The authentic Cao Lau Noodles in Hoi An

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi An is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Vietnam. Even though you might see more tourists than locals here, the old town is really well-preserved and organized. In the 17th century, Hoi An was an important trading port and also a center of Japanese trading activities.

Story of famous Cao Lau Noodles 

Cao Lau is a regional Vietnamese noodle dish that can only be found in the town of Hoi An. It is an ancient town that belongs to Quang Nam province of central Vietnam.  One of the most famous attractions in Hoi An is the stunning Japanese Covered Bridge built by Japanese people. The bridge combines Buddhist pagoda and bridge so that it can be called the Pagoda bridge or Chua Cau in Vietnamese.  And Cao Lau is also believed to be derived from Japanese noodles. The method and recipe are thought to be more than 100 years old. 

The name “Cao Lau” is always a curious question mark for visitors everywhere when experiencing Hoi An old town. This dish is a summed up Vietnamese dish of many cultures.  It can be said that it reflects the influences of traders who came here to seek their fortune. And when rich traders who go to restaurants in Hoi An often sit upstairs and look down on the minister and the folk below. Then, this Vietnamese dish is called “Cao Lau’ meaning “bring upstairs”.

 

Cao Lau - the culinary secret 

Unique to the town, this noodle dish with yellow noodles( Cao Lau noodles), is used with shrimp, pork, and raw vegetables. Fresh greens will be piled upon or beside the pork. Crunchy deep-fried squares are sprinkled on top with some crispy bean sprouts. Cao Lau in Hoi An in a bowl eaten with very little broth. A special feature of Cao Lau is the yellow noodle, which is mixed Finding Authentic Cao Lao in Hoi An and draws water from undisclosed ancient Cham well.

It seems quite simple and easy to cook. But have you ever wondered why Cao Lau cannot be made anywhere else in Vietnam? According to local foodies, its unique taste and texture are achieved by using draw water from undisclosed ancient Cham well. The wood ashes which are used to soak them have to be taken from Cham island. Only this way can make noodles be chewy and sweet enough. Partly, due to the legend surrounding its making, and the deliciously complex rice noodle dish with the essence of Hoi An in a bowl, Cao Lau quickly becomes apparent. Regardless of what you decide to believe or not, Cao lầu is considered one of the best dishes of Hội An. Its charm does not reduce any less.  

Finding Authentic Cao Lau in Hoi An

In Hoi An’ central market, there are a dozen cooks and noodle vendors from the crowded markets or backstreet eateries among local dishes. You might hear them yelling: “Cao Lau, Cao Lau” to attract visitors. And if you go to any restaurants, you will see Cao Lau appearing on every menu both in the Old Town and on streets outside. Some of them may leave out key ingredients or do not use well water. Because the visits will not know the difference so that they are cheeky to cook Cao Lau. But if you have a local friend, they will tell the difference in the taste and texture! 

So how to find authentic Cao Lau? The fact that real Cao Lau takes a long time to cook. And even natives do not attempt to cook the dish at home, most of them eat out. So if you do not mind the cleanliness of the environment, authentic Cao Lau can be purchased from street vendors who only serve Cao Lau or a small handful of local dishes. Do not expect the real from tourist restaurants along the river because the price is very expensive but the quality is not worthy of it. Otherwise, try your luck by approaching locals to ask for advice. 
 

Eating Cao Lau 

The only true way to enjoy Cao Lau is to sit on the second floor as many traders and merchants did centuries ago. Eating the same dish, enjoying the same taste and looking out over the same river as them is highly addictive. But you have to carefully choose a restaurant offering reasonable prices and real Cao Lau. The price is usually cheap to eat, around 2$/ a bowl. You can eat this dish either for breakfast and lunch. 

For an authentic taste of Cao Lau, there are some of Hoi An’s best restaurants serving throughout the day until close. Where to find them: 
 

Hope you enjoy the delicious Cao Lau dish and have a great experience in Hoi An!