Cho Con Market, one of the busiest and most vibrant markets in Da Nang, is a treasure trove for food lovers and shoppers alike. This local market is also a must-visit destination, offering a wide range of local delicacies, fresh produce, and unique handicrafts. Whether you’re a foodie eager to taste the best of Vietnamese cuisine or a shopaholic on the lookout for great bargains, Cho Con Market has something for everyone.
Where is Cho Con Market? What time is it open?
Cho Con Market was built and strategically located in the heart of Da Nang city at No. 200, Hung Vuong Street, Vinh Trung Ward, Hai Chau District. This central location makes it easily accessible by various means of transportation, including motorbikes, taxis, and private cars. The market operates from early morning at 6:00 AM until 7:30 PM, providing ample time for visitors to explore its myriad offerings. However, it’s advisable to visit early to experience the market at its most lively and vibrant.
- Location: Lô 11 Đình 15B, Chợ Cồn, Ông Ích Khiêm, Hải Châu 2, Hải Châu, Đà Nẵng, Vietnam
- Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/YCtXdrTSBffxUzA2A
Why is the Con Market special?
When you come to Con Market, you will see it stands out for its rich history, bustling atmosphere, and wide variety of goods available at affordable prices. It is not just a shopping destination but a cultural experience, where you can immerse yourself in the local lifestyle. The Con market is particularly renowned for its diverse food options, making it a paradise for culinary enthusiasts and even the local people here. From traditional Vietnamese dishes to unique street foods, the flavors here are unmatched.
The history and architecture of Con Market in Da Nang
Established in the 1940s, Cho Con Market has been an integral part of Da Nang’s cultural and commercial landscape. Initially a simple collection of bamboo stalls on a sandy dune, it evolved into a bustling trading center. In 1984, it was reconstructed into a multi-story building with distinct sections, including a three-floor main building and additional smaller sections. Despite several renovations, it’s still a vital and long-standing wholesale market in the city. The market has retained its traditional charm, continuing to serve as a focal point for local commerce and tourism.
What to explore at Con Market?
Cho Con Market is a treasure trove of activities and attractions, The market is relatively large and available only in Da Nang, offering a unique glimpse into the local culture and lifestyle of Da Nang. As you wander through its bustling corridors, you’ll encounter a diverse range of sections, each with its own charm and specialties. This section will guide you through the various areas of the market, ensuring you don’t miss out on any of the must-see spots.
Chock-a-Block – Makeshift Stalls
The exterior section of Cho Con Market has always been filled with makeshift stalls that offer a variety of fresh produce, spices, dried foods (especially banh xeo), and grains. Here, you can also find handmade baskets, incense, and candles. This section is built with buildings and 6 big corners, particularly popular among locals for daily shopping and provides a glimpse into the traditional market setup.
Wet market
At the far end of the market lies the wet market, a bustling area where butchers and fishmongers sell fresh meat and seafood. The market has always been known to have a lot of hot dishes that are ideal for main meals like the dry food section and many kinds of street food. This section is a hive of activity, with top restaurants sourcing their ingredients here, ensuring they serve the famous dishes locals love. Visitors are advised to tread carefully due to the wet floors, but the vibrant atmosphere and fresh products make it worth the visit. You can also buy fresh and delicious dried products easily as well as a wide array of specialties available only in Da Nang, central Vietnam.
Clothing and textile shopping
Inside the market, located at the center, numerous stalls sell local garments, trendy outfits, and accessories at affordable rates. The upper levels are dedicated to textiles, offering a wide range of fabrics at competitive prices. Many local tailors operate within the market, providing custom stitching services at the center of the city.
Food zones
The culinary area of Cho Con Market sells a variety of food and is divided into indoor and outdoor sections with fresh food, each offering a unique dining experience. When you plan to visit Cho Con Market, you’ll see countless hot dishes such as fresh vegetables and dried products as a gift. The indoor food court is neatly organized, with sweet dishes on one side and savory dishes on the other. The outdoor area, known as the “snack paradise,” features a variety of quick bites and beverages.
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The top must-try foods in Cho Con Market in Da Nang
One of the main draws of Cho Con Market is also famous for its incredible array of local delicacies. Food lovers will be in paradise here, with countless stalls offering mouthwatering dishes that showcase the best of Vietnamese cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty bowl of noodle soup, a savory rice cake, or a sweet and refreshing dessert, Cho Con Market has it all.
Vietnamese thick noodle soup (Banh canh)
Banh Canh is a beloved Vietnamese dish known for its thick, chewy noodles and rich, flavorful broth. At Cho Con Market, you’ll find various versions of this soup, each offering a unique taste experience. The noodles are typically made from tapioca or rice flour, giving them a distinct texture that sets them apart from other Vietnamese noodles. The broth is often simmered with pork, shrimp, or crab, and is seasoned to perfection with fish sauce, garlic, and a hint of sugar. Topped with fresh herbs, green onions, and sometimes a dash of chili oil, Banh Canh is a comforting dish that captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine.
Bánh Canh Bà Bé Chợ Cồn Đà Nẵng
- Location: Con Market Gate, 269 Ông Ích Khiêm, Hải Châu 2, Đà Nẵng, Vietnam
- Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3XcZbTstwnVD1cSk7
- Hotline: 0905558552
Bánh Canh Nam Phổ Bà Vinh
- Location: Lô 34, đình 15A chợ Cồn, Đà Nẵng, Vietnam
- Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/s1FDFdSoM1qLHw4D8
- Hotline: 0773482788
Water fern cake and rice dumpling cake (Banh beo – Banh bot loc)
Banh Beo and Banh Bot Loc are traditional Vietnamese cakes that are popular snacks in Da Nang. Banh Beo, or water fern cake, is a steamed rice cake that is typically topped with minced shrimp, scallions, crispy shallots, and mung bean paste. It’s often served with a side of sweet fish sauce for dipping, adding a burst of flavor to each bite. Banh Bot Loc, on the other hand, is a chewy, translucent dumpling made from tapioca flour, filled with shrimp and pork belly, and wrapped in banana leaves. These dumplings are also served with fish sauce, making them a delightful blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors.
Grilled pork with vermicelli (Bun thit nuong)
Bun Thit Nuong is a popular Vietnamese dish that combines grilled marinated pork with soft vermicelli noodles, known as one of the famous dishes. The pork is typically marinated in a mixture of lemongrass, garlic, sugar, and fish sauce, then grilled to perfection, resulting in a smoky, savory flavor. The noodles are served cold, topped with fresh herbs like mint and cilantro, pickled vegetables, and crushed peanuts. A generous drizzle of nuoc cham (Vietnamese dipping sauce) ties all the flavors together, creating a refreshing and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any time of day.
Cô Huế Chợ Cồn
- Location: 277 Hùng Vương, Vĩnh Trung, Thanh Khê, Đà Nẵng, Vietnam
- Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/a523pBnuk26U6QY88
- Hotline: 0707658330
Quang noodles (Mi Quang)
Mi Quang is a signature dish of the Quang Nam province and a must-try when visiting Da Nang. This noodle dish is characterized by its wide, flat rice noodles and a rich, turmeric-infused broth. The broth is typically made from simmered pork and shrimp, and is only added sparingly to the noodles, making it more like a noodle salad than a soup. Mi Quang is garnished with an array of toppings, including fresh herbs, lettuce, banana flowers, roasted peanuts, and crispy rice crackers. The dish is often served with a side of lime wedges and chili, allowing you to customize the flavor to your liking.
Mì Quảng Bà Dinh
- Location: 42 Đào Duy Từ, Vĩnh Trung, Thanh Khê, Đà Nẵng, Vietnam
- Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BEhXM4r9nB4gZ6ki6
- Hotline: 0795554444
Sticky rice with grilled meat (Xoi thit nuong)
Xoi Thit Nuong is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines sticky rice with grilled marinated meat. The sticky rice is steamed to perfection, giving it a soft and chewy texture. It is then topped with slices of grilled pork or chicken that have been marinated in a mixture of lemongrass, garlic, and fish sauce. The dish is often garnished with fried shallots and served with a side of pickled vegetables, adding a crunchy contrast to the tender meat and rice. This dish is not only delicious but also very filling, making it a great option for main meals like breakfast or when you need some beverage to kill the thirst.
Avocado ice cream (Kem bo)
Kem Bo, or avocado ice cream, is a delightful and refreshing treat that is a must-try when visiting Cho Con Market. This dessert features a creamy blend of ripe avocados, sweetened condensed milk, and ice, resulting in a smooth and luscious texture, often classified among the famous dishes. It’s often topped with coconut milk and toasted coconut flakes, adding an extra layer of flavor and crunch to these already famous dishes. The natural richness of the avocado pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the condensed milk, creating a dessert that is both satisfying and healthy. Kem Bo is a perfect way to cool down on a hot day while indulging in a unique Vietnamese treat.
Chè Thu Chợ Cồn
- Location: 90 Hùng Vương, Hải Châu 1, Hải Châu, Đà Nẵng, Vietnam
- Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Xa5wGRDq5PSMvoG76
- Hotline: 0905125852
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Reviews Con Market on Tripadvisor
Visitors to Cho Con Market have shared their experiences on TripAdvisor, often highlighting the market’s affordability and variety. One reviewer from Mauritius mentioned that the prices are cheaper than those at Han Market, with the best deals found at the Hoi An weekend night market. Another visitor from Sweden recommended Cho Con Market over Han Market for its calmer atmosphere, cleanliness, and excellent food stalls.
The best tips for your excursion to Con Market
To make the most of your visit to Cho Con Market, it’s important to be prepared and know what to expect. From choosing the best time to visit to understanding the local shopping etiquette, a few helpful tips can enhance your experience and help you navigate the market like a pro.
The ideal time to visit Con Market
Cho Con Market is open from 6:00 AM to 7:30 PM. To enjoy the best food options, it’s recommended to visit in the afternoon when both the indoor and outdoor food stalls are open and bustling with activity. You should arrive at least 1 hour in advance as shops will begin cleaning, that’s when you get the good price offered by the seller from very neat and easy to follow 2000 different stores and booths.
The recommended directions to get there
From the Da Nang bus station, take Ton Duc Thang Street and cross Nga Ba Hue Overpass, continuing straight to Dien Bien Phu and Ly Thai To Streets until you reach the intersection of Hung Vuong or the corner of Quang Trung and Ong Ich Khiem Streets. From Da Nang airport, head to Nguyen Tri Phuong Street, go through the Dien Bien Phu Tunnel, and continue straight until you reach the market.
Useful notes for shopping
When shopping at Cho Con Market, it’s best to use Vietnamese Dong for transactions, as many items are priced below 1 USD. Bargaining is common, so try to negotiate prices, especially for souvenirs and clothing. Avoid wearing slip-on shoes in the seafood area due to the wet floors, and keep an eye on your personal belongings. To make the most of your visit, plan ahead and list the local specialties you want to try.
In addition to these items, the dry food zone in Con Market offers a variety of local delicacies that you can take home as gifts for family and friends. Some popular choices include famous dishes:
Muc rim me Da Nang: one of the interesting, famous dishes you’ll see countless times. Fried squid with tamarind sauce
- Muc xe an lien Da Nang: Instant grilled squid
- Ca kho Da Nang: another famous dish that you’ll see countless times. Local dried fish
- Nuoc mam Nam O Da Nang: Nam O fish sauce
- Mam nem, mam ruoc Da Nang: famous dishes Fermented shrimp paste
- Keo dau phong Da Nang: Peanut candy
- Tra sam dua Da Nang: Pineapple ginseng tea
Conclusion
Cho Con Market in Da Nang is more than just a market; it’s a cultural experience that offers a taste of the local lifestyle and cuisine. Whether you’re sampling delicious street food or hunting for unique souvenirs, this market provides an authentic and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
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