Unveiling Hoi An’s culinary gems: Unforgettable street foods to ignite your palate

What the French baguette is to France, the Banh Mi is to Vietnam and when meandering along the busy streets of Hoi An, you are sure to be lured in by its distinct aromas. This classical dish is made up of freshly baked and crunchy bread which is packed with an assortment of ingredients such as chicken, pork, fried egg or pate. Added to the above, one will savour the rich textures of pickled carrots, cucumber, lettuce, coriander and a signature homemade tangy sauce. Found at almost every street corner, the Banh Mi is your ‘go to’ if in the mood for something spicy, sweet, salty and crunchy. With regards to some of the best places where you can get your hands on this delicious treat, then consider walking into Banh Mi Phurong, located at 2B Phan Chau Trinh Street.

Not only is Cao Lau a tasty serving but this dish showcases ties to Vietnam’s past where only members of society’s upper class were able to tuck into its flavours. As a noodle dish, Cao Lau brings together the culinary values of Vietnam, China and Japan into one bowl. Aside from the noodles, Cao Lau’s preparation involves tossing in pieces of roasted pork, raw veggies, croutons and a special sauce that was developed only in Hoi An. Furthermore, accompaniments in the range of chilli paste, sliced chilli or a sprinkling of lime juice can be added to elevate your dining experience, out on Hoi An’s charming streets.

No introduction to Hoi An’s street food scene can ever be justified if one was to avoid mentioning the words ‘Chicken Rice.’ A truly delightful delicacy that will easily have you polishing off plate after plate, Chicken Rice in these parts comprises well-seasoned pilaf rice and shredded poached chicken as its chief ingredients. Furthermore, shredded green papaya, onions, carrots and a dash of herbs are included in a way that infuses taste and flavour. What makes the rice all the more inviting is the fact that it is boiled in a chicken broth inclusive of pandan leaves and turmeric, resulting in a bright yellow colour. While average costs for a plate of Chicken Rice can hover between 35,000 – 40,000 Vietnamese Dong, one will do well to check out Com Ga Ba Buoi located on Phan Chau Trinh Street.   

Gifted to the city by the Chinese traders of yesteryear, Wonton or ‘Hoi An Pizza’ is an absolute ‘must try’ whenever you find yourself out and about in Hoi An. With a recipe that has been finetuned to complement the local palate, Wonton showcases unwrapped deep-fried wontons, husked pork, shrimp, minced onions, various types of veggies and spices. Usually paired with a dipping sauce made up of vinegar, soy sauce and chilli sauce, this street food variant will ensure that you salivate at the very ends no sooner you lay eyes on it. Tran Phu Street’s Van Loc Restaurant can be visited for a good helping of Wonton.

Although the word ‘savoury’ would not be used to describe your average cake, such is not the case with Water Fern Cake which is anything but average. Known as ‘Banh Beo,’ this delightful street food item is a combination of a steamed rice cake and a smothering of an orange sauce brought about through ground pork, dried shrimp, scallions, rice vinegar and oil coming together. Topped off with crispy fried shallots and fish sauce, Water Fern Cake is customarily served on a tray featuring five tiny cups and flat teaspoons that make for hassle-free eating. Aunt Bay’s Banh Beo is one of the best in town and should you be looking for a place to stay at that will have you fully immersed in Hoi An’s street food culture, then consider booking with Anantara Hoi An Resort which has its own Hoi An restaurants to come over to.