The 17+ Best Restaurants in Hoi An Ancient Town for Local Delights

Best restaurants in Hoi An Ancient Town are not only places to eat, but also gateways to explore the town’s rich culinary heritage. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Hoi An captivates food lovers with signature dishes like Cao Lau, Banh Mi Hoi An, and Com Ga Hoi An - each reflecting a harmonious blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences. To help you savor these authentic flavors, here’s a curated list of must-visit restaurants in the heart of Hoi An!

1. Morning Glory Original

Located in the heart of Hoi An Ancient Town, Morning Glory Original offers an authentic Vietnamese dining experience with a menu that showcases traditional street food dishes made from time-honored family recipes of its owner, Ms. Vy.

The restaurant's ambiance is warm and inviting, with an open kitchen on the ground floor where diners can observe the culinary team in action. The upper floor offers a more relaxed setting, adorned with French colonial decor. Given its popularity, Morning Glory Original is always quite busy during peak dining hours. It's advisable to make a reservation, especially for evening meals, to ensure a seamless dining experience. After your meal, you might be interested in exploring what to do in Hoi An at night.

Banh Xeo is a traditional crispy rice flour pancake packed with shrimp and bean sprouts

One of the must-try dishes is “Banh Xeo”, a delicacy unique to Hoi An. It is a crispy rice flour pancake packed with shrimp and bean sprouts. Served with fresh herbs and a tangy dipping sauce, this dish offers a delightful contrast of crunchiness from the pancake and freshness from the vegetables, making it a flavorful and satisfying choice.

Alternatively, you can also savor Tender Duck Breast, braised in coconut juice with a hint of tangerine zest and topped with caramelized onions. The duck is juicy and flavorful, soaking up the delicate sweetness of the coconut while the citrus zest brightens the dish with a refreshing twist. The caramelized onions lend a savory depth, tying all the elements together in a balanced flavor.

Morning Glory Original is a well-known restaurant with high demand, booking in advance is recommended

2. HOME Hoi An

Just a minute's walk from Hoi An Ancient Town, HOME Hoi An preserves the national characteristics inherent in Vietnamese cuisine. The restaurant’s interior blends traditional Vietnamese decor with a modern touch, creating a warm and sophisticated ambiance.

The restaurant's elegant setting can accommodate up to 148 guests, featuring both private rooms and outdoor spaces, making it suitable for both intimate dinners and larger gatherings. Due to its popularity, especially during peak tourist hours, making a reservation in advance is recommended.

HOME Hoi An preserves the national characteristics inherent in Vietnamese cuisine

For those looking to explore Hoi An’s signature dishes, “Mi Quang” and “Cao Lau” are must-tries here. Mi Quang is a vibrant, turmeric-infused noodle dish featuring fresh prawns, char-siu chicken, crunchy peanuts, and fragrant herbs, served with just enough rich, flavorful broth to coat the ingredients.

Meanwhile, Cao Lau stands out with its thick, chewy noodles, prepared using water from ancient Cham wells. Topped with savory char-siu pork, fresh herbs, and crispy croutons, it’s lightly coated in a fragrant soy-based sauce, delivering a distinct texture and deep umami-rich flavor.

Many dinners have left positive reviews about HOME Hoi An

3. Cao Lau Thanh

Cao Lau Thanh serves one of the most traditional versions of Cao Lau, which makes a strong impression at first sight with its golden, chewy, and soft noodles. Unlike “Pho” or other Vietnamese noodle soups, Cao Lau has very little broth, relying instead on a deeply flavorful sauce infused with pork and aromatic spices. The dish is topped with slices of char siu-style pork, fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and crispy fried crackers for an irresistible mix of textures.

It's best to visit before 8:00 AM for breakfast or after 3:00 PM for a light afternoon meal to avoid the busiest hours, as the restaurant primarily serves breakfast and lunch.

Cao Lau Thanh serves one of the most traditional versions of Cao Lau

4. Madam Khanh – The Banh Mi Queen

Madam Khanh’s eatery is a small, cozy spot with a few tables for those who prefer to dine in. However, many visitors choose to takeout, enjoying a banh mi Hoi An on the go while wandering through the charming streets of Hoi An for a truly local experience.

Each banh mi at Madam Khanh is made with a crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, filled with a combination of meats, fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and the shop’s signature homemade sauces. The most popular choice features roasted pork, rich pate, fried egg, and a secret special sauce that brings together savory, tangy, and slightly sweet notes for an unforgettable banh mi experience.

Madam Khanh offers five varieties of banh mi that you may consider trying: Mixed (Vegetables, Pork, Ham, Eggs, Pate); Vegetarian (Vegetables, Tomato, Egg, Cheese), Pork And Ham (Vegetables, Pork, Ham, Pate), Chicken (Vegetables, Chicken, Pate), Fried Eggs (Vegetables, Pate, Egg, Tomato).

Each banh mi at Madam Khanh is filled with a combination of meats, fresh herbs, pickled vegetables and sauces

5. Com Linh

Nestled at 42 Phan Chu Trinh in the heart of Hoi An's ancient town, Com Linh Vietnamese Restaurant features architecture that reflects the city's rich cultural identity. The dominant tones of warm yellow and brown are accented by traditional lanterns with signature patterns and shapes, creating a cozy and familiar atmosphere for diners.

Hoi An Chicken Rice is a fragrant and flavorful dish that showcases the best of Hoi An’s cuisine. Tender shredded chicken is served over turmeric-infused rice, creating a beautiful golden hue. Topped with fresh herbs and accompanied by a side of chicken broth and pickled papaya, this dish offers a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and aromatic flavors.

Com Linh Vietnamese Restaurant offers an authentic dining experience that captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine

Besides, you also can try Roast Duck Pho, which is a unique take on Vietnam’s beloved noodle soup, featuring succulent roasted duck in a rich, deeply flavored broth. The tender duck meat adds an extra layer of smokiness and depth, making this dish a must-try for those looking to experience a different side of pho beyond the traditional beef or chicken versions.

Roast Duck Pho is a unique twist on Vietnam’s beloved noodle soup which is a must-try at Com Linh

6. Mango Mango

Mango Mango is a contemporary Vietnamese restaurant situated along the Thu Bon River in Hoi An. Mango Mango is all about contemporary Vietnamese cuisine and local flavors.With three floors of cozy seating and an outdoor terrace, it offers a perfect setting to enjoy the beautiful views of the iconic Japanese Bridge.

The restaurant’s vibrant color scheme, artistic decor, and carefully selected furnishings create a welcoming and energetic atmosphere. The open-air terrace enhances the experience, providing breathtaking views of Hoi An's historic landmarks and the serene river, making it an ideal place to relax and enjoy the town's charm. If you're visiting in the evening, a Hoi An night market boat ride offers a magical perspective of the illuminated town.

Whether you're visiting for lunch, dinner, or cocktails, Mango Mango promises a delightful dining experience

In 2008, Chef Tran Thanh Duc opened the Mango Mango Restaurant, which quickly became a favorite among celebrities and fellow chefs visiting Hoi An, including Gordon Ramsay, Mick Jagger, Tyra Banks, Jimmy Buffett, and Eric Ripert. Mango Mango is all about contemporary Vietnamese cuisine and local flavors. It aspires to provide customers with an exemplary experience of Vietnamese hospitality.

A standout dish on the Mango Mango’s menu is Keeping Flower Ly, a delicately prepared plate of wild tiger prawns, bathed in a luxurious sauce made from white wine, fresh ginger, aromatic garlic, tangy kumquat, and rich butter. This harmonious blend of ingredients creates a burst of flavors – subtle heat from the ginger, a zesty citrus kick from the kumquat, and the creamy richness of butter, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the prawns.

Hunt for Red Snapper is a standout dish, featuring Chef Duc’s favorite fish, the red snapper. The fillet is pan-fried to perfection, infused with fresh herbs, lemongrass, and fish sauce, enhancing its natural sweetness with layers of rich, aromatic flavors. Served with a house-special anchovy tomato confit salsa, this dish offers a perfect balance of savory, tangy, making it a must-try for seafood lovers.

Signature offerings include Keeping Flower Ly, a dish of wild tiger prawns in a white wine, ginger, garlic, kumquat, and butter sauce

7. Banh Beo Co Tu

Tucked away in a small alley on Phan Dinh Phung Street, Banh Beo Co Tu offers a truly local dining experience right in the cozy home of Mrs. Tu. The space is modest and a bit tight, furnished with simple plastic tables and chairs.

“Banh Beo” is a small, steamed rice cake topped with crispy shrimp, pork cracklings, crispy fried wonton sand and served with sweet fish sauce.The accompanying fish sauce blends salty, sweet, and umami flavors, enhancing each bite with a rich yet delicate finish.

Banh Beo Co Tu’s simple, homey setup feels just like dining in a Hoi An local’s kitchen

The menu features two types of Banh Beo: sweet and savory, both served in identical little bowls with similar toppings. The sweet version has a yellow base that is infused with palm sugar, giving it a mild sweetness. The savory Banh Beo, on the other hand, has a milky white base and is best enjoyed with a dash of spicy fish sauce. Each order comes with a minimum of three bowls, and since they’re quite small, trying three bowls of each is a great way to sample both flavors.

Banh Beo Co Tu has received many positive reviews from tourists

8. Goodmorning Vietnam

Good Morning Vietnam is a famous Italian Restaurant located in Hoi An that offers an authentic Italian dining experience. Unlike many bustling eateries in Hoi An, this restaurant provides a quiet and private setting, with spacious seating arrangements that allow for a comfortable and intimate meal.

If you want to experience Italian cuisine in Hoi An ancient town, Good Morning Vietnam is a great choice

For those seeking traditional Italian fare, the Penne Arrabbiata is a popular choice. This classic Italian pasta dish features al dente penne tossed in a fiery tomato sauce made with garlic, chili, and olive oil. The rich, spicy flavor is balanced by a hint of sweetness from ripe tomatoes, making it bold yet comforting. Finished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Another timeless favorite, the Pepperoni Pizza comes with a golden, crispy crust layered with tangy tomato sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese. Generous slices of spicy pepperoni add a smoky, savory kick in every bite. It’s baked to perfection, delivering a deliciously cheesy and slightly crisp experience.

Penne Arrabbiata is a fiery Italian pasta dish made with penne noodles in a zesty tomato and chili garlic sauce

9. Chao Ngheu Co Gio

Nestled on Hai Ba Trung Street near An Bang beach, Chao Ngheu Co Gio is popular among both locals and tourists looking for a warm, comforting bowl of clam porridge, especially in the cool weather.

What sets the “chao ngheu” (clam porridge) here apart is its unique combination of flavors and textures. The porridge is cooked with mung beans, giving it a mild sweetness and creamy texture, while the clams are stir-fried with flavorful spices to enhance their natural brininess. A bowl is then finished with crispy fried shallots, fresh scallions, and a sprinkle of black pepper, creating an irresistible aroma and taste.In addition to clam porridge, the restaurant also serves pork bone porridge, another customer favorite.

There are 2 options: the clam porridge and the pork bone porridge

10. White Rose Restaurant

White Rose Restaurant is a must-visit for those looking to enjoy authentic Hoi An cuisine, with traditional Hoi An-style decor featuring lanterns and dominant yellow and brown tones. The restaurant offers a spacious space, making it a great spot for both solo travelers and groups.

The highlight of the menu is “Banh Vac” (White Rose Dumplings), made from delicate thin rice flour wrappers filled with a savory shrimp and pork mixture and served with a special dipping sauce, both sweet and spicy, really stimulating the taste buds. Each dumpling is carefully handcrafted, steamed to perfection, and served with a signature sweet and tangy dipping sauce.

White Rose Restaurant is a must-visit for those looking to enjoy authentic Hoi An cuisine

Aside from its renowned dumplings, the restaurant also serves Crispy Fried Wontons, another Hoi An specialty. These golden, crispy wontons are filled with savory goodness and served with a tangy tomato and onion sauce. The crunchy exterior pairs perfectly with the sweet and slightly acidic sauce, creating a satisfying contrast in every bite.

Crispy Fried Wontons is also highly favored by many diners

11. Tiem Che Xiu

Tiem Che Xiu is a popular dessert shop which offers a variety of traditional Vietnamese sweet treats.​ The shop boasts a cool and comfortable atmosphere reminiscent of old Hoi An, providing a pleasant escape from the city's heat. The interior is spacious, ensuring ample seating for guests without feeling crowded.

Tiem Che Xiu's best seller is coconut Gelato served in a fresh coconut

The shop's best seller is Coconut Gelato served in a fresh coconut, this dessert combines creamy coconut ice cream with roasted coconut flakes, offering a rich and authentic flavor. ​​Besides, Thai Durian Dessert Soup captivates visitors with a rich and creamy treat featuring a mix of jellies and fragrant durian. Meanwhile, the Chewy Taro & Sweet Potato Dessert stands out with its soft taro and sweet potato balls, complemented by coconut milk.

Thai Durian Dessert Soup, and Chewy Taro & Sweet Potato Dessert are also local-favorites

12. Co Loi Banh Uot Xien Thit Nuong

The eatery is renowned for its flavorful grilled pork skewers, which are marinated with a blend of spices and grilled over charcoal, imparting a smoky aroma. These succulent skewers are wrapped in delicate steamed rice paper along with fresh herbs, lettuce, and cucumber sourced from Tra Que Vegetable Village, where you can find organically grown produce made of nutrient-rich algae from local ponds as natural fertilizer, giving its greens a distinctive aroma and taste.

The final touch is a dip into a specially prepared sauce, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The dining area is modest and open-air, providing a casual and comfortable atmosphere. Due to its popularity, the place can become quite busy during peak hours from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, so arriving early is advisable to secure a seat. ​

Flavorful grilled pork skewers wrapped in soft steamed rice paper and paired with fresh herbs and a rich dipping sauce

13. Nu Eatery - Minimalist Hideaway with Creative Flavors

Located just steps from the Japanese Covered Bridge, Nu Eatery is a cozy, minimalist restaurant known for its innovative small plates and fresh, local ingredients. The space is unassuming, but the flavors are bold, inventive, and unforgettable.

Signature Dishes:

• Steamed Bao Buns with Pulled Pork - Soft, fluffy buns filled with perfectly seasoned pulled pork
• Avocado, Beans & Squid Salad - Fresh and vibrant salad with perfect balance of textures
• Vietnamese-style Soft Tacos - Creative fusion take on traditional flavors
• Divine Cheesecake - House specialty dessert that's become legendary among visitors

14. Secret Garden Hoi An - Cultural Heritage Dining

As a hidden sanctuary in the heart of Hoi An, Secret Garden is originally the garden of Phong Thai family's ancient house - one of the oldest families in Hoi An. The restaurant owner, Mr. Uy TRAN, is the fourth generation, maintaining his Grandma's amazing recipes with a background of half Chinese - half Vietnamese heritage.

Heritage Specialties:

• Grandma's Traditional Recipes - Authentic family dishes passed down through generations
• Hoi An Style Chicken Rice (Com Ga) - Traditional preparation methods in cooking class format
• Vietnamese Chicken Noodle Soup (Pho Ga La Chanh) - Aromatic with lemongrass notes
• Special House Sauces - Secret family recipes that make every dish distinctive

15. Bale Well Restaurant - Interactive DIY Experience

• 45/51 Tran Hung Dao Street (down alley), Minh An Ward, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province

Bale Well is considered one of Hoi An's hidden gems where you can create your own rice paper wraps in a friendly laid-back, street-style eatery. Hugely popular with Hoi An locals, it's famous for the Hoi An version of country pancakes or banh xeo. Located in a bustling alley, this best places to eat in hoi an spot offers an authentic communal dining experience where you'll find more locals than tourists.

DIY Experience Includes:

• Banh Xeo (Rice Pancakes) - Crispy golden pancakes with prawns and bean sprouts
• Grilled Pork Skewers (Thit Nuong) - Charcoal-grilled marinated pork on skewers
• Fresh Spring Rolls (Ram Nuong) - Light and healthy vegetable rolls
• Rice Paper Wrapping Experience - Learn to assemble your own wraps with guidance

16. Red Bean Restaurant - Vietnamese Fine Dining Excellence

Red Bean offers superb local flavors in casual fine dining setting. Modern and innovative Vietnamese cuisine is demonstrated through menus inspired by classic Quang Nam province recipes, Hoi An specials as well as many of Vietnam's iconic dishes, staying true to authentic and traditional cuisine underpinned by the five elements. As one of the best restaurants in hoi an old town for special occasions, Red Bean offers elegant ambiance within the prestigious La Siesta Resort setting.

Fine Dining Highlights:

• Modern Vietnamese Interpretations - Traditional dishes with contemporary presentation
• Quang Nam Provincial Specialties - Regional recipes elevated to fine dining standards
• Five Elements Philosophy - Menu based on metal, earth, wood, fire and water balance
• Premium Local Ingredients - Sourced from local markets and farms

17. Little Faifo - Cultural Culinary Destination

Step into a piece of Hoi An's history at Little Faifo, a beautifully restored 200-year-old merchant house turned into a cultural culinary destination. Blending Vietnamese heritage with artistic flair, this restaurant serves a fusion-style menu in a setting rich with antiques, artwork, and ambiance.

Cultural Specialties:

• Cao Lau - Traditional Hoi An noodles in historic setting (around USD 3.5)
• White Rose Dumplings - Delicate handmade dumplings to die for
• Vegetarian Spring Rolls - Incredible plant-based options
• Cocktails & Mocktails - Creative beverages in atmospheric surroundings

18. Hai Cafe Restaurant & BBQ Courtyard

Located in the heart of Hoi An's old town, Hai Cafe is known for its fragrant BBQ meats and fresh seafood, all grilled in an open courtyard. The wonderful open-air setting and barbecued meat flavors make this a perfect spot for groups or romantic dinners, representing excellent value among top restaurants hoi an.

Barbecue Specialties:

• Charcoal-Grilled Meats - Perfectly seasoned and grilled in open courtyard
• Fresh Seafood - Daily catch grilled to perfection
• Vietnamese BBQ Classics - Traditional marinades and cooking methods
• Open-Air Dining - Authentic courtyard atmosphere

Your Hoi An Dining Questions Answered

1. What are the best restaurants in Hoi An old town for first-time visitors?

For newcomers, we recommend starting with Morning Glory Original for authentic Vietnamese cuisine, Madam Khanh for the famous banh mi experience, and HOME Hoi An for refined local dishes. These represent the essence of best restaurants Hoi An old town has to offer. Don't miss Little Faifo for cultural heritage dining and Nu Eatery for creative modern Vietnamese cuisine.

2. Which restaurants serve the most authentic Vietnamese food?

The best Vietnamese restaurant Hoi An experiences include Morning Glory Original, Com Linh for Hoi An chicken rice, Cao Lau Thanh for traditional cao lau, White Rose Restaurant for famous white rose dumplings, and Secret Garden for authentic family heritage recipes passed down through generations.

3. What's the average cost of dining in Hoi An restaurants?

• Budget: 10,000-50,000 VND (USD 0.4-2) at local spots like Bale Well and street food vendors
• Mid-range: 100,000-300,000 VND (USD 4-12) at popular restaurants like HOME Hoi An and Little Faifo
• Fine dining: 400,000-800,000 VND (USD 16-32) at upscale establishments like Red Bean Restaurant

4. What are the must-try local dishes in Hoi An?

Essential Hoi An specialties include:

• Cao Lau (unique Hoi An noodles) - try at Cao Lau Thanh
• White Rose dumplings (Banh Vac) - famous at White Rose Restaurant
• Banh Xeo (crispy pancakes) - interactive experience at Bale Well
• Mi Quang (turmeric noodle soup) - excellent at HOME Hoi An
• Hoi An chicken rice - authentic at Com Linh

5. Are there vegetarian options at these restaurants?

Yes! Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes. Madam Khanh has vegetarian banh mi, HOME Hoi An provides vegetable-based versions of traditional dishes, Nu Eatery offers creative plant-based small plates and Tiem Che Xiu offers plant-based desserts. Little Faifo also has excellent vegetarian spring rolls.

Hoi An is a paradise for food lovers, offering a diverse range of flavors that reflect the town’s rich cultural heritage. Exploring the best restaurants in Hoi An Ancient Town is more than just about food – it's about experiencing the town’s history, traditions, and warm hospitality. Consider visiting during the Lantern Festival Hoi An: Discover Its Charm & Traditions for an even more enchanting experience.

For more exciting travel and food experiences, don’t forget to check out other must-visit destinations with Vietnam Airlines.