What are the best food in Hoi An?
Hoi An is not only famous for its lanterns and charming old streets, but it is also one of the best culinary destinations in Vietnam. The unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese and Japanese influences has created a truly unforgettable culinary culture. From street stalls to beachside restaurants, every corner of Hoi An offers delicious dishes to discover.
If you are wondering what to eat in Hoi An, here’s a guide to the best food that captures the true flavor of this charming town.
White Rose Dumplings
Known locally as Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc, White Rose Dumplings are one of Hoi An’s most iconic dishes. These rose-shaped dumplings are handmade from transparent rice flour, filled with minced pork or shrimp. The dumplings are steamed thoroughly, topped with crispy fried onions and served with a light sweet and sour dipping sauce.
This dish is said to have originated from a Hoi An family that has kept the recipe a secret for generations.
Crispy Wonton with Pork
If you crave something crispy and flavorful, don’t miss the Crispy Wonton with Pork. The golden fried wonton skin is topped with a colorful mix of stir-fried pork, shrimp, onions and tomatoes. The dish is crispy and sour, perfect to enjoy with a cold beer.
Try this popular dish at Passion Restaurant & Bar, where guests can enjoy authentic Hoi An cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
📍 Visit Passion Restaurant & Bar
Wonton Soup with Pork
A lighter and more refined version of Crispy Wonton, Wonton Soup is warm and simple. The broth is clear and rich with dumplings filled with pork, garlic and green onions. It is a great choice for rainy days when you want to enjoy a hot dish.
Hoi An Fried Spring Rolls
Hoi An Fried Spring Rolls are the local version of Vietnamese fried spring rolls. Made with minced pork, mushrooms and vegetables, wrapped in rice paper, these spring rolls are deep-fried until golden brown. Best enjoyed with a dip in fish sauce, garlic, chili and lime. The contrast between the crispy skin and the rich filling makes this dish a must-try for any visitor.
There are many types of spring rolls such as seafood spring rolls, fresh shrimp spring rolls, vegetarian spring rolls.
📍Visit here to learn more about spring rolls
Hoi An Rice Pancake (Bánh Xèo)
Banh Xeo is a Vietnamese pancake made from rice flour and turmeric, filled with pork, shrimp and bean sprouts. The edges are crispy but the inside is still soft and sweet. Served with fresh herbs and rice paper, dipped in fish sauce, you will understand why this is one of the best food in Hoi An.
During the rainy season, Vietnamese families often make banh xeo themselves and gather together to enjoy it, it is really cozy.
Cao Lau
Cao Lau is a signature dish of Hoi An ancient town, bearing the mark of cultural exchange between Vietnam, Japan and China. This dish is famous not only for its special flavor but also for its story and elaborate preparation.
The golden noodles have a characteristic chewy and crispy texture, due to the rice flour being soaked in ash water from cajuput trees. The combination of flavorful char siu, fresh raw vegetables, crispy bean sprouts and thick, rich broth creates the unique flavor of the dish.
Where to Try the Best Food in Hoi An
Many restaurants in Hoi An serve these dishes, but for a cozy local dining experience and convenient access to An Bang Beach, visit Passion Restaurant & Bar, a popular spot for foreign visitors. Here, you can enjoy traditional dishes made from local ingredients, along with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
📍Passion Restaurant & Bar: 159 Nguyen Phan Vinh, Hoi An
If you want to learn more about Hoi An’s culinary history, visit Vietnam Travel — reliable sources of information for food lovers exploring Vietnam.
