Hoi An Food Guide – Unique Local Dishes You Need to Try

Imagine yourself strolling through the ancient streets of Hoi An, lanterns glowing overhead, and the aroma of mouth-watering dishes filling the air. Welcome to the culinary paradise of Hoi An, a city with a rich food culture that reflects its historical blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and French influences. From the iconic Vietnamese sandwich to signature dishes with centuries-old recipes, Hoi An is a treasure trove for food lovers and a haven for Hoi An food enthusiasts.

Embark on a flavorful journey as we dive into Hoi An’s unique culinary landscape and explore the world of Hoi An food. We’ll explore the city’s signature dishes, street food delights, local markets, and vegetarian and vegan options. Along the way, we’ll uncover the secrets behind the dishes that make Hoi An’s cuisine so unforgettable. Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds?

Key Takeaways for Hoi An Food

• Explore the unforgettable flavors of Hoi An with its signature dish Cao Lau, iconic Banh Mi sandwiches, and delicious noodle dishes!
• Indulge in unique treats like White Rose Dumplings and Fried Wontons, or tantalize your taste buds with street food delights like Banh Xeo and grilled Pork Skewers.
• Immerse yourself in local markets, coffee culture & cooking classes to experience the amazing culinary journey of Hoi An!

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Vietnamese Food. More than 40 of the most popular dishes.

Cao Lau: Hoi An’s Signature Dish

Cao Lau is a one-of-a-kind noodle dish that truly captures the essence of Hoi An. This delectable dish features Japanese udon-like rice noodles, succulent slices of roasted pork, fresh greens, bean sprouts, and crunchy croutons, all brought together with a special sauce. But what truly sets Cao Lau apart is its secret recipe. It includes water from the ancient Ba Le well, jungle wood ash from Cham Islands, and organic fresh herbs from Tra Que gardens. Its unique combination of ingredients makes it one of a kind!.

The origin of the name “Cao Lau” is as fascinating as its taste. It stems from the dish’s exclusivity in the past, when it was served only to the upper classes who dined on the upper floors of restaurants. Today, you can savor this Hoi An specialty at the bustling Hoi An Central Market or Thanh Cao Lau. Don’t forget to mix in some lime juice, Vietnamese chili paste, and fresh sliced chili for an extra burst of flavor!

Banh Mi: The Iconic Vietnamese Sandwich

No culinary journey in Hoi An would be complete without indulging in the iconic Banh Mi. This popular Vietnamese sandwich is made with a crispy French baguette filled with succulent pork, fresh vegetables, and a tantalizing homemade sauce. Hoi An’s Banh Mi truly stands out with its generous serving of vegetables like:

• lettuce
• cucumbers
• pickled carrots
• coriander

Where can you find the best Banh Mi in Hoi An? Here are some options.

Banh Mi Phuong

Banh Mi Phuong is a renowned Hoi An Banh Mi shop that received a stamp of approval from the late celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain. The bread used in their sandwiches is light and crusty on the outside, soft and pillowy on the inside, making it the perfect vessel for the delicious fillings.

Although there’s often a long queue, their efficient assembly line ensures that you’ll have your Banh Mi in no time.

The Banh Mi Queen Madam Khanh

Another popular Banh Mi shop in Hoi An is The Banh Mi Queen Madam Khanh. Known for her fresher and less greasy sandwiches, Madam Khanh’s Banh Mi is a worthy rival to Banh Mi Phuong. The mixed Banh Mi at Madam Khanh is made with:

• vegetables
• pork
• ham
• pate
• eggs
• pickles
• cucumber

It is topped with a spicy, savory, and slightly sweet sauce that takes the sandwich to a whole new level.

Other Notable Banh Mi Stands

For those looking to explore more Banh Mi options in Hoi An, there are a variety of other exciting stands to choose from, such as Phi Banh Mi, Le Hoy Banh Mi Chay, and Banh Mi Bich. Each stand offers its own unique twist on the classic sandwich, with different fillings and sauces to cater to diverse palates.

No matter which stand you choose, you’re sure to enjoy a taste of Hoi An’s iconic sandwich.

Savoring Hoi An’s Noodle Dishes

In addition to Cao Lau and Banh Mi, Hoi An boasts a scrumptious selection of noodle dishes that should not be missed. From regional specialties like Mi Quang to the mouth-watering Bun Thit Nuong, Hoi An’s noodle dishes offer a world of flavors waiting to be explored.

Mi Quang

Originating from Quang Nam province, Mi Quang is a Vietnamese noodle dish featuring:

• Thick, square rice noodles
• Meat or seafood
• Broth
• Greens
• Quail eggs
• Crushed peanuts

The dish is characterized by its vibrant yellow noodles, which get their unique color from the addition of turmeric.

Mi Quang is a must-try street food in Hoi An, offering a taste of the local culinary traditions and flavors of central Vietnam.

Bun Thit Nuong

Bun Thit Nuong is another popular noodle dish in Hoi An, made with:

• Vermicelli noodles
• Grilled pork
• Lettuce
• Herbs
• Peanut-based gravy

This delightful dish offers a combination of soft noodles, juicy grilled pork, and fresh greens, all brought together by a rich and flavorful peanut sauce.

The soft texture of the noodles, the wetness of the sauce, and the crunchiness of the vegetables make Bun Thit Nuong a dish you don’t want to miss.

Unique Hoi An Specialties

Aside from its signature dishes and noodle offerings, Hoi An is also home to several unique specialties that reflect the city’s rich culinary history. Two such specialties are White Rose Dumplings and Fried Wontons, both of which offer a taste of Hoi An’s diverse and delicious cuisine.

Let’s uncover these distinctive specialties Hoi An is known for.

White Rose Dumplings

White Rose Dumplings are:

• Delicate steamed dumplings made with translucent rice flour wrappers
• Filled with minced shrimp, pork, and mushrooms
• Served with fish sauce, chili, and sugar

Named by a French tourist in the 1990s for their flower-like shape, these dumplings are a long-standing specialty of Hoi An.

The combination of tender wrappers and flavorful fillings make White Rose Dumplings a must-try dish in Hoi An.

Fried Wontons

Fried Wontons, introduced to Hoi An by Chinese traders, are a unique and delicious specialty featuring crispy wontons topped with a salsa-like mixture of shrimp, pork, onions, and vegetables. Sometimes referred to as ‘Hoi An Pizza,’ these wontons offer a delightful blend of crunchy and savory flavors.

Don’t miss the opportunity to taste this Chinese-influenced Hoi An dish during your culinary adventure.

Hoi An Street Food Delights

Hoi An’s street food scene is a haven for foodies seeking an authentic taste of Vietnamese cuisine. From sizzling Banh Xeo pancakes to succulent Grilled Pork Skewers and comforting Com Ga chicken rice, the streets of Hoi An are brimming with delicious dishes just waiting to be discovered.

Next, we’ll introduce you to the tantalizing realm of Hoi An’s street food.

Banh Xeo

Banh Xeo, or Vietnamese pancake, is a savory treat made with rice flour, coconut milk, and turmeric, filled with ingredients like shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. These crispy pancakes are typically enjoyed by breaking off a piece and wrapping it in lettuce or rice paper with herbs, then dipping it in a flavorful sauce.

With its delectable combination of textures and flavors, Banh Xeo is a must-try Vietnamese food experience, especially as street food in Hoi An.

Grilled Pork Skewers

Grilled Pork Skewers are a popular Hoi An street food that features:

• Tender marinated pork grilled on lemongrass skewers
• Served with rice paper
• Fresh vegetables
• A peanut dipping sauce

The combination of juicy grilled meat, fresh greens, and a rich sauce make this dish a delightful option for a quick meal or snack while exploring the streets of Hoi An.

Com Ga: Chicken Rice

Com Ga, or chicken rice, is a Hoi An dish made with rice cooked in chicken broth, turmeric, and pandan leaves, then served with shredded chicken, fresh greens, and herbs. This comforting dish offers a taste of Hoi An’s culinary traditions and is a popular choice for both locals and tourists.

Be sure to try Com Ga at Huong’s Chicken Rice, located along Le Loi Street, for an authentic taste of this delicious Hoi An specialty.

Banh Dap and Hen Tron from Cam Nam Island

These two dishes have something in common. They are found as key menu items (or the only ones) in restaurants located on the small island of Cam Nam, which is across the bridge from Hoi An’s Central Market.

Banh Dap

Banh Dap translates to smashing rice paper and is simply layers of crispy rice paper upon a thin sheet of “doughy” noodle. The texture is quite amazing.

Hen Tron

Hen Tron is a spiced clam dish and although probably more synonymous with Hue, the clam meat is from the Thu Bon River, that runs through Hoi An. Clams are mixed with peanuts, herbs, onions, and served with a large cracker.

Quan Banh Dap Huong, Nguyen Tri Phuong, Cam Nam, Hoi An
Open 8am to 8pm

Sweet Endings: Hoi An Desserts

After savoring Hoi An’s savory dishes, satisfy your sweet tooth with some of the city’s delightful desserts. From the scrumptious Mango Cake to the comforting Corn Sweet Soup, Hoi An offers a variety of sweet treats to indulge in.

Next up, we’ll navigate through the sweet offerings Hoi An has in store.

Mango Cake

Despite its name, Mango Cake is a Hoi An dessert made from sticky rice, peanuts, and sugar, with no actual mango in the cake. The name comes from the cake’s mango-like shape, and it’s a popular sweet treat that can be enjoyed as a dessert or snack in Hoi An.

Don’t let the name fool you – Mango Cake is a delicious and unique dessert that’s worth a try!

Che Bap: Corn Sweet Soup

Corn Sweet Soup is a delightful Hoi An dessert made from Cam Nam corn and coconut milk. This sweet soup is popular throughout Hoi An and is considered a “sweet gift” of the city’s street food scene.

The combination of tender corn and creamy coconut milk creates a delicious and comforting dessert perfect for ending your Hoi An food adventure on a sweet note.

Exploring Local Markets

For a true taste of Hoi An’s culinary scene, be sure to explore the city’s bustling local markets. From the lively atmosphere of Hoi An Central Market to the vibrant Night Market, these markets offer a glimpse into the city’s rich food culture and provide a unique shopping experience.

Let’s uncover the vibrant markets that make up the best of Hoi An.

Hoi An Central Market

The Hoi An Central Market, located inside the Old Town, is a bustling market offering a wide variety of food, produce, and souvenirs. As the oldest and largest market in Hoi An, it has been a hub of commercial activity for centuries and continues to be a vibrant place where locals and tourists come to buy and sell a variety of goods.

Don’t miss the opportunity to taste local specialties like Cao Lau and Quang noodles at the market’s numerous food stalls.

Night Market

The Night Market in Hoi An offers an exciting atmosphere with an array of food stalls, shopping, and entertainment options. Located on Nguyen Hoang Street, the market is open daily from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., providing a lively backdrop for an evening stroll.

Sample mouth-watering street food like Banh Xeo, Grilled Pork Skewers, and Com Ga, and shop for unique souvenirs such as lanterns, paintings, and statues. The Night Market is a must-visit destination for a taste of Hoi An’s vibrant nightlife.

Hoi An’s Coffee Culture

No trip to Hoi An would be complete without experiencing the city’s thriving coffee culture. Vietnamese iced coffee, or cà phê sữa đá, is a refreshing and invigorating beverage that’s a staple in Hoi An’s cafes. From sipping a cup of strong coffee at a local cafe to visiting Hoi An’s top cafes, there’s no better way to immerse yourself in the city’s coffee scene.

Vietnamese Iced Coffee

Vietnamese Iced Coffee is a popular drink made with strong coffee and sweetened condensed milk, served over ice. This refreshing beverage is typically made by pouring condensed milk into a cup and then using a Vietnamese coffee filter to brew the coffee grounds. The brewed coffee is then poured over ice, creating a delightful balance of strong, bold coffee and sweet, creamy milk.

Savor a cup of Vietnamese Iced Coffee while exploring Hoi An for an authentic taste of the city’s coffee culture.

Top Cafes in Hoi An

For a relaxing break and a delicious cup of coffee, be sure to visit some of Hoi An’s top cafes. Mia Coffee, which specializes in espresso drinks and frappucinos, is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.

Another great option is The Hill Station, which offers a delightful selection of coffee, beer, and light food options. No matter which cafe you choose, you’re sure to enjoy a taste of Hoi An’s vibrant coffee culture.

Hoi An Food Tours & Cooking Classes

To truly immerse yourself in Hoi An’s culinary scene, consider joining a food tour or participating in a cooking class. These experiences provide an opportunity to sample a variety of local dishes, learn about traditional Vietnamese cooking techniques, and discover the city’s rich food culture.

Next, we’ll guide you through the top food tours and cooking classes available in Hoi An.

Food Tours

Food tours in Hoi An offer a guided exploration of the city’s best food spots and local dishes, taking you on a culinary journey through street food stalls, markets, and local restaurants. Hoi An Food Tour is a highly recommended option, with prices typically ranging from $35 to $40 per person.

During the tour, you’ll sample local specialties like Cao Lau, Mi Quang, and Banh Mi while learning about the history and culture behind these dishes. Embrace your inner foodie and join a Hoi An food tour for a memorable gastronomic experience.

Cooking Classes

Cooking classes in Hoi An provide hands-on experience in preparing traditional Vietnamese dishes, often including market visits and boat rides for a truly immersive experience. Some popular cooking class options include Red Bridge Cooking School, Thuan Tinh Island, and Hoi An Eco Cooking Class. You’ll learn how to prepare dishes such as mango salad with shrimp and pork, rolled rice paper with minced pork, and banh xeo, all while gaining insight into Hoi An’s culinary traditions.

Master the art of Vietnamese cuisine and bring home the flavors of Hoi An with a cooking class.

Vegetarian & Vegan Options in Hoi An

Hoi An is an inclusive culinary destination, catering to travelers with vegetarian and vegan preferences. The city’s diverse food scene ensures that everyone can enjoy the delicious flavors of Hoi An, with a variety of plant-based options available at local restaurants and street food stalls.

From vegan versions of traditional Vietnamese dishes to dedicated vegetarian restaurants, Hoi An has something for everyone.

Summary

Hoi An’s culinary landscape is a feast for the senses, offering a diverse array of dishes that reflect the city’s rich history and cultural influences. From signature dishes like Cao Lau and Banh Mi to unique specialties such as White Rose Dumplings and Fried Wontons, Hoi An’s cuisine is a testament to the city’s culinary prowess. Experience the vibrant street food scene, indulge in sweet treats, and explore local markets for a true taste of Hoi An’s food culture.

So, are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure through the ancient streets of Hoi An? With its tantalizing dishes, bustling markets, and vibrant coffee culture, Hoi An offers a gastronomic experience like no other. Savor the flavors of Hoi An and create unforgettable memories on your journey through this culinary paradise.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the traditional food of Hoi An?

Experience the unique flavours of Hoi An with Cao Lau, the iconic noodle dish embodying the fusion of Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese cuisine.

What is the national dish of Hoi An?

Experience the traditional flavors of Central Vietnam with Mi Quang, Hoi An’s national dish. This aromatic mix of flat rice noodles and fresh herbs and vegetables is a must-try for every traveler!

What is the famous noodle dish in Hoi An?

Cao lau is Hoi An’s famous noodle dish and an iconic dish of the local cuisine. It is made with chewy thick rice noodles, Chinese barbecued pork slices, beansprouts, crunchy croutons and herbs in a pork-based gravy. Enjoy it to get a true taste of Hoi An!