Top must-try dishes in Hoi An

Hoi An is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and charming cities in Vietnam. Travelers are captivated not only by its ancient architecture—moss-covered rooftops, narrow alleyways, and delicately carved wooden facades—but also by its magical atmosphere. As night falls, the streets of Hoi An light up with vibrant, colorful lanterns, creating a fairytale-like setting that reflects off the calm waters of the Thu Bon River.

A stroll through Hoi An’s ancient town is like stepping back in time. Visitors are drawn to its peaceful beauty, perfect for snapping Instagram-worthy photos or enjoying a cup of traditional Vietnamese coffee while watching the sunset. But more than that, Hoi An is a food lover’s paradise.

From street food stalls to traditional restaurants, the town is bursting with authentic flavors and iconic dishes that showcase the richness of Central Vietnamese cuisine.

Ready to explore? Below is a list of must-try dishes that will take your culinary experience in Hoi An to the next level!

1. Cao Lau – The Signature Noodle Dish of Hoi An

Cao Lau is one of the most iconic and must-try dishes when visiting Hoi An Ancient Town. Unlike any other Vietnamese noodle dish, Cao Lau is unique in both flavor and preparation, making it a true culinary treasure of Central Vietnam.

What makes Cao Lau noodles special is the intricate and traditional cooking process. The rice is first soaked in alkaline water made from wood ash—traditionally sourced from Cham Island—which gives the noodles their distinctive texture: slightly chewy, yet firm and springy. After soaking, the rice is ground using water from the ancient Ba Le well, a centuries-old water source believed to enhance the noodle’s flavor. The noodles are then steamed and dried multiple times to achieve the perfect consistency, even when served the next day.

The dish is typically served with:

• Slices of xa xiu (Chinese-style barbecued pork)

• Crisp bean sprouts

• Fresh local herbs

• Crunchy fried pork skin

• Roasted peanuts

It’s all brought together with a rich savory sauce, and you can add lime, chili jam, or green onions for an extra kick.

Whether you’re exploring a night market or dining at a traditional eatery, Cao Lau is a flavorful journey through the history and soul of Hoi An.

2. Cơm Gà (Hoi An Chicken Rice)

When visiting Hoi An, one dish that should be high on every food lover’s list is Cơm Gà—Hoi An’s famous chicken rice. Known for its vibrant color and fragrant aroma, this simple yet flavorful dish is a local favorite and a must-try for all visitors.

What sets Hoi An chicken rice apart is the bright yellow hue of the rice, which is soaked in turmeric and cooked in rich chicken broth infused with pineapple leaves. Traditionally, the rice is cooked over wood fire, giving it a subtle smoky aroma that enhances the overall taste.

The chicken, once boiled to tender perfection, is shredded and lightly tossed with spices, onions, salt, pepper, lime juice, and aromatic herbs such as laksa leaves or mint. The final dish is beautifully plated with pickled green papaya, fresh coriander, and served with soy sauce and chili paste on the side for a tangy, spicy kick.

Even if you try Cơm Gà Hoi An just once, its distinctive flavor, balance of textures, and aromatic appeal will leave a lasting impression.

3. Bánh Xèo – Crispy Pancake Delight in Hoi An

Bánh Xèo, often referred to as a Vietnamese crispy pancake or sizzling crepe, is a beloved Hoi An street food that doubles as both a snack and an appetizer. This golden, crunchy treat is a perfect example of Vietnam’s rich culinary diversity and local creativity.

The name Bánh Xèo means “sizzling cake,” referencing the sound the batter makes when it hits the hot pan. The batter itself is made from rice flour mixed with turmeric and coconut milk, giving the crepe its signature yellow color and slight sweetness.

Each pancake is stuffed with a savory filling that typically includes:

• Slices of pork belly

• Shrimp

• Crunchy bean sprouts

• Peanuts

• Aromatic mushrooms

The true artistry of Bánh Xèo lies in its preparation—the crepe must be thin, golden, and crispy at the edges, without breaking apart. It’s cooked to perfection so that it’s light, yet holds the hearty filling.

To eat Bánh Xèo Hoi An-style, wrap pieces of the pancake in rice paper along with fresh lettuce, herbs, and then dip into a bowl of sweet, tangy nước chấm (Vietnamese fish sauce). The combination of textures—crispy, soft, fresh—and the burst of flavors is unforgettable.

Locals especially love enjoying Bánh Xèo on rainy or cool days, making it a seasonal favorite in Hoi An, unlike in the north or south of Vietnam where it’s eaten year-round.

If you want to taste the essence of Hoi An cuisine, don’t miss out on Bánh Xèo—best served hot and fresh off the pan!

4. Bánh Mì Phượng – Hoi An’s Legendary Vietnamese Baguette

No trip to Hoi An is complete without tasting a freshly made Bánh Mì Phượng, arguably the most famous Vietnamese baguette in the country—and possibly the world. A favorite of travelers and even international chefs like Anthony Bourdain, Bánh Mì Phượng is a street food legend you simply can’t miss.

For as little as 20,000 VND (under $1), you’ll enjoy a perfectly baked baguette filled to bursting with a delicious mix of savory and fresh ingredients. A typical Phượng bread includes:

• Thin slices of pork or beef

• Fried egg

• Pickled carrot and daikon

• Fresh coriander, cucumber, or sour papaya salad

• Smooth liver pâté

• Ham and butter

• A touch of chili and hot pepper

What truly sets Bánh Mì Phượng apart is the homemade sauce and house-made pâté, which are closely guarded secrets. These signature flavors elevate the sandwich beyond your average street snack, making it an unforgettable part of any Hoi An food tour.

Take one bite of the warm, crispy baguette and you’ll experience the perfect balance of crunchy crust, tender meat, crisp vegetables, and bold, tangy-sweet sauces that burst with umami. It’s not just a sandwich—it’s a culinary experience wrapped in paper and handed to you

5. Bánh Bèo – Hoi An’s Delicate Steamed Rice Cakes

A must-try on any Hoi An food tour, Bánh Bèo is a beloved central Vietnamese specialty known for its light texture and savory toppings. This traditional dish consists of two main components: a soft, steamed rice flour base and flavorful toppings including minced shrimp, pork, crispy shallots, and roasted peanuts.

Each portion is steamed and served in a small ceramic dish, making it as charming in presentation as it is in taste. Before serving, vendors often top the cakes with a dash of green onion oil, chili, and pork cracklings, giving the dish a delicious balance of textures and aromas.

To enjoy Bánh Bèo, simply add a few drops of sweetened fish sauce (nước mắm) to your liking and use a spoon to scoop up the tender rice cake along with the savory toppings. The combination of the silky-soft base with the rich, aromatic fillings creates an irresistibly comforting bite.

Though small in size, these bite-sized delights are big on flavor and offer a perfect snapshot of authentic Hoi An street food culture.