Nem Lui Nha Trang – The unforgettable local specialty you must try

Monday, Oct 06, 2025 18:45
Nem Lui Nha Trang is a signature dish of the vibrant coastal city, loved for its distinctive flavor and local charm. While you may find this dish in other regions of Vietnam, only in Nha Trang can you truly experience its authentic taste at its very best.

Nem Lui Nha Trang captivates visitors not only with its golden, perfectly grilled skewers but also with its rich aroma, savory flavor, and wholesome nutritional value.

Nem Lui Nha Trang – A specialty that wins every traveler’s heart

Nem Lui is a beloved specialty of Nha Trang, a coastal city once known as the capital of Khanh Hoa Province. Though its origins trace back to Ninh Hoa, a district about 30 kilometers north of Nha Trang, the dish has become a signature flavor of the city and a must-try for both locals and visitors.

Nem lui and nem nuong are two different dishes in Nha Trang (Pic: Internet)
Nem lui and nem nuong are two different dishes in Nha Trang (Pic: Internet)

Today, Nem Lui can be found in many major cities across Vietnam, yet its most authentic taste is still best experienced in Nha Trang itself. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, but what sets Nem Lui apart is the distinctive dipping sauce—crafted from a secret family recipe—that brings out the dish’s aromatic, savory, and utterly irresistible flavors.

Where to try the best Nem Lui in Nha Trang

Exploring Nha Trang’s street food scene is always a highlight of any trip to this coastal paradise. Alongside other local favorites like crispy rice with pork floss, stir-fried clams, and mixed rice paper, Nem Lui Nha Trang stands out as a must-try delicacy. If you want to taste the most authentic and flavorful skewers, here are some of the city’s most famous spots.

Vu Thanh An Nem Lui

Located at 15 Le Loi Street in Xuong Huan Ward, Vu Thanh An is a well-loved local eatery where both tourists and residents stop by to enjoy Nem Lui. Each skewer is marinated to perfection, grilled until lightly charred but never bitter. The restaurant has a cozy, family-style atmosphere, giving diners a warm and homely experience.

Dang Van Quyen Nem Nuong

This spot is a true institution when it comes to Ninh Hoa-style Nem Lui. With branches at 16A Lan Ong Street and 02–04 Phan Boi Chau Street in the city center, it’s always bustling with customers. The skewers are fragrant and flavorful, paired with fresh herbs and crisp vegetables. Diners often praise the owner’s friendliness, and you can even ask for more herbs at no extra cost. Expect to wait a little during peak hours—but the authentic flavors are worth it.

Distinct rich flavor (Pic: Internet)
Distinct rich flavor (Pic: Internet)

Nha Trang Restaurant (Quán Nhã Trang)

Situated at 39 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, this centrally located spot may charge slightly higher prices, but the convenience and quality make it worthwhile. A plate of Nem Lui here typically comes with fresh herbs, cucumber, and young mango, while the dipping sauce is uniquely crafted, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.

Ba Nam Eatery

Found at 50 Thong Nhat Street in downtown Nha Trang, Ba Nam may be a small eatery, but it serves generous portions of Nem Lui. The skewers are fragrant and hearty, making this place a favorite for those seeking a budget-friendly yet filling snack.

Ba Sau Eatery

Known as the oldest Nem Lui spot in Nha Trang, Ba Sau’s stall at 2 To Vinh Dien Street has been around for over 50 years. Though it’s just a humble street-side eatery, the flavors are unforgettable. Ba Sau inherited her family’s secret recipe at the age of 10, and her Nem Lui retains that distinctive, time-honored taste that keeps generations of locals coming back.

>> Savor more in Dine & Drinks