The diverse food in Hoi An is equally captivating. Beyond its lantern-lit streets and ancient architecture, the town offers a rich culinary landscape that reflects centuries of cultural fusion. Let Vietnam Tour 247 guide you through the 13 most essential local delicacies, ensuring you experience the authentic flavors that make this coastal gem a world-class gastronomic destination.
Top 13 best and more must-try food in Hoi An
Experiencing Hoi An food is a top priority for every traveler, as the cuisine of Hoi An relies on fresh herbs, local seafood, and unique spring water from nearby villages. The town offers a vibrant culinary spectrum, ensuring visitors know exactly what to eat in Hoi An, from refined heritage restaurants to authentic street-side stalls. Explore our curated selection of the best regional specialties and the iconic flavors that locals in this stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site adore eating every day.
Cao Lầu (pork rice noodles)
As a centerpiece of the cuisine of Hoi An, Cao Lầu is much more than a simple pork noodle bowl—it’s a dish defined by geography. While it may resemble other Vietnamese classics, it is nearly impossible to replicate outside the region.
The secret lies in the noodles, which must be soaked in calcium-rich water from the ancient Bá Lễ Well and mixed with ash from trees on the nearby Chàm Islands. This specific chemistry gives the noodles their signature firm, chewy texture and yellowish hue. When considering what to eat in Hoi An, seeking out a traditional Cao Lầu spot is essential to experiencing the true soul of Hoi An food.
Where to eat Cao Lau in Hoi An
- Cao Lầu bà Bé: 1 Tran Phú, Cam Chau
- Quán Cao Lầu Thanh: 26 Thai Phien, Minh An
- Morning Glory Original: 106 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Minh An
- Ong Hai (Mr. Hai Restaurant): 6A Truong Minh Luong, Cam Chau
Bánh Mì Thập Cẩm (Vietnamese Baguette Sandwich)
A global icon of Hoi An food, the Vietnamese Banh Mi is a masterclass in culinary fusion. While the crispy baguette reflects a clear French colonial influence, the sandwich is uniquely Vietnamese—shorter, lighter, and perfectly sized for a handheld meal.
When deciding what to eat in Hoi An, you’ll find that locals often enjoy these for breakfast, packed with rich liver pâté, minced beef, and crunchy pickled vegetables. At approximately 20,000 VND, it remains a delicious and affordable staple of the cuisine of Hoi An. Its balance of warm bread and fresh greens makes it a must-try for any visitor exploring the Ancient Town.
Where is the best Banh Mi in Hoi An?
There are a few places in Hoi An where you can get banh mi (the best food in Hoi An), but the most well-known shops have to be Banh Mi Phuong (which is said to sell 3,000 banh mi daily) and The Banh Mi Queen Madam Khanh (which sells 1,000 banh mi daily).
- Bánh Mì Phượng: 2B Phan Chu Trinh, Cam Chau
- Madam Khanh – The Banh Mi Queen: 115 Tran Cao Van,Minh An
Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc (White Rose Dumpling)
A delicate masterpiece of the cuisine of Hoi An, Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc—better known as the White Rose Dumpling—is as visually stunning as it is delicious. These translucent parcels are crafted from rice flour dough that, much like Cao Lầu, must be prepared using the mineral-rich water of the Bá Lễ Well to achieve its signature texture.
Stuffed with a savory blend of shrimp, mushrooms, and minced pork, the dumplings are steamed to perfection and garnished with golden crispy shallots. For anyone exploring what to eat in Hoi An, a plate of these flower-like dumplings is an essential experience, representing the refined and locally-rooted nature of Hoi An food.
Where to eat White Rose Dumpling in Hoi An
- White Rose Restaurant (run by the family who specializes in these dumplings): 533 Hai Ba Trung, Cam Pho
- Morning Glory Original: 106 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Minh An
Cơm Gà Hội An (Hoi An Chicken Rice)
Inspired by Hainanese traditions but uniquely localized, Cơm Gà (Chicken Rice) is a cornerstone of the cuisine of Hoi An. Unlike its regional neighbors, the Vietnamese version features tender shredded chicken and rice often infused with turmeric, giving it a vibrant golden hue and a light, fragrant quality.
When looking for what to eat in Hoi An, this dish is a favorite for those seeking a meal that feels both wholesome and fresh. Cooked in rich chicken broth and served with an abundance of zesty herbs and greens, it offers a lighter alternative to Singaporean styles. This balance of savory poultry and garden-fresh ingredients makes it a standout example of iconic Hoi An food.
Where to eat Com Ga in Hoi An
- Cơm Gà Bà Buội: 22 Phan Chu Trinh, Phường Minh An
- Hoi An chicken rice: 47/2 Tran Hung Dao
Read more: Travel Agency Vietnam: Best Travel Agency for Vietnam Tours
Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Pancake)
Literally translating to “sizzling pancake,” Bánh Xèo is a sensory highlight of the cuisine of Hoi An. The name comes from the distinct sound the rice batter makes as it hits a piping-hot skillet. While this dish is a staple across Vietnam, the version found here in Central Vietnam is uniquely smaller—about a quarter of the size of its southern counterparts—making it perfectly crisp.
When deciding what to eat in Hoi An to enjoy this favorite, look for spots that serve it with fresh greens and dry rice paper. Simply wrap a slice of the savory pancake with herbs, roll it up, and dip it into the signature sauce for a perfect bite of Hoi An food.
Where to get Banh Xeo in Hoi An
- Bánh Xèo Cô Anh, Sông Hoài: 59/32, 18/8 Minh An
- Bánh Xèo Minh Tú Chợ Hội An: Chợ ẩm thực, Old Town
Bún thịt nướng (grilled pork over vermicelli rice noodles)’
While Bún Thịt Nướng isn’t exclusive to the region, it remains a beloved staple within the cuisine of Hoi An. This cold rice noodle salad is the ultimate refreshing meal on a humid day, combining soft vermicelli with smoky, sliced BBQ pork and a mountain of crisp local greens.
What makes this a highlight of Hoi An food is the incredible contrast in every bowl—you get the crunch of peanuts and fresh vegetables, the chew of the noodles, and the savory richness of the sauce. If you are looking for what to eat in Hoi An for a lunch that feels both indulgent and light, a bowl of Bún Thịt Nướng never misses.
Where to get Bun thit nuong in Hoi An
- Bún Thịt Nướng: 81 Tran Cao Van, Cam Pho
- Cô Bảy Hội An: 12 Tran Quang Khaii
- Ty Ty Quán: 17/6 Hai Ba Trung, Minh An
Read more: Best Of The Central Vietnam From Hoi An | Authentic Discovery – 06 Days
Mì Quảng (Quang Seafood Noodle)
A standout in the cuisine of Hoi An, Mì Quảng is a regional icon originating from the surrounding Quảng Nam province. Unlike traditional soups, this dish features a shallow layer of intense, savory broth, making it a preferred choice for Hoi An food during the warmer summer months when a steaming bowl of Phở might feel too heavy.
While recipes vary across every kitchen, the most authentic bowls are topped with marinated pork, fresh shrimp, and quail eggs, all served over thick turmeric-infused rice noodles. When deciding what to eat in Hoi An for this specialty, look for places that serve it with crispy rice crackers and an abundance of local herbs to experience the dish’s signature crunch and freshness.
Where to get Mi Quang in Hoi An
- Mì Quảng Dì Hát: 81 Phan Chu Trinh, Phường Minh An
- Mì Quảng Ông Hai – Mr. Hai Noodles: 6A Trương Minh Lượng, Cẩm Châu
- Mì Quảng Hát: 4 Phan Chu Trinh, Phường Minh An
Bánh Khọt Trứng Cút (Mini Pancake with Quail Eggs)
A bite-sized favorite in the cuisine of Hoi An, Bánh Khọt is a crispy street food gem that packs incredible flavor into a tiny package. While often topped with shrimp, the Bánh Khọt Trứng Cút (quail egg version) is a local standout, offering a rich, velvety texture that contrasts perfectly with the golden, crunchy shell.
These savory morsels are meant to be enjoyed whole, making them one of the most addictive types of Hoi An food. If you’re wondering what to eat in Hoi An for the freshest batch, head to the local markets or street stalls where they are sizzled to order in specialized cast-iron pans. They are a must-try for any traveler who appreciates the art of Vietnamese snacking.
Where to eat Banh Khot in Hoi An
- Mrs Tuat Banh Can: 8 Tran Phu, Cam Chau
- I also had this during the Hoi An food tour I accidentally booked on my first night in Hoi An.
Thịt Xiên Nướng (Grilled Pork in Rice Paper)
A highlight of any Hoi An food tour, Thịt Xiên Nướng (Grilled Pork Skewers) is a street food staple that eats like a full meal. These smoky, lemongrass-marinated skewers are served with a unique variety of dry rice paper that is thin and crispy, requiring no water to soften—a characteristic detail of the cuisine of Hoi An.
When you are deciding what to eat in Hoi An for this specialty, look for vendors along the riverside. To eat it like a local, wrap the grilled meat in the rice paper along with fresh herbs and cucumber, roll it tightly, and dip it into a rich, nutty savory sauce. It’s a perfect, filling snack that captures the vibrant spirit of the Ancient Town’s night market.
Where to eat Thit Xien Nuong in Hoi An?
- Bale Well Restaurant: 51 Tran Hung Dao, Minh An
- Sidewalk stalls next to Kazik Park: 13 Tran Phu, Cam Chau
- Bà Hường: 31 Tieu La, Minh An
Bánh xoài (mango cake)
If you have a sweet tooth, Bánh Xoài (Mango Cake) is a delightful staple of the cuisine of Hoi An. Despite its name, this treat contains no actual mango; it earns its title from its distinct yellow, mango-like shape. Instead, you’ll find a wonderfully chewy shell made of glutinous rice flour, similar to Japanese mochi, filled with a sweet and crunchy center of crushed peanuts and brown sugar.
As you explore what to eat in Hoi An, you’ll notice these being sold by street vendors carrying small baskets or trays. They are a classic example of portable, heritage-rich Hoi An food—perfect for snacking on while you wander through the lantern-lit streets of the Ancient Town.
Where to eat Mango Cake in Hoi An?
- Hoi An Market: 9 Tran Phu Street, Cam Chau Ward
- The street vendor stalls close to the Japanese bridge.
Hoành thánh chiên (Wonton)
Often playfully called “Hoi An Pizza,” Hoành Thánh Chiên (Fried Wontons) is a perfect example of the cross-cultural fusion found in the cuisine of Hoi An. Originally introduced by Chinese traders, this dish has been reinvented to suit local palates. These large, crispy gold sheets are topped with a savory, salsa-like mixture of shrimp, minced pork, and fresh vegetables.
The secret to this iconic Hoi An food is the balance of textures; the deep-fried crunch of the dough pairs beautifully with the juicy toppings. When deciding what to eat in Hoi An for this specialty, seek out traditional heritage restaurants where they serve it with a tangy dipping sauce of vinegar, soy, and chili to cut through the richness.
Where to eat Hoanh thanh chien in Hoi An: Van Loc Restaurant: 27 Tran Phu Street, Minh An Ward
Cà Phê Sữa Đá (Vietnamese Iced Coffee with Condensed Milk)
Beyond the incredible variety of Hoi An food, the local beverage culture is centered around the iconic Vietnamese drip-filter coffee. While Cà Phê Sữa Đá (iced coffee with condensed milk) is the most beloved staple of the cuisine of Hoi An, the experience is entirely customizable. Whether you prefer it hot, black, or extra sweet, the process remains a slow, sensory ritual using a traditional metal “Phin” filter.
Here are the many variations of Vietnamese coffee:
- Cà Phê Sữa Đá – Iced Coffee with condensed milk
- Cà Phê Đen Đá – Iced Black Coffee with sugar
- Cà Phê Đen Không Đường – Iced Black Coffee without sugar
- Cà Phê Sữa Nóng – Hot Coffee with Condensed Milk
- Cà Phê Nóng – Hot Black Coffee with sugar
- Cà Phê Đa Không Đường – Hot Black Coffee without sugar
When considering Hoi An restaurant, you’ll find that pausing at a riverside café to watch the coffee slowly drip into a glass of condensed milk is the ultimate way to embrace the town’s relaxed pace. It is the perfect, high-energy companion to a day of culinary exploration.
Where to have Coffee in Hoi An
- Hoi An Roastery: 84 Tran Van Cao – this is just one of the locations, there are plenty of them in the old town
- The Chef Restaurant & Cafe: 166 Tran Phu, Minh An – head to the rooftop for sunset!
Nước Mót Hội An (Mot water)
Rounding out the essential Hoi An food and drink experience is Nước Mót, a refreshing herbal tea that has become a viral sensation. Created by a young local entrepreneur, this drink is a fragrant blend of ginger, lemongrass, cinnamon, and lemon, enriched with traditional medicinal herbs like licorice and monk fruit. It’s as much a health tonic as it is a thirst-quencher, perfect for the tropical climate.
When deciding what to eat in Hoi An, a stop at the Mot shop is mandatory for the “vibes” alone. Served in a paper cup and elegantly garnished with a fresh lotus petal and a lime leaf, it is arguably the most photographed part of the cuisine of Hoi An. Whether you enjoy it iced to beat the afternoon heat or warm during a rainy evening, it’s the perfect companion for a stroll through the Ancient Town’s historic alleys.
Where to have Nuoc Mot in Hoi An? Mót: 150 Tran Phu, Cam Chau
Bánh Đập Hến Xào (Smashed Rice Paper with Stir-fried Clams)
Often called the “musical” dish of the region, Bánh Đập Hến Xào (Smashed Rice Paper with Stir-fried Clams) is a sensory highlight of the cuisine of Hoi An. This interactive meal requires you to “smash” a crispy rice cracker against a soft, steamed rice sheet before using the fragments to scoop up tiny, flavorful clams sautéed with lemongrass, chili, and peanuts.
When exploring where to eat in Hoi An, crossing the bridge to the Cẩm Nam area is essential for the most authentic version of this dish. The combination of the crunchy cracker and the savory, aromatic clams makes it a standout example of rustic and delicious Hoi An food.
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Recommend: Bánh Đập Có Ngay
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Address: 76 Nguyen Tri Phuong, Cam Nam Ward, Hoi An.
Bánh Bèo (Water Fern Cakes)
A classic “soul food” of the cuisine of Hoi An, Bánh Bèo (Water Fern Cakes) offers a perfect blend of textures in every bite. These delicate, savory steamed rice cakes are served in tiny individual ceramic saucers, topped with a rich, orange-hued gravy made from minced shrimp and pork.
What truly defines this Hoi An food favorite is the garnish: a sprinkle of fried shallots and the indispensable tóp mỡ—crispy, golden pork fat cracklings that add a satisfying crunch. When choosing what to eat in Hoi An for an authentic afternoon snack, look for local vendors where you can enjoy several saucers at once using a traditional small bamboo paddle.
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Recommend: Bánh Bèo Cô Tại (a local favorite)
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Address: 04 Ngo Gia Tu Street, Hoi An.
Xí Mà Phủ (Black Sesame Sweet Soup)
A truly soulful finish to any culinary tour, Chí Mà Phù (Black Sesame Sweet Soup) is a unique legacy of Fujian traders and a staple in the cuisine of Hoi An. This jet-black dessert is thick, warm, and comforting, crafted from a blend of black sesame, coconut, and a secret mix of medicinal herbs—including pennywort—that give it a subtle, earthy undertone.
While its appearance is striking, the taste is balanced and surprisingly light. In the landscape of Hoi An food, this dish is synonymous with one person: the late Mr. Thiều, whose family has guarded the recipe for generations. For travelers wondering what to eat in Hoi An for this specific treat, you’ll find his descendants still serving the authentic version from a small stall on Phan Chu Trinh Street.
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Recommend: Xí Mà Ông Già (The 100-year-old family recipe)
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Address: 02 Nguyen Truong To Street (Opposite the Hoi An Church).
Bánh Canh Bà Quýt (Thick Noodle Soup)
Often referred to as the “Vietnamese Udon,” Bánh Canh is a comforting departure from the delicate noodles of Phở. In the cuisine of Hoi An, this dish is prized for its thick, chewy noodles made from a blend of tapioca and rice flour, swimming in a broth that is noticeably richer and more viscous than typical noodle soups.
For those exploring Hoi An restaurant, the “legendary stall” usually refers to the family-run spots tucked away in the morning markets or evening street corners. Whether topped with tender pork hock, fresh local crab, or springy fish cakes, this hearty bowl is a cornerstone of Hoi An food—especially popular during the cooler mornings or rainy evenings.
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Recommend: Bánh Canh Bà Quýt
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Address: 67 Phan Chau Trinh Street, Hoi An.
Chè Bắp (Corn Sweet Soup)
Step some thought The famous dessert you are referring to is known as Chè Bắp (Corn Sweet Soup). In Hội An, the most authentic version is made specifically with corn from Cẩm Nam Island, where the rich alluvial soil from the Thu Bồn River produces corn that is exceptionally sweet and tender.
The dish is traditionally made by thinly shaving the corn kernels, cooking them with sticky rice and sugar until thick and translucent, and then serving it with a generous topping of rich coconut milk. It can be enjoyed warm in the rainy season or cold with ice during the summer.
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Recommend: Chè Bắp Cô Nga – Hoi An restaurant
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Address: 45 Le Loi Street, Hoi An.
Bánh Tổ (Hoi An “Bird’s Nest” Cake)
That “Tet” classic you’re describing is Bánh Tổ, a heritage dessert deeply rooted in the history of the Quảng Nam region. Originally brought over by Chinese immigrants centuries ago, it has become a symbolic dish in the cuisine of Hoi An.
Made from simple but high-quality ingredients—glutinous rice flour, dark ginger, and sugar—the cake is steamed in a bamboo basket lined with banana leaves. While it is naturally soft and dense, the locals’ favorite way to eat it is exactly as you mentioned: sliced into thin pieces and pan-fried. This transforms the cake into a textural masterpiece—crispy and caramelized on the outside while remaining gooey and aromatic on the inside.
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Recommend: Hoi An Central Market (Look for vendors in the dessert section).
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Address: Corner of Tran Phu and Nguyen Hue Streets.
Grilled Lobster with Garlic Butter (Cua Dai Style)
Since Hoi An is a coastal town, fresh seafood is a must. While An Bang is trendy, Cua Dai beach still holds some of the best traditional seafood spots where you can eat with your toes in the sand.
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Recommend: Hơn Seafood – Hoi An restaurant
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Address: 09 Lac Long Quan Street, Cua Dai Beach.
Discover the Culinary Delights of Hoi An with Vietnam Tour 247!
Enter a realm where cuisine, culture, and history all coexist together. We at Vietnam Tour 247 cordially welcome you to join us on an incredible culinary excursion through Hoi An, where each meal serves as a voyage and each mouthful reveals a tale.
We at Vietnam Tour 247 offer experiences rather than just travel. Come discover Hoi An’s fascinating history, lively culture, and, of course, its amazing food in Hoi An with us. Take each mouthwatering bite as your taste sensations lead you through the historic alleyways of Hoi An. Discover why Hoi An is a genuine gastronomic heaven by scheduling your tour now!
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