Eat Like a Local: Hoi An’s Top 19 Spots for Food Lovers

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Hoi An is a food lover’s paradise, where every corner invites you to taste the soul of Vietnam. Known for its signature dishes like cao lầu, bánh mì, and white rose dumplings, the city’s culinary offerings blend centuries-old traditions with local flair. Picture savoring street food in bustling markets, feasting on fresh seafood by the Thu Bon River, or enjoying a meal in a lantern-lit courtyard steeped in history. From family-run eateries serving heirloom recipes to hidden gems offering unexpected twists on classic flavors, Hoi An’s dining scene is as diverse as it is delicious. This guide uncovers the top 19 spots where locals eat, ensuring you experience the authentic tastes, aromas, and vibrant atmosphere that make Hoi An a true culinary treasure.

👉 Pro Tip: I highly recommend the Hoi An Street Food Tour with Billy for a delicious dive into Central Vietnam’s vibrant food scene. This tour takes you through Hoi An’s charming streets, where you’ll sample iconic dishes like banh mi, crispy banh xeo pancakes, and delicate white rose dumplings. Led by a passionate local guide, it’s an intimate experience capped at eight people, making it easy to connect with both the culture and cuisine. From savory bites to traditional desserts like bánh cam, this tour is a must-do for anyone wanting to savor Hoi An’s rich culinary traditions.

Unique Restaurants in Hoi An, Vietnam: 19 Incredible Hoi An Eateries

Are you eager to uncover the most unique restaurants in Hoi An? As we’ve mentioned before, Hoi An is home to a diverse array of culinary gems that are sure to satisfy every palate. Keep reading to find out where to eat in Hoi An, Vietnam for an extraordinary dining experience.

Are you in the mood for local Vietnamese specialties with an innovative twist? Or perhaps you’re intrigued by a fusion dish that blends traditional flavors with modern culinary artistry? Whatever your gastronomic preferences, Hoi An is equipped to meet them. Here’s your detailed guide to the most unique restaurants in Hoi An.

1. Cargo Club Cafe and Restaurant

• 📍 Location: Ancient Town (Riverside)
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $25 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Vietnamese & Western Cafe / Patisserie
• 🔥 Standout Features: Thu Bon River views (upstairs balcony!), famous cakes/pastries, diverse menu.
• 🎯 Perfect For: River view dining, delicious desserts/pastries, people-watching, and Western/Vietnamese food.

Grab a seat upstairs and soak in those gorgeous river views at Cargo Club! This Hoi An institution is famed for its prime location and, crucially, its incredible display of cakes and pastries. Views and Viennoiserie? Yes, please! Where river breezes meet sweet treats!

While they offer a full menu of tasty Vietnamese and Western dishes, saving room for dessert is non-negotiable. Indulge in their legendary Passion Fruit Cheesecake or a decadent slice of Carrot Cake. It’s the perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or just coffee and cake overlooking the Ancient Town bustle.

2. HOME Hoi An

If you want to dive into the flavors of Hoi An but escape the tourist crush, HOME Hoi An is where locals send their friends. This spot takes traditional Vietnamese recipes and dials them up with some modern flair. Their signature mango salad with prawns hits all the sweet and tangy notes and comes beautifully plated – Instagram gold. The claypot fish cooked in caramel is pure comfort food. With turquoise walls, antique tiles, and old-school lanterns lighting up the space, the ambiance feels like a cozy, upscale version of grandma’s living room. It’s on a quiet street just a few blocks from the Japanese Bridge, making it perfect after sunset strolls. I loved how the staff shared little stories about each dish. Tip: Come early evening to snag a window seat so you can people-watch without the madness of the Night Market crowds.

3. Rêu Dining Trà Quế

• 📍 Location: Tra Que Vegetable Village
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $45 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern Vietnamese / Farm-to-Table
• 🔥 Standout Features: Fresh local herbs and vegetables, refined Vietnamese dishes
• 🎯 Perfect For: Farm-to-table dining, exploring Tra Que village, and peaceful escapes.

Dine surrounded by fragrant herb gardens at Rêu Dining Trà Quế! Located in the famous Tra Que Vegetable Village just outside Hoi An, this spot celebrates the incredible freshness of local produce, especially the aromatic herbs grown steps away. Taste the garden on your plate!

Experience modern Vietnamese cuisine where the ingredients truly shine. Enjoy delicate dishes featuring Tra Que herbs, perhaps Fresh Spring Rolls bursting with mint and basil, or elegant seafood preparations. It’s a beautiful, tranquil escape offering a refined taste of the local terroir.

4. The Temple Restaurant & Lounge

Set in a restored old French villa and surrounded by lush gardens, The Temple blends chic with colonial nostalgia. Their cocktails, like the smoky passionfruit old fashioned, are the best I tried in Hoi An. Don’t leave without sampling the duck breast with citrus reduction – the presentation alone is jaw-dropping. The restaurant’s ambiance is all about upscale relaxation: candlelit tables under swaying palms, mellow jazz in the background, and fairy lights strung everywhere. It’s especially enchanting at night. You’re a quick scooter ride from An Bang beach, so this is a good spot to start or end your evening. I was honestly impressed by the extensive vegetarian options here – not always easy to find in Vietnam.

5. SecretEATS (Dining Experience)

• 📍 Location: Secret Locations Revealed Upon Booking
• 💲 Price range: $70 – $120+ per person (Experience dependent)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Varies (Often Upscale Vietnamese or Fusion)
• 🔥 Standout Features: Secret pop-up dining, hidden locations, curated menus, social communal dining.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Dining adventures, surprise locations, and meeting new people.

Ready for a dinner shrouded in delicious mystery? SecretEATS isn’t a restaurant, but an experience company that curates exclusive dining events in secret locations around Hoi An! You book, they reveal the magic location just before. Where dinner is a delicious destination unknown!

Expect intimate gatherings often held in private homes, hidden courtyards, or unique venues. Enjoy multi-course menus crafted by talented chefs, designed to showcase local flavours in creative ways, often paired with drinks and great conversation with fellow diners. It’s a truly unique way to experience Hoi An’s culinary scene.

6. The Fisherman Garden Vegan Restaurant & Cafe

This An Bang Beach hideaway, The Fisherman Garden, is the poster child for chill vegan eats. The menu is fully plant-based but satisfies even hardcore carnivores. Their crispy mushroom “calamari” is bizarrely addictive, and the passionfruit cheesecake (dairy-free!) had me hunting for the recipe. Picture boho beach vibes – mismatched furniture, colorful floor cushions, bucket chairs, and reggae on the speakers. It’s mostly outdoor seating in a leafy garden, and you’re just a few barefoot steps from sandy waves. After a surf session, there’s nowhere better to recharge. Nearby, the beach bars start up sunset happy hours, so you could easily linger here long after lunch. Their homemade kombucha is super refreshing too.

7. The Field Restaurant

• 📍 Location: Outskirts of Hoi An (Near rice paddies)
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $35 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Traditional Vietnamese / Countryside Setting
• 🔥 Standout Features: Rice fields setting, traditional architecture, authentic Vietnamese dishes.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Countryside dining, traditional Vietnamese food lovers, peaceful escapes, and sunset views over fields.

Escape the Ancient Town buzz and find serenity (and amazing food!) at The Field Restaurant. Nestled amidst lush green rice paddies just outside Hoi An, this spot offers delicious, authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a stunningly peaceful countryside setting. Where the views are as fresh as the food!

Relax in the rustic, open-air structures overlooking the fields. Savour traditional dishes prepared with care, like flavourful Cao Lau noodles (a Hoi An specialty) or crispy Banh Xeo crepes, while watching farmers work the land. It’s a beautiful retreat for a taste of rural Vietnam.

8. Orivy Restaurant

Hidden down a small side lane, Orivy is a true local gem run by several generations of one family. They pride themselves on recipes passed down through the years, so the home-cooked flavors are legit and consistently good. The Hoi An chicken rice absolutely hits the spot – juicy chicken, fragrant yellow rice, and a punchy chili sauce. Another secret: the banana flower salad, crunchy and fresh. Tucked into a lush courtyard garden, the space is peaceful, with lanterns and koi ponds. It’s ideal for lazy lunches or slow evenings out. The restaurant is a short stroll to Hoi An’s Old Town – perfect for a quiet meal before you brave the lantern-lit crowds. I still think about that chicken rice!

9. Hoi An Art Space

• 📍 Location: Ancient Town Area (01 Pham Hong Thai Street)
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern East-West Fusion / Wood-Fired Pizza / Cafe
• 🔥 Standout Features: Art gallery setting, wood-fired pizza terrace, modern fusion menu, 3D printed desserts, local artwork display.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Fusion food seekers, art lovers, wood-fired pizza fans, and innovative desserts.

Get ready for a delicious collision of art, innovation, and flavour at Hoi An Art Space! This spot isn’t just a feast for the eyes with its local artwork; it serves up a creative menu blending East and West, including pizzas hot from a wood-fired oven. Where art meets appetite, deliciously! Prepare for pizza R&D (Rad and Delicious)!

Sip cocktails on the breezy terrace while deciding between authentic wood-fired pizzas (reviewers rave about the unique Banh Mi Pizza!) or modern fusion dishes highlighting local seafood. Wash it down with a Pho-flavored Beer or cocktail. And for a truly unique ending? Check out their mind-bending 3D-Printed Desserts! Friendly service and unforgettable food await.

10. Aubergine49

Aubergine49 is a food lover’s dream, run by Chef Nguyen Nhu Thinh who trained in the UK before coming home. Expect a high-end twist without any of the stuffiness – think tasting menus with lobster and wagyu, or perfectly executed vegetarian dishes. The slow-cooked pork belly with apple puree is next-level, and their peanut butter souffle is the best surprise at the end of a meal. The space is stylish but warm, with big windows and soft lighting. It’s a little outside the busy Old Quarter, so there’s a more tranquil, countryside vibe here. Tip: Book ahead, especially if you want a seat at the chef’s table. I loved chatting with Chef Thinh about where he sources each ingredient.

11. Reaching Out Teahouse

• 📍 Location: Ancient Town
• 💲 Price range: $5 – $10 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Teahouse / Coffee & Cookies
• 🔥 Standout Features: Speech/hearing-impaired staff, artisanal teas/coffees/cookies, social enterprise.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Peaceful escapes, supporting social causes, tea/coffee connoisseurs.

Experience tranquility and beauty in silence at Reaching Out Teahouse. This remarkable social enterprise in the Ancient Town offers a peaceful haven where you communicate via notes and gestures, served by a gracious team of speech and hearing-impaired individuals. Where silence speaks volumes (of deliciousness!).

Savor exquisite artisanal Vietnamese Teas or locally sourced coffee, served beautifully with delicate homemade Cookies. Sit in the serene traditional building or courtyard, enjoy the calm, and appreciate the unique atmosphere of mindful communication. It’s a truly special and heartwarming Hoi An experience.

12. Salt Hoian – Restaurant & Bar

If you’re after craft cocktails and inventive plates with serious flavor, Salt Hoian will not disappoint. Their spicy margarita with chili salt rim could convert even tequila skeptics, and the sea bass ceviche bursts with local herbs. The restaurant’s rooftop seating offers sweet views out toward the rice fields, and soft indie music keeps things chilled out. The décor leans minimal and breezy, with just enough lighting to keep it intimate. It’s a few minutes from both downtown and the riverside (great if you want to walk off dinner after), but the real magic is sunset on the rooftop with a cool drink in hand. I’d return just for that margarita.

13. 9 Grains Bakery and Cafe

• 📍 Location: Cam Chau Area (Outside Ancient Town)
• 💲 Price range: $8 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Bakery & Cafe / International Brunch & Lunch
• 🔥 Standout Features: Excellent artisanal breads (sourdough!), great pastries/cakes, quality coffee.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Artisanal bread lovers, pastry fanatics, coffee connoisseurs.

Get your fix of fantastic bread and baked goods at 9 Grains Bakery and Cafe! This spot is a haven for anyone craving high-quality, European-style breads, pastries, and excellent coffee, alongside a great cafe menu. Your daily bread just got an upgrade!

You absolutely need to try their crusty Sourdough Bread or indulge in a flaky Croissant or decadent Cake Slice. Their cafe menu also shines with delicious brunch items like Eggs Benedict and satisfying sandwiches, making it a top spot outside the Ancient Town for breakfast, lunch, or a quality caffeine hit.

14. The Soul Restaurant

The Soul Restaurant is tucked away off a side street, offering the perfect escape from Hoi An’s tourist trail. Their menu blends Vietnamese comfort food with global soul – think pork ribs with sticky rice, or their homemade lemongrass iced tea that tastes like summer in a glass. The cozy setup features retro furniture, bright murals, and an open layout where you can lounge on beanbags or sprawl out on floor cushions. Sometimes there’s live acoustic music, which gives it a laid-back, feel-good atmosphere. It’s right near the Hoi An Impressions Park, so this is a great spot for pre- or post-show eats. When I visited, the friendly crew made everyone feel right at home.

15. Faifo Coffee

• 📍 Location: Ancient Town
• 💲 Price range: $2 – $7 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Cafe / Vietnamese Coffee / Rooftop Bar
• 🔥 Standout Features: Iconic rooftop view, photo spot, historic building, in-house coffee roastery.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Photographers, coffee lovers, and anyone needing a scenic break.

This isn’t just a cafe; it’s the best photo op in Hoi An. You find Faifo Coffee tucked away in the Ancient Town, and the ground floor smells amazing, like roasting coffee beans. You climb a series of rickety wooden stairs, and then suddenly you emerge onto a tiny rooftop with the most incredible, iconic view over the tiled roofs of the city.

The view is the main event, but the coffee is genuinely fantastic. You have to get their legendary iced coconut coffee, a rich, creamy slushy that’s perfect for a hot day. The classic cà phê sữa đá (Vietnamese iced milk coffee) is another perfect choice. Grab a spot along the railing and just soak it all in.

16. Thuan Tinh Island – Cooking Tour

If you want to get your hands dirty and really eat like a local, sign up for a Thuan Tinh Island Cooking Tour. This isn’t your average restaurant but an immersive half-day food adventure. You’ll start by shopping for ingredients at a riverside market, then take a boat to the island, where lush gardens await. Learning to make traditional dishes like pho and spring rolls from scratch is a game changer. The kitchen space is open-air, surrounded by coconut palms, and the whole vibe is laid-back and interactive – perfect for families or solo travelers looking to meet new people. Afterward, you get to eat your own creations, and trust me, nothing beats that sense of accomplishment. The quiet river setting feels far removed from the town bustle. I walked away with full belly and new friends.

17. Nocturnal Artist

• 📍 Location: Cẩm Châu
• Price range: $8 – $18 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Vietnamese Homestyle / Cafe (Strong Vegetarian Options)
• 🔥 Standout Features: Artist-run family restaurant, lovely balcony seating,  vegetarian choices, cooking classes offered.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Homestyle Vietnamese food, art lovers, and vegetarian options.

Stumble upon a hidden beauty down a small road and discover the Nocturnal Artist! This utterly charming spot is a true family-run gem, part restaurant, part shop, where the husband’s beautiful paintings adorn everything. It’s a little sanctuary of art and amazing food! Where every bite is a brushstroke of brilliance!

Run by a super friendly husband and wife duo, this place offers a truly authentic, homely feel. Sit up on the balcony watching the world go by while enjoying delicious homestyle dishes. Reviewers rave about the fantastic vegetarian selection and specific must-tries like the White Rose Dumplings and fresh Spring Rolls. They even offer cooking classes! A 100% recommended heartwarming find.

18. Mango Mango Restaurant

• 📍 Location: Ancient Town (Prime Riverside Location)
• 💲 Price range: $25 – $50 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern Vietnamese Fusion
• 🔥 Standout Features: Excellent river/bridge views, modern Vietnamese dishes, vibrant cocktails.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Vietnamese food lovers, river view dining, and creative cocktails.

Experience Vietnamese flavors with a vibrant, modern twist right on the riverfront at Mango Mango! This popular spot boasts killer views of the Japanese Bridge and Thu Bon River, serving creative fusion dishes and fantastic cocktails in a lively setting. Where tradition gets a tasty, tropical twist!

Sip on inventive cocktails often featuring fresh mango and other tropical fruits. Indulge in beautifully presented dishes that put a modern spin on local ingredients – their Duck Breast preparations or unique Spring Rolls are often highlights.

19. Vy’s Market Restaurant

• 📍 Location: An Hoi Islet
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Vietnamese / Street Food / Food Hall
• 🔥 Standout Features: Live cooking stations, huge variety, market atmosphere, cooking classes.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Adventurous eaters, indecisive groups, and street food fans who want to try everything.

This spot is less a restaurant and more a vibrant, upscale street food theme park. Vy’s Market Restaurant is a massive open-air space where dozens of chefs cook up every Vietnamese dish imaginable at live stations. The air is a symphony of smells and sounds—sizzling pans, bubbling pots, and the chatter of a happy crowd.

The genius here is that you can sample everything. Start by watching a chef expertly prepare Hoi An’s famous white rose dumplings. Then, wander over to another station for a sizzling hot bánh xèo (crispy pancake). It’s the perfect place to be adventurous and try dishes you’ve never seen before, like the local noodle specialty, cao lầu.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Unique Places to Eat in Hoi An

Delving deeper into the culinary wonders of unique restaurants in Hoi An? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to enhance your dining journey.

What is the signature dish of Hoi An?

Hoi An, with its rich culinary heritage, is renowned for several dishes. However, the signature dish that stands out is “Cao Lau.” This unique noodle dish, exclusive to Hoi An, features thick rice noodles, succulent slices of pork, crispy croutons, and fresh local greens. The distinct taste of Cao Lau noodles, attributed to the ancient town’s well water and ash from specific trees, makes it a must-try for anyone visiting.

How can one find good food in Vietnam?

Finding good food in Vietnam is an adventure in itself. While the country is dotted with numerous unique restaurants in Hoi An and other cities, the real essence of Vietnamese cuisine often lies in street food stalls. To discover the best, follow the locals, venture into bustling markets, or join a guided street food tour. Additionally, online reviews and travel forums can offer recommendations and insights.

What is the culinary capital of Vietnam?

While each city in Vietnam boasts its culinary specialties, many consider Hoi An to be the culinary capital. With its blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and French influences, Hoi An offers a diverse range of flavors and dishes. From street food stalls to upscale dining venues, the town serves as a gastronomic paradise for food enthusiasts.

Which city has the best food in Vietnam?

This is subjective, as Vietnam’s culinary landscape is vast and varied. Hanoi, the capital, is famous for its “Pho” and coffee culture. Ho Chi Minh City offers a more cosmopolitan mix, while Hoi An stands out with its unique blend of traditional and innovative dishes. Each city offers a distinct flavor palette, making Vietnam a culinary journey from north to south.

Are there any unique restaurants in Hoi An that offer cooking classes?

Yes, several unique restaurants in Hoi An offer cooking classes. One notable mention is the Tra Que Garden Restaurant. Here, guests can immerse themselves in a comprehensive culinary experience, from visiting local markets to hand-picking ingredients and learning traditional cooking techniques.

Is vegetarian food easily available in Hoi An?

Absolutely! Hoi An, being a major tourist destination, caters to diverse dietary preferences. Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan versions of traditional dishes. Places like the Reaching Out Teahouse and Art Space are known for their vegetarian-friendly menus.

What should one expect to pay for a meal in Hoi An?

The cost varies depending on where you dine. Street food stalls and local eateries offer delicious meals for just a few dollars. However, dining in a unique restaurant in Hoi An, especially those with river views or historical significance, might be pricier, ranging from $10 to $30 or more per person.

Are there any food safety concerns for travelers in Hoi An?

Generally, Hoi An maintains good food hygiene standards, especially in established restaurants and cafes. However, as with any travel destination, it’s advisable to drink bottled water, avoid raw or undercooked meats, and opt for freshly cooked meals from reputable places.

Final Thoughts on Unique Hoi An Restaurants

Hoi An is a culinary treasure trove, blending history and modern flavors seamlessly. While the town boasts a myriad of dining options, it’s the unique restaurants in Hoi An that truly capture its essence. Each offers a distinct experience, reflecting the town’s rich heritage and innovative spirit. As you explore Hoi An, these eateries stand as invitations to dive deeper into its vibrant culinary landscape.

Beyond just food, these restaurants tell stories of Hoi An’s past, present, and future. They’re places where traditions are honored, innovations are celebrated, and every dish becomes a memory. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor flying to Vietnam, Hoi An’s unique dining scene promises an unforgettable journey for the senses.