Where can you find the best food in Hoi An, Vietnam that’s both delicious, high quality, and budget-friendly? This is a common question among international tourists visiting the town. Let’s explore the unique cuisine of Hoi An to see what makes it so appealing to visitors!
Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is not only known for its ancient architecture and charming streets but also for its incredible cuisine. The best food in Hoi An is a blend of unique flavors, fresh ingredients, and a rich history that reflects the town’s diverse cultural influences.
Join Lux Travel DMC as we list the top 11 must-try specialties in Hoi An for your trip!
Table of Contents
1. Cao Lầu Hoi An – Best food in Hoi An
Cao Lầu is perhaps the most iconic dish in Hoi An. Made from thick rice noodles, slices of pork, fresh herbs, and crunchy croutons, this dish is served with a small amount of broth that adds depth to the flavors. What makes it truly unique is the water used in its preparation, sourced from ancient Cham wells. No trip to Hoi An is complete without tasting this culinary masterpiece.
Top 3 Famous Cao Lầu Restaurants in Hoi An:
- Trung Bac Cao Lầu Hoi An
Address: 87 Tran Phu, Hoi An, Quang Nam - Thanh Cao Lầu
Address: 26 Thai Phien, Minh An, Hoi An, Quang Nam - Ba Be Cao Lầu Hoi An
Address: 19 Tran Phu, Cam Chau, Hoi An, Quang Nam
2. Mì Quảng Hoi An
Another must-try dish is Mì Quảng, a traditional noodle dish from Quang Nam province, home to Hoi An. This dish features thick noodles served with a variety of toppings like shrimp, pork, and herbs. It’s typically served with a flavorful broth, peanuts, and rice crackers, offering a crunchy contrast to the soft noodles. Mì Quảng is a hearty and delicious meal that perfectly represents the best food in Hoi An.
Best Places to Enjoy Mi Quang in Hoi An:
- Di Hat Mi Quang
Address: 4 Phan Chau Trinh, Hoi An - Ong Hai Mi Quang
Address: 6A Truong Minh Luong, Hoi An - Ba Minh Mi Quang
Address: Cam Ha, Hoi An
3. Bánh Canh
Bánh Canh is a comforting noodle soup that can be found in many parts of Vietnam, but the Hoi An version has its own charm. Made with thick, chewy tapioca noodles, it’s often served with fish cakes, pork, and fresh herbs. The light and savory broth makes it a popular dish for both locals and visitors. If you’re in Hoi An, make sure to try a bowl of this warming soup and see if it deserves to be called one of the best food in Hoi An!
Delicious Bánh Canh Places in Hoi An:
- Ba Quyt Bánh Canh
Address: 51 Thanh Hoa, Tan An, Hoi An - Co Luon Bánh Canh
Address: 276 Ly Thuong Kiet, Minh An, Hoi An
4. Hoành Thánh (Hoi An Wontons)
Hoi An’s version of wontons is a delicious mix of Chinese and Vietnamese culinary influences. The wontons are filled with shrimp and pork, then fried or boiled and served with a tangy tomato-based sauce. They are often garnished with herbs and fresh vegetables, making them a tasty appetizer or snack. Hoành thánh Hội An is one of the most beloved street foods and one of the best food in Hoi An you must try.
Best Places for Wonton Noodles – One of best food in Hoi An:
- Anh Ba Wonton Noodles
Address: Alley 109 Tran Hung Dao, Hoi An - Nguyen Loi Noodle Shop
Address: 78 Tran Hung Dao, Hoi An - Hoang Ky Wonton Noodles
Address: 67 Tran Phu, Hoi An
5. Bánh Vạc Hoi An (White Rose Dumplings)
Bánh Vạc, or white rose dumplings, are delicate dumplings made with translucent rice paper and filled with minced shrimp or pork. These dumplings are beautifully presented, resembling white roses, and are typically served with a sweet and tangy dipping sauce. This dish is light, flavorful, and a true testament to the skill of Hoi An’s chefs.
6. Bánh Bèo Hoi An (Hoi An Banh Beo)
Bánh Bèo is a small steamed rice cake that is topped with shrimp, crispy fried shallots, and mung beans. Served in small individual dishes, this dish is often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. The soft texture of the rice cake, combined with the savory toppings, makes Bánh Bèo one of the most unique and delightful dishes in Hoi An.
7. Bánh Xèo Hoi An
Bánh Xèo is a crispy, savory pancake made from rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk, and filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. It’s usually wrapped in rice paper and eaten with fresh herbs and a dipping sauce.
The contrast between the crispy pancake and the fresh herbs makes Bánh Xèo a fun and delicious dish to eat. It’s definitely one of the best food in Hoi An for those looking to try something both filling and flavorful. The cakes, priced at 10,000 VND each, are commonly sold at many famous tourist spots in Hoi An.
8. Bánh Mì Phượng Hoi An
Bánh Mì Phượng in Hoi An has been around for 20 years, located at 2B Phan Chu Trinh, in the ancient town. The shop offers over 20 different types of fillings, such as mixed meat, beef stew, and fried spring rolls, providing a diverse selection for diners.
Bánh Mì Phượng is a famous Vietnamese baguette sandwich, and the version from Hoi An is considered by many to be the best. Filled with pork, pate, fresh vegetables, and special sauces, this sandwich is a delicious explosion of flavors and textures. Whether you grab one on the go or sit down to enjoy it, Bánh Mì Phượng is a must-try in Hoi An.
9. Bánh Đập Hoi An
Bánh Đập is a dish unique to the central region of Vietnam, especially Hoi An. It consists of two layers: one crispy rice cracker and one soft steamed rice paper, with a topping of minced pork and shrimp. It’s often served with a side of fermented fish sauce for dipping, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. This dish is both light and satisfying, making it one of the hidden gems in Hoi An’s food scene.
10. Cơm Gà Hoi An (Hoi An Chicken Rice)
Cơm Gà Hội An is another dish that showcases the local flavors of the region. The rice is cooked with chicken stock, giving it a rich and savory flavor, and is topped with shredded chicken, fresh herbs, and a tangy sauce. Often served with a side of pickled vegetables, this dish is both hearty and refreshing. It’s a simple yet delicious meal that highlights the best food in Hoi An.
11. Chè Hoi An (Hoi An Sweet Soup)
Chè is a traditional Vietnamese dessert made with a mix of beans, coconut milk, and jelly, and can be served hot or cold. The version in Hoi An often includes tropical fruits like longan or mango, making it a sweet and refreshing treat. After indulging in savory dishes, a bowl of Chè is the perfect way to end your food journey in Hoi An.
Hoi An offers a culinary experience like no other, with dishes that are rich in history and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re enjoying a steaming bowl of Cao Lầu or indulging in the crispy delights of Bánh Xèo, you’ll find that the best food in Hoi An provides something for every palate. Be sure to try these 11 dishes during your visit to fully appreciate the unique and delicious flavors of this charming town.
Plan your visit to Vietnam with Lux Travel DMC for a chance to try the best food in Hoi An today—what are you waiting for?