Vietnam

What to eat in Hoi An

Hoi An’s culinary scene blends Central Vietnamese flavors with historic Chinese and Japanese influences. Street stalls, market stalls and modest eateries serve fresh, aromatic dishes at low cost.

Local dishes to try

Cao Lầu

Rice noodles soaked in lye, topped with pork, herbs and crispy rice crackers, eaten for lunch in the Old Town.

Bánh Xèo

Large fried rice crepe filled with shrimp, pork and bean sprouts, folded and dipped in nuoc cham, popular at breakfast or snack time.

Mì Quảng

Wide rice noodles in a light turmeric broth with shrimp, pork, peanuts and herbs, served at midday in local markets.

White Rose (Bánh Vạc)

Delicate translucent dumplings filled with shrimp, steamed and served with fish sauce, found in night market stalls.

Bánh Bao

Fluffy steamed bun with seasoned pork and mushroom, sold by street vendors for a quick snack.

Hoành Thánh

Pork or shrimp wontons in clear broth or deep‑fried, enjoyed as a light meal or side dish.

Coconut coffee

Strong Vietnamese coffee mixed with coconut milk, common at cafés throughout the day.

Beer

Cold draft beer (e.g., 333) served at riverside bars, especially in the evening.

Where to eat

1
Tran Phu Street
Bustling pedestrian lane lined with stalls selling Cao Lầu, Bánh Xèo and fresh fruit smoothies.
2
Hoi An Central Market
Large indoor market where you can sample Mì Quảng, grilled fish and local sweets.
3
Night Market on Nguyen Hoang Street
Evening market offering White Rose dumplings, fried spring rolls and street‑grilled skewers.