Home » Viet Nam Travel Guide » Phở Hội An: A Unique Take on Vietnam’s Iconic Noodle Soup

Phở Hội An: A Unique Take on Vietnam’s Iconic Noodle Soup

Phở is one of Vietnam’s most famous and beloved dishes, originating from the northern region and spreading throughout the country with various regional adaptations.

While Hanoi and Saigon are well-known for their distinctive styles of phở, Hội An—a historic town in central Vietnam—has developed its own unique version.

Phở Hội An stands out for its bold flavors, local ingredients, and special preparation methods that set it apart from traditional northern and southern phở.

See more details >>> Hoi An Specialty: Culinary Journey Must-try in Town

The Origins of Phở Hội An

Hội An is famous for its well-preserved ancient town, a melting pot of cultures and cuisines influenced by Chinese, Japanese, and French traders.

Unlike Hanoi’s clear and delicate broth or Saigon’s sweet and aromatic version, Hội An’s phở reflects the region’s rich culinary heritage, incorporating local spices and cooking techniques.

Phở Hội An is believed to have evolved as local cooks experimented with traditional phở recipes while incorporating Hội An’s distinct flavors.

It is less common than Cao Lầu or Mì Quảng—two of the town’s signature noodle dishes—but it holds a special place among locals and visitors who crave a different take on Vietnam’s national dish.

How Phở Hội An Differs from Other Phở

1. The Broth

One of the biggest differences in Phở Hội An is the broth. Unlike the clear, light broth of northern phở or the sweeter southern version, Hội An’s broth is richer, darker, and more deeply spiced.

It often features a blend of star anise, cinnamon, and cloves, combined with beef bones that are simmered for hours to create a deep, savory flavor. Some versions even include a touch of seafood influence, reflecting Hội An’s proximity to the coast.

2. The Noodles

Traditional phở uses soft, flat rice noodles, but Phở Hội An sometimes incorporates a slightly firmer variety, closer to the noodles used in Mì Quảng. These noodles provide a slightly chewy texture that complements the hearty broth.

3. The Meat and Toppings

While beef (phở bò) and chicken (phở gà) are the standard proteins in other regions, Phở Hội An sometimes includes slow-cooked beef with a slightly charred or grilled flavor.

The meat is often marinated before being added to the soup, giving it a deeper, more robust taste. Some versions even include a combination of meats, such as beef, pork, or even seafood, offering a wider range of flavors.

Another notable difference is the addition of Hội An’s famous chili sauce and fresh herbs like Vietnamese coriander (rau răm), which are not as commonly used in northern or southern styles.

4. Accompaniments and Eating Style

Hội An’s version of phở is often served as dried Pho noodle instead of wet Phở noodle as other place. Pho Hoi An can use with toasted baguette slices, rather than the usual plate of bean sprouts and basil seen in southern phở. These additions provide an extra crunch and a contrast to the rich broth.

Why Try Phở Hội An?

For travelers exploring Vietnam’s diverse culinary scene, Phở Hội An offers a unique twist on a beloved dish. It embodies the fusion of flavors that makes Hội An’s food scene so special.

While it may not be as internationally famous as Hanoi or Saigon’s phở, it is a hidden gem that captures the soul of central Vietnamese cuisine.

Top Pho in Hoi An you can try?

Pho Liến Hoi An

• 📍 Address: 363 Cua Dai, Hội An
• 🕘 Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 11:00 AM (Best to visit early!)
• 💰 Price Range: Budget-friendly (30,000 – 60,000 VND per bowl)

Pho Mười Hoi An

• 📍 Location: 51/7 Phan Châu Trinh, Hoi An
• 🕘 Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM (Yes, it’s a breakfast spot!)
• 💰 Price Range: Budget-friendly (Only 15,000 – 40,000 VND per bowl)

Pho Tùng Hoi An

• 📍 Location: 51/7 Phan Châu Trinh, Hoi An
• 🕘 Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM (Yes, it’s a breakfast spot!)
• 💰 Price Range: Budget-friendly (Only 15,000 – 40,000 VND per bowl)

Pho Xưa Hoi An

• 📍 Address: 35A Phan Châu Trinh, Hoi An
• 🕘 Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 10:30 AM | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• 💰 Price Range: 45,000 – 70,000 VND ($2 – $3 USD)

Next time you visit Hội An, be sure to seek out a local eatery serving this distinctive version of phở. It’s a delicious way to experience the town’s rich food culture while enjoying a warm, flavorful bowl of one of Vietnam’s most iconic dishes.