Where to Eat in Hội An Right Now: 5 Trending Restaurants Locals Love

Where to Eat in Hội An Right Now: 5 Trending Restaurants Locals Love

Hội An’s food scene keeps evolving, but it still feels intimate and handmade. This guide focuses on a handful of standout restaurants that are getting fresh buzz in 2025 for their flavors, atmosphere, and word-of-mouth momentum.

Use this as your short list for dinners, brunches, and casual nights out that still feel a bit ahead of the curve.

HOI AN CUISINE Restaurant - 13 Phan Chu Trinh - Cozy neighborhood spot

Why it is trending: HOI AN CUISINE Restaurant is very new, but it already shows a sharp growth curve with a high rating and a steady trickle of recent reviews. Travelers are starting to talk about it as a fresh alternative to the usual old town staples.

What to expect:

• Focus on Hội An and central Vietnamese dishes
• A compact menu that feels curated rather than touristy
• Relaxed, homey interior right on Phan Chu Trinh, an easy stroll from the Ancient Town

Look for well-executed classics like cao lầu, white rose dumplings, and mi quang. Portions are generous without feeling heavy, and the seasoning is dialed in for flavor rather than just heat.

Best for:

• First night in town when you want reliable, clean, and local
• Small groups who want to try a spread of regional dishes

MapsBuddy tip: Because it is still new, you can often just walk in, but that may change quickly as more reviews roll in. Go early in the evening to catch it at its most relaxed.

Nhan's kitchen - Late-night energy

Why it is trending: Nhan's kitchen has thousands of glowing reviews and still pulls in fresh ones every month. It is a proven favorite that keeps its momentum thanks to warm service, consistent food, and word-of-mouth from backpackers and long-stay travelers.

What to expect:

• Casual, friendly vibe with the feel of a neighborhood hangout
• Vietnamese comfort dishes plus a few Western options
• Big flavors, fair prices, and portions that satisfy hungry cyclists and beach-goers

Signature plates often mentioned in reviews include lemongrass chili chicken, spring rolls, and rich curry dishes. Staff are happy to adjust spice levels and explain unfamiliar items.

Best for:

• Easygoing dinners after a day of exploring
• Mixed groups where some want Vietnamese and others prefer something familiar

MapsBuddy tip: Nhan's kitchen can get busy at peak dinner time. If you are with a group, aim for early evening or a later sitting. It is a great option when you want energy without feeling rushed.

River Square by Em's House Hoi An | Healthy Breakfast- Brunch- Lunch - Riverside slow mornings

Why it is trending: With a perfect rating and strong review growth, River Square by Em's House Hoi An is riding the current global love for healthy brunch and all-day breakfast. It is especially popular with digital nomads and travelers who want a lighter, fresher start in a town known for noodles.

What to expect:

• Riverside setting with calm views and soft morning light
• Smoothie bowls, avocado toast, egg dishes, and Vietnamese coffee
• Vegetarian and health-conscious options without losing flavor

You will see lots of colorful fruit plates, granola bowls, and fresh juices, but also comforting choices like pancakes and well-made omelets. Wi-Fi and a relaxed pace make it easy to linger.

Best for:

• Post-sunrise walk breakfast or pre-sightseeing brunch
• Travelers needing a break from heavy meals

MapsBuddy tip: This is a strong pick for your first morning in Hội An. Check opening hours, arrive early, and enjoy a slow coffee by the river before the tour buses roll in.

Chops Hoi An - Craft burgers and beer

Why it is trending: Chops Hoi An is part of a small, respected burger chain in Vietnam, and it keeps drawing new reviews thanks to its consistent quality and laid-back vibe. It is where locals and expats go when they want a break from rice and noodles.

What to expect:

• Gourmet burgers with interesting toppings and solid vegetarian options
• Craft beers and cocktails in a stylish yet casual setting
• Reliable Western comfort food that feels like a treat, not an afterthought

Popular orders include juicy cheeseburgers, loaded fries, and chicken burgers with crunchy slaw. The kitchen is known for good buns, proper searing, and thoughtful sauces.

Best for:

• Burger cravings and comfort-food nights
• Groups of friends who want easy ordering and a social vibe

MapsBuddy tip: If you have been on the road for a while, plan one evening here as your reset meal. It is also a handy option for picky eaters or kids.

Hy - Vietnamese Restaurant in Hoi An - Refined local flavors

Why it is trending: Hy - Vietnamese Restaurant in Hoi An quietly maintains a near-perfect rating while still adding new reviews. It is not the loudest name in town, but food-focused travelers are increasingly calling it a must-try for well-crafted Vietnamese dishes.

What to expect:

• A slightly more refined take on local cuisine without feeling formal
• Neatly plated dishes, clean flavors, and thoughtful seasoning
• Attentive service that helps you navigate the menu

Look for standouts like grilled pork with herbs, fresh seafood dishes, and vegetable plates that go beyond the usual stir-fry. Hy is especially good if you want to sample many flavors in one sitting.

Best for:

• Date nights or quieter dinners
• Travelers who are already familiar with Vietnamese food and want something a bit more polished

MapsBuddy tip: Pair a visit to Hy with an evening stroll through the lantern-lit streets of the Ancient Town. Booking ahead is a good idea in high season.

How to plan your eating route in Hội An

• Mix old and new: Combine a well-established hit like Nhan's kitchen with a newer arrival like HOI AN CUISINE Restaurant.
• Balance heavy and light: Use River Square by Em's House Hoi An for lighter mornings, then save Chops Hoi An or Hy for richer dinners.
• Stay flexible: Many places are walkable from the Ancient Town. Let the weather and your energy levels guide which side of the river you focus on each day.

Why use MapsBuddy in Hội An

Hội An changes fast. New kitchens open quietly, and small family spots can suddenly explode in popularity. MapsBuddy tracks review growth, ratings, and real-time buzz so you can find trending restaurants before they go fully mainstream.

Use this guide as your shortlist, then keep MapsBuddy open on your phone to spot nearby up-and-coming places as you wander.