Across Da Nang and Hoi An, from humble street stalls to upscale restaurants, thousands of bowls of Mì Quảng are served every day. The golden noodles shine like the ancient houses of the old town, named after Quang Nam province itself. Let’s explore the fascinating story behind this dish and discover the must-try local eateries.

A Centuries-Old Recipe

For more than 500 years, the recipe of this iconic noodle dish has remained nearly unchanged. Between the 13th and 15th centuries, Hoi An was one of the busiest trading ports in the region. Chinese merchants introduced wheat noodles, but local Vietnamese chefs adapted the method using rice flour, creating the wide, flat noodles of Mì Quảng.

Village Tradition

Almost every household in Da Nang and Hoi An knows how to make Mi Quang. Rice flour is spread thinly on plates, steamed, then lightly brushed with peanut oil before being cut into noodles. After harvest season, villagers would often gather together—some pounding rice, some steaming noodles—filling the village with joy and laughter.

Key Ingredients

The tropical climate of Da Nang and Hoi An is perfect for growing aromatic herbs and spices, especially turmeric, garlic, and pepper. To prepare the broth, meat or fish is marinated with these spices, then sautéed with shallots before simmered with just enough water to create a rich, flavorful sauce that barely covers the noodles.

Diverse Variations

The beauty of Mi Quang lies in its variety. It can be made with free-range chicken, snakehead fish, pork, shrimp, and quail eggs. During rainy season, locals look forward to the comforting bowl of frog Mi Quang. Some versions feature thin yellow noodles or thicker broths enriched with egg, each offering a unique taste experience.

Completing the Dish

A perfect bowl of Mi Quang is assembled with golden noodles topped with savory broth, then garnished with scallions, peanuts, and a crisp rice cracker. It is always served with fresh herbs such as coriander, basil, perilla, fish mint, banana blossom, and lettuce. A squeeze of lime, a spoonful of Hoi An chili paste, and a dash of fish sauce complete the balance of flavors.

Where to Eat Mi Quang in Da Nang – Hoi An

Mi Quang is usually served for breakfast and lunch, and the best spots often sell out by early afternoon. Here are the most recommended eateries:

In Hoi An

Mi 92 (112 Tran Cao Van, Hoi An): A beloved family recipe featuring both fish noodles and the classic shrimp-pork version with boiled eggs. Everything from the noodles to the broth and fresh greens is outstanding.

Mi Quang Di Hat (4 Thai Phien, Hoi An): Dì Hát has been making noodles for over 50 years, now selling from her street cart near Nguyen Ba Ngoc school. Sit on a small stool and slurp like a true local.

Mi Quang Co Sinh (202 Ly Thuong Kiet, Hoi An): Known for its fresh vegetables sourced daily from Tra Que Village. Both chicken and beef Mì Quảng here are highly recommended.

In Da Nang

Mi Quang Sua Hong Van (59 Le Hong Phong): Famous for its rare jellyfish noodles, with crunchy jellyfish, soft noodles, and a refreshing broth. A generous portion packed with fresh herbs.

Mi Quang Co Sau (397 Tran Hung Dao): A long-standing riverside eatery popular with locals for breakfast. Shrimp–pork and chicken noodles are the highlights.

Mi Quang 1A (1 Hai Phong): A “legendary” spot, always packed with customers from early morning. Renowned for chicken and shrimp-pork noodles, with flavorful broth and clean, fresh herbs.

Mi Quang Que Xua (165 Nui Thanh): A rustic, nostalgic space offering various versions including chicken, snakehead fish, frog, and jellyfish. The frog noodles are particularly famous. Also try their grilled pork with rice paper rolls.

Mi Quang Ba Vi (166 Le Dinh Duong): A long-established brand known for its rich, full bowls served with crispy rice crackers. Slightly pricier than local stalls but worth trying.

Mi Quang Lan Phuong (358A/15 Nguyen Van Linh): Hidden in an alley but loved by locals and tourists alike. Offers chicken, shrimp, pork, beef, and fish noodles, with a clear, light broth and beautiful presentation. Conveniently close to Da Nang airport.

Mi Quang Phu Chiem Nhu (63 Pham Van Nghi): Serving the authentic flavor of Phu Chiem-style noodles, with a turmeric-rich broth and signature taste.

Mi Quang Bep Trang (212 Bach Dang & multiple branches): A famous brand with beautiful presentation, often served on bamboo trays with banana leaves. Specialties include frog noodles, shrimp-pork, chicken, duck, and fish.

Mi Quang Ba Mua (95A Nguyen Tri Phuong & branches): Popular among tourists for its spacious restaurants and diverse menu. Bowls are hearty, well-presented, with clean fresh herbs.

Mi Quang Ba Dinh (42 Dao Duy Tu): Nicknamed “bullet-storage noodles”, this eatery is cherished for its rich flavors, light broth, and well-marinated toppings of shrimp, pork, and chicken. Served with crunchy rice crackers in a cozy, homely setting.

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