Hoi An takes Vietnam’s “culinary crown” with three signature dishes, says Alexis Mastroyiannis at Suitcase …
Cao Lau: “Just like Hoi An’s architecture, this signature local dish reflects the town’s multicultural past … thick, udon-style noodles nestle in an unmistakably Vietnamese gravy, topped with barbecued pork, slivers of crackling, and a side of fresh, minty local greens to add at your discretion.”
Mi Quang: “It features flat, deliciously slippery rice noodles in a slightly sweet broth, usually topped with pork, shrimp, herbs and, if you’re getting the real deal, a toasted square of sesame rice paper … the broth here is the real star; rich, intense, artfully spiced.”
Bia hoi and fried wontons: “Bia hoi -- fresh, frothy short-brewed draft beer -- is unbeatable for fighting Vietnam’s pounding heat … in Hoi An, bia hoi has found its perfect accompaniment: fried wontons ... these crispy, sauce-topped treats offer a salty, crunchy contrast to your refreshing beer.”