Overlooking the coastline of Central Vietnam, Hoi An’s undeniable charm spills into its cuisine. With its own unique flavours and specialities, explore the dishes closest to the town’s identity, from legendary noodles to fusion inspired by cultures far across the seas.
Signature Dishes Steeped In History – Cao Lầu
No dish tells the story of Hoi An better than Cao Lầu. A hearty broth of lye-soaked rice noodles, herbs, and cuts of Chinese char siu pork, Cao Lầu is adorned in historic tales and fables from across Hoi An. According to legend, the springy noodles must be soaked in lye from the Cham Islands, and boiled only in water from bá lễ well, a 10th-century well dating back to an ancient dynasty. The true details of the recipe are a closely guarded recipe, making this dish a true regional speciality.
For Special Occasions – Mì Quảng
Another signature of Hoi An’s culinary scene, Mì Quảng is a flavourful noodle soup or salad infused with turmeric, featuring an array of meats, peanut oil, and various herbs and vegetables, topped with sesame crackers. Although the dish is often enjoyed on special occasions around Central Vietnam, visitors do not need to wait till Tết to sample the tender meat and spiced noodles of Mì Quảng. It is served at several classic eateries around Hoi An Old Town hotels, including Morning Glory Original, located minutes away from Anantara Hoi An Resort.
A Look Into Mixed Cultural Identities – White Rose Dumplings & Hoianese-Chinese Culture
Beyond ancient histories, Hoi An’s history as a trading port has influenced its cuisine, resulting in a fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese flavours. White Rose Dumplings, delicate dumplings filled with pork and shrimp, are a classic example of this cultural exchange, a recipe held closely within the Hoianese-Chinese community.
Fusion Bites & International Fare – Mi Tu’oi With Tahini, Viet-style Tacos
In addition to traditional Vietnamese dishes, Hoi An offers a variety of international cuisine, including fusion dishes that combine Vietnamese flavours with intercontinental influences. Head to Nữ Eatery for the best of contemporary fusion—try Mi Tu’oi, a quintessential Vietnamese noodle dish elevated with tahini paste, or Viet-style turmeric white fish tacos for a unique culinary experience.
