Hoi An Food Guide: 18 Delicious Dishes to Try
Discover the best Hoi An food with our guide to must-try dishes, local favorites, and where to find them. Perfect for foodies and travelers alike!
Hoi An is a food lover’s paradise, and I can’t wait to share it with you. This charming ancient town is not only known for its stunning architecture and vibrant lantern-lit streets but also for its incredible culinary scene.
Whether you’re craving a warm bowl of noodle soup or a sweet, refreshing dessert, Hoi An has something to satisfy every palate.
In this guide, I’ll take you through the best food in Hoi An, from iconic dishes that you absolutely must try to hidden gems that will make your taste buds sing.
Best Hoi An Food to Try
1. Cao Lầu
You can’t leave Hoi An without trying its most iconic dish, Cao Lau.
What I love about Cao Lau is its simplicity—no broth, just thick noodles, tender pork, and a rich, savory sauce. The roasted peanuts on top add a nice crunch, and a splash of fish sauce makes the flavors pop.
For the best experience, head to Cao lầu Không Gian Xanh on Hai Bà Trưng Street. If you’re looking for a more local vibe, Nhà Hàng Cao lầu Ông Cảnh on Trần Phú and Cao lầu Liên on Thái Phiên won’t disappoint.
Read more: 20+ delicious Vietnamese food to try.
2. Cơm gà (Chicken rice)
Hoi An’s chicken rice might seem simple, but it’s anything but ordinary.
Every shop on Phan Chu Trinh Street has its own take on this classic dish, and it’s worth trying a few to see which one you like best.
The rice, often cooked in chicken broth, is soft and full of flavor, while the chicken is tender and perfectly seasoned.
My favorite spot is Com ga Ba Buoi at 22 Phan Chu Trinh. It’s a place I keep going back to, and I’m pretty sure you’ll love it too.
3. Bánh mì
Banh Mi in Hoi An is legendary, and for good reason. It’s a beautiful blend of cultures packed into a crispy baguette.
Each bite is a perfect mix of flavors—rich pate, savory char siu, fresh herbs, and a kick of chili sauce. It’s the kind of sandwich you’ll crave long after you’ve left Vietnam.
When you’re in Hoi An, make sure to stop by Banh Mi Phuong on Phan Chu Trinh or Madam Khanh on Trần Cao Vân. These places have earned their reputations, and the lines out the door prove that the wait is worth it.
4. Bánh vạc (White Rose)
White Rose dumplings are one of Hoi An’s hidden gems. These delicate, flower-shaped dumplings are filled with shrimp or minced meat and are as beautiful as they are delicious.
I’ve tried them at a few places, but nothing beats the taste and texture at the White Rose restaurant on Hai Bà Trưng Street.
Watching them make the dumplings right there in the restaurant adds something special to the experience.
5. Bánh xèo
Banh Xeo is another delicious dish to try in Hoi An.
These small, crispy pancakes are packed with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, and they’re just fun to eat. You wrap them in rice paper with fresh herbs, dip them in sauce, and enjoy the perfect bite.
The flavors are vibrant and satisfying, and it’s easy to see why this dish is a favorite in Central Vietnam.
For the best Banh Xeo in Hoi An, I recommend Bánh xèo Hội An Sông Hoài on Đường 18 Tháng 8 and Bánh xèo Hải Đảo on Lý Thái Tổ. Trust me, you’ll want more than one.
6. Mì Quảng (Quang Noodles)
Mi Quang is another must-try dish in Hoi An. This dish is unique to the Quang Nam province, and Hoi An does it exceptionally well.
It’s a vibrant noodle dish, often served with a small amount of broth, turmeric-seasoned noodles, and a mix of proteins like shrimp, pork, or chicken.
What makes Mi Quang special is the combination of textures—from the crunchy rice crackers to the soft noodles and fresh herbs. The flavors are bold but balanced, making each bite a new discovery.
You can find great Mi Quang at Mi Quang 85 on Tran Phu Street or at Thanh Cao Lau, where they’ve mastered the art of this dish.
7. Chè (Vietnamese Sweet Soup)
After a day of exploring Hoi An, treating yourself to Che is a sweet reward.
This Vietnamese dessert soup comes in many varieties, from sweetened beans and jellies to fruit and coconut milk combinations. It’s served cold or warm, depending on your preference, and it’s the perfect way to cool down or wrap up a meal.
You’ll find street vendors selling Che all over Hoi An, especially in the evening near the Japanese Bridge. Look for a spot with a variety of options—you can mix and match to create your own perfect bowl.
8. Cháo Nghêu (Clam Porridge)
Chao Ngheu is a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor. It’s a simple porridge made with fresh clams and green beans, resulting in a light but satisfying meal.
I remember enjoying it after a day at the beach in An Bàng—there’s something about the warm, slightly sweet broth with tender clams that just hits the spot.
You can find it at small eateries near the local beaches, and it’s a perfect way to relax after a long day.
9. Tàu Phớ (Tofu Pudding)
Tau Pho is a delicate dessert that’s perfect for when you’re craving something sweet but not too heavy.
It’s made from soft tofu served in ginger syrup and topped with coconut milk, giving it a refreshing, light taste.
I love stopping by a street stall for this dessert on a hot day—it’s soothing and just sweet enough. Popular spots like Chè Cô Mai or Chè Bà Thọ are where you’ll find some of the best Tàu Phớ in town.
10. Bánh Bèo (Steamed Rice Cake)
Banh Beo is a dish I never get tired of.
These small, steamed rice cakes are topped with a savory mixture of shrimp, scallions, and crispy pork skin. They’re usually served with a side of fish sauce for dipping.
Each bite is a combination of soft and crunchy textures, with a burst of umami from the toppings.
For the best Banh Beo in Hoi An, try Quán Bà Hường on Phan Chu Trinh Street. This family-run spot has been serving Banh Beo for generations, and you can taste the tradition in every bite.
11. Grilled Pork Skewers
Grilled Pork Skewers are a staple of Hoi An street food, and they’re as simple as they are delicious.
Tender pork, marinated and grilled on lemongrass skewers, is served with rice paper, fresh vegetables, and a rich peanut dipping sauce. It’s a hands-on eating experience, where you assemble your wraps, making each bite as flavorful and fresh as the last.
For a quick and tasty snack, grab some Grilled Pork Skewers from one of the street food vendors near the Night Market on Nguyen Hoang Street.
12. Mango Cake (Bánh Xoài)
Despite its name, Mango Cake doesn’t contain any mango!
These small, sweet treats are made from sticky rice flour and filled with crushed peanuts and sugar. They are shaped like little mangoes.
They’re a great on-the-go snack, perfect for enjoying while strolling through Hoi An’s Old Town.
You’ll find mango cakes sold by various street vendors in the Old Town, especially near the Japanese Bridge and the An Hoi islet.
13. Hoành Thánh Chiên (Fried Wontons)
These crispy wontons are filled with a savory mix of ground pork and shrimp and then deep-fried until golden.
They’re usually topped with a tangy tomato sauce that adds a burst of flavor.
I’ve had them at spots like Anh Dũng and Thanh Thanh in the Old Town, and they never disappoint. They’re crunchy, flavorful, and perfect for a quick bite.
14. Bánh Đập Hến Xào (Cracker with Stir-Fried Baby Clams)
Bánh Đập Hến Xào is one of my favorite Hoi An street food. I first tried it in Cẩm Nam, and the simple yet bold flavors left a lasting impression.
The combination of crispy rice crackers and stir-fried baby clams seasoned with herbs and spices creates a perfect mix of textures and tastes.
You smash the cracker, scoop up the clams, and enjoy a bite that’s crunchy, savory, and just a little bit spicy.
15. Cơm Hến (Baby Clam Rice)
Com Hen is a dish that comes from the nearby city of Hue but has made its mark in Hoi An.
It’s a flavorful combination of baby clams, served over rice with herbs, peanuts, and crispy pork skin.
The dish is known for its refreshing taste and variety of textures. It’s often served with a side of clam broth, which adds depth to the meal.
You can find Com Hen at local eateries in Cam Nam, an area known for its seafood dishes.
16. Bánh Đậu Xanh (Green Bean Cake)
Bánh Đậu Xanh is a sweet treat that’s simple but incredibly satisfying. These little mung bean cakes are soft, slightly sweet, and just melt in your mouth.
They’re a common snack in Hội An, often enjoyed with a cup of tea.
The first time I tried them, I was sitting in a small café in the Old Town, and they were the perfect complement to the bitter green tea I was drinking.
You can find them at local markets or souvenir shops, and they’re great to take home as a reminder of your trip.
17. Bánh Canh (Thick Noodle Soup)
If you’re in the mood for something warm and comforting, Bánh Canh is the way to go.
This thick noodle soup is hearty and flavorful, made with chewy noodles and a rich broth that’s often based on pork or seafood.
The soup is topped with shrimp, fish cakes, and fresh herbs, making it a satisfying meal.
You can find some of the best Bánh Canh at local spots like Bánh Canh Bà Quýt in Hội An.
18. Bún Mắm Nêm (Fermented Anchovy Sauce Noodles)
Bun Mam Nem is a dish that packs a punch with its bold flavors.
The noodles are topped with a fermented anchovy sauce that’s rich and savory, mixed with fresh herbs, pork, and sometimes shrimp.
It’s not as famous as Cao Lau or Mi Quang, but it’s a favorite among locals for its strong, distinctive taste.
If you’re feeling adventurous, head to Bún Mắm Nêm Phố on La Hối Street or one of the small stalls in the Old Town.
Final Thoughts
I hope this guide has inspired you to try these local dishes and make the most of your culinary adventure in Hoi An.
If you’re hungry for more, check out my other guides on must-visit spots and experiences in Vietnam. Happy eating!
