In the heart of Hoi An, where lanterns illuminate the cobblestone streets and enchanting aromas fill the air, the cuisine of Hoi An invites you on an unforgettable sensory journey. What to eat in Hoi An ? This question marks the beginning of a culinary adventure that will take you through the historic alleys and picturesque markets of this enchanting city. Each typical dish of Hoi An is an ode to tradition and creativity, a symphony of flavors that tells the rich and vibrant history of the region.
As you prepare to explore this gastronomic universe, let your curiosity and appetite guide you. Around every corner, a new culinary surprise awaits, promising not only to delight your taste buds but also to captivate your spirit. Welcome to Hoi An, where every meal is a work of art and every cup of coffee is an escape to a world of dreams and joy.
Food & drink in Hoi An

I. What are the delicious specialties of Hoi An ?

What to eat in Hoi An ? The question arises with a special intensity when you discover this cultural gem of Vietnam. Hoi An, with its picturesque streets and colorful lanterns, is a true treasure for food enthusiasts. Here, every street corner exudes enchanting aromas, every market overflows with colors and flavors that captivate the senses. The typical dishes of Hoi An are an ode to Vietnamese culinary tradition, offering an unforgettable taste experience. Each dish is an invitation to delve into the culinary soul of this fascinating city, to discover authentic and refined flavors. Hoi An promises every food lover a rich and memorable gastronomic adventure.

  • Cao Lầu (Pork Rice Noodle) : What to eat in Hoi An ? "Cao lau" is a typical dish of Hoi An that perfectly embodies the culinary soul of this city. This unique dish stands out with its thick noodles, often compared to Japanese udon, served with slices of grilled pork, crunchy soybean sprouts, fresh herbs, and crispy rice croutons. The dish is usually garnished with fresh vegetables like coriander and roasted peanuts. It all comes together with a flavorful yet light broth that infuses each bite with delicious flavors.
What to eat in Hoi An? Cao lau, the pride of Hoi An cuisine

  • Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc (White Rose Dumpling) : to be charmed by "Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc," also known as white rose, a typical dish from Hoi An appreciated for its delicacy and elegance. These white roses are small, translucent rice cakes shaped like flowers, filled with shrimp, mushrooms, and green onions. They are served with a special sauce made from fish, sugar, chili, and garlic. These white roses are unique to Hoi An and are highly appreciated by visitors.
  • Bánh đập, hến xào (Smashing Rice Paper) : What to eat in Hoi An ? Discover minced clams with smashing rice paper, a dish that skillfully combines textures and flavors. Minced clams with smashing rice paper is a Vietnamese snack consisting of two layers of grilled rice paper, pressed together with a layer of soft cake in the middle. This dish is served with crispy clams and vegetables, all drizzled with a special sauce made from fermented soybean paste and fish sauce, offering an explosion of flavor in every bite. The juxtaposition of soft and crunchy textures makes this dish particularly interesting.

What to eat in Hoi An? "Bánh đập hến xào" is a combination of minced clams and smashing rice paper

  • Bánh mì (Vietnamese sandwich) : What to eat in Hoi An ? Don’t miss the famous “bánh mì Phượng,” which has gained international acclaim. This Vietnamese sandwich is made with a crispy baguette filled with various cold cuts, pickled vegetables, fresh coriander, chili peppers, and pâté, all enhanced with a creamy homemade mayonnaise. Every bite of “bánh mì Phượng” is an explosion of flavors and textures, making this sandwich a true culinary icon of Hoi An.
  • Cơm gà (chicken rice): Chicken rice is a typical dish in Hoi An that captivates with its simplicity and sophistication. This delicious dish consists of fragrant rice delicately cooked in a chicken broth enriched with spices, giving the rice a golden hue and irresistible flavor. The chicken, tender and juicy, is carefully poached then shredded, and served on the rice with fresh herbs like coriander and mint, marinated onion slices, and sometimes banana leaves for an authentic presentation. The chicken rice is elevated by a special sauce made from fish sauce, lime juice, chili, and garlic, adding a spicy and flavorful touch. Each bite of this dish offers a perfect balance between the sweetness of the rice, the tenderness of the chicken, and the crunch of the vegetables, making "cơm gà" a true symphony of flavors and an essential culinary experience in Hoi An.

A typical dish from central Vietnam – Cơm gà (chicken rice)

II. Typical drinks in Hoi An

"Chè" in Hoi An

In Hoi An, the iconic dessert known as "chè" comes in many delicious variations. Each bowl of "chè" is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors, combining ingredients such as tapioca pearls, lotus seeds, red beans, and coconut slices. The "chè thập cẩm" is a colorful mix of various ingredients, each adding its own unique note, whether it’s the sweetness of mung beans or the crunch of jelly pieces. Another favorite is "chè đậu xanh," made with sweet mung beans, coconut milk, and tapioca jelly pieces. A perfect combination of textures and flavors! Imagine enjoying a bowl of "chè" under the colorful lanterns of Hoi An—it's an experience not to be missed.
"Nước Mót" - tea of Hoi An
While strolling through the picturesque streets of Hoi An, you’ll immediately notice a beverage called “nước mót,” a typical drink of Hoi An that’s highly appreciated by locals and visitors alike. Served cold in a cup adorned with lotus petals and lime leaves, this drink is not only refreshing but also visually captivating.
"Nước mót" is made with a combination of natural ingredients such as lemon, ginger, honey, cinnamon, and local herbs, offering a delicate and slightly sweet taste with a hint of spices. This drink is renowned for its beneficial properties, aiding digestion and providing a sense of well-being after a day spent exploring the historic town.
What makes “nước mót” even more special is the attention given to its presentation. Each glass is decorated with carefully arranged lotus petals, transforming a simple drink into a true work of art. This attention to detail reflects the aesthetics and refinement for which Hoi An is famous.

III. Where to eat in Hoi An ?

1. Street food restaurant in Hoi An

Hoi An, the hidden gem of Vietnam, is an essential destination for street food lovers. Where to eat in Hoi An ? In the cobbled alleys of this historic city, where colorful lanterns gently sway in the wind. The small stalls overflow with local delights: from crispy “banh mi” with grilled shrimp to fragrant pho and delicious rice pancakes. Here, every bite is an invitation to travel, a harmonious fusion of tradition and modernity.
The vendors, passionate and smiling, welcome you with ancestral recipes passed down from generation to generation. Their secrets ? Fresh herbs, enchanting spices, and unique secrets. No fixed menus or flashy signs, just pure authenticity. Sit on a small plastic chair, observe the bustling life around you and let yourself be swept away by the flavors. Whether you are a foodie or simply curious, Hoi An promises to bring you unforgettable culinary experiences.

Enjoy the street food and vibrant nightlife in Hoi An

2. Typical restaurant experience in Hoi An

In Hoi An, typical restaurants are hidden gems where each dish tells a story of tradition and craftsmanship. Imagine yourself in an enchanting setting, where local flavors are magnified by an ambiance that is both authentic and warm.

Discovering a typical restaurant in Hoi An is like immersing yourself in a world where every bite is an invitation to explore the unique flavors of this historic city, harmoniously blending Asian influences and Vietnamese culinary heritage.

These typical restaurants in Hoi An are not just places to savor delicious dishes; they are also spaces where history and gastronomy converge. The architecture of the restaurants is a subtle blend of tradition and colonial elegance. Imagine strolling through the cobbled streets of this ancient city, discovering buildings with yellow facades adorned with colorful lanterns, where each restaurant is an invitation to dive into history through its ancient wooden walls and carved pillars.

Where to eat in Hoi An ? The best restaurants in Hoi An

To learn more about Hoi An restaurants, please refer to our dedicated article : Top 10 best restaurants in Hoi An Vietnam

IV. Conclusion about food & drink in Hoi An

In conclusion, what to eat in Hoi An ? It’s a gastronomic exploration that promises to delight all the senses. Hoi An cuisine is like picturesque alleys, a harmonious blend of flavors and stories. Each dish tells a tale, and each bite is a journey through time and culinary traditions. So, where to eat in Hoi An ? Let yourself be guided to lively local markets or charming riverfront cafés, where typical Hoi An dishes await you for an unforgettable culinary experience. Come to Hoi An not only for its enchanting landscapes but also for its exquisite cuisine that is sure to captivate your heart and taste buds

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