LAU THA SEAHORSE – THE CULINARY ESSENCE OF PHAN THIET

Originating from the Seahorse Resort & Spa kitchen, the Lau Tha Seahorse dish is not only the culinary emblem of the resort but is also considered the “soul” of Phan Thiet cuisine – a harmonious blend of the sea's flavor and the essence of Vietnamese culture.

Prepared from the freshest ingredients of Binh Thuan's coastal region, Lau Tha Seahorse embodies a rustic yet refined character. The dish consists of fresh sliced anchovy (or small fish), skillfully prepared by Seahorse chefs, combined with pork belly, fried egg, green vegetables, mango, cucumber, and a subtly sweet broth cooked from shrimp, meat, and tomatoes. All are artistically presented on a bamboo tray lined with green banana leaves, creating a vibrant culinary masterpiece that perfectly reflects the natural beauty of the coastal land.

The highlight that creates the distinct and inimitable flavor of Lau Tha Seahorse is the secret dipping sauce, created and perfected by Seahorse chefs. The blend of ripe plantain bananas, tamarind, garlic, chili, roasted peanuts, and fresh seafood notes results in a unique sauce that is both rich/creamy and mildly sour-spicy, enhancing the natural sweetness of the fish.

Lau Tha Seahorse has not only won over travelers but has also captivated international culinary experts. Even the legendary chef Martin Yan (Yan Can Cook), upon visiting Mui Ne, was amazed and offered special praise for this deeply local and iconic dish.

Savoring Lau Tha is more than enjoying a good meal; it is a journey into Vietnamese culture – where the Five Elements and Five Tastes (spicy, sour, salty, sweet, bitter) converge, symbolizing balance and prosperity in life.

At the Hippocampe Restaurant of Seahorse Resort & Spa, diners can both indulge in the unique flavor of Lau Tha and listen to the sound of the waves while gazing at the golden sunset over Mui Ne beach – a complete experience for the palate, the eye, and the soul, making everyone who tries it want to return.