Not trying the jumping shrimp pancakes in Quy Nhon is a major omission for tourists visiting this land. The cuisine of Quy Nhon, in particular, and Binh Dinh, in general, is known for its harmonious flavors, combining fresh and rustic ingredients.
Why the name “jumping shrimp pancakes” in Quy Nhon?
The name “jumping shrimp pancakes” is used to emphasize the freshness of the shrimp and is also the key to creating the famous specialty loved by everyone. The shrimp used must be river shrimp, pond shrimp, or large finger-sized field shrimp. After being cleaned and prepped by cutting off the whiskers, they can be cooked immediately. The jumping and lively movement of the fresh shrimp in the hot pan is the origin of the name “jumping shrimp pancakes” in Quy Nhon.
Despite the abundance of fresh seafood in the coastal region, locals insist on using field shrimp for making pancakes. According to them, only field shrimp from river ponds can bring the sweet, distinctive taste of shrimp and create the crispiness of the pancakes. To make delicious jumping shrimp pancakes in Quy Nhon, the chef must continuously serve them while the pancakes are still hot.
First, the chef will spread lard on the pan, wait until it’s hot, then immediately add about a dozen shrimp. The moment the shrimp turn a bright red color is the golden time to pour the pancake batter, followed by bean sprouts and green onions. A skilled chef will know when the pancakes are ready by observing the crispy bottom, slightly contracted edges, and the soft rebound when touched. During this process, the pancakes should be flipped regularly to avoid the middle part directly touching the fire and burning.
Some popular jumping shrimp pancake restaurants in Quy Nhon:
1/ Mrs. Nam My Cang
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- Address: Phuoc Son, Tuy Phuoc, Binh Dinh
- Phone: 0905 425 556
- Opening hours: 07:30 – 16:00
- Price range: 20,000 VND – 40,000 VND
One of the most famous jumping shrimp pancake restaurants in Quy Nhon is Mrs. My Cang’s, with a prominent history dating back to 1976. Over 40 years, the restaurant still maintains its old rustic house, only renovating the exterior to look more neat. Mrs. Nam, with years of experience, still meticulously prepares each delicious and crispy pancake.
2/ Mr. Hung’s Restaurant
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- Address: 24 Dien Hong, Quy Nhon, Binh Dinh
- Phone: 0902 357 238
- Opening hours: 8:00 – 22:00
- Price range: 25,000 VND – 50,000 VND
Mr. Hung’s restaurant stands out with its modern and clean space, suitable for enjoying jumping shrimp pancakes in Quy Nhon with family and friends. The restaurant is quite spacious, with air-conditioned rooms for hot days. The menu offers a variety of options, from squid and shrimp to beef. In addition, the restaurant also serves delicious “banh can” with shrimp and squid, which is quite unique and appealing.
3/ Bean Sprout Jumping Shrimp Pancake Restaurant
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- Address: 91 Dong Da, Quy Nhon City, Binh Dinh
- Phone: 0392871159
- Opening hours: 7:00 – 22:00
- Price range: 25,000 VND – 40,000 VND
This jumping shrimp pancake restaurant with bean sprouts has a long history in the land of Tay Son martial arts, offering only two outstanding options: shrimp filling and beef filling. Accompanied by jumping shrimp pancakes in Quy Nhon are rice paper and fresh and delicious greens such as mango, cucumber, kale, and bean sprouts, as the name of the restaurant suggests. The vegetables are completely free, so you can enjoy them without any worries.
Another advantage is the careful selection of fresh and clean greens, maintaining their freshness. The dipping sauce at the restaurant includes a sweet and sour sauce and a soy sauce dip. Tourists in Quy Nhon highly praise this place because the prices are not high, quite affordable compared to many other places.
4/ Gia Vy Pancake Restaurant specializing in jumping shrimp pancakes in Quy Nhon
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- Address: 19 Dien Hong, Quy Nhon City, Binh Dinh
- Phone: 02563 52 38 38
- Opening hours: 6:00 – 22:00
- Price range: 30,000 VND – 40,000 VND
The advantage of these jumping shrimp pancakes in Quy Nhon is that they are located right in the city center, making it convenient for those who want to enjoy them after exploring the city. When it comes to Gia Vy’s pancakes, people immediately remember the special sweet and sour dipping sauce, blending with the crispy and fragrant crust, and the sweet taste of shrimp and meat, creating an unforgettable sensation.
5/ Anh Vu Restaurant
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- Address: 14 Dien Hong, Quy Nhon City, Binh Dinh
- Phone: 0905 105 213
- Opening hours: 6:00 – 22:00
- Price range: 30,000 VND – 40,000 VND
The next jumping shrimp pancake restaurant in Quy Nhon is right next to Gia Vy’s, highly appreciated for its fresh and sweet shrimp, and delicious dipping sauce. The restaurant is quite spacious, with simple decor, and the staff serves quickly and friendly. However, the space is a bit old and not as elegant as some newer places. Visitors often choose to try all four types of pancakes here: egg pancake, shrimp pancake, beef pancake, and squid pancake.
Conclusion
It can be said that jumping shrimp pancakes in Quy Nhon are a characteristic and delicious dish with the harmonious flavor of Northern, Central, and Southern culinary styles. Each restaurant will have a different way of making dipping sauce, with some using pineapple and others using green mango. Regardless of where diners choose to eat, they will experience a distinct flavor.
From the available ingredients through the hands of skilled chefs and the passion of the kitchen, the delicious taste of Quy Nhon’s jumping shrimp pancakes is always attractive, making people want to savor them endlessly.
