Hey food lovers! If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam—or even dreaming about it—Hoi An is a destination that’s going to steal your heart, especially if you’re a fan of vibrant, flavorful street food. Nestled in central Vietnam, this UNESCO World Heritage town isn’t just famous for its lantern-lit streets and ancient architecture—it’s a paradise for anyone chasing authentic Hoi An street food. With its rich culinary heritage and bustling night markets, Hoi An offers an unforgettable feast for your taste buds.
In this guide, I’ll take you on a delicious journey through 9 must-eat delicacies that define Hoi An street food. Trust me, you won’t want to miss a single bite!
Table of Contents
Why Hoi An Street Food Is a Must-Try
Hoi An street food isn’t just about eating—it’s an experience. Wander through the narrow, lantern-lit streets, and you’ll find vendors on every corner, their stalls overflowing with steaming bowls, sizzling pans, and fragrant herbs. The town’s location by the Thu Bon River and its history as a trading hub have shaped a unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and French influences, making Hoi An street food a melting pot of flavors.
What’s more, Hoi An street food is affordable, fresh, and often made right in front of you. From roadside carts to cozy eateries, the ingredients are sourced locally—think garden-fresh herbs, seafood straight from the river, and rice noodles crafted by hand. Ready to dig in? Let’s explore the top 9 Hoi An street food treasures you need to try on your next visit.
1. Cao Lau: The Signature Noodle Dish of Hoi An
No trip to Hoi An is complete without tasting cao lau, the town’s iconic Hoi An street food dish. This chewy noodle dish features thick, flat noodles made from rice, pork slices, crunchy croutons, fresh greens, and a savory broth made with water from the ancient Ba Le well (a secret local ingredient!). The noodles have a unique texture—slightly al dente and springy—and the dish is often topped with bean sprouts and herbs for a burst of freshness.
You’ll find cao lau at small stalls or street vendors, especially around the Old Town. It’s a perfect introduction to Hoi An street food, blending simplicity with depth of flavor. Pair it with a cold beer or a cup of local tea for the full experience.
Cao Lau – One of best food in Hoi An
2. White Rose Dumplings (Banh Bao Vac): Delicate and Delicious
White rose dumplings are another Hoi An street food gem you can’t skip. These delicate, translucent dumplings are filled with shrimp or pork, wrapped in a thin rice paper skin, and steamed to perfection. They’re often garnished with fried shallots and served with a tangy dipping sauce made from fish sauce, lime, and chili.
You’ll spot vendors selling white rose dumplings at night markets or along the riverside. They’re light, flavorful, and a great snack to enjoy while strolling through Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets. This Hoi An street food delicacy is both beautiful to look at and a joy to eat—perfect for foodies and Instagrammers alike!
Hoi An White Rose Dumplings are both delicious and uniquely flavorful
3. Banh Mi Phuong: Hoi An’s Famous Baguette
Yes, Hoi An street food includes a killer banh mi! Head to Banh Mi Phuong, a legendary spot in the Old Town, for a sandwich that’s crispy, crunchy, and packed with flavor. This Hoi An street food favorite features a French-inspired baguette stuffed with pate, pork, pickled carrots, cilantro, and a smear of chili sauce. It’s a portable, affordable, and delicious bite that showcases the town’s French colonial influence.
Banh mi stalls are scattered throughout Hoi An, but Phuong’s version is a must-try. Grab one for breakfast or a quick lunch while exploring the town’s vibrant streets. It’s a staple of Hoi An street food that’ll leave you craving more.
Banh mi Phuong – The famous Vietnamese sandwich that is listed among the best food in Hoi An
4. Hoanh Thanh Chien: Crispy Fried Wontons
If you love crispy, savory snacks, hoanh thanh chien (fried wontons) will become your new obsession. This Hoi An street food treat features thin wonton wrappers stuffed with shrimp or pork, deep-fried until golden and crunchy, and served with a sweet chili dipping sauce. They’re often sold by street vendors or at small eateries, making them a perfect on-the-go snack.
The crunch, combined with the juicy filling, makes hoanh thanh chien a standout in Hoi An street food culture. Pair it with a cold drink, and you’ve got a satisfying bite to fuel your exploration of the town’s charming alleys.
The unique and easy-to-enjoy fried wontons on the streets of Hoi An
5. Com Ga: Chicken Rice with a Twist
Com ga, or Hoi An chicken rice, is a simple yet flavorful Hoi An street food dish that’s a local favorite. This dish features tender shredded chicken served over fragrant turmeric-infused rice, garnished with fresh herbs, cucumber, and a side of chili sauce or fish sauce. The rice absorbs the chicken’s savory juices, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
You’ll find com ga at street-side stalls or small restaurants, often paired with a bowl of chicken broth. It’s hearty, affordable, and a great introduction to the comforting side of Hoi An street food. Grab a plate and savor the homely vibes of this local treasure.
Hoi An chicken rice is highly loved by the locals
6. Banh Xeo: Crispy Vietnamese Pancakes
Banh xeo, or Vietnamese sizzling pancakes, are a must-try Hoi An street food experience. These golden, crispy rice flour pancakes are filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and sometimes mushrooms, then folded and served with fresh herbs and a tangy fish sauce dip. The sizzling sound as they cook on the griddle is music to any food lover’s ears!
Street vendors in Hoi An often serve banh xeo on small plates, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. It’s a fun, interactive dish that showcases the bold flavors of Hoi An street food—crunchy, savory, and fresh all at once.
Source: Thegioihoinhap
7. My Quang: Colorful Turmeric Noodles
My Quang is another Hoi An street food star, featuring wide, turmeric-colored rice noodles in a rich, aromatic broth. Topped with shrimp, pork, quail eggs, peanuts, and fresh herbs, this dish is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. The broth is lighter than pho but packed with flavor, thanks to local spices and herbs.
You’ll find my quang at markets or street stalls, often served in generous portions. It’s a hearty, colorful dish that’s become a signature of Hoi An street food, reflecting the town’s love for bold, vibrant flavors. Don’t miss it!
My Quang – Colorful Turmeric Noodles
8. Nem Lui: Grilled Pork Skewers
Nem lui, or grilled pork skewers, are a smoky, savory Hoi An street food delight. These skewers feature minced pork mixed with lemongrass, garlic, and spices, grilled over charcoal for a smoky aroma. They’re often wrapped in rice paper with fresh herbs, cucumber, and served with a tangy dipping sauce.
Street vendors in Hoi An’s night markets are the best places to try nem lui. It’s a hands-on, flavorful experience that’s perfect for sharing with friends while soaking in the lively atmosphere of Hoi An street food culture.
9. Che Bap: Sweet Corn Pudding
End your Hoi An street food adventure on a sweet note with che bap, a creamy corn pudding made from sticky rice, corn kernels, coconut milk, and sugar. This dessert is light, sweet, and a refreshing way to cool down after a day of exploring. You’ll find it at dessert stalls or as a street-side treat, often served in small bowls.
Che bap is a beloved part of Hoi An street food, offering a simple yet satisfying sweetness that rounds out your culinary journey in this charming town.
Sweet corn pudding in Hoi An is a refreshing and delicious treat for any season
Tips for Enjoying Hoi An Street Food
- Explore the Night Market: The best Hoi An street food comes alive after dark, especially along the riverside and in the Old Town.
- Bring Cash: Most vendors prefer cash, so keep some Vietnamese dong handy.
- Try Local Drinks: Pair your Hoi An street food with a fresh coconut, sugarcane juice, or local beer for the full experience.
- Be Adventurous: Don’t shy away from trying new flavors—Hoi An street food is all about discovery!
Hoi An street food isn’t just food—it’s a celebration of culture, history, and community. If you’re planning a trip, let Lux Travel DMC know in the comments—We’d love to hear about your favorite Hoi An street food experiences or help you plan your next culinary journey. Happy eating!
