Night food tour Hoi An – Taste the ancient town’s cuisine after dark
Hoi An becomes even more enchanting when the sun goes down. The lanterns glow, the riverside comes alive, and the scent of sizzling street food fills the air. If you want to experience the town like a true local, a night food tour Hoi An is the perfect choice. These tours let you taste iconic dishes like cao lau, mi quang, banh xeo, and sweet che desserts. With a friendly local guide leading the way, you’ll not only eat but also learn the stories behind each dish, making your evening an experience for all the senses.
Must-try nighttime dishes in Hoi An
Evening is when Hoi An puts on its most romantic look. Lanterns glow softly, street vendors call out their nightly specials, and the smell of food drifts from every corner, tempting you to stop. If you find yourself wandering the Old Town after dark, make sure you don’t miss these “authentic Hoi An” flavors.
Cao Lau, Mi Quang, Hoi An chicken rice
Start with a steaming bowl of cao lau – the dish considered the soul of Hoi An’s cuisine. The golden chewy noodles are topped with flavorful slices of barbecued pork, crispy pork cracklings, and fresh Tra Que herbs. Most cao lau stalls in the Old Town only open in the late afternoon and evening, and sitting in their small, cozy spaces, hearing the sizzling pans, feels like being welcomed into a local’s home.
For a lighter dinner, stop by a late-night mi quang stall or try a plate of Hoi An chicken rice. Mi quang comes with shrimp, pork, quail eggs, roasted peanuts, and just enough broth to coat the noodles – warm and comforting on a cool night. Hoi An chicken rice, with its golden turmeric-colored rice, tender shredded chicken, pickled onions, and spicy garlic fish sauce, is a simple but beloved Central Vietnamese favorite.
Street food
Evenings in Hoi An are also heaven for street food lovers. You can sit by the riverside with a crispy banh dap (rice cracker) dipped in pungent fish sauce, paired with stir-fried baby clams, or head to a street-side stall for sizzling banh xeo (crispy pancakes) and smoky grilled nem lui (lemongrass skewers) wrapped with fresh herbs and dipped in savory peanut sauce. For something to snack on with friends, try spicy oc hut (stir-fried snails) or fragrant steamed clams – a favorite night treat among local youth.
Read more: Top 15 must-try Hoi An street food dishes you can’t miss
Dessert
Don’t skip dessert. A warm bowl of black sesame sweet soup, sweet corn pudding, cooling sam bo luong, or silky tofu pudding with ginger syrup is the perfect way to end the night. If you prefer something playful, try rolled ice cream or colorful ice pops sold along the narrow alleys.
And of course, no Hoi An night is complete without a cup of Nuoc Mot – a refreshing herbal drink with cinnamon, lemongrass, and lime, or a cup of soothing herbal tea. It’s the perfect way to relax and recharge before continuing your evening stroll through the lantern-lit streets.
Discover night food tours in Hoi An
Hoi An at night is simply magical, lanterns light up the ancient streets, the air is filled with the aroma of sizzling street food, and the riverside becomes alive with chatter and laughter. Joining a night food tour Hoi An is one of the best ways to dive into this atmosphere while tasting the town’s most iconic dishes.
From leisurely walking tours through hidden alleys, to hands-on cooking classes with expert chefs, and lively market explorations, there’s a tour for every traveler’s style. Below are some of the most popular and highly recommended night food tours in Hoi An, carefully designed to give you an authentic taste of the town’s culinary soul.
Street Food Walking Tour – Strolling through the ancient town and enjoying local street food
The street food walking tour is the most popular choice for visitors who want to explore Hoi An’s culinary scene in an intimate and lively way. This tour takes you on a walk through narrow alleys adorned with colorful lanterns, stopping at traditional eateries to sample local specialties, and many other street foods.
Along the way, a local guide will share stories about the origins, history, and cooking secrets of each dish, giving you deeper insights into Hoi An’s food culture. You will also have the chance to chat with shop owners, watch food being prepared, and capture beautiful photos amid the lantern-lit streets.
- Suggested time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Meeting point: Central Ancient Town or hotels with pick-up service
- Price range: 700,000 – 900,000 VND per person
Detailed itinerary:
| Time | Activity |
| 18:00 – 18:15 | Meet at the Ancient Town center or hotel, introduction to the tour and the group |
| 18:15 – 18:45 | Stroll through narrow alleys and enjoy cao lau at Cao Lau Thanh (26 Thai Phien) |
| 18:45 – 19:15 | Taste mi quang at Mi Quang Ong Hai (6A Truong Minh Luong) |
| 19:15 – 19:45 | Stop by a riverside stall for banh dap and stir-fried clams |
| 19:45 – 20:15 | Enjoy banh xeo & nem lui at Quan Ba Gia (Cam Nam) |
| 20:15 – 20:45 | Sample desserts like che bap, che me den, hot tofu pudding at stalls near Japanese Bridge (Chua Cau) |
| 20:45 – 21:00 | Sip Nuoc Mot or herbal tea, stroll through the lantern streets, take souvenir photos, and conclude the tour |
Cooking Class Night Tour – Market visit and evening cooking experience at Bliss Hoi An
The Cooking Class Night Tour is the perfect experience for those who want to explore Hoi An’s cuisine in depth: from selecting fresh ingredients at the market to cooking and enjoying a fine dining-style meal at Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness.
The tour begins with a walk to Hoi An Central Market alongside the Bliss Hoi An chef, where guests are introduced to fresh local produce, regional spices, seafood, and seasonal vegetables. You’ll learn how to select the best ingredients, ensuring quality and authenticity for traditional dishes.
After shopping, the group returns to Bliss Hoi An, where you’ll participate in hands-on cooking under the chef’s guidance. The ingredients you just selected will be transformed into dishes that form part of an exquisite fine dining menu. This is a unique opportunity to see your own culinary creations become a part of a beautifully presented dinner.
- Suggested time: 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM
- Meeting point: Central Ancient Town or hotels with pick-up service
- Price range: 1,200,000 – 1,500,000 VND per person
Detailed itinerary:
| Time | Activity |
| 16:30 – 16:45 | Meet at the Ancient Town center or hotel, introduction to the tour and group |
| 16:45 – 17:30 | Walk to Hoi An Central Market with the chef, learn about and select fresh local ingredients, seafood, and regional spices |
| 17:30 – 18:00 | Return to Bliss Hoi An, prepare ingredients and cooking tools |
| 18:00 – 19:30 | Hands-on cooking: create traditional dishes, incorporating the fresh ingredients into a fine dining menu under the chef’s guidance |
| 19:30 – 20:30 | Enjoy your creations, take photos, and conclude the tour |
Your night doesn’t have to end after this tour. Bliss Hoi An invites you to slow down and unwind with their wellness services, from soothing spa treatments and herbal foot baths to beachside yoga sessions.
Imagine relaxing by the sound of the ocean, letting the day’s adventures melt away while you recharge both body and mind. Whether you prefer a gentle massage, a dip in the infinity swimming pool, or simply sipping a healthy detox drink under the stars, Bliss Hoi An has everything you need to end your day on the perfect note.
Make it more than just a food tour, turn your evening into a full wellness retreat and leave feeling refreshed, inspired, and ready for another day of discovery.
Night Market Food Tour – Explore Hoi An Night Market
The Night Market Food Tour is the perfect experience for travelers who want to discover the vibrant atmosphere and diverse street food of Hoi An after sunset. This tour takes you through the Hoi An Night Market, where hundreds of stalls offer local specialties, from cao lau, mi quang, grilled meat rolls, nem lui, to traditional desserts like che bap, che me den, and banh it la gai.
During the tour, a local guide will share the origins, cultural stories, and tips on enjoying each dish, giving you a deeper understanding of Hoi An’s culinary heritage. You’ll also have the chance to interact with stall owners, watch food being prepared, and capture lively photos in the lantern-lit streets.
- Suggested time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Meeting point: Central Ancient Town or hotels with pick-up service
- Price range: 500,000 – 800,000 VND per person
Detailed itinerary:
| Time | Activity & Location |
| 18:00 – 18:15 | Meet at the Ancient Town center or hotel, introduction to the tour and group |
| 18:15 – 18:45 | Taste cao lau at Cao Lau Thanh (26 Thai Phien) |
| 18:45 – 19:15 | Taste mi quang at Mi Quang Ong Hai (6A Truong Minh Luong) |
| 19:15 – 19:45 | Enjoy grilled meat rolls and nem lui at stalls near the Japanese Bridge |
| 19:45 – 20:15 | Explore traditional desserts such as che bap, che me den, and banh it la gai |
| 20:15 – 21:00 | Sip fresh juice or herbal tea, stroll through the lantern-lit streets, take souvenir photos, and conclude the tour |
Comparison table – Hoi An night food tours
Not sure which tour to choose for your evening in Hoi An? Each food tour offers a completely different way to enjoy the city: strolling through hidden alleyways tasting street food, joining a hands-on cooking class with a professional chef, or exploring the bustling night market under colorful lanterns. The comparison table below will help you quickly see the differences between these three popular options so you can pick the one that best suits your taste and schedule.
| Criteria | Street Food Walking Tour | Cooking Class Night Tour (Bliss Hoi An) | Night Market Food Tour |
| Main Experience | Walk through lantern-lit alleys, stop at family-run eateries, taste multiple Hoi An specialties | Visit a local market with the chef, pick ingredients, cook together, and enjoy a fine-dining meal | Explore the bustling night market, sample snacks from colorful stalls |
| Highlights | Hear food stories from local guides, meet vendors, take photos in the Old Town | Hands-on cooking class, learn techniques, enjoy “market-to-table” dinner | Lively night market vibe, endless photo spots, many small bites to try |
| Typical Dishes | Cao Lau, Mi Quang, Banh Xeo, Nem Lui, Black Sesame Sweet Soup, Mot Drink | Cao Lau, Mi Quang, Fresh Spring Rolls, Banh Xeo (menu depends on the class) | Cao Lau, Mi Quang, Nem Lui, Corn Sweet Soup, Black Sesame Sweet Soup, Banh It La Gai |
| Time | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM | 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM |
| Best For | First-time visitors, food lovers who enjoy walking & tasting | Cooking enthusiasts, couples, families, group activities | Market lovers, night photographers, snack explorers |
| Price Range | 700,000 – 900,000 VND/person | 1,200,000 – 1,500,000 VND/person | 500,000 – 800,000 VND/person |
Read more: Food tour Hoi An Vietnam – Explore the best culinary experiences in Hoi An
Tips & Practical advice for joining a Hoi An night food tour
Joining a night food tour Hoi An is one of the best ways to experience the soul of the ancient town. Here are some friendly tips to make sure you get the most out of your evening:
- Wear light and comfortable clothing – The night air in Hoi An is usually warm and a bit humid, so breathable fabrics will help you stay cool. Don’t forget a light jacket if you’re visiting during the rainy season (October – January) as showers can come unexpectedly.
- Choose good walking shoes – You’ll be strolling through narrow alleys, busy markets, and riverside streets, so sandals or soft sneakers are the best choice. High heels are not recommended if you want to enjoy a relaxed evening.
- Come with an empty stomach – The food tour usually includes 5–7 tastings, from savory mains to sweet desserts. Arriving too full might mean missing out on a few must-try bites like cao lau or mi quang.
- Bring cash in small denominations – Some stops might be at small family-run stalls that don’t take cards. Having small bills (10,000–50,000 VND) makes paying quicker and easier, especially if you want to buy extra snacks along the way.
- Communicate your dietary needs early – If you are vegetarian, vegan, or have food allergies (gluten, peanuts, shellfish), let your guide know at the start. Most guides are happy to adjust and find alternatives so you won’t miss the experience.
- Book in advance if possible – Hoi An gets busy, especially on weekends and during full-moon lantern festivals. Reserving your spot early guarantees you won’t miss this experience.
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about night food tour Hoi An
Planning a night food tour in Hoi An can be exciting, but it’s normal to have a few questions before you book. Whether you’re wondering about the best time to join, what’s included in the price, or if the tour is suitable for kids, we’ve got you covered. Below, we’ve gathered the most frequently asked questions from travelers just like you, along with friendly, practical answers to make your evening smooth, delicious, and stress-free.
- How long does a night food tour Hoi An last?
Most tours last around 3 hours, usually from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. This gives you enough time to enjoy several tastings, stroll through the lantern-lit streets, and take photos.
- Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s highly recommended, especially during weekends or the Full Moon Lantern Festival when Hoi An gets very crowded. Booking ahead ensures you have a spot and can request any dietary adjustments.
- What if I have dietary restrictions?
No problem! Most food tours can accommodate vegetarians, vegans, or travelers with allergies (like gluten or peanuts). Just let the operator or guide know when booking or at the start of the tour.
- Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely! Kids usually enjoy the colorful lantern streets and sweet treats like che (Vietnamese sweet soups). Some spicy dishes might be too strong, but the guide can suggest milder options for children.
- How much walking is involved?
Expect around 1.5 – 2 km of walking at a slow, relaxed pace with multiple stops for food. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
- What is included in the price?
Typically, the price covers all food tastings, one or two drinks, a local guide, and sometimes hotel pick-up (depending on the provider). Additional drinks or souvenirs are at your own expense.
- Can I join the tour if it rains?
Yes, the tours still run during light rain, and ponchos are often provided. In case of heavy rain or flooding, tours may be rescheduled or refunded.
- Are drinks included?
Most tours include at least one drink, like Nuoc Mot (herbal tea) or a soft drink. Extra beverages, cocktails, or beers can usually be purchased at your own cost.
- Is tipping required?
Tipping is not mandatory in Vietnam, but it’s a nice gesture to tip your guide or vendors if you had a great experience. Around 5-10% of the tour price is appreciated.
- Can I take photos or videos during the tour?
Definitely! Hoi An’s night atmosphere is stunning and perfect for photos. Just be polite and ask vendors before taking close-up shots of them or their food preparation.
A night food tour in Hoi An is more than just dinner, it’s an unforgettable way to connect with the city, its people, and its culture. Whether you prefer a guided walk through the ancient town, a lively night market adventure, or a hands-on cooking experience, each tour promises flavors and memories that will stay with you long after the night ends.
