fishermen.

However, as food review videos spread on social media, many tourists started to seek it out.

Unlike more elaborate dishes, squid instant noodles offer a familiar, easy-to-eat experience, especially suited to the morning atmosphere of the coastal city.

After swimming or spending time at the beach, many tourists stop by roadside stalls to enjoy a hot bowl of instant noodles amidst the cool sea breeze. This casual and natural experience has become a draw, especially for younger travelers.

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What makes this dish so appealing is the squid. Instead of frozen squid, the stall selects squid freshly brought ashore in the early morning, with thick, translucent white bodies and a natural crispness.

Mr. Nguyen Van Thanh, the owner of a squid instant noodle stall near the Man Thai Beach, Da Nang

A taste of the sea

According to many stall owners, demand for squid instant noodles has risen sharply over the past two years. During the summer tourism season in particular, many stalls remain busy from early morning until noon.

The owner of the Anh Em stall said the dish’s appeal comes from its authenticity and its unmistakably Da Nang character.

Visitors come not only for the taste but also for the atmosphere: sitting on the sidewalk, eating noodles while listening to the sound of the waves, all creating a relaxing and familiar experience.

Meanwhile, Ms. Tran Thi Ngoc Mai, the owner of a stall opposite the Man Thai Beach, said that she sells about 150 - 250 bowls every morning.

The dish is also popular, she added, because of its reasonable price. Today’s travelers are increasingly interested in trying local food while still looking for affordable options.

A survey of squid instant noodle stalls across Da Nang shows prices commonly range from VND 40,000 to VND 50,000 per bowl though some customers order bowls priced up to VND 100,000 depending on the amount of seafood included.

Many diners believe the price is reasonable because the main ingredient is fresh seafood.

However, the squid instant noodle business remains largely spontaneous. Most stalls operate on sidewalks or in small roadside spaces.

Therefore, to turn squid instant noodles into a new signature specialty of Da Nang in the long term, many believe vendors will need to invest more systematically.

Some suggest that the city could develop themed seafood streets, with squid instant noodles positioned as one of the featured dishes. Promotion through social media, experiential tourism programs and food festivals could also help the dish reach more tourists.