The story
Cao Lau Thanh is a tiny family spot, about 15 square meters in the front yard of a house at 26 Thai Phien, that has served essentially one dish for more than 20 years. Owner Mrs Thanh's bowls combine chewy thick noodles with five-spice char siu pork, crispy pork crackling, and greens and herbs from Tra Que village. It is busy with both locals and tourists, and many customers pick up takeaway on their motorbikes.
A budget place focused on one dish: cao lau.
Family-run by owner Mrs Thanh, who has kept the same recipe at the same spot for over 20 years (as of 2018).
What to order
Cao lau noodles
Local tips
There is only one dish, so just say how many bowls you want.
Go before lunch. It is busy all day and may sell out early.
Say it in Vietnamese
“Cho em một phần cao lầu, ít cay nhé.”
One portion of cao lau noodles, not too spicy, please.Plan your visit
Opening hours
- Monday
- Closed
- Tuesday
- Closed
- Wednesday
- Closed
- Thursday (today)
- Closed
- Friday
- 07:00–19:00
- Saturday
- 07:00–19:00
- Sunday
- 07:00–19:00
When to go
Opens about 07:00. Closing times vary by source (around 14:00, 16:00 or 17:00), and a 2018 report says it often sells out. Late morning is safest.
Good to know
Works well with kids
Where this comes from
History and details come from named press or official sources. Hours and prices can change — travelers help keep them current.
- Google Maps listing · Traveler reviews · 2026
- Foody – Quan cao lau 20 nam tuoi duoc du khach lang xe nhiet tinh o Hoi An · Traveler reviews · 2018 · foody.vn
- Cotrang.org – Cao Lau Thanh review · Traveler reviews · 2024 · cotrang.org
- Hoiana – Cao Lau Hoi An: best spots recommended by locals · Operator · 2025 · hoiana.com
- VnExpress · Press · 2026
