Must-Buy" Da Nang: 7 Local Specialties That Make Gifts Everyone Will Love

Traveling to Da Nang is fun, but when it's time to head home, you're stuck with the headache of figuring out: "What gifts should I buy for my family, friends, and boss that are tasty, classy, and reasonably priced?". Don't worry, below is a list of 7 authentic Quang Nam – Da Nang souvenirs guaranteed to win praise from everyone who receives them!

1. Da Nang tamarind-glazed squid (a harmonious blend of sour, spicy, salty, and sweet)

It's no coincidence that tamarind-glazed squid always tops the list of the most sought-after specialties. Each small piece of dried squid is tossed together with a gently tangy tamarind sauce, fiery simmered chili, and glossy golden sugar. This dish makes a perfect snack to go with beer or to nibble on while watching a movie — it's simply "the best"!

Reference price: 60,000 – 90,000 VND / 250g jar.

2. Da Nang Beef Sausage (Flavored with dill and warm, spicy white pepper)

Unlike the pork roll (giò lụa) of the North or the chả lụa of the South, Da Nang beef sausage is made from 100% fresh, delicious beef with no added flour. When sliced, the sausage reveals a natural pink color and a crunchy, springy texture, bursting with the fragrant aroma of garlic, whole peppercorns, and pure fish sauce.

Reputable places: Bà Hường Beef Sausage (Hoàng Diệu Street), Cô Lễ Beef Sausage.

Reference price: 320,000 – 380,000 VND / kg (2 rolls).

3. Quang Nam – Da Nang Baked Coconut Cake

A crispy treat made from freshly grated coconut, glutinous rice flour and sugar, baked to a golden brown and giving off a distinctive rich, fragrant aroma. Baked coconut cakes paired with a cup of hot green tea make the perfect combination. Because each piece is individually packed in its own small bag, this is the most convenient gift to share among a group of coworkers.

Reference price: 25,000 – 35,000 VND / large bag.

4. Dried My Khe seaweed

The Mỹ Khê sea area is not only beautiful but also home to a refreshing natural seaweed. After soaking in water, the dried seaweed swells up and can be used to cook pork rib soup or minced pork soup to cool down in summer, or stir-fried with garlic and chili for a delightfully crunchy, unique, and nutritious dish.

Reference price: 70,000 – 100,000 VND / 100g pack.

5. Dried leatherjacket fish braised in satay chili sauce / Dried sea catfish sticks

If you're worried that the tamarind-glazed squid might be a bit too sweet, then sliced filefish or sesame-coated dried catfish sticks are a perfect 10 alternative. The fish is soft and chewy, with the savory saltiness of the sea mingled with a slightly spicy, belly-warming kick from pepper and chili.

6. Da Nang Pandan Tea

An everyday, affordable tea with a strangely unforgettable flavor. Scented from tender green tea buds together with pandan leaves, jasmine flowers, and chloranthus flowers, it creates a sweet, refreshing aroma that helps cool the body and promotes a good night's sleep.

7. Cajeput Essential Oil / Pure Lemongrass Essential Oil

If you're looking for a health care gift for the elderly or young children, pure cajeput oil from Central Vietnam is a wonderful choice. Its warm herbal scent helps keep the body warm, protects against colds caused by chilly winds, and repels mosquitoes very effectively.