The Ultimate Guide to the Best Seafood Restaurants in Da Nang: Fresh Catches, Local Flavors, and Must-Try Dishes

Vietnam’s coastline, stretching over 3,000 kilometers, is a source of abundant natural beauty and culinary wealth. At the heart of this gastronomic abundance lies seafood restaurants in Da Nang, a vibrant coastal city renowned not just for its pristine beaches like My Khe and the iconic Dragon Bridge, but most famously for its extraordinary culinary scene. For the discerning traveler or the passionate foodie, the quest for truly fresh, local, and unforgettable oceanic fare invariably leads to one search query: Seafood Restaurants in Da Nang.
Da Nang is more than just a gateway to Hoi An or Hue; it is, arguably, the Central Vietnamese capital of seafood restaurants in Da Nang. The city’s strategic location, with its proximity to rich fishing grounds and a thriving local fishing community, means that the concept of “fresh” here is taken to an entirely different level. Forget frozen imports; seafood restaurants in Da Nang, your dinner was likely swimming in the ocean just hours before it reached your table.
This comprehensive, 2000+ word guide is your indispensable resource for navigating the bustling, sometimes overwhelming, but always rewarding world of Da Nang’s seafood restaurants in Da Nang scene. We will dive deep into the must-try dishes, provide insider tips for ordering, and, most importantly, highlight the absolute best establishments. We begin our journey by placing a special spotlight on one of the city’s undisputed favorites: Kim Seafood, before exploring a range of other local gems and hidden spots that cater to every budget and preference. Prepare to embark on an oceanic culinary adventure where the flavors are bold, the ambiance is electric, and the catch is always spectacular.
2. The Da Nang Seafood Experience: More Than Just a Meal
Before we explore specific establishments, it’s crucial to understand what makes the act of dining at Seafood Restaurants in Da Nang a unique cultural experience that transcends a typical sit-down meal. This is a highly interactive and sensory event, driven by the philosophy of choosing your meal while it’s still alive.
2.1. The “Chợ Hải Sản” (Seafood Market) Vibe
The defining characteristic of almost every major seafood restaurants in Da Nang is the presence of the live seafood tanks. Upon arrival, you won’t typically see a menu with pre-set weights and prices. Instead, you are escorted to an area resembling a mini-market, filled with large, aerated tanks bustling with life: crabs, lobsters, various snails (ốc), clams, fish, and shrimp.
The process is simple, yet invigorating:
- Select Your Dinner: You physically point to the specific crab, fish, or lobster you want.
- Weighing: The staff will net your chosen item and weigh it on a digital scale in front of you. This is the moment to confirm the weight and the price per kilogram ().
- Specify Preparation: You then tell the staff how you want it cooked (e.g., grilled, steamed, fried with garlic).
This system guarantees the utmost freshness and allows the diner complete control over their meal, transforming the restaurant into a dynamic fusion of market and kitchen.
2.2. Local Specialties: What to Look For Seafood Restaurants in Da Nang
While basic shrimp and squid are always available, true seafood connoisseurs should seek out seafood restaurants in Da Nang’s local specialties:
- Ốc Hương (Aromatic Snail/Babylon Snail): Often stir-fried with lemongrass and chili or simply steamed. Their distinct, slightly sweet flavor is a local obsession.
- Cua Biển (Sea Crab): Large, meaty crabs, best enjoyed steamed with a side of salt, pepper, and lime dipping sauce
- Hàu (Oysters): Small, plump local oysters, usually grilled with scallions and peanuts (hàu nướng mỡ hành)—a textural and flavor delight.
- Cá Hấp Xì Dầu (Steamed Fish with Soy Sauce): Typically a grouper or snapper, prepared whole and steamed with soy sauce, ginger, and scallions. The flesh remains incredibly moist and delicate.
2.3. Key Preparation Styles: The Flavor Palette
The Vietnamese approach to seafood restaurants in Da Nang respects the natural flavors of the ocean, often using simple, yet impactful, cooking methods:
Understanding these elements is the first step to unlocking the true potential of the Seafood Restaurants in Da Nang. Now, let’s turn our attention to one of the most celebrated names in the city’s seafood hierarchy.
4. Featured Spotlight: Kim Seafood – The Da Nang Icon

When discussing the premier Seafood Restaurants in Da Nang, the name Kim Seafood invariably comes up as a benchmark for quality, freshness, and scale. Located strategically, often near the main beach areas, Kim Seafood has cultivated a reputation among both locals and international tourists as a reliable, high-volume establishment that consistently delivers an outstanding dining experience.
4.1. Overview & Ambiance
Kim Seafood typically presents a bustling, energetic atmosphere. It is not a place for quiet, intimate dining; rather, it’s a celebration of abundance. The venue is often large, featuring multi-story dining halls or expansive covered outdoor seating areas, designed to accommodate large groups and families.
- Location Advantage: Many of the prominent seafood spots, including Kim Seafood, are clustered near My Khe Beach, making them highly accessible after a day of sun and sea.
- Ambiance: Expect noise, laughter, clinking beer glasses, and the constant activity of staff moving between the live tanks and the open kitchen. This lively environment is essential to the authentic Vietnamese seafood experience.
4.2. Why Kim Seafood Stands Out: The Freshness Guarantee Seafood Restaurants in Da Nang
What sets Kim Seafood apart from the dozens of competitors lining the Da Nang streets is their unwavering commitment to the “live-or-nothing” philosophy, combined with excellent logistical operation.
- The Live Tank System: Kim’s facilities are pristine and expansive, housing an impressive array of aquatic life. The sheer volume and variety available mean diners can choose everything from common clams to rare species of high-grade fish and giant lobsters. This transparency builds trust—you see exactly what you pay for.
- Service Quality: While the service is fast-paced, it is generally attentive and efficient, with staff often trained to assist non-Vietnamese speakers through the ordering process, a crucial advantage for foreign visitors navigating the weigh-and-cook system.
4.3. Signature Dishes to Order at Kim Seafood – Seafood Restaurants in Da Nang
While everything is cooked to order, certain items at Kim Seafood have earned legendary status and are highly recommended to first-time visitors:
- The “Must-Try”: Grilled Lobster with Cheese or Garlic Butter This dish is the epitome of indulgence. The lobster is sliced down the middle, slathered generously with a creamy, rich cheese sauce or fragrant garlic butter, and grilled until the meat is perfectly tender. The smokiness of the grill contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the lobster and the savory topping.
- Local Favorite: Steamed Scallops with Glass Noodles and Peanuts A deceptively simple dish. Fresh scallops are steamed atop a bed of clear glass noodles , flavored with chopped green onions, a drizzle of oil, and crushed roasted peanuts. It’s light, fragrant, and allows the scallop’s delicate flavor to shine.
- Hidden Gem: Kim’s Special Seafood Hotpot () Perfect for a group, the seafood hotpot is a communal experience. Kim’s rendition typically features a deeply flavored, tangy broth (often incorporating pineapple and tomato for sourness) loaded with shrimp, squid, fish slices, mushrooms, and fresh herbs. Diners use it to cook thin slices of raw fish or beef and noodles at the table.
4.4. Price Range & Practical Tips
- Price Range: Kim Seafood falls into the bracket. While it’s slightly pricier than some smaller, hidden local spots, the premium is justified by the guaranteed quality, extensive selection, and comfortable setting. Expect to pay around 500,000 VND to 1,500,000 VND per person depending on whether you opt for high-end items like lobster or stick to crab and snails.
- Best Time to Visit: To avoid the longest queues, aim to arrive either slightly before 6:00 PM (for dinner) or during the mid-afternoon (around 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM). Peak dining hours are from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM.
5. Exploring Da Nang’s Seafood Landscape: Other Highly-Rated Gems

While Kim Seafood provides an excellent, high-standard experience, the true richness of Da Nang’s seafood scene lies in its diversity. Exploring other establishments allows you to experience different ambiances, price points, and local culinary twists.
5.1. Bé Anh Seafood: The Local Giant
Bé Anh is often cited alongside Kim as a titan in the Da Nang seafood market. It is known for its sheer volume and slightly more budget-friendly pricing compared to the high-end spots, without compromising much on freshness.
- Vibe: Very large, somewhat chaotic, and incredibly popular with locals celebrating events.
- Signature Dish: Their Grilled Clams with Chili Salt are legendary—simple, fiery, and deeply satisfying.
5.2. Năm Đảnh Seafood: The Hidden Alley Gem Seafood Restaurants in Da Nang
For travelers seeking a truly authentic, no-frills, local experience, Năm Đảnh is a must-visit. Tucked away down a small alley (), finding it is part of the adventure.
- Vibe: Extremely casual, plastic chairs and tables, a “tackle-box” atmosphere. You won’t see large tanks here; instead, the staff brings out trays of pre-portioned, fresh seafood restaurants in Da Nang ready for cooking.
- Why It’s Special: The prices are incredibly low, making it ideal for budget travelers or those wanting to sample many small dishes. The focus is on small, flavorful portions of cooked-to-order dishes.
- Signature Dish: The Garlic Stir-fried Snails and the Steamed Shrimp are perennial favorites.
5.3. Hải Sản Bà Thôi: The Established Name of Seafood Restaurants in Da Nang
Bà Thôi represents the older, more traditional generation of Seafood Restaurants in Da Nang. It has a long history and is famous for its consistently well-executed traditional cooking methods.
- Vibe: Traditional, reliable, and slightly more structured than the massive beachside joints.
- Signature Dish: Known for its superb Steamed Blue Crab and its rich, flavorful Seafood Porridge
5.4. For the Upscale Diner: Fine Dining Options
While most Da Nang seafood is casual, there are options for those desiring an elevated dining experience with views and premium service:
- The Golden Fish/Blue Whale (Near the Coastline): These establishments often feature beautiful, refined décor, sometimes with beach or river views. They typically offer a more curated menu and professional service staff, making them perfect for special occasions.
- The Difference: Here, you pay a premium for the ambiance, plating, and service, though the core ingredient freshness remains high.
In summary, whether you prioritize the massive selection and spectacle of Kim Seafood, the local prices of Năm Đảnh, or the tradition of Bà Thôi, Da Nang offers a perfect seafood spot for every kind of palate and wallet.
6. The SEO Power Section: Insider Tips for Enjoying Da Nang Seafood Like a Local
Navigating the bustling atmosphere of the best Seafood Restaurants in Da Nang can be daunting for a newcomer. However, mastering a few local customs and tips will ensure a smoother, more enjoyable, and ultimately, a more cost-effective dining experience.
6.1. How to Order: Negotiating Price and Weight
This is the most crucial step. When you select your seafood restaurants in Da Nang from the tanks, always follow these rules:
- Confirm the Price : Always ask for the price per kilogram . Prices can fluctuate daily based on the catch.
- Check the Scale: Ensure the weighing scale is reset to zero before your selection is placed on it. Pay close attention to the weight displayed. It is perfectly acceptable and expected to ask them to show you the weight clearly.
- Be Specific about Preparation: Don’t just point; state your preparation method clearly. For example, “Tôm Hùm, một ký, nướng bơ tỏi” (Lobster, one kilo, grilled with garlic butter).
- Go Early: The freshest and largest selection is available in the late afternoon/early evening (around 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM). Later in the evening, the selection can dwindle.
6.2. Essential Vietnamese Phrases for Ordering of Seafood restaurants in Da Nang
While many popular Seafood Restaurants in Da Nang have English-speaking staff, knowing a few key phrases can bridge any communication gap:
| English Phrase | Vietnamese Translation | Context |
| How much per kilo? | Bao nhiêu một ký? | Crucial for confirming the price. |
| Please weigh this for me. | Làm ơn cân cái này. | Before purchasing the live item. |
| Steamed. | Hấp. | Simple, healthy preparation. |
| Grilled with chili salt. | Nướng muối ớt. | Common, flavorful preparation. |
| Stir-fried with garlic. | Xào tỏi. | Great for squid or clams. |
| The bill, please. | Tính tiền. | To conclude your meal. |
6.3. The Perfect Accompaniment: Beverages and Sides Seafood Restaurants in Da Nang
Vietnamese seafood is intensely flavored, and it requires the perfect local beverage to cleanse the palate.
- Local Beer : The standard accompaniment is ice-cold local beer. Larue (a French-style lager) and Huda (native to Central Vietnam) are the most common choices and pair perfectly with the fiery chili and rich butter sauces.
- Rice Wine : For a more traditional and stronger pairing, local rice wine (often infused with herbs) is popular, though usually consumed in small shots.
- White Rice : Don’t forget to order a bowl of steamed white rice. It is essential for soaking up the delicious sauces left on the plate, especially the spicy ones.
6.4. Food Safety Checklist
To ensure your seafood experience is safe and enjoyable:
- Observe the Water: The water in the live tanks should be clear and constantly aerated. Cloudy or stagnant water is a red flag.
- Check the Movement: The fish, crabs, and shrimp should be lively and actively moving. Lethargic animals indicate lower quality or stress.
- Use the Hand Washing Station: Most large seafood restaurants provide hand-washing stations and sometimes complimentary wet wipes, which are essential when tackling messy crab shells and snail dishes.
7. Conclusion

Da Nang stands proudly as one of Southeast Asia’s must-visit destinations for seafood lovers. It is a place where culinary tradition meets the bounty of the ocean, offering a gastronomic adventure that is both authentic and exhilarating.
From the massive, energetic halls of Kim Seafood, with its guaranteed freshness and impressive variety of premium catches like grilled cheese lobster, to the humble, budget-friendly alleys leading to local legends like Năm Đảnh, the options are as vast as the seafood restaurants in Da Nang itself. Each establishment, whether a bustling (eatery) or a refined dining spot, plays a critical role in defining the city’s reputation.
Ultimately, dining at the Seafood Restaurants in Da Nang is about more than just the food; it’s about the experience: the thrill of choosing your own meal, the smoky aroma of grilling scallops, the lively chatter of Vietnamese families, and the satisfaction of digging into a plate of perfectly steamed, ocean-fresh crab with salt, pepper, and lime.
Whether you are seeking the ultimate splurge on a giant prawn or simply want to try a new kind of aromatic snail, let this guide serve as your compass. Da Nang is waiting, and its ocean bounty promises a culinary memory that will last long after your trip home.
Contact Details:
Fanpage: Here
Address: Kim Seafood, A2.01 Ly Nam De, An Hai Trung, Son Tra, Da Nang, Vietnam.
Phone: 0916111143
Opening Hours: 10:00 – 23:00
Email: kimseafood@gmail.com
By providing clear and accessible contact information, Kim Seafood ensures that anyone seeking the best seafood restaurants in Da Nang can plan their visit effortlessly.
