Da Lat Night Market (Chợ Đêm Đà Lạt): The Vibrant Heart of the City After Dark
The Da Lat Night Market (Chợ Đêm Đà Lạt), sometimes called “Chợ Âm Phủ” (Hell Market) due to its historically late hours, transforms the central area of the city into a lively hub of commerce, culture, and cuisine every evening. This market serves as the ultimate destination for visitors seeking authentic local flavors, unique souvenirs, and a glimpse into Da Lat’s dynamic social scene.
Cuisine: A Food Lover’s Paradise
The cool mountain air of Da Lat makes hot street food especially appealing, and the market delivers an incredible variety of highland specialties.
Bánh Tráng Nướng (Vietnamese Pizza): This is the undisputed star of the market. Vendors expertly grill a thin rice paper over hot coals, topping it with egg, dried shrimp, minced pork, and cheese. You must try this crispy, savory local favorite.
Lẩu Gà Lá É (Chicken Hotpot with É Leaves): Seek out this communal dish for a warming, flavorful experience. The tender chicken simmers in a savory broth with bamboo shoots and “É leaves,” a local herb with a spicy-minty flavor. Sharing this hotpot provides a perfect end to a chilly evening.
Kem Bơ (Avocado Ice Cream): Da Lat’s fresh produce shines in this popular dessert. This dish combines rich avocado puree with vanilla ice cream, condensed milk, and often coconut flakes or peanuts. It offers a creamy, refreshing treat.
Sữa Đậu Nành (Hot Soy Milk): Vendors serve piping hot soy milk, often accompanied by fried dough sticks (Bánh Tiêu) or sponge cake. This simple, comforting beverage helps visitors ward off the evening chill.
Shopping and Local Souvenirs
Beyond food, the market offers a wide range of goods popular with both locals and tourists.
Warm Clothing and Wool: The highland climate influences the products here. You will find numerous stalls selling affordable second-hand sweaters, scarves, and hats, perfect for the often-cold Da Lat nights.
Local Produce and Specialties: Stalls overflow with fresh local produce. Look for Da Lat’s famous strawberries, soft dried persimmons (Hồng Sấy Dẻo), and a variety of jams and dried fruits, which make excellent gifts to take home.
Handicrafts: The market features small, colorful stalls selling handmade crafts, including wooden keychains, dried flower arrangements, and silk scarves.
Practical Visitor Information
Address: Đường Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, Phường 1, Đà Lạt, Lâm Đồng, Vietnam. This area is centered around the main market building and Hòa Bình Square.
Opening Hours: The market begins transforming around 5:00 PM as day vendors close shop. It reaches its peak bustle from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM and continues until the early morning hours, especially the food stalls.
Entrance Fee: There is no entrance fee to the night market.
Tips for Visiting: Arrive early (around 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM) to secure a good spot for food and avoid the heaviest crowds. Bring small denominations of Vietnamese Dong (VND), as street vendors primarily accept cash. Be vigilant in the crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure.
