Hoi An, an ancient town in Vietnam, is a veritable paradise for food enthusiasts. Rich in history and flavor, Hoi An’s culinary scene is as diverse as it is delicious. In this guide, we’ll explore the must-try dishes, local markets, and hidden gems that make Hoi An a top destination for gastronomes.
Day 1: Discovering the Basics
Breakfast: Cao Lau
Start your culinary journey with Cao Lau, a regional noodle dish that exemplifies the unique flavors of Hoi An. Made with thick rice noodles, tender slices of pork, fresh greens, and crunchy croutons, it’s a breakfast staple you’ll find in local eateries.
Morning Snack: Banh Bao Vac (White Rose Dumplings)
Banh Bao Vac, or White Rose Dumplings, are another must-try. These delicate dumplings, filled with shrimp or pork, resemble white roses and are uniquely Hoi An. Look for them in local markets and small food stalls.
Lunch: Mi Quang
Mi Quang is a noodle dish featuring turmeric-yellow rice noodles, various meats, and a rich, savory broth. Topped with a crunchy mix of peanuts and rice crackers, this dish offers a burst of flavor in every bite.
Afternoon: Exploring Local Markets
Spend the afternoon wandering through Hoi An Ancient Town and visiting its vibrant markets. Sample freshly prepared street food like Banh Mi or fresh spring rolls, and don’t miss out on the colorful array of tropical fruits.
Dinner: Com Ga (Chicken Rice)
Com Ga, or Chicken Rice, is a simple yet flavorful dish. Featuring poached chicken on a bed of fluffy rice cooked in chicken broth and turmeric, it’s served with a side of fresh herbs and a dipping sauce.
Day 2: Continuing the Culinary Adventure
Breakfast: Banh Mi
Begin your day with a quintessential Vietnamese Banh Mi. This baguette sandwich, filled with a variety of ingredients like pate, cold cuts, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs, is a delicious fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisines.
Morning Activity: Hoi An Cooking Class
Join a cooking class to learn how to make Hoi An’s iconic dishes. Many classes start with a market tour to pick fresh ingredients, followed by hands-on cooking sessions where you’ll master dishes like Nem Lui (grilled pork skewers).
Lunch: Banh Xeo
For lunch, try Banh Xeo, a savory Vietnamese pancake made with rice flour, coconut milk, and turmeric, filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. Wrap it in rice paper with fresh herbs, and dip in a tangy sauce for a burst of flavors.
Afternoon: Relax at a Local Coffee Shop
Spend the afternoon at a local coffee shop enjoying a traditional Vietnamese Cà Phê Sữa Đá (iced coffee with condensed milk). These cafes often feature charming decor and provide a comfortable space to relax.
Dinner: Hoi An Seafood
Hoi An’s proximity to the sea means fresh seafood is abundant. Enjoy a seafood feast at one of the many coastal restaurants. Dishes like grilled prawns, steamed clams, and fish hotpot are must-tries.
Day 3: Delving Deeper into Local Specialties
Breakfast: Hoi An Pho
Start with a bowl of Pho, Vietnam’s famous noodle soup. Unlike versions in other regions, Hoi An’s Pho is a lighter broth with subtler flavors, often enjoyed with a squeeze of lime and a side of fresh herbs.
Morning: Market Tour
Take a tour of the local markets, where you can see and taste a variety of Hoi An’s food offerings. Be sure to try some Banana Flower Salad and Jellyfish Salad, which are refreshing and unique to the region.
Lunch: Hoi An Fresh Spring Rolls
Gỏi Cuốn, or fresh spring rolls, are a light and healthy option for lunch. These rolls, filled with shrimp, herbs, and noodles, are often served with a peanut dipping sauce for added flavor.
Afternoon: Visit a Tea House
Spend some time in a traditional tea house. Hoi An offers a variety of teas, each with unique properties and flavors. Enjoy a pot of Lotus Tea or Artichoke Tea and unwind.
Dinner: Fusion Cuisine
For a special dinner, try one of Hoi An’s fusion restaurants. These establishments blend traditional Vietnamese flavors with international influences to create innovative and delicious dishes. Restaurants like Nu Eatery and The Sea Shell are great choices.
Day 4: Sweet Delights and Night Market
Breakfast: Vietnamese Desserts
Indulge in some traditional Vietnamese desserts such as Chè (a sweet dessert soup) or Bánh Flan (a type of caramel flan). These sweet treats are often enjoyed with a cup of Vietnamese coffee.
Morning: Exploring Cam An Beach
Visit Cam An Beach, where you can relax by the sea and enjoy fresh seafood at beachside eateries. Don’t miss the grilled squid and fish wrapped in banana leaves.
Lunch: Vegetarian Fare
Hoi An boasts a variety of vegetarian restaurants offering creative and delicious dishes. Vegetarian Cao Lau and Banh Mi Chay are popular choices for a wholesome meal.
Afternoon: Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village
Take a short trip to Tra Que Vegetable Village, where you can learn about traditional farming practices and even try your hand at farming. The organic vegetables grown here are used in many local dishes.
Dinner: Night Market Exploration
End your culinary journey with a visit to the Hoi An Night Market. This bustling market is filled with food stalls offering a variety of snacks and meals. Don’t miss the grilled corn, rice paper rolls, and sweet potato balls.
Hoi An’s food scene is a delightful adventure, offering a mix of traditional and modern flavors. Whether you’re dining at a street stall or a fine restaurant, every meal in Hoi An is an opportunity to savor the rich culinary heritage of Vietnam. Bon appétit!
