Savoring Cao Lau: Hoi An’s Most Iconic Noodle Dish

23/07/2025 Paul Lee

Cao Lau is the essence of Hoi An. Every time I visit Hoi An, I can’t wait to sit down with a steaming bowl of Cao Lau.
I enjoy the flavors of the barbecued pork, the chewy noodles, the herbs, and the rich broth that come together to create such a satisfying meal.
Travel with VIET DOVE Travel and taste this iconic dish while learning how to enjoy it like a local!

Table of Contents

Cao Lau, Hoi An's Historical Dish

Eating Cao Lau is like tasting Hoi An's history. It combines flavors from Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese culinary traditions. With Chinese-style pork, and the noodles made from the well water of Ba Le and the ash of the trees in the area.
My first bite was a burst of flavors that told the story of Hoi An’s trading past.

What does Cao Lau mean?

"Cao Lau" means "high floor," which describes the tradition of eating Cao Lau on upper floors of buildings while overlooking the busy streets of Hoi An. It is a refined way to enjoy the food and the charm of Hoi An. I love to savor a delicious bowl of Cao Lau while admiring the beautiful, bustling back streets of the old town.

Cao Lau with pork, herbs, and crispy toppings.

Where is the best place to get Cao Lau in Hoi An?

Here are three of the main places to get Cao Lau, enjoyed by the locals and travelers alike:

Cao Lau Ba Le

My favorite! The authentic noodles are made from Ba Le well water with a unique, traditional taste. The environment is cozy and hospitable.
Address: 49/3 Tran Hung Dao, Minh An Ward, Hoi An, Quang Nam
Hours:

Mon–Fri: 11 a.m. – 9:30 p.m;
Sat–Sun: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Enjoy a customized evening on the Hoi An Ancient Town Night Private Tour from Hoi An & Danang.

Cao Lau Thanh

This spot is famous for its traditional flavors, thick broth, which is delicious, and it has a light taste, recommended by locals.

Address: 26 Thai Phien, Minh An Ward, Hoi An, Quang Nam
Hours: Daily: 7 am – 7 pm (closes at 5 pm on Sundays)

Cao Lau Trung Bac

This is an old spot, operational for over 100 years, and uses a recipe for Cao Lau that cannot be replicated.

Address: 87 Tran Phu, Hoi An, Quang Nam
Hours: Daily: 7:30 am – 10 pm

Tips to enjoy Cao Lau like a local

Make sure to mix the noodles, pork, herbs, and broth to enjoy everything all together as it is meant to be enjoyed.
Try to eat while watching charming Hoi An streets from your seat; it is a refined pleasure that is just so special!
Add lime, or a bit of chili for an added zing!

Cao Lau is special

Cao Lau is more than just food, it is the pride of Hoi An.. Each bowl embraces the story, relating Hoi An's past from the ancient wells to the vibrant present.
Eating Cao Lau makes you a part of Hoi An's story. Try it, and feel the flavour! Don't forget to follow VIET DOVE Travel for more food and travel tips.