10 Must-Try Foods in Hoi An (And Exactly Where to Find them)

Astrid Freja

2025-05-15

Having called Vietnam home for eight enriching years, I've gathered countless authentic stories that I'm now eager to share with you. As a VietAdvisor contributor, my passion lies in the freedom of discovery, allowing me to deeply immerse myself in Vietnam's rich, diverse cultures from north to south. Let my experiences help you forge a deeper connection with this extraordinary country.

Hoi An hits you with the scent of grilling meat, fresh basil, and river air the moment you step into its ancient streets. This UNESCO-listed town isn’t just about glowing lanterns or crumbling shophouses—it’s a food haven where every stall and restaurant serves must-try foods in Hoi An.

This detail guide breaks down the 10 must-try foods in Hoi An, with exact spots to eat, price ranges, and tips to avoid tourist traps. Whether you’re navigating the chaos of a market tour or sipping coffee by the Thu Bon River, you’ll uncover why Hoi An’s Vietnamese cuisine is a global obsession. Want to level up your food game? A guided tour or cooking class will connect you with local chefs and hidden gems. Let’s eat our way through Hoi An.

Quick Guide: Hoi An’s Must-Try Foods

For travelers short on time, here’s a no-fluff rundown of the must-try foods in Hoi An:

• Top 10 Foods:
• Cao Lau: Chewy noodles with pork and herbs at Thanh Cao Lau (26 Thai Phien St., ~$2).
• Banh Mi: Iconic sandwiches at Madam Khanh (115 Tran Cao Van St., ~$1.50).
• White Rose Dumplings: Shrimp-filled dumplings at White Rose Restaurant (533 Hai Ba Trung St., ~$3).
• Com Ga: Chicken rice at Com Ga Ba Buoi (22 Phan Chau Trinh St., ~$2).
• Mi Quang: Turmeric noodles at Mi Quang Ong Hai (6A Truong Minh Luong St., ~$2).
• Banh Xeo: Crispy pancakes at Bale Well (45/51 Tran Cao Van St., ~$3).
• Spring Rolls: Fresh rolls at Morning Glory (106 Nguyen Thai Hoc St., ~$3).
• Chao: Rice porridge at Hoi An Central Market stalls (~$1).
• Banh Bao Banh Vac: Steamed buns at White Rose Restaurant (~$3).
• Che Bap: Corn pudding from Nguyen Hue St. vendors (~$0.50).
• How to Explore: Dive into Hoi An street food at markets or join a guided food tour for insider picks.
• Beyond Food: Visit the Japanese Bridge, An Bang Beach, or book a cultural tour to explore more.

Why Hoi An’s Food Scene Stands Out

Hoi An’s food is a time machine. Back in the 1500s, this port town buzzed with Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese traders, each adding their own spices and techniques to the local pot. The result is a cuisine unlike anywhere else in Vietnam—think cao lau noodles made with ancient well water or white rose dumplings crafted from secret family recipes. This fusion, paired with ingredients so fresh they were picked that morning, makes must-try foods in Hoi An a bucket-list experience.

Step into Hoi An Central Market at 6 AM, and you’ll see the magic unfold: vendors chopping herbs, scaling fish, and frying banh xeo with a rhythm that’s pure Hoi An. It’s loud, it’s crowded, and it’s where Hoi An street food thrives. Local legends like Ms. Vy, who runs Morning Glory and mentors chefs worldwide, say Hoi An’s food shines because it’s both traditional and fearless—old recipes meet bold tweaks.

For first-time visitors, the key to unlocking Hoi An’s best restaurants in Hoi An is simple: follow the locals. A packed stall with aunties chatting over mi quang is your sign of quality. Feeling lost? A guided food tour takes you straight to the good stuff, with guides who know every vendor’s backstory. Ready for the dishes that define Hoi An? Here’s the lineup.

The 10 Must-Try Foods in Hoi An

1. Cao Lau

What’s It Like? Cao lau is Hoi An’s pride and joy: thick, chewy rice noodles in a smoky-sweet broth, topped with thin slices of soy-marinated pork, fresh herbs (mint, basil, lettuce), bean sprouts, and crispy rice crackers. The broth has a subtle star anise warmth, and the noodles are uniquely bouncy, thanks to water from ancient Cham wells and ash from local trees. It’s a savory, crunchy, herbaceous bowl that’s a must-try food in Hoi An.

Why It Matters: Cao lau is Hoi An’s culinary signature, rooted in its 16th-century trading port days. Some link its noodles to Japanese soba, others to Chinese influences, but it’s unmistakably local—authentic cao lau is rare outside Hoi An. It’s a dish that captures the town’s multicultural soul.

Where to Try It:

• Thanh Cao Lau (26 Thai Phien St., 10 AM–8 PM, ~50,000 VND/$2): A family-run stall where locals pack tiny tables. The pork is tender, the broth perfectly balanced, and the vibe is classic Hoi An—plastic stools, quick service, and chatter. Get there before noon to dodge the lunch crowd.
• Morning Glory Restaurant (106 Nguyen Thai Hoc St., 11 AM–10 PM, ~80,000 VND/$3.50): Run by Ms. Vy, a Hoi An food icon, this spot serves polished cao lau with river views. It’s great for travelers wanting a comfy seat and an English menu.

Pro Tip: Add a dab of chili paste for a spicy kick—go slow, it’s strong. Vegetarians can ask for tofu at Morning Glory, but Thanh Cao Lau is pork-focused, so check first. To see where the herbs come from, consider a market tour. If you want to make cao lau yourself, a cooking class is a fun way to learn. Bring a phrasebook to Thanh Cao Lau—“them toi” means “add garlic” for extra zing.

Details: Thanh Cao Lau is cash-only (or banking), and seats about 10–12. Morning Glory takes cards, has Wi-Fi, and offers indoor/outdoor seating. Both are a 5-minute walk from the Japanese Bridge. Expect a short wait at peak lunch hours (12–1 PM).

2. Banh Mi

What’s It Like? A banh mi is a Vietnamese masterpiece: a crusty, airy baguette smeared with pate, stuffed with pickled carrots, daikon, cucumber, chili, coriander, and your choice of grilled pork, chicken, egg, or tofu. Hoi An’s banh mi shines with fresh-baked bread and local herbs like rau ram (Vietnamese coriander). It’s crunchy, tangy, and spicy—a must-try food in Hoi An you’ll crave again.

Why It Matters: Born from French colonial roots, banh mi has become a global star. Hoi An’s take uses regional sauces and extra greens, elevating it to something special.

Where to Try It:

• Madam Khanh – The Banh Mi Queen (115 Tran Cao Van St., 7 AM–7 PM, ~35,000 VND/$1.50): Madam Khanh’s sandwiches are legendary, especially the BBQ pork or “special” with all the fillings. Her tiny shop is always buzzing with locals and tourists. Expect a 5–10 minute wait at lunch.
• Banh Mi Phuong (2B Phan Chau Trinh St., 6:30 AM–9 PM, ~40,000 VND/$1.70): Loved by Anthony Bourdain, Phuong offers 10+ fillings, from pate-liver to grilled chicken. The bread is extra crispy, and portions are generous.

Pro Tip: Go for the “special” to try every filling, and ask for extra chili if you like heat. Both spots have veggie options—Phuong’s tofu banh mi is a hit. Gluten-free folks, the baguette’s a no-go. Stroll through Hoi An Central Market after eating to see the pickle vendors. A cooking class can teach you banh mi basics.

Details: Both are cash-only and near Hoi An’s Ancient Town. Madam Khanh has 6–8 stools; Phuong has more seating but fills fast. Hit them early (7–9 AM) for the freshest bread. If lines are long, grab a banh mi to-go and eat by the Thu Bon River.

3. White Rose Dumplings

What’s It Like? White rose dumplings are Hoi An’s edible art: delicate, flower-shaped rice flour wrappers filled with minced shrimp or pork, steamed until glossy, then drizzled with sweet chili sauce and sprinkled with fried shallots. They’re light, savory, and vanish in a bite or two. A plate of 8–10 is great for sharing.

Why It Matters: A Hoi An exclusive, these dumplings were created by the Tran family and remain a closely guarded recipe. They’re a symbol of the town’s culinary craft and a must-try food in Hoi An.

Where to Try It:

• White Rose Restaurant (533 Hai Ba Trung St., 8 AM–9 PM, ~70,000 VND/$3): The Tran family’s original spot, where dumplings are made fresh daily. The cozy shophouse setting feels timeless, and the staff are welcoming. Portions are small, so order extra if you’re hungry.
• Hoi An Central Market (Tran Phu St., 6 AM–6 PM, ~50,000 VND/$2): Some food-section stalls sell white rose dumplings, often supplied by the Tran family. Quality varies, but the price is budget-friendly. Look for “banh bao banh vac” signs.

Pro Tip: Pair with a cold Larue beer or iced tea to balance the richness. Gluten-free travelers, the rice flour wrappers are safe, but check the dipping sauce for soy. Vegetarians, confirm fillings—shrimp is standard. A market tour can show you dumpling vendors in action.

Details: White Rose accepts cards and has Wi-Fi; market stalls are cash-only with no seating. Both are a 5–7 minute walk from Hoi An’s riverside. Book a dinner table at White Rose (6–8 PM) to avoid waits.

4. Com Ga (Chicken Rice)

What’s It Like? Com ga is Hoi An’s comfort food: fluffy rice cooked in chicken broth, topped with shredded chicken, pickled onions, cucumber, and a side of chili dipping sauce. Fresh herbs like rau ram (Vietnamese coriander) and a lime squeeze add a zesty lift. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect any time of day.

Why It Matters: Hoi An’s take on Hainanese chicken rice, com ga stands out with bold herbs and a spicy-tangy dip. It’s a local staple and an easy entry to authentic Hoi An dishes #.

Where to Try It:

• Com Ga Ba Buoi (22 Phan Chau Trinh St., 11 AM–10 PM, ~50,000 VND/$2): A no-nonsense spot where the rice is fragrant and the chicken melts in your mouth. The chili sauce has a slow burn—use sparingly. It’s packed with locals at lunch.
• Hoi An Roastery (135 Tran Phu St., 8 AM–10 PM, ~70,000 VND/$3): A modern cafe with a great com ga plate, plus a side salad and killer coffee. The AC is a bonus on hot days.

Pro Tip: Drizzle lime over the rice and mix in the chili sauce for full flavor. Vegetarians, Roastery offers tofu or egg versions; Ba Buoi is meat-heavy, so check ahead. Visit Hoi An Central Market to see the rice vendors. A cooking class often covers com ga.

Details: Ba Buoi is cash-only with 15–20 seats; Roastery takes cards, has Wi-Fi, and seats 30+. Both are near Hoi An’s Ancient Town. Ba Buoi gets busy at 12–1 PM—aim for 11 AM or 2 PM.
Heading to Da Nang? Check out Da Nang’s tours and things to do

5. Mi Quang

What’s It Like? Mi quang is a vibrant bowl of yellow rice noodles (colored by turmeric) in a shallow, porky broth, topped with shrimp, sliced pork, crushed peanuts, herbs (basil, mint, lettuce), bean sprouts, and a sesame rice cracker. The broth is rich yet light, with a tangy lime kick. It’s bold, fresh, and a Central Vietnam gem.

Why It Matters: Mi quang is Quang Nam province’s pride, and Hoi An serves it with extra flair. It’s a must-try food in Hoi An that balances spicy, sour, sweet, and crunchy.

Where to Try It:

• Mi Quang Ong Hai (6A Truong Minh Luong St., 7 AM–9 PM, ~50,000 VND/$2): A local haunt with a killer broth and chewy noodles. The tiny space seats 10–12 and fills up for breakfast and dinner.
• Mango Mango (45 Nguyen Phuc Chu St., 11 AM–10 PM, ~90,000 VND/$4): A fusion spot with a refined mi quang that’s great for first-timers. The setting is sleek, with AC and river vibes.

Pro Tip: Break the rice cracker into the broth for texture, and add a splash of fish sauce (on tables) for depth. Vegan options are rare—call ahead. A guided food tour can take you to top mi quang spots.

Details: Ong Hai is cash-only, Wi-Fi, and seating is tight. Mango Mango takes cards, has Wi-Fi, and seats 40+. Both are near Hoi An’s riverside. Ong Hai is busiest at 7–9 AM and 6–8 PM—arrive early.

6. Banh Xeo

What’s It Like? Banh xeo, or “sizzling cake,” is a crispy rice flour pancake filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and scallions, served with greens (lettuce, mint, mustard greens) and a nutty peanut dipping sauce. Tear off a piece, wrap it in rice paper or lettuce, add herbs, and dip. It’s crunchy, savory, and fun to eat.

Why It Matters: Banh xeo is a Vietnamese classic, but Hoi An’s smaller, crispier version is ideal for sharing. The hands-on wrapping makes it a social dish and a must-try food in Hoi An.

Where to Try It:

• Bale Well (45/51 Tran Cao Van St., 10 AM–9 PM, ~70,000 VND/$3): A lively spot where you roll your own wraps at communal tables. The pancakes are golden, and the staff might show you the wrapping trick. It’s a Hoi An must.

Pro Tip: Use mustard greens for a peppery wrap, and don’t hold back on the peanut sauce. Gluten-free (rice flour base), but check sauce for soy. A cooking class can teach you to make banh xeo like a pro.

Details: Bale Well is cash-only, seats 20–30, and gets packed at 6–8 PM, near Hoi An’s Ancient Town. Visit Bale Well with friends for the full vibe.
Love pancakes? Read about Vietnam’s savory crepes

7. Hoi An Spring Rolls

What’s It Like? Fresh spring rolls (goi cuon) are rice paper rolls packed with shrimp, pork, lettuce, mint, basil, chives, and rice noodles, served with a nutty fish sauce dip with garlic and chili. They’re light, crunchy, and herb-forward—a great intro to Vietnamese cuisine.

Why It Matters: Spring rolls are a Vietnamese staple, but Hoi An’s fresh greens and balanced flavors make them special. They’re a healthy, shareable snack.

Where to Try It:

• Morning Glory Restaurant (106 Nguyen Thai Hoc St., 11 AM–10 PM, ~70,000 VND/$3): Ms. Vy’s spot serves perfect spring rolls in a riverside setting. The herbs are vibrant, and the dip is spot-on.
• Nguyen Hue St. Stalls (evenings, 5–9 PM, ~40,000 VND/$1.70): Vendors sell budget rolls under lanterns. Look for “goi cuon” signs and pick a busy stall.

Pro Tip: Ask for extra mint or basil, and request peanuts in the dip if not included. Vegetarians, swap shrimp/pork for tofu. Visit Hoi An’s riverside for a scenic meal.

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Details: Morning Glory takes cards, has Wi-Fi, and seats 50+. Stalls are cash-only, no seating—eat on the go. Both are near Hoi An’s restaurants. Stalls peak at 6–8 PM; Morning Glory is busy at lunch.

8. Chao (Rice Porridge)

What’s It Like? Chao is Vietnam’s congee: creamy rice porridge with chicken, shrimp, or herbs, topped with scallions, pepper, and sometimes fried dough sticks (quay). Hoi An’s versions use local seafood or greens, making it a cozy, budget-friendly choice for breakfast or late nights.

Why It Matters: Chao is comfort food at its finest, and Hoi An’s fresh ingredients add depth. It’s a must-try food in Hoi An for its simplicity.

Where to Try It:

• Hoi An Central Market (Tran Quy Cap St., 6 AM–6 PM, ~25,000 VND/$1): Find “Chao Ga” (chicken) or “Chao Tom” (shrimp) at food stalls. Choose a busy one for freshness. It’s chaotic and authentic.
• Vy’s Market (3 Nguyen Hoang St., 10 AM–9 PM, ~60,000 VND/$2.50): A modern food hall with vegan and seafood chao. The setting is great for variety.

Pro Tip: Add chili oil or fish sauce for flavor. Gluten-free and vegan-friendly at Vy’s; market stalls may use meat broth, so ask. A market tour # hits chao spots.

Details: Market stalls are cash-only, no seating. Vy’s takes cards, has Wi-Fi, and seats 40+. Both are near Hoi An’s markets [internal link]. Market is busiest at 6–9 AM.
Love markets? Check out our Hoi An market guide [internal link].

9. Banh Bao Banh Vac

What’s It Like? Banh bao banh vac are steamed rice flour buns filled with minced shrimp or pork, served with a sweet-sour fish sauce dip. They’re soft, chewy, and topped with fried shallots. A plate of 6–8 buns is great for sharing.

Why It Matters: A Hoi An original by the Tran family, these buns are a rare treat, showcasing the town’s delicate style.

Where to Try It:

• White Rose Restaurant (533 Hai Ba Trung St., 8 AM–9 PM, ~70,000 VND/$3): The Tran family’s spot serves buns and dumplings on a combo plate. The dip is tangy and perfect.
• Hoi An Central Market (Back Dang, 6 AM–6 PM, ~50,000 VND/$2): Some stalls sell these buns, often Tran-supplied. Ask locals for the best vendor.

Pro Tip: Eat hot for the best texture. Gluten-free (rice flour), but check dip for soy. Vegetarians, confirm fillings. A cooking class may cover a similar recipe.

Details: White Rose takes cards, has Wi-Fi, and seats 20–25. Market stalls are cash-only, no seating. Both are near Hoi An’s riverside. Book White Rose for dinner (6–8 PM).

10. Che Bap (Corn Pudding)

What’s It Like? Che bap is a sweet, creamy dessert of corn kernels in coconut milk, served warm or chilled with sesame seeds. It’s light, mildly sweet, and refreshing—a perfect street snack or meal-ender.

Why It Matters: Che is Vietnam’s dessert soup, and Hoi An’s corn version is a local favorite—cheap and cheerful. It’s a sweet slice of Hoi An street food culture.

Where to Try It:

• Nguyen Hue St. Vendors (evenings, 5–9 PM, ~15,000 VND/$0.50): Carts with “Che Bap” signs serve it in cups or bowls. Pick a crowded one for freshness.
• Hoi An Roastery (135 Tran Phu St., 8 AM–10 PM, ~40,000 VND/$1.70): A cafe with chilled che bap and great coffee. Ideal for hot days.

Pro Tip: Try chilled in summer or warm in cooler months. Vegan-friendly, but check for condensed milk. Add a pinch of salt (if offered) to boost sweetness.

Details: Vendors are cash-only, no seating. Roastery takes cards, has Wi-Fi, and seats 20+. Both are near Hoi An’s Ancient Town. Vendors peak at 6–8 PM.

How to Explore Hoi An’s Food Scene Like a Local

Hoi An’s street food scene is a sensory overload—steaming pots, sizzling pans, and vendors shouting orders. To eat like a local, trust the crowd. A stall packed with aunties and motorbike drivers at 7 AM is your jackpot for authentic Hoi An dishes. Don’t stress about language barriers—point at what looks good, smile, and you’ll get a plate.

Timing is everything. Hit Hoi An Central Market at dawn (6–9 AM) for breakfast staples like chao or banh mi. Lunch (11 AM–2 PM) is prime for restaurants like Morning Glory, when the tourist rush eases. Dinner (6–9 PM) brings out Hoi An street food stalls along Nguyen Hue St. Got dietary needs? Look for “chay” (vegetarian) signs—many spots offer tofu or veggie versions. Gluten-free travelers, stick to rice-based dishes like com ga or mi quang, but ask about sauces (soy can sneak in).

The ultimate hack? Join a vespa food tour. You’ll hit hidden gems, learn dish histories, and skip the guesswork. Guides handle translations and know which stalls are legit. Prefer solo adventures? Grab a map, carry small VND notes (20,000–50,000), and wander. For a hands-on experience, a cooking class teaches you to make cao lau or banh xeo like a pro. Bring a reusable water bottle and maybe some wet wipes—street eating can get messy.

Pairing Your Culinary Adventure with Hoi An’s Charm

Hoi An’s must-try foods in Hoi An are just the appetizer. After a plate of banh xeo, walk to the Japanese Bridge, a 400-year-old icon that glows under lanterns at night. Or head to An Bang Beach, 10 minutes away, for a swim and seafood shacks serving grilled fish. For culture, try a lantern-making workshop or get a custom outfit tailored—Hoi An’s famous for its speedy seamstresses. Book a cultural tour to combine these with food stops.

Got a few days? Take a day trip to Da Nang (30 minutes) for modern cafes and the Marble Mountains, or visit Hue (2.5 hours) for imperial dishes like banh khoai. Both are easy add-ons via a guided tour. Back in Hoi An, stay somewhere cozy—book a Hoi An hotel or homestay with river views or a pool to unwind after eating your way through town.

Planning a bigger adventure? See our Vietnam travel itinerary

Conclusion

Hoi An’s must-try foods in Hoi An are more than just meals—they’re a deep dive into Vietnam’s culture, history, and flavors. From the smoky broth of cao lau to the sweet simplicity of che bap, every dish is a story. Whether you’re weaving through Hoi An Central Market or dining at one of the best restaurants in Hoi An, this town delivers a food scene that’s as vibrant as its lanterns.

Grab some cash, follow the locals, and dive into Hoi An street food. Better yet, book a guided food tour or cooking class to make it unforgettable. Hoi An’s flavors are calling—go answer. Comment below to tell us what you feel.