Cao Lau is one of the dishes most closely associated with the culinary identity of Hoi An Ancient Town. This dry noodle specialty is known for its pleasantly chewy noodles, savory char siu pork, fresh herbs, crisp pork cracklings, and just enough sauce to coat every ingredient without turning it into a noodle soup. According to Vietnam’s official tourism portal, Hoi An Cao Lau has been recognized among dishes of notable Asian culinary value.
If you are searching for Cao Lau restaurants to try in Hoi An in 2026, the list below focuses on places frequently mentioned by travelers, local tourism websites, and restaurant review platforms. Prices and opening hours may change, so check the latest map listing or call before visiting.
| Restaurant | Best for | Key highlight |
| Ong Hai Cao Lau | Diners who enjoy local restaurants | Cao Lau and Mi Quang in a casual setting |
| Ba Dinh Cao Lau | Travelers dining in the Old Town | Rustic setting and traditional dishes |
| Ba Le Cao Lau Eatery | Groups of friends and families | Varied menu and more space than many small eateries |
| Thuong Cao Lau | Diners who prefer traditional flavors | Located on Tran Cao Van Street |
| Co Lien Hoi An Cao Lau Eatery | Diners seeking a long-established eatery | Mentioned by several travel sources |
1. Ong Hai Cao Lau – A local eatery famous for its quality
- Address: 6A Truong Minh Luong Street, Hoi An, Da Nang City
- Opening hours: approximately 11:00 until late evening
- Estimated price: around VND 40,000 per serving
Ong Hai Cao Lau suits travelers looking for an unpretentious local restaurant focused on flavor. Known for both Mi Quang and Cao Lau, it offers a casual meal that is quick yet distinctly Hoi An.
A major advantage is that you can try both Mi Quang and Cao Lau in one stop. The Cao Lau is often praised for its chewy noodles, well-seasoned char siu pork, fresh herbs, and generous pork cracklings.
2. Ba Dinh Cao Lau
- Address: 138 Tran Phu Street, Hoi An, Da Nang City
- Opening hours: approximately 08:30 – 21:00/21:30
- Estimated price: around VND 30,000 – 50,000 per serving
Ba Dinh Cao Lau is a convenient stop for travelers walking through the Old Town who want a quick, satisfying bowl. Its location on Tran Phu Street makes it easy to include between attractions, especially when time is limited.
Ba Dinh’s appeal lies in its rustic style and the feeling of Hoi An street food. It suits diners who enjoy small local restaurants, traditional dishes, and a simple setting.
3. Ba Le Cao Lau Eatery – A truly authentic Hoi An space
- Address: 49/3 Tran Hung Dao Street, Hoi An, Da Nang City
- Opening hours: approximately 11:00 – 21:30; it may open earlier on weekends
- Estimated price: from around VND 40,000 per serving
Ba Le Cao Lau Eatery is frequently recommended to travelers looking for an approachable and easy-to-reach Cao Lau restaurant in Hoi An. Its larger space and varied menu work well for groups of friends or families with different tastes.
Besides Cao Lau, Ba Le serves Old Town specialties such as Mi Quang, chicken rice, and grilled meat. This makes it a practical option for larger groups: diners who want Cao Lau can order it, while others still have plenty of alternatives.
4. Thuong Cao Lau
- Address: 79 Tran Cao Van Street, Hoi An, Da Nang City
- Opening hours: approximately 15:00 – 22:00/22:30
- Estimated price: around VND 30,000 – 50,000 per serving
Thuong Cao Lau is suitable for anyone seeking a traditional bowl along Tran Cao Van Street. It offers a simple, quick dining experience and is convenient for a late-afternoon or evening itinerary.
Local tourism sources describe the restaurant’s Cao Lau as having chewy noodles, tender char siu pork, and a richly flavored sauce. It is a sensible choice if you want to try a different version beyond the restaurants already popular with tourists.
5. Co Lien Hoi An Cao Lau Eatery
- Address: 120 Tran Cao Van Street, Hoi An, Da Nang City
- Opening hours: approximately 11:00 – 19:00
- Estimated price: around VND 30,000 – 40,000 per serving
Co Lien Cao Lau, also referred to by some sources as Lien Cao Lau, is familiar to travelers who prefer affordable restaurants and flavors close to local tastes. Its traditional preparation and simple presentation appeal to diners seeking an authentic, unpretentious bowl.
The restaurant stands out for its long-standing, rustic feel and approachable Cao Lau. Some tourism sources say Co Lien began as a street stall and has operated for many years, making it familiar to both visitors and diners who appreciate affordable local flavors.
To find the correct restaurant, search for “Cao Lau Lien/Co Lien” together with the Tran Cao Van address and review the latest storefront photos on the map before visiting.
6. Ong Ty Hoi An Cao Lau Eatery
- Address: public listings currently point to Phan Chu Trinh Street, Hoi An; confirm the active location before visiting.
- Opening hours: often listed as an evening street-food stop; check the latest status before visiting.
- Estimated price: affordable local street-food range
Ong Ty is associated with a modest street-side Cao Lau experience, featuring chewy noodles, char siu pork, fresh herbs, and crisp cracklings in a casual local setting. It is best suited to travelers who value a simple, affordable meal over polished restaurant décor.
Public listings currently conflict on the exact address and operating status. Check the latest map pin, recent reviews, and storefront photos before making a special trip.
7. Lan Eatery – Beautiful view, delicious Cao Lau
- Address: Cam Nam Ward, Hoi An, Da Nang City
- Opening hours: approximately 07:00 – 22:00
- Estimated price: around VND 10,000 – 50,000 per dish
Lan Eatery is a relaxed riverside stop in Cam Nam, combining a breezy setting with views that are especially pleasant for a leisurely meal. Its Cao Lau is a good match for travelers who want local food away from the busiest lanes of the Old Town.
Besides Cao Lau, the menu is often associated with rustic Hoi An dishes such as stir-fried baby clams, rice crackers, and corn sweet soup. Opening hours and prices are approximate, so confirm the latest information before visiting.
Conclusion
This list is not an absolute ranking; it is designed to help you choose a Hoi An Cao Lau restaurant that fits your needs. For a local atmosphere, consider Ong Hai or Co Lien. If you are traveling with a group and need a varied menu, Ba Le is a convenient option. For an airier setting away from the busiest Old Town streets, Lan Eatery in Cam Nam is worth considering.
Whichever restaurant you choose, Cao Lau is best enjoyed hot: mix the sauce thoroughly, add the fresh herbs, and eat slowly to appreciate the chewy noodles, char siu pork, crisp cracklings, and unmistakable flavors of Hoi An.
