Where to Eat the Best Vegetarian & Vegan Food in Hoi An (2025) Published 21/05/2025
by Ching S.

WHERE TO FIND THE BEST VEGAN AND VEGETARIAN DISHES IN VIETNAM’S LANTERN CITY

Hoi An, a charming UNESCO World Heritage town in Central Vietnam, is a haven for food lovers. For those following a vegetarian, vegan, or plant-based lifestyle, this historic town offers a wide range of delicious and nourishing options. Whether you're strolling through lantern-lit streets or relaxing by the beach, there's always a vegan-friendly bite just around the corner.

Pro Tips for Vegan/Vegetarian Dining in Hoi An

• Look for "Chay" restaurants: The word "chay" means vegetarian in Vietnamese. Restaurants with this label typically offer fully vegetarian menus, and many dishes are vegan by default.
• Ask about ingredients: Some Vietnamese dishes may include fish sauce or animal-based broths. Always ask the staff to confirm whether a dish is fully vegan, especially when ordering soups or sauces.
• Download a translation app or vegan travel card: Having a way to clearly communicate dietary needs can be a lifesaver.

1. Bánh Mì Chay (Vegan Vietnamese Sandwich)

Bánh mì is a classic Vietnamese street food, but vegetarians and vegans can enjoy their own version: bánh mì chay. It's a crusty baguette stuffed with pickled veggies, tofu, herbs, mock meats, and vegan sauce.

Recommended Spot: Lê Hội Bánh Mì Chay

• Addresses: 3 Nguyễn Huệ and 136 Trần Phú, Hội An
• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Price: ~15,000 VND per sandwich
• Why Go: Crispy, fresh, and loaded with flavor — perfect for a quick bite on the go.

2. Bánh Xèo Chay (Vietnamese Crispy Pancake)

This savory rice flour pancake is usually made with shrimp and pork, but vegan versions use mushrooms, tofu, and plenty of herbs. Dip it in vegan-friendly sauces and enjoy with lettuce wraps.

Recommended Spot: ROM Bistro (Revolution of Mushroom)

• Address: 01 Mạc Đĩnh Chi, Hoi An
• Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM
• Price: 50,000 – 100,000 VND
• Why Go: Creative mushroom-based twists on local dishes in a cozy, plant-based setting.

3. Hến Xúc Bánh Tráng (Vegan Mince with Rice Crackers)

A plant-based take on the traditional mussel and rice cracker dish, this version uses mock meats or mushrooms, peanuts, and fresh herbs served with crunchy sesame crackers.

Recommended Spot: Peanuts Restaurant

• Address: 122 Trần Nhân Tông, Hoi An
• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Price: 30,000 – 150,000 VND
• Why Go: Locally loved spot offering a variety of veganized Vietnamese classics.

4. Cao Lầu Chay (Hoi An’s Signature Noodles)

Cao Lầu is unique to Hoi An and features thick noodles, greens, crispy rice crackers, and normally pork. The vegan version swaps in tofu or mock meat for a just-as-savory experience.

Recommended Spot: Quan Chay Dam

• Address: 71/20 Phan Chu Trinh, Hội An
• Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Price: 50,000 – 200,000 VND (buffet 20,000 – 35,000 VND)
• Why Go: Excellent variety and value — try the buffet for an affordable sample of local flavors.

5. Western Vegan Options (Salads, Bowls & Wraps)

Missing a taste of home? Hoi An also offers Western-style vegan options like Buddha/Smoothie bowls, tacos, wraps, and even a vegetarian Sunday Roast.

Recommended Spot: Barefoot Beach Club

• Address: 30 Nguyễn Phan Vinh, Hội An
• Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – Midnight
• Price: 70,000 – 200,000 VND
• Why Go: Beachside atmosphere with a fresh, health-focused menu. Try the falafel wrap or couscous salad!

Extra Experiences for Food-Lovers in Hoi An

If you’re looking to go beyond just eating, FUSE Hostels & Travel offers immersive tours and activities:

• Daily Bike Tour: Discover hidden gems while cycling through rice paddies and villages.
• Street Food Tour: Taste your way through Hoi An’s best eats — vegetarian options available.
• Bamboo Boat & Cooking Class: This tour includes a lovely morning stroll in Hoi An's market then a scenic bamboo boat ride to your open kitchen. Learn to cook authentic Vietnamese meals, with vegan options included (Vegan Pho? Yes, please!)

Hoi An has a growing plant-based scene and diverse range of dishes, there’s something here for every palate. Whether you're savoring a bánh mì chay or exploring on a street food tour, you’re sure to have a memorable (and tasty) experience.

Ready to explore Hoi An? Book your stay with FUSE Hostels & Travel to enjoy comfortable accommodation, local experiences, and all the travel help you need — including how to find the best vegetarian food around town!