1. About Hoi An pancake (banh xeo Hoi An)
Hoi An pancake, locally known as "banh xeo", is a beloved Vietnamese pancake from central provinces like Binh Dinh and Quang Nam. This pancake features pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts in a thick, crispy shell.
What sets Hoi An pancake apart are the fresh herbs like lettuce and banana flower that enhance its flavor and a complex dipping sauce that complements it perfectly. When in Hoi An, indulging in banh xeo is a culinary experience not to be missed, offering a delightful interplay of textures and tastes that leave a lasting impression.
>>> Explore the vibrant flavors of Hoi An street food today!
2. How is Hoi An pancake made?
Creating the beloved Hoi An pancake requires meticulous adherence to its traditional recipe. Ground rice flour is mixed with shrimp, pork belly, and various herbs. The rice batter must achieve the perfect consistency to ensure a crunchy texture when cooked.
The process starts with heating a pan and coating it with oil infused with scallion stems. A shrimp and a slice of pork are placed in the hot pan before pouring in the rice batter.
Often folded over a filling of bean sprouts and optionally eggs, the pancake is then served with a special dipping sauce made from soybean paste, pork liver, crushed peanuts, and spices.
3. Where to eat the best banh xeo in Hoi An?
3.1. Ba Le Well
- Address: 45/51 Tran Hung Đao Street, Hoi An Ancient Town
- Opening hours: 09:30 AM - 10:30 PM
Ba Le Well is famous for its top-notch banh xeo, drawing crowds from afternoon to evening. It features a spacious garden for a relaxed dining ambiance. Simply choose your seat, and the staff will bring you four dishes: banh xeo, pork lemongrass skewers, grilled meat, and corn spring rolls. You pay based on what you consume.
3.2. Banh xeo Hai Nam
- Address: 103 Li Thai To Street, Hoi An
- Opening hours: 11:00 AM - 9:30 PM (Early purchases can be arranged by phone)
Banh xeo Hai Nam is renowned for offering the most affordable Hoi An pancake in town at just 5,000 VND per piece, without compromising on taste. This modest eatery is known for its quick service and satisfying portions, complete with fresh herbs, pickles, grilled meats, and rice paper.
3.3. Banh xeo Ba 9
- Address:
- 92 Phan Chau Trinh Alley, Hoi An
- 159/20 Tran Hung Dao Street, Hoi An
- Opening hours: 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Banh xeo Ba 9 is a must-visit for its rich, authentic flavors. Its crispy banh xeo is made from freshly ground rice, creating a fragrant, unique crust rarely found elsewhere. Served with fragrant basil, homemade kimchi, and a traditional dipping sauce, each dish offers a harmonious blend of savory delights.
>>> Plan your perfect Hoi An itinerary and discover all this town has to offer!
3.4. Banh xeo Hai Dao
- Address: 160 Ly Thai To Street, Cam Son Ward, Hoi An
- Opening hours: 09:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Banh Xeo Hai Dao is famed for its crispy Hoi An pancakes filled with shrimp and grilled meat. Its pickled mustard greens add a kimchi-like tang with ginger, while fresh regional herbs and a savory dipping sauce with meat essence and Hoi An chili sauce enhance the flavors.
3.5. Banh xeo Ba Tien Hoi An
- Address: 409 Hai Ba Trung Street, Hoi An
- Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Banh xeo Ba Tien is famous for its traditional Hoi An pancakes. The crispy crust is filled generously with shrimp and fragrant herbs such as basil and Vietnamese mint, giving it a unique local flavor.
Hoi An pancake encapsulates the essence of Vietnamese culinary finesse, blending crispy textures with savory fillings like shrimp and pork belly. This iconic dish exemplifies Hoi An's rich gastronomic heritage, celebrated for its meticulous preparation and distinctive flavors that captivate both locals and visitors alike.
When in Hoi An, finding comfortable lodging is essential for relaxing after days of exploration. Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An stands out with its luxurious rooms and extensive amenities, including spas, pools, dining options, and gyms. Its contemporary design complements its beachfront setting on the picturesque Binh Minh Beach. Additionally, the resort offers easy access to VinWonders Nam Hoi An, a captivating amusement park with numerous recreational activities suitable for all ages.
