Hoi An Food Guide: Traditional foods in Hoi An
Hoi An is a charming city located on the central coast of Vietnam. Known for its well-preserved Ancient Town, Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage site and has become a popular tourist destination. The city is famous for its unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architecture, with its narrow streets lined with traditional houses, temples, and pagodas. Hoi An is also known for its lanterns, which illuminate the city at night and create a magical atmosphere.
What to eat in Hoi An, Vietnam
This is a list of the must have dishes in Hoi An. Ranked on best food score.
Cao lau
Cao lau is a unique and delicious noodle dish that is synonymous with Hoi An. The noodles are made from local rice and water from a special well in Hoi An, giving them a distinct texture and flavor. The dish is then topped with slices of pork, crunchy croutons, fresh herbs, and a savory broth. Cao lau is a must-try for any visitor to Hoi An, as it perfectly captures the flavors and culinary traditions of the region.
Com ga
Com ga, or Hoi An chicken rice, is a simple yet flavorful dish that is loved by locals and visitors alike. The dish consists of tender chicken served on a bed of fragrant rice. The rice is cooked in chicken broth and seasoned with turmeric, giving it a yellow hue and a distinct flavor. Com ga is typically served with a side of pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and a flavorful dipping sauce. This dish is a staple in Hoi An and showcases the simplicity and beauty of Vietnamese cuisine.
Banh xeo
Banh xeo, also known as Vietnamese sizzling crepes, is a popular street food in Hoi An. These crispy pancakes are made from a rice flour batter, mixed with turmeric for a vibrant yellow color. They are filled with a variety of ingredients, such as shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and herbs. Banh xeo is typically served with fresh lettuce leaves and a dipping sauce. The combination of the crispy exterior, savory filling, and refreshing herbs makes banh xeo a delightful and satisfying dish that should not be missed during your visit to Hoi An.
Banh beo
Banh beo is a traditional Vietnamese dish that consists of steamed rice cakes topped with various ingredients. In Hoi An, banh beo typically comes in small saucer-like dishes, with each saucer containing a single rice cake. The rice cakes are topped with a mixture of ground shrimp, crispy pork rinds, and green onions. Banh beo is typically served with a savory dipping sauce, and the combination of flavors and textures creates a delightful culinary experience. If you're looking to try something unique and flavorsome in Hoi An, banh beo is a great choice.
Banh mi
Banh mi is a Vietnamese sandwich that has gained international fame, and Hoi An is known for its own unique twist on this iconic dish. The Banh mi in Hoi An is typically made with a crusty baguette, stuffed with various fillings such as grilled meat, pate, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. The combination of flavors and textures creates a truly satisfying and delicious sandwich experience. Whether you're grabbing a Banh mi as a quick snack or sitting down for a full meal, you won't be disappointed with Hoi An's take on this classic Vietnamese dish.
White rose dumplings
White rose dumplings are a delicate and mouth-watering specialty of Hoi An. The dumplings are made from a translucent rice dough, which is shaped to resemble a white rose. They are filled with a mixture of shrimp and spices, and then steamed to perfection. These dumplings are typically served with a tangy dipping sauce and topped with crispy shallots. White rose dumplings are not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Mi Quang
Mi Quang is a popular noodle dish that originated in the Quang Nam province, which includes Hoi An. This dish is characterized by its vibrant yellow noodles, which are made from rice flour and turmeric. The noodles are topped with a variety of ingredients, such as pork, shrimp, herbs, peanuts, and crunchy rice crackers. Mi Quang is typically served with a small bowl of broth on the side. The combination of flavors and textures in Mi Quang makes it a unique and delicious dish that showcases the culinary traditions of the region.
