Hoi An Food: Best Dishes and Restaurants for Local Delights

Top 10 Iconic Hoi An Food: A Guide to the Best Local Dishes

Okay, let’s get down to business. Here’s what to eat in Hội An: the top 10 must-try dishes you absolutely can’t miss, along with the best spots to find them!

1. Cao Lầu Hội An (Hội An rice noodle)

Cao Lầu is one of the most iconic dishes in Hội An food culture. It is a bowl of rice noodles served with slices of tender pork, crispy croutons, and a rich broth. The secret behind Cao Lầu’s unique flavor lies in the water used to make the noodles, which is sourced from Ba Le ancient wells.

The noodles have a slightly chewy texture, absorbing the rich broth while maintaining a satisfying bite. The pork is tender and savory, and the crispy rice crackers add a delightful crunch. It’s the perfect dish to enjoy while sitting at a bustling street-side stall or a cozy restaurant, watching the world go by.

Cao Lầu, meaning "high floor," refers not only to the dish's esteemed status as a culinary delicacy but also to the tradition of enjoying it in an elevated setting. Historically, diners would savor Cao Lầu from the upper floors, allowing them to appreciate both the dish and the picturesque streets of Hội An from a higher vantage point.

It’s said that this dish has Chinese and Japanese influences, reflecting the town’s historical role as a trading hub. You can trace Cao Lầu’s roots back to the 17th century, a time when traders from these countries brought their culinary traditions to Hội An.

Famous noodles paired with savory pork and crispy toppings.

Where to eat Cao Lầu:

• Cao lầu Bá Lễ, 49/3 Trần Hưng Đạo
• Cao lầu Bà Thanh, 26 Thái Phiên
• Cao lầu Bà Thanh, 26 Thái Phiên

Price: 40,000–60,000 VND per bowl.

2. Mì Quảng

Mì Quảng is a cherished dish from Quảng Nam and Đà Nẵng, offering a rich blend of tradition and flavor. Its unique preparation starts with rice flour, shaped into flat, thick noodles with a distinct chewy texture. The noodles are often left white or dyed golden using natural ingredients like turmeric.

This dish features diverse toppings, from chicken, pork, shrimp, and quail eggs to beef, fish, or frog. These are simmered with spices, creating a savory broth poured sparingly over the noodles. Essential garnishes include roasted peanuts, fresh herbs, banana blossoms, lime, and chili, adding layers of flavor and texture.

Mì Quảng is best enjoyed hot, where its delicate balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors shines. The dish is garnished with roasted peanuts, fresh herbs, banana flowers, lime, and chili. It combines sweet, salty, and spicy flavors.

Fun fact: Unlike pho, Mì Quảng is not drenched in broth, showcasing its signature "just enough" serving style!

A flavorful noodle dish, enhanced by fresh herbs and spices.

Where to eat mì Quảng:

• Mì Quảng Bà Mua, 82A Bạch Đằng
• Mì Quảng 85, 85 Nguyễn Tri Phương
• Mì Quảng Thanh, 24 Phan Châu Trinh

Price: 40,000 – 60,000 VND per bowl.

3. Bánh mì Hội An

No visit to Hội An is complete without tasting the iconic Bánh mì. This local delicacy gained global fame in 2009 when Anthony Bourdain, the legendary American chef, described it as "a symphony on a sandwich" during his show No Reservations. What sets Banh Mi apart is its perfectly balanced textures and flavors. The bread is kept warm to maintain its crisp crust and soft, chewy interior.

Instead of cold cuts used elsewhere, Hội An’s version highlights tender, seasoned pork char siu. A rich, aromatic pâté, crafted meticulously to be creamy and fragrant, adds depth. Hand-whipped egg butter, golden and luscious, melts in your mouth. The fillings also include a mix of beef and pork sausages, meatballs, and fresh herbs from Tra Que village. Pickled papaya adds a refreshing tang, while the flavorful sauce, made partly from the pork marinade, ties it all together.

The careful arrangement of toppings in bánh mì, including fresh greens, meats, and rich sauce, creates a colorful and harmonious dish. The crispy, warm bread, filled with flavorful ingredients, offers an unforgettable taste that makes it a must-try dish for every visitor.

This crispy baguette is filled with char siu pork and fresh greens.

Where to eat banh mi:

• Bánh Mì Phượng, 2B Phan Châu Trinh, Hội An
• Bánh Mì Madam Khanh, 115 Trần Cao Văn, Hội An
• Bánh Mì Bảo, 42 Phan Châu Trinh, Hội An

Price: 20,000 – 35,000 VND per sandwich.

4. White Rose Dumplings (Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc)

The dish’s name, “Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc,” reflects its unique shape and texture. “Bánh Bao” means steamed dumplings, while “Bánh Vạc” refers to their rose-like appearance. Although they are two distinct types of dumplings with different names, they are always served together on the same plate.

The person who prepares the fish sauce must balance the three main tastes: sour, spicy, and sweet. The sauce should be slightly sweet, not too sour, and the chilli should include both green and red varieties. The dumplings are made from translucent rice flour dough, shaped like delicate roses, and filled with a mixture of shrimp and pork. They are steamed for about fifteen minutes until cooked.

The dumplings are then placed on a plate, topped with crispy fried onions, and served with a delicious dipping sauce made from fish sauce and sweet shrimp broth. When the plate is almost empty, with just a few crumbs of crispy onions left on the green banana leaf, a hot cup of soybean tea is served. The steaming cups, with their fragrant white steam, are a perfect way to end the meal, making it a true experience.

These delicate rose-shaped dumplings are stuffed with shrimp and pork.

Where to Eat White Rose Dumplings:

• White Rose Restaurant, 533 Hai Bà Trưng, Hội An
• Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc Mai, 10 Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, Hội An
• Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc Dung, 21 Phan Châu Trinh, Hội An

Price: 30,000 – 40,000 VND for a plate of dumplings.

5. Grilled Pork Spring Roll Hội An

Grilled pork spring rolls are a popular Hội An street food, combining soft rice paper with smoky grilled pork. The dish is made by wrapping grilled pork, fresh herbs, and rice noodles in thin rice paper, and served with a sweet and savory dipping sauce made from fish sauce, sugar, and garlic.

Along the Hoai River, small food stalls with low plastic chairs attract many customers. The pork used is from the shoulder, which has both lean and fatty parts, keeping the meat moist and tender when grilled. The marinade includes five-spice powder, pepper, lemongrass, shallots, and honey, with some stalls adding white wine for extra flavor.

After marinating, the pork is skewered and grilled over charcoal. The thin rice cakes are placed on plates, separated by banana leaves. Fresh herbs from Tra Que village, known for its organic vegetables, are used in the dish, and customers can request extra herbs or cucumber.

The dipping sauce is key to the dish's flavor. A thick, spicy sauce made from fermented soybean paste, peanuts, and sometimes sesame seeds adds richness. First-timers may be surprised by the way it's eaten, but once you dip it in the sauce and taste the smoky pork, fresh herbs, and soft rice cakes, you'll understand why it's a local favorite.

Smoky grilled pork is wrapped with herbs and dipped in rich sauce.

Where to eat grilled pork spring rolls in Hội An:

• Bánh Ướt Cuốn Thịt Nướng Cô Lợi, 03 Nguyễn Huệ, Minh An Ward, Hội An
• Bánh Ướt Cuốn Thịt Nướng Bờ Sông Hoài, Along Hoài River, Hội An
• Bánh Xèo, Thịt Nướng, Nem Lụi Bà 9, Alley 92 Phan Chu Trinh, Minh An Ward, Hội An

Price: 5,000 - 10,000 VND per stick

6. Hội An Chicken Rice (Cơm Gà)

Cơm gà Hội An, or chicken rice, is a beloved dish that you’ll find in every corner of the ancient town. It’s a delightful combination of tender shredded chicken served on top of fragrant yellow rice, cooked with turmeric and chicken broth. The dish has its roots in the Hainanese chicken rice brought over by Chinese immigrants, but Hội An has added its unique twist.

What makes this version stand out is the freshness and balance of flavors. Along with the rice and chicken, you’ll get a refreshing bowl of chicken soup, vibrant herbs like coriander and mint, and a tangy papaya salad on the side. The dish looks as appealing as it tastes, with the golden rice, glossy chicken, and green vegetables creating a colorful plate.

To elevate the flavor, locals often add a bit of spicy Hội An chili sauce before mixing everything. If you’re still hungry, you can ask for extra chicken, either as a juicy thigh or more shredded meat. Cơm gà is the perfect dish to satisfy your hunger while offering a taste of local Vietnamese cuisine that’s both light and hearty.

This vibrant yellow rice is topped with shredded chicken and salad.

Where to Eat Hội An Chicken Rice:

• Cơm Gà Bà Buội, 22 Phan Chu Trinh, Minh An Ward, Hội An
• Cơm Gà Ty, 27 Phan Chu Trinh, Minh An Ward, Hội An
• Cơm Gà Xí Hội An, 47/2 Trần Hưng Đạo, Hội An
• Cơm Gà Bà Nga, 8 Phan Chu Trinh, Minh An Ward, Hội An

Price: 30,000–50,000 VND for a plate.

7. Bánh Xèo

If you ever find yourself in Hội An, there’s one dish you absolutely have to try: Bánh Xèo. Unlike the larger southern versions of bánh xèo, Hội An’s version is small—just the right size to eat several in one sitting. And it's best served hot, crunchy, and wrapped in fresh lettuce leaves with a bit of mắm nêm (a special dipping sauce). It's perfect for rainy days when you're craving something hearty but fresh.

Inside, you'll find a mix of shrimp, tender pork, bean sprouts, and fresh herbs. What makes this dish special is how it’s eaten: the pancake is wrapped in lettuce leaves, along with herbs, which adds a refreshing crunch. The combination of the warm, crispy pancake and the fresh veggies is absolutely satisfying.

What makes it even more special? The preparation. You’ll hear that signature "xèo, xèo" sound as the batter hits the hot oil, and that’s your cue that it’s about to get delicious. Grab it with your hands—yep, no chopsticks needed—and dive in. It’s messy, it’s fun, and it’s definitely worth the adventure!

Crispy pancakes stuffed with shrimp and pork are wrapped in fresh greens.

Where to eat bánh xèo:

• Bánh Xèo Giếng Bá Lễ, 45/51 Trần Hưng Đạo, Hội An
• Bánh Xèo Hải Đảo, 160 Lý Thái Tổ, Cẩm Châu Ward, Hội An
• Bánh Xèo Hải Nam, 409 Hai Bà Trưng, Cẩm Sơn Ward, Hội An

Price: 30,000–50,000 VND per serving.

8. Nước mót (Mót herbal tea)

If you've ever found yourself strolling through Hội An on a scorching day, chances are you've spotted a white paper cup, a bamboo straw, and a pink lotus leaf. That’s Nước Mót, the drink everyone’s buzzing about on social media. It may look simple, but don't let that fool you – this humble beverage is packed with traditional charm and subtle elegance.

Nước Mót is a delicious herbal concoction made from a blend of ingredients like chrysanthemum, loquat, green tea, cinnamon, licorice, and a handful of other herbs. It’s brewed to perfection, offering a refreshing taste that balances sweet, fragrant, and mildly herbal flavors. With a sip, you’ll feel the heat of the day melt away and maybe even catch a glimpse of serenity as your energy is restored.

The name "Mót" comes from a young man, Nguyễn Hữu Xuân, who turned his family’s herbal tradition into a trendy drink everyone now loves. If you drink it at the shop, you’ll soak in the historic atmosphere, surrounded by antiques and old signs. But if you're on the go, grab a cup to take away and keep exploring Hội An, with your refreshing Nước Mót topped with a pink lotus petal.

This herbal tea blends cinnamon, green tea, and fragrant lotus petals.

Where to drink nước mót in Hội An:

• Mót Hội An, 150 Trần Phú, Hội An

Price: 20,000 VND per serving.

9. Chè bắp and Tào phớ Hội An (Corn sweet soup and Tofu pudding)

In the quiet alleys of Hội An, the familiar sound of street vendors selling their treats brings back fond memories for many locals. Tào phớ, a beloved dish, is often tied to childhood memories, especially in the afternoons. The call “tào phớ here, tào phớ here” echoes down the streets, stirring nostalgia.

Tào phớ, known for its refreshing qualities, is made from finely ground soybeans. It's a simple, yet satisfying dessert, perfect for hot summer days. Served with ice, it’s cool, light, and easy on the stomach, making it a favorite to beat the heat. The dish has the perfect balance, with silky tofu and sweet, fragrant syrup that’s neither too heavy nor too sweet. Sometimes, chewy tapioca pearls or agar jelly are added, enhancing the texture.

Another local treat to try is chè bắp, a sweet corn dessert. Made with Cẩm Nam corn, it’s rich, aromatic, and naturally sweet. Served without coconut milk, it lets the pure corn flavor shine. A stroll through the ancient town will soon lead you to vendors offering this delightful snack.

Sweet corn pudding and silky tofu dessert refresh on hot days.

Where to enjoy sweet soup and tào phớ:

• Tào Phớ Bình, 36 Phan Chu Trinh, Hội An
• Tào Phớ Cô Mai, 1 Nguyễn Hoàng, Hội An
• Chè Bắp Cô Nga, 48 Lê Lợi, Hội An
• Chè Bắp Cẩm Nam, 108 Nguyễn Tri Phương, Hội An

Price: 20,000 - 25,000 VND per serving.

10. Bánh xoài (Hội An mango cake)

Bánh xoài Hội An is a delightful treat that surprises first-timers. Despite its name, it has no mango in the recipe. The name comes from its mango-like shape, but the flavors are entirely different. The outer layer is a soft, white dough coated with a light dusting of flour, giving off a sweet rice aroma.

The filling is what makes this snack truly special. It’s a mixture of peanuts and sesame, creating a rich, nutty flavor. When you take a bite, you’ll taste a balance of sweetness from sugar, the creamy richness of sesame, and a slight zing from fresh ginger.

Bánh xoài is more than just a sweet snack; it’s a piece of Hội An's culture. Each bite reflects the skill and tradition of the local people. Whether or not you have a sweet tooth, this traditional food of Hội An is worth trying. It’s not just about the taste but the experience of enjoying a piece of this charming city’s culinary heritage.

This sesame-filled treat surprises with its mango-like shape and nutty flavor.

Where to enjoy mango cake (bánh xoài):

• Bánh Xoài Bà 4 Mua, 30/2 Trần Hưng Đạo, Hội An
• Bánh Xoài An Hội bridge, Near Cầu pagoda, Hội An
• Bánh Xoài Cô Ba, 12 Nguyễn Thái Học, Hội An
• Bánh Xoài Phố Cổ, 10 Trần Phú, Hội An

Price: 5,000 - 10,000 VND per serving.

5 Best Restaurants in Hội An You Must-try

If you're looking to experience the best of Hội An's vibrant food scene, you're in for a treat! Here are the top 5 must-visit restaurants:

1. Miss Ly Cafeteria

Rating: 4.5/5 (Tripadvisor, 4,523 reviews)

Address: 22 Nguyễn Huệ Street, Hội An

Miss Ly Cafeteria is an iconic Hội An restaurant, deeply ingrained in the local food scene since the 1990s. The restaurant is renowned for its simple yet authentic take on Hội An’s best-loved dishes, prepared using traditional methods passed down through generations. Nestled in a charming, unpretentious setting, this spot draws both locals and travelers looking to experience the genuine taste of Hội An. Miss Ly's family-oriented atmosphere adds an extra layer of warmth to your meal, making it a favorite for families and groups.

Experience Hội An’s authentic flavors in a warm, family-run setting.

Standout dishes:

• White rose dumplings
• Cao lầu
• Vegetarian options (mango salad)
• Grilled pork skewers
• Pineapple fried rice

Reasons to visit:

• The restaurant is a local legend known for its authentic Hội An flavors.
• Miss Ly herself often greets guests, adding a personal touch to the experience.
• Perfectly located near the Ancient Town, making it an ideal stop during your sightseeing.

2. The Field Restaurant & Bar

Rating: 4.5/5 (Tripadvisor, 275 reviews)

Address: Thanh Nhut Hamlet, Cẩm Thanh, Hội An

Nestled in the tranquil countryside, The Field Restaurant & Bar is one of the most peaceful places to eat in Hội An, offering diners a welcome break from the busy streets of the town. Surrounded by lush rice fields and traditional wooden houses, this hidden gem invites guests to relax in a peaceful environment while savoring fresh, seasonal dishes. The menu emphasizes organic, locally sourced ingredients, and the restaurant has a strong focus on sustainability.

Dine amidst lush rice fields and savor fresh, organic ingredients.

Standout dishes:

• Grilled fish in banana leaf
• Vegetarian platters
• Beef salad with lotus roots
• Rice-paper rolls
• Pumpkin soup

Reasons to visit:

• The serene, natural setting provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Hội An.
• The restaurant is committed to sustainability, sourcing ingredients directly from local farms.
• Enjoy cooking classes that give you the opportunity to create authentic Vietnamese dishes.

3. Morning Glory Original

Rating: 4.5/5 (Tripadvisor, 17,179 reviews)

Address: 106 Nguyễn Thái Học Street, Hội An

Morning Glory Original is one of the most famous eateries in Hội An, a place where street food is elevated to an art form. Run by the passionate and well-known Chef Ms. Vy, this vibrant restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the flavors of Hội An. Located in a restored French colonial building, it offers a warm, inviting atmosphere where diners can explore a wide variety of street food staples and regional specialties. Ms. Vy’s dedication to preserving the authentic tastes of Vietnamese cuisine makes this restaurant a top choice for food lovers.

Explore Hội An street food with Chef Ms. Vy’s authentic creations.

Standout dishes:

• Bánh xèo
• Mi Quảng
• Vegetarian phở
• Fried wontons
• Chả giò (Vietnamese Spring Roll)

Reasons to visit:

• The extensive menu features an array of Vietnamese street food favorites and specialties.
• The colonial-style building adds a charming atmosphere, making it perfect for both casual and special occasions.
• Ms. Vy’s personal touch and dedication to preserving traditional recipes have made this a must-visit spot in Hội An.

4. The Soul Restaurant

Rating: 5/5 (Tripadvisor, 1,099 reviews)

Address: 27 Trần Phú Street, Hội An

Tucked away in a quiet corner of Hội An, The Soul Restaurant offers an intimate dining experience that combines traditional Vietnamese flavors with modern culinary techniques. With only a few tables, it provides a peaceful setting ideal for couples or small groups looking to enjoy an exclusive meal. The restaurant’s menu features expertly prepared dishes that highlight the best of Vietnamese ingredients. The Soul Restaurant’s attention to detail, both in its food and service, makes it a standout among the best restaurants in Hội An.

Enjoy intimate dining with a fusion of traditional and modern flavors.

Standout dishes:

• Fresh spring rolls with peanut sauce
• Braised eggplant in clay pot
• Steamed fish with ginger
• Beef tenderloin with black pepper sauce
• Papaya salad

Reasons to visit:

• The intimate, cozy atmosphere makes it perfect for a quiet meal.
• Impeccable service, with the staff providing personal recommendations to suit your preferences.
• A curated menu that emphasizes the finest ingredients Hội An has to offer.

5. Mango Rooms

Rating: 4.5/5 (Tripadvisor, 1,537 reviews)

Address: 111 Nguyễn Thái Học Street, Hội An

Mango Rooms is a vibrant and modern restaurant located along the Thu Bồn River, offering a stunning riverside dining experience. Known for its bold and creative menu, the restaurant brings an innovative twist to traditional Vietnamese flavors by blending tropical ingredients with classic culinary traditions. Chef Duc, the mastermind behind Mango Rooms, is known for his creative approach to cooking. He combines local Vietnamese ingredients with fruits and spices that aren’t typically seen in traditional dishes.

Bold flavors and riverside views redefine Vietnamese cuisine at Mango Rooms.

Standout Dishes:

• Passionfruit tuna
• Duck in tamarind sauce
• Vegetarian noodle stir-fry
• Mango curry
• Vietnamese-style ceviche

Reasons to visit:

• A bold, creative menu that merges Vietnamese ingredients with tropical influences.
• Stunning riverside views make the dining experience even more enjoyable.
• Known for its vibrant and artistic atmosphere, making it ideal for a night out.

Tips for Enjoying

• The best street food is right in the heart of Hội An. The Old Town and Night Market are your go-to places for delicious bites! Get ready to be tempted by all the smells and sounds.
• While you don’t need to haggle in restaurants (prices are usually listed), always ask for the price before grabbing a snack from the street vendors. That way, there are no surprises when it’s time to pay.
• Forget about plain water – cool off with refreshing sugar cane juice or coconut water. Trust us, they’re like nature's air conditioning in a cup!
• No pressure here – tipping is not mandatory. If you had a great experience, though, feel free to leave a little something for your servers. They’ll definitely appreciate it.
• Want to experience a variety of Hội An best dishes? Go for a food tour or cooking class. You’ll not only taste everything but also learn how to recreate the magic at home!
• Don’t miss the special chili sauce – ớt chưng (or "ớt riêm"). It’s a common condiment for mì Quảng, cao lầu, and cơm gà. It's flavorful, not overly spicy, but always test a little first if you’re not sure how much heat you can handle!

These flavorful specialties are popular in Hội An as well as in other Vietnam destinations, with each dish offering its unique twist depending on where it’s made. However, all the dishes mentioned should definitely be on your list of must-try foods when visiting the town. Despite the rich flavors and generous portions, the prices for food are quite affordable, making it easy to enjoy a variety of dishes without breaking the bank. With so many delicious options, Hội An food is sure to leave you craving more. Which dish will you try first?

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