Hoi An’s 5 most famous Cao Lau spots loved by locals & tourists

Hà Linh

Wednesday, Oct 29, 2025 10:00

A bowl of Cao Lau captures the essence of Hoi An — tender pork, crunchy rice crackers, and silky noodles come together in perfect harmony, leaving behind a taste that lingers long after the meal ends.

According to local residents, Cao Lau first appeared in Hoi An around the 17th century, when Eastern and Western merchants arrived at the bustling port town for trade. The dish reflects a harmonious blend of culinary cultures — featuring Chinese-style char siu pork, Japanese-inspired chewy noodles similar to udon, and a distinctly Vietnamese soul.

The story and unique flavor of Cao Lau in Hoi An

The name “Cao Lau” literally means “high floor”, as this dish was traditionally served on the upper floors or balconies of old Hoi An eateries. Diners could enjoy a bowl of Cao Lau while overlooking the ancient town’s charming streets and lantern-lit alleys.

Made from simple yet carefully selected ingredients, Cao Lau captures the spirit of Hoi An’s authenticity (Pic: Internet)

The noodles are crafted from high-quality rice, soaked in well water unique to the region, giving them their signature firm and springy texture. Each bowl is completed with tender slices of char siu pork, crispy pork skin, fresh local herbs, and a lightly seasoned broth simmered to perfection.

While it may remind some visitors of Vietnamese pho or vermicelli, Cao Lau possesses a distinctive aroma and flavor that sets it apart — rich, subtle, and deeply memorable. Preparing an authentic bowl of Cao Lau requires precision and skill at every stage, from selecting ingredients to cooking the broth.

Top 5 must-try Cao Lau restaurants in Hoi An

Thanh Cao Lau

Address: 26 Thai Phien Street, Hoi An City, Quang Nam
Price range: 30,000 – 50,000 VND per bowl
Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

If you’re looking for a place to taste authentic Cao Lau, Thanh Cao Lau is an excellent choice. Known as one of the oldest and most famous eateries in Hoi An, this small yet tidy restaurant has maintained its reputation for years.

Each bowl is filled with chewy noodles, tender slices of char siu pork, crispy pork skin, and fresh herbs—all perfectly balanced in flavor. Despite its modest setting, the restaurant is always packed with locals and travelers alike, especially at lunchtime.

The affordable price and consistent quality make Thanh Cao Lau a must-try for anyone exploring Hoi An’s food scene (Pic: Internet)

Trung Bac Restaurant

Address: 87 Tran Phu Street, Hoi An City, Quang Nam
Price range: 40,000 – 60,000 VND per bowl
Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

For those seeking an authentic Cao Lau experience in the very heart of the Ancient Town, Trung Bac Restaurant is an unmissable destination. As one of the oldest and most established restaurants in Hoi An, Trung Bac has long been known for serving this signature dish to generations of locals and travelers alike.

The noodles here are handmade following a traditional family recipe, creating the perfect balance between softness and chewiness. Diners particularly praise the rich, flavorful slices of char siu pork and the generous variety of toppings that complement the dish. Prices are clearly listed and remain affordable, so you can enjoy your meal with peace of mind while immersing yourself in Hoi An’s timeless charm.

Ba Le Restaurant

Address: 49/3 Tran Hung Dao Street, Hoi An City, Quang Nam
Price range: 40,000 – 180,000 VND per dish
Opening hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Monday – Friday); 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Saturday – Sunday)

Among the many eateries serving Cao Lau in Hoi An, Ba Le Restaurant stands out for its distinct preparation method and commitment to quality. The owner proudly shares that the noodles are made from the finest rice, soaked in alkaline water made with rice-straw ash, giving them their signature firm yet springy texture.

In addition to its famous Cao Lau, Ba Le also offers a wide selection of local specialties such as Mi Quang noodles, grilled pork, and Hoi An chicken rice, making it an ideal stop for travelers who wish to taste the diverse flavors of central Vietnamese cuisine.

Hoi An’s 5 most famous Cao Lau spots loved by locals & tourists - ảnh 1

Ba Be Cao Lau Stall

Address: 19 Tran Phu Street, Hoi An City, Quang Nam
Price range: 20,000 – 45,000 VND per bowl
Opening hours: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Located right inside the Hoi An Central Market, Ba Be Cao Lau is one of the most beloved spots for travelers seeking a truly local dining experience. Despite its modest setting, the stall is well-known for serving one of the most flavorful bowls of Cao Lau in town.

The broth here is rich and aromatic, the pork is perfectly marinated and fried to a golden crisp, and the fresh herbs and chewy noodles create a delightful harmony of textures. With its clean space, affordable prices, and authentic taste, Ba Be has become a must-visit stop for both locals and visitors.

Khong Gian Xanh

Address: 687 Hai Ba Trung Street, Hoi An City, Quang Nam
Price range: 40,000 – 85,000 VND per bowl
Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a perfectly balanced, flavorful bowl of Cao Lau, Khong Gian Xanh Restaurant is a name worth noting. The dish here is prepared with a unique family recipe, offering a rich, well-seasoned taste and beautifully marinated toppings that delight every visitor.

Beyond its signature Cao Lau, the restaurant is also loved for its diverse local menu, featuring a range of traditional Vietnamese dishes. Guests often praise the friendly, attentive service and inviting atmosphere, which together create a memorable dining experience.

>> Discover more local flavors at our Dine & Drinks