Hoi An, a charming ancient town in Vietnam, is not only known for its historic beauty and vibrant lantern-lit streets but also for its exceptional local cuisine. The culinary landscape of Hoi An reflects the rich cultural heritage of this port town, blending traditional Vietnamese flavors with influences from Chinese, Japanese, and French cuisines. If you're visiting Hoi An, exploring the food is a must. This guide will take you through the best Hoi An old town restaurants where you can savor local dishes like Cao Lau, Banh Bao, and Banh Vac.

1. The Unique Flavors of Hoi An Cuisine

Before diving into the list of must-visit Hoi An old town restaurants, it's important to understand what makes Hoi An's cuisine unique. The city's signature dishes are a harmonious blend of textures, flavors, and ingredients. The most famous dish, Cao Lau, is made with thick noodles, pork, herbs, and a unique broth that gives it a distinct taste you can only find in Hoi An. Another popular dish is Banh Bao Banh Vac, known as white rose dumplings, which are delicate and savory. Each restaurant in the old town has its own twist on these traditional dishes, making it a culinary adventure for every visitor.

Enjoy dinner in Hoi An

2. Best Hoi An Old Town Restaurants for Local Dishes

2.1 Nhan's Kitchen Restaurant

Nhan's Kitchen stands out as one of the best restaurants in Hoi An Old Town, offering a delightful blend of traditional Vietnamese cuisine with a modern touch. Signature dishes like banana leaf-wrapped fish and passion fruit chicken highlight the chef's creativity in utilizing local ingredients.

For those looking to experience authentic Hoi An flavors, their white rose dumplings and crispy spring rolls provide a taste of the town's rich culinary history. This family-run restaurant not only delivers delicious food but also provides warm hospitality, with the owners often sharing stories, recipes, and travel tips with guests.

Nhan’s Kitchen is the perfect spot for anyone seeking great food and an intimate dining experience.

• Address: 167 Tran Nhan Tong, Cam Chau, Hoi An, Quang Nam
• Hours: 11 AM–9:30 PM

2.2 Little Flower Restaurant

Little Flower Restaurant blooms among the many authentic Vietnamese eateries in Hoi An Old Town. Known for their white rose dumplings and crispy pancakes, this restaurant offers dishes made with love and care by a dedicated family-run kitchen.

With locally sourced ingredients, dishes like banana flower salad and lemon pork are elevated to something special. The welcoming staff doesn’t just serve food – they share their passion for Vietnamese culinary traditions, making each visit a learning experience.

Located just outside the Ancient Town, Little Flower Restaurant proves that excellent food and genuine hospitality need no fancy trappings.

• Address: 186 Tran Nhan Tong, Hoi An, Quang Nam
• Hours: 10 AM–10 PM

Little Flower Restaurant

2.3 Kumquat BBQ Restaurant Cooking Class

Kumquat BBQ Restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it offers one of the best culinary experiences in Hoi An Old Town. Known for its cooking classes, visitors get hands-on experience in preparing authentic Vietnamese dishes while learning about the balance of flavors salty, sweet, sour, and spicy.

The chef follows a garden-to-table philosophy, using fresh herbs and vegetables from their garden to enhance every dish. Highlights include traditional BBQ techniques and flambé methods, creating meals that showcase the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. With an open-air dining setting surrounded by vegetable fields, Kumquat offers a truly unique experience.

• Address: Tra Que Village, Cam Ha, Hoi An, Quang Nam
• Hours: 9 AM–9 PM

2.4 Flower Restaurant

Flower Restaurant, though unassuming, is a hidden gem in Hoi An Old Town’s food scene. The owner, Flower, crafts each dish herself, offering specialties like fragrant pho and crispy spring rolls, prepared with meticulous care.

For visitors interested in Vietnamese cuisine, her cooking classes provide a hands-on approach, allowing you to learn traditional techniques used in making white rose dumplings and lemongrass pork. The intimate setting and personal attention make every meal here memorable, ensuring it stands out among Hoi An’s many eateries.

Address: 01 Luu Quy Ky, Minh An Ward, Hoi An, Quang Nam
Hours: 8:30 AM–10 PM

2.5 Firefly Hoi An | Restaurant & Bar

Firefly Hoi An shines as a top choice among the best restaurants in Hoi An Old Town, blending authentic Vietnamese flavors with a touch of Western influence. Their white rose dumplings, made by the owner’s mother, are often considered the finest in the city.

With a menu that showcases local ingredients, Firefly offers dishes like ginger squid and banana leaf-wrapped fish, alongside a variety of vegan and traditional options. The family-run establishment, combined with its cozy atmosphere and refreshing cocktails, ensures a dining experience that is both enjoyable and unforgettable.

• Address: 535 Hai Ba Trung, Hoi An, Quang Nam
• Hours: 10 AM–10 PM

Firefly restaurant at Hoi An

3. The Hoi An Food Experience: More Than Just Eating

Dining in Hoi An is more than just tasting delicious food. It’s about immersing yourself in the town’s rich culture, history, and way of life. Many Hoi An old town restaurants offer cooking classes, where you can learn how to prepare local dishes yourself. Some restaurants also provide market tours, where chefs take you to the local market to pick fresh ingredients before guiding you through a cooking session. Participating in a cooking class is a fantastic way to take a piece of Hoi An’s culinary heritage home with you.

>>> Read more: Best Routes And Must-See Stops For Unforgettable Hoi An Motorbike Tours

4. When to Visit Hoi An’s Old Town Restaurants

Hoi An old town restaurants are open throughout the year, but to truly enjoy the experience, it's best to visit during the dry season from February to April. The weather is pleasant, making it an ideal time to explore the ancient streets of Hoi An and its culinary delights. Many of the restaurants offer outdoor seating, where you can enjoy your meal while admiring the picturesque streets and lanterns of Hoi An.

5. Conclusion

Discover the culinary wonders of Hoi An with Vietnam Motorcycle Adventures! Ride through the charming streets of the old town and savor the diverse flavors that make this town a food lover's paradise. From iconic dishes like Cao Lau and Banh Bao Banh Vac to street favorites like Banh Mi, our guided tours take you to the best Hoi An restaurants, including Morning Glory and Miss Ly Cafeteria, as well as hidden gems only the locals know. Book your adventure today and experience the rich flavors and unforgettable memories of Hoi An!