Hoi An is a charming town in central Vietnam, famous for its ancient streets, vibrant markets, and rich cultural heritage. Among its many treasures, Hoi An’s cuisine stands out as one of the highlights. Its unique dishes, shaped by a blend of local, Chinese, and Japanese influences, make it a must-visit destination for food lovers. In this article, we’ll guide you through the best ways to experience the town’s culinary wonders, from must-try dishes to exciting tours and activities. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable Hoi An Original Food Tour and discover the heart and soul of this foodie paradise.

About Hoi An’s cuisine

As a port city, Hoi An welcomed traders from all over the world for centuries. This unique connection brought influences from China, Japan, and even Europe, which blended with Vietnamese cooking techniques to create something truly special. When you eat in Hoi An, you taste the layers of history in every bite.

What makes Hoi An’s food stand out is its balance. Its dishes often combine fresh herbs, bold spices, and local ingredients like rice noodles and seafood. While central Vietnamese food usually offers a spicy kick, Hoi An’s dishes feel lighter yet still flavorful. It’s gentle, approachable, and comforting, while still being full of surprises.

The beauty of Hoi An’s food is how it stays true to its roots. Recipes are passed down from generation to generation, with locals putting care into every meal they prepare. This is why you’ll find many dishes that are only available here, and even if you do find them elsewhere, they wouldn’t be half as special.

Top 8 dishes to absolutely try in Hoi An

To truly enjoy Hoi An’s cuisine, you need to know what to eat. From simple street snacks to famous signature dishes, the variety is endless. Let’s explore some of the top dishes you should try when you visit Hoi An.

Banh Mi

Hoi An takes the humble banh mi to a whole new level. This Vietnamese sandwich is a perfect blend of crispy baguette, fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and savory fillings like grilled pork, pate, or egg. Banh Mi Phuong is the most famous spot, even loved by celebrity chefs, but Banh Mi Queen Madam Khanh is another must-visit for its homemade recipes passed down through generations. Grab one fresh and enjoy it as a snack while exploring the streets.

Where to try:

Banh Mi Phuong at 2B Phan Chu Trinh Street

Banh Mi Queen Madam Khanh, located at 115 Tran Cao Van Street

Banh Xeo (Savory Pancakes)

Banh Xeo is a crispy rice pancake filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, served with a platter of fresh herbs and a sweet-sour dipping sauce. The name translates to “sizzling cake,” referring to the sound it makes when cooked on a hot pan. You wrap pieces of the pancake in rice paper, add herbs, and dip it in the sauce for an explosion of flavors. Many local eateries and street vendors in Hoi An serve excellent Banh Xeo, especially near the riverside markets.

Where to try: Ba Le Well Restaurant at 45/11 Tran Hung Dao Street

Cao Lau

Cao Lau is Hoi An’s signature noodle dish, steeped in tradition and mystery. The thick, chewy noodles are made with water drawn from an ancient Cham well, giving them their unique texture. It’s topped with slices of pork, crispy croutons, and fresh herbs, then lightly dressed with a savory sauce. This dish is a must-try, as it can only be authentically made in Hoi An. Head to local favorites like Morning Glory or small family-run eateries in the old town.

Where to try:

Thanh Cao Lau at 26 Thai Phien Street

Morning Glory at 106 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street

Mi Quang

Mi Quang is a hearty noodle dish that originated in Quang Nam Province. It features flat rice noodles in a flavorful turmeric-infused broth, often topped with shrimp, pork, quail eggs, peanuts, and fresh greens. The dish is served with a crispy rice cracker on the side for added crunch. It’s a dish full of contrasting textures and flavors, best enjoyed at places like Mi Quang 92, Mi Quang Di Hat, or street food stalls near the central market.

Where to try:

Mi Quang 92 at 112A Tran Cao Van Street

Mi Quang Di Hat at 4 Thai Phien Street.

Banh Vac (White Rose Dumplings)

Banh Vac, or White Rose Dumplings, are delicate steamed dumplings filled with shrimp and wrapped in translucent rice paper. The dumplings are shaped like little roses, giving them their poetic name. A family in Hoi An holds the secret recipe and supplies these dumplings to restaurants all over town. You can taste the best version at the White Rose Restaurant, where they’re served fresh with a tangy dipping sauce.

Where to try: White Rose Restaurant at 533 Hai Ba Trung Street

Com Ga (Chicken Rice)

Hoi An’s version of chicken rice is a simple yet flavorful dish. The rice is cooked in chicken broth with turmeric for a rich yellow color, then topped with shredded chicken, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of soy sauce. It’s a comforting meal that highlights the skill of local cooks in transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Try Com Ga Ba Buoi or Com Ga Phuc for an authentic experience.

Where to try:

Com Ga Ba Buoi at 22 Phan Chu Trinh Street

Com Ga Phuc at 136 Tran Cao Van Street

Bun Thit Nuong (Vermicelli with Grilled Pork)

Though not a local specialty, Bun Thit Nuong is a popular Vietnamese dish that’s worth trying in Hoi An. It features grilled pork served over rice vermicelli noodles, fresh vegetables, and a sweet-sour fish sauce dressing. The dish is light, refreshing, and full of flavor. You can find it at various street vendors or small restaurants throughout town, often served with a side of crispy spring rolls for an extra treat.

Where to try:

Co Thu Hoi An at 83 Ba Trieu Street

Mrs Tam Local Food Restaurant Hoi An at 56 Phan Dinh Phung Street

Tra Mot (Mot Herbal Tea)

Tra Mot is not a dish but a refreshing herbal tea you’ll find in Hoi An’s old town. Served in a small cup with a lotus petal for decoration, it’s made with ingredients like lemongrass, ginger, and lime. The tea is soothing, aromatic, and perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring. Look for the famous Tra Mot stall on Tran Phu Street, where the tea is lovingly prepared in a charming, traditional setup.

Where to try: 150 Tran Phu Street

How to discover Hoi An Original Food Tour scene?

Take part in a Hoi An Cooking class

Joining a Hoi An cooking class is one of the best ways to connect with the local food culture. You’ll not only learn how to prepare iconic dishes like Cao Lau, Banh Xeo, or fresh spring rolls but also understand the stories and techniques behind them.

Cooking classes at local restaurants often include a visit to Hoi An’s bustling markets, where you’ll pick out fresh ingredients and learn about the essential herbs and spices used in Vietnamese cuisine.

For a more intimate experience, you can take a cooking class at a local home. These classes let you step into a traditional Vietnamese kitchen, guided by a local host who shares family recipes passed down through generations. The warmth of their hospitality adds a personal touch that makes the experience unforgettable.

Take part in a Hoi An Original Street Food Tour

A Hoi An street food tour is the perfect way to explore Hoi An’s culinary treasures while soaking in the town’s vibrant atmosphere. Guided by a knowledgeable local, you’ll navigate hidden alleys and bustling streets to uncover the best food stalls and local eateries.

You’ll get to try a variety of dishes, from Banh Mi and Mi Quang to sweet desserts like Che. Along the way, you’ll learn about the origins of these dishes, their preparation, and why they’re beloved by locals.

Hoi An Culinary Day Tour

One of the most engaging ways to experience this is by participating in a Hoi An Original Food Tour, which combines a Hoi An cooking class with a Hoi An street food tour. This itinerary that we’ve put together offers a comprehensive taste of the local gastronomy and provides insights into the cultural significance of each dish.

Morning: Cooking Class at Morning Glory Restaurant

Your day begins with a visit to a bustling local fish market near Hoi An, renowned for its fresh seafood and vibrant atmosphere. Here, you'll observe the daily routines of local vendors and gain an understanding of the essential ingredients that form the backbone of Vietnamese cooking.

Following the market visit, you'll enjoy a delicious bowl of Cao Lau noodles, getting ready for the day ahead! Next, head to the famous Tra Que Herb Village, known for its organic herbs that supply the entire region. Interacting with local farmers, you'll learn about various herbs and their cultivation methods, deepening your appreciation for the freshness that characterizes Vietnamese dishes.

The highlight of the morning is a cooking class at the renowned Morning Glory Restaurant. The session starts with a market tour to familiarize you with Vietnamese ingredients and selection techniques. This is followed by a discussion on the art of Vietnamese gastronomy, focusing on vegetables, herbs, and spices, and their preparation and usage. You'll then get hands-on experience preparing a menu that includes:

• Fresh Spring Rolls with Shrimp
• Green Papaya Salad
• Grilled Tuna in Banana Leaves
• Crispy Pancake

Afternoon: Cyclo Tour and Street Food Exploration

You'll embark on a cyclo tour to Cam Nam Village, providing opportunities to capture photographs of daily activities and scenic views along the Thu Bon River. Cycling through local villages, you'll experience areas untouched by tourism, where friendly locals go about their daily lives.

Return to Hoi An in the evening and have a taste of Hoi An’s cuisine with a delicious dinner at one of the local restaurants, allowing you to taste and understand the unique flavors that define Hoi An's culinary identity.

How to travel to Hoi An

Hoi An is well-connected to major cities like Hanoi, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City, making it easy to reach by air, train, or road. Here’s how you can travel to Hoi An from these locations:

From Hanoi

By Air: The fastest way is to fly from Hanoi to Da Nang International Airport, which is about 30 kilometers from Hoi An. The flight takes around 1.5 hours. From Da Nang, you can take a taxi or shuttle bus to Hoi An, which takes approximately 45 minutes.

By Train: You can take a train from Hanoi to Da Nang, a journey that lasts around 16–18 hours. From Da Nang Railway Station, continue to Hoi An by taxi or bus.

By Bus: Sleeper buses connect Hanoi to Hoi An directly, taking around 18–20 hours. While this is the cheapest option, it’s less comfortable for long journeys.

From Hue

By Bus: Buses from Hue to Hoi An take around 4–5 hours and are a popular and budget-friendly option.

By Car or Motorbike: Hiring a car or riding a motorbike along the Hai Van Pass is a scenic way to travel, offering stunning coastal views. This trip takes about 3–4 hours.

By Train: Take a train from Hue to Da Nang (2.5–3 hours) and then transfer to Hoi An by taxi or bus.

From Ho Chi Minh City

By Air: Fly from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang in about 1 hour. Then, travel to Hoi An by taxi or shuttle bus.

By Train: A train from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang takes around 17–19 hours. From Da Nang, continue to Hoi An.

By Bus: Sleeper buses take approximately 15–20 hours. This option is inexpensive but less convenient for long distances.

Where to stay in Hoi An

Hoi An offers accommodations for every budget, ranging from cozy homestays to luxurious resorts. Here are some great options:

Budget

Hoa Binh Hostel: Located in the town center, this hostel offers affordable dormitory and private rooms, ideal for backpackers.

Under The Coconut Tree Hoi An Homestay: Nestled near An Bang Beach, it provides a laid-back vibe with bamboo huts and budget-friendly rates. Prices start from 360,000 VND per night.

Midrange

Hoi An Ancient House Village Resort & Spa: Located near Tra Que Village, this resort blends traditional architecture with modern amenities, perfect for couples and families. Prices start from 920,000 VND per night.

La Charm Hoi An Hotel & Spa: With comfortable rooms and full amenities, this hotel is a great option near the Old Town. Prices start from 1,377,000 VND per night.

Luxury

Anantara Hoi An Resort: Overlooking the Thu Bon River, this luxury resort offers elegant rooms, riverside dining, and impeccable service. Prices start at around 9,000,000 VND per night.

Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai: A 5-star beachfront resort with private villas and world-class amenities, located a short drive from Hoi An. Prices start from 20,000,000 VND per night.

What is the best time to visit Hoi An?

The best time to visit Hoi An is from February to April and August to October, when the weather is mild, with less rain and pleasant temperatures. These months are ideal for exploring the Old Town, cycling through the countryside, and enjoying the beaches.

Avoid visiting during the rainy season, from October to January, as flooding can occur. However, if you enjoy a quieter experience, this can be a peaceful time to explore. The summer months, from May to July, are hot and humid, but they’re perfect for beachgoers.

Plan your trip during the Hoi An Lantern Festival, held on the 14th day of each lunar month. The town is beautifully lit by lanterns, creating a magical and unforgettable atmosphere.

Conclusion

A Hoi An Original Food Tour is more than just a food adventure—it’s a journey into the town’s vibrant history, culture, and flavors. With our carefully crafted tours, you’ll taste authentic dishes, learn cooking techniques from experts, and uncover the secrets of Hoi An’s culinary heritage. Let us take care of everything while you enjoy a truly unique and memorable experience. Book your tour with Vietnam Original Travel today and let your taste buds explore Hoi An like never before! 

>>> Hoi An culinary day tour