Joanna James
Steeped in history and influenced by diverse cultures, Hoi An's local dishes offer a fusion of flavours and ingredients unique to the region. From fragrant noodle soups to savoury street snacks, here are five must-try dishes that embody the essence of Hoi An's culinary heritage.
A signature dish of Hoi An, Cao Lau is a hearty noodle dish that perfectly encapsulates the city's culinary diversity. Made with thick, chewy noodles, tender slices of pork, fragrant herbs, and crunchy croutons, Cao Lau is distinguished by its rich broth infused with smoky flavours. The secret to its distinctive taste lies in the water sourced from Hoi An's ancient Ba Le Well, believed to impart a unique flavour to the dish. Whether enjoyed at a street-side eatery or a traditional restaurant, Cao Lau offers a satisfying taste of Hoi An's culinary heritage.
Named for their delicate, rose-like appearance, Banh Bao Vac, or White Rose Dumplings, are a culinary treasure unique to Hoi An restaurants. Crafted from translucent rice paper filled with a savoury mixture of minced shrimp and spices, these intricately folded dumplings are steamed to perfection and served with a zesty dipping sauce. Renowned for their exquisite flavour and artistic presentation, Banh Bao Vac exemplifies the culinary craftsmanship of Hoi An's skilled artisans. Whether you try them at niche streetside restaurants or a luxury property such as Anantara Hoi An Resort, you will taste authenticity at its finest.
Simple yet satisfying, Com Ga, or Chicken Rice, is a beloved local dish that showcases the essence of Vietnamese comfort food. Tender poached chicken is served atop fragrant jasmine rice, accompanied by a medley of fresh herbs, crispy shallots, and a tangy dipping sauce. The hallmark of Hoi An's Com Ga lies in its flavorful chicken broth, simmered with aromatic spices and served as a comforting soup alongside the main dish. Whether enjoyed as a quick street snack or a leisurely meal, Com Ga is a timeless favourite among locals and visitors alike.
A culinary gem hailing from the Quang Nam province, Mi Quang is a vibrant noodle dish that reflects the coastal flavours of Central Vietnam. Featuring chewy rice noodles bathed in a turmeric-infused broth, Mi Quang is adorned with a colourful array of toppings such as succulent shrimp, tender pork slices, crisp vegetables, and aromatic herbs. The dish is further elevated with the addition of roasted peanuts, sesame rice crackers, and a squeeze of lime for a burst of freshness. With its bold flavours and satisfying textures, Mi Quang offers a captivating culinary journey through the diverse landscapes of Hoi An.
For adventurous food enthusiasts, Bun Dau Mam Tom is a culinary adventure not to be missed in Hoi An. This iconic dish features a delectable assortment of crispy fried tofu, succulent pork slices, fragrant herbs, and vermicelli noodles, all served alongside a pungent dipping sauce made from fermented shrimp paste. While the strong aroma of the shrimp paste may be intimidating to some, the complex flavours and textures of Bun Dau Mam Tom offer a unique sensory experience that captures the essence of Hoi An's culinary landscape.
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