Top 5 Must-Try Dishes in Central Vietnam

Hello Traveler! If you’re a real foodie and planning a trip to Central Vietnam, then this guide is exactly what you are looking for!
Wondering what to eat in Central Vietnam? Start with these iconic dishes.
Join VIET DOVE Travel to discover the best food in Central Vietnam: from street food in Da Nang and Hoi An to the royal delicacies in Hue.

Cao Lau: The Heart of Hoi An

The Ancient town of Hoi An is one of the greatest in Vietnam, where this dish, Cao Lau, cannot be missed. It’s not just food, it’s a cultural story.
Cao Lau is the heart of Hoi An's street food culture.
Here’s why

What Makes Cao Lau So Special?

• Magic Noodles! They are made from water in the original Ba Le well, and ash from trees on Cham Island. The noodles are naturally yellow, chewy, and out of this world!
• Pork, Pork, Pork. The noodles are topped with char siu pork, crispy pork fat, aromatic herbs, and just enough broth to bring the dish together.
• Experience: Each bite is a combination of the noodles, pork, crispy bits, and fresh herbs. You will never forget the experience.

Bun Bo Hue. The Taste of Imperial City

Bun Bo Hue is a globally known noodle soup dish that is exemplary of the elegant cuisine of Hue.
Bun Bo Hue is a great example of traditional Vietnamese food in Hue.

What is authentic about Bun Bo Hue?

Hypnotic Broth: The nourishing beef bone broth is a slow-cooked broth that has hints of lemongrass, annatto oil, and shrimp paste, which gives it a spicy, aromatic twist.
Rich Toppings: Beef shank, pork knuckle, crab cakes, congealed blood, and sometimes rare beef slices.
Pro Tip: A kick of spicy Hue chili paste for the authentic fiery sensation locals like! This is one of my favourite foods in Vietnam.

Mi Quang. A Family Favorite

From Da Nang to Quang Nam, Mi Quang is the family-style noodle dish that is most cherished, conveniently made with genuine ingredients and flavor.

What sets Mi Quang apart?

• The Highlight: Wide, flat noodles, often golden from turmeric, topped with roasted peanuts.
• A Spoonful of Broth: Only a spoonful of stock coats the noodles, featuring intensely flavorful stock.
• Variety of Choices: Chicken, shrimp, and pork, eel, or frog Mi Quang, served with fresh crispy sesame rice crackers that provide the ideal crunch.

Banh Xeo. The Pancake of your Dreams

Banh Xeo is a golden, sizzling pancake that captures hearts from the moment it hits the taste buds!

The Local Experience when enjoying Banh Xeo

• The Crunch: Rice flour batter tinted with turmeric and blended with coconut milk, filled to the brim with shrimp, pork belly, and bean sprouts;
• The Ritual: Wrap it up in rice paper with fresh herbs and enjoy your pancake dunked in sauce: fish sauce mix, or peanut sauce.
• The Key: The dipping sauce is THE key; every region has its own sauce!

Fresh Seafood. The Sea is an Abundance of Taste

With a lengthy shoreline and active fishing ports, Central Vietnam is a paradise for seafood.

The Seafood Here is Not to Miss

Fresh: Fresh-caught seafood served from Da Nang to Quy Nhon caught and served daily.
Simple Cooking Methods: Steamed with lemongrass or grilled with scallion oil, or salted and roasted, but always showcase the seafood’s natural sweetness.
Experience: Imagine enjoying grilled squid with a cold beer while enjoying the views of the ocean and the thunderous noise of the waves crashing next to you - an awesome time!

Conclusion

Central Vietnam is a story told in flavors and culture, ranging from street food in Hoi An, to Hue royal cuisine, to the seafood of Da Nang. These dishes are often listed among the best local foods in Vietnam by food lovers. 
Don’t just admire the view - let your taste buds explore too! Take the journey through the heart of Central Vietnam cuisine.

Discover full details: Danang city Tour From Hoi an & Danang