I have been going to Prague’s Sapa for Vietnamese food and grocery shopping since around 2004. During that time, I have fallen in love with some bistros more than others. What are my tips for the best restaurants in Sapa?
1. Bistro Hải Hà and its grilled bún chả
Stopping for pork belly grilled on charcoal right in front of the bistro is almost always an integral part of every visit to Sapa. Bún chả from here is famous far and wide, some even call it the best bún chả in Prague. There is often a queue in front of the bistro, but it moves quickly. If you have never stopped here before, you should fix that quickly.
More information can be obtained by clicking on the map link:
2. Bistro Phuong Phuong and its rice rolls bánh cuốn
This small establishment specializing only in rice rolls was the very first bistro where I ate in Sapa. The girls from Viet Food Friends showed it to me, and I immediately fell in love with the rice rolls. I usually have the rolls here as an appetizer, and one portion is enough for two people. They will gladly pack the bánh cuốn for you, including the sauce.
More information can be obtained by clicking on the map link:
3. Bistro Hải Phòng and its fish soup
Carp soup is among my recent discoveries. While I often prepare Vietnamese phở soups myself at home, carp soup is more demanding to prepare, so I like to go to Bistro Hải Phòng for it. You will surely fall in love with the fish broth flavored with herbs (where dill plays the main role) and fried fish slices as well.
More information can be obtained by clicking on the map link:
4. Bistro Dũng Liên and its grilled duck
Dũng Liên is a business famous for its grilled duck served with broth, herbs, and rice noodles. The interior of the restaurant is among the larger ones in Sapa, yet it is often filled to the last seat. However, if you wait for a while, you can sit here without any problems. I will add a photo report to the website soon.
More information can be obtained by clicking on the map link:
More tips on where to eat in Sapa
Among my other favorite stops is the Chè Sài Gòn establishment selling Vietnamese chè dessert or the tiny bistro Lán dê – Xôi-Che, which specializes in Vietnamese caramelized pork belly. Friends also liked the Sành Quán bistro. I traditionally end every visit to Sapa with a big purchase of Asian groceries at Tamda Foods. If you haven’t bought ingredients for cooking here yet, try finding inspiration in the article “What to buy in Sapa” focusing on groceries.
Sapa Prague – questions and answers
How do you pay in Sapa?
Cash is essential. Payment cards are accepted at the Tamda Foods supermarket (but with a few percent surcharge) and a few other grocery stores (e.g. Jasmino.cz). There are several ATMs from Czech banks in front of the Tamda Foods supermarket.
Who can shop in Sapa?
Anyone. The area is freely accessible during opening hours.
Where to shop in Sapa?
Shops are spread throughout the Sapa area. Restaurants in Sapa are always located close to each other in several large blocks, you can’t miss them.
What can you buy in Sapa?
Fresh herbs, curry pastes, noodles … Check out my two articles “What to buy in Sapa?” and “What to buy in Sapa? (2)“. In the shops, you can also buy clothes, toys, suitcases; the range is really wide.
How big is Sapa?
The entire area is approximately 35 hectares. But you definitely won’t get lost in it.
When does Sapa open?
Sapa is open every day 8:00 – 20:00. I recommend coming around ten o’clock. Restaurants usually close around six in the evening.
Which restaurants in Sapa are your favorites?
Let me know in the comments what you consider the best food in Sapa. I’ll be happy for the tips!
