Nha Trang

Hip to the bone, LIVIN is a restaurant, hangout, co-working space and designer souvenir shop all at once. Beer is the only Vietnamese item on the menu (albeit the crafts they serve are very good), and it's all American-style in the food department: burgers, BBQ ribs, mac n' cheese, tacos, quesadillas, and more, plus exceptional set assortments for larger groups. The on-site shop sells cool souvenirs designed by independent Vietnamese artists.

Bánh căn 51 is an excellent option for an unpolished local experience, complete with sidewalk seating on low plastic chairs. The 'banh can' are their main attraction: fried rice flower cakes that come topped with shrimp, meat, fried egg and/or greens, to be dipped in sweet chilli sauce. This one is among Nha Trang's most popular locations, but 'banh can' are served throughout town.

Known for its grill-it-yourself beef barbecue (each table is equipped with a tiny grill of its own), Lac Canh is near-universally beloved by locals and the lucky few tourists who discover it. There is still plenty on the menu even if you choose to skip the DIY grill: flavourful noodles, seafood dishes, and more. Prices are very reasonable.

The Sailing Club is a local institution in its own right, a nearly round-the-clock entertainment venue that effortlessly oscillates between a casual beach café, upscale restaurant, and lively nightlife hot spot. Evenings often see the Sailing Club host performances of different kinds, from live music to fire shows on the beach.

This might be, quite possibly, the best Greek restaurant in the entire country. Have what everyone is having: a grilled meats assortment served on huge sharing platters, with several types of protein plus pita bread, a few sauces, and a side of Greek salad (there is more on the menu, including a few vegetarian options). We recommend you arrive early, as word of the restaurant is now well land truly out, and a line forms easily.