Ben Tre’s best lunches combine delicious local food with memorable Delta settings. The standout choice is the traditional 5-course riverside meal featuring fresh coconut dishes and pomelo – staples of this fertile region. We love the authentic floating restaurant experiences along the Mekong, where you’ll eat surrounded by coconut palms while chatting with local farming families.
Our favorite guided lunch tours take you straight to family-run spots that most travelers miss, with hosts who proudly share generations-old recipes and farming methods. You’ll learn exactly how ingredients journey from garden to plate.
Check out these hand-picked lunch experiences that showcase the real flavors of Ben Tre:
Key Points
- The Ben Tre tour offers a 5-course lunch featuring regional specialties, allowing visitors to savor the culinary heritage of the Mekong Delta.
- Lunch is served in scenic riverside locations, providing a picturesque setting for dining on traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
- Fresh coconut and pomelo tastings are included, enabling visitors to experience the local flavors of the region.
- The 5-course lunch emphasizes the use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, reflecting the agricultural richness of the Mekong Delta.
- Lunch is served at local restaurants, offering an authentic dining experience and insight into the culinary traditions of the area.
Ho Chi Minh City: Mekong Delta Day Trip With Lunch
For a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta, this tour offers a comprehensive experience. The 10-hour tour costs from $32.74 per person and is limited to 15 participants.
Pickup is included from hotels in District 1, with an alternative meeting point for other districts.
The itinerary highlights include visiting Vinh Trang Pagoda, exploring islands like My Tho and Unicorn Island, and engaging in activities such as boat rides, visiting a coconut candy workshop, and sampling local wines and tropical fruits.
A Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant is included.
Transportation is provided by an air-conditioned bus, and travelers will journey through paddy fields, pineapple plantations, and small hamlets.
An English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and local motorboat excursions are all part of the included services.
While the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users, it’s an excellent way to experience the Mekong Delta’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
Read our full review: Ho Chi Minh City: Mekong Delta Day Trip With Lunch Review
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HCMC – Ben Tre: Authentic Day Tour With Lunch and Cruise
Departing from Ho Chi Minh City at 7:00 AM, this authentic day tour invites visitors to enjoy the tranquil charm of Ben Tre, a province often referred to as “Coconut Island”.
Throughout the 8-hour experience, guests will cruise the Mekong River and canals on a traditional rowing boat, visit a local farmer for fresh coconut and pomelo tasting, and enjoy a 5-course lunch of regional specialties at a riverside restaurant.
The itinerary also includes a guided bicycle excursion through picturesque villages and rice fields, as well as a visit to a former Vietcong soldier to learn about the traditional method of making rice paper.
Priced at Kč 3,920 per person, this tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the unspoiled areas of Giong Trom and Huu Dinh districts, away from the crowds of commercial tourism.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it’s an ideal choice for an authentic Mekong Delta experience.
Read our full review: HCMC – Ben Tre: Authentic Day Tour With Lunch and Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Ben Tre?
The best time to visit Ben Tre is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to May. During this period, the weather’s mild, and visitors can enjoy the region’s natural beauty without the heavy rains of the monsoon season.
Are There Any Vegetarian or Vegan Lunch Options Available?
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan lunch options available in Ben Tre. Travelers can find meat-free dishes at local restaurants and cafes, featuring fresh produce and regional specialties that cater to diverse dietary needs.
How Much Does the Lunch Typically Cost in Ben Tre?
Lunch costs in Ben Tre typically range from $3 to $10 per person. Prices vary depending on the type of restaurant, with street food and local eateries being more affordable than upscale establishments.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Allergies to Consider?
When dining in Ben Tre, it’s important to consider any dietary restrictions or allergies. Many local restaurants can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diners with advance notice. Inquiring about ingredients is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable meal.
What Are the Most Popular Local Dishes to Try During Lunch?
Some of the most popular local dishes to try during lunch include banh mi (Vietnamese baguette sandwiches), pho (noodle soup), and com tam (broken rice with grilled pork, egg, and vegetables). These dishes offer a flavorful taste of the region’s cuisine.
Recap
A Mekong Delta day trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Ben Tre offers an authentic taste of Vietnamese cuisine and culture. Visitors can enjoy a scenic river cruise, sample fresh local produce, and savor a delicious lunch prepared with regional ingredients. This tour is an excellent way to take in the natural beauty and culinary traditions of the Mekong Delta region.