Mực nướng — grilled squid — is one of Vietnam's great drinking foods (mồi nhậu). Whole squid, cleaned and scored in a crosshatch pattern, marinated in fish sauce, garlic, sugar, and pepper, then grilled over high heat until the edges are charred and the flesh is tender. In Boston, it's found at Vietnamese restaurants that specialize in grill and seafood dishes, particularly in Dorchester's Fields Corner. The proximity to New England's exceptional seafood means the squid is often fresh and sweet, making this dish particularly rewarding. It's served with muối tiêu chanh (salt, pepper, and lime dip) and a cold beer — the perfect combination.
Bạn Tôi Restaurant top-pick
You Toi is a Vietnamese restaurant in Dorchester that specializes in grilled dishes, and their grilled squid is the star of the menu. The squid is fresh — New England waters provide excellent squid — and grilled over high heat until the exterior develops perfect char marks while the interior stays tender and juicy. The crosshatch scoring is deep and precise, allowing the marinade to penetrate and caramelize on the grill. It arrives plated with scallions and a side of salt-pepper-lime dip. The combination of smoky squid with that bright, acidic dipping sauce is pure magic, especially with a cold beer.
Pho Le Restaurant best-value
Pho Le, a Fields Corner institution run by the Le family for over 30 years, does a solid grilled squid that balances tradition with reliability. The squid is grilled simply — fish sauce, garlic, and pepper — allowing the quality of the seafood to shine. The texture is spot on: tender with a slight chew, never rubbery. It's served in the restaurant's bustling dining room alongside their famous oven-roasted dishes. The portion is generous enough to share as an appetizer, and it pairs perfectly with their extensive beer selection.
King Do Restaurant hidden-gem
King Do's grilled squid benefits from their Chinese-Vietnamese approach to grilling. The squid is marinated with a touch of hoisin in addition to the classic fish sauce and garlic, giving it a slightly sweeter, more caramelized exterior. The grilling is precise — great char without burning, and the squid is consistently tender. It's served with the classic dipping sauce and fresh herbs. The busy dining room, filled with Vietnamese and Chinese families, confirms the authenticity.