Tasting Traditions: Exploring Flavors of Hoi An in The Merchant’s Spice Route Dinner Menu

There is a reason so many chefs and foodies fall in love with Hoi An. From the forested hills where aromatic cinnamon grows, to the fertile islets where delicate herbs spring from the soil, to the coastline, where fishermen draw treasures from the salty sea -- everything needed to eat well can be found here. 

The Merchant River Cruise promises to bring guests up close to not only the heritage and natural beauty of Hoi An, but also its unforgettable flavors. Over five carefully crafted courses, Chef Viet Pham peels back the layers surrounding the food of Hoi An. 

The first course is a recognisable classic with a playful twist. The Trader’s Baguette delights the tastebuds with the combination of crunchy cucumber, tangy pickles, fragrant herbs and the deep earthiness of the Merchant’s own duck liver pate. The small size of the Merchant’s banh mi is half the charm, as is preparing the fillings your own way. 

Following this tantalising opening is another Vietnamese treasure, reimagined with the modern diner in mind. The Clear Passage presents soft, pristine pho noodles in a double-clarified beef consomme, with rare local tenderloin, root vegetables, and fresh herbs. Light and refined, the broth also delivers a depth of spices and aromas in each spoonful. 

Transitioning from the fusion of cultures in Hoi An to the natural wealth of its sea, The Merchant River Cruise celebrates the region's deep-rooted fishing heritage with The Fisherman's Tide. 

Composed of ocean fresh, butter-poached rock lobster atop a crispy panko-crusted croquette, the dish is accompanied by silky corn purée, wood ear mushrooms, charred broccoli, spring onion, and an umami-rich lobster wine reduction. Together, these elements capture the freshness and abundance of the sea, that has sustained Hoi An for generations.

From the sea to the soil, the abundant gardens, farms, and fields of Hoi An are known to yield not only delicious herbs, fruits, and vegetables, but also organic, free-range poultry. The Merchant Table presents a 14-day dry-aged duck breast smoked with Tra My cinnamon and served with citrus-infused duck jus and delicate greens. 

The aroma of cinnamon gently rising from the plate recalls the precious spices that once travelled through Hoi An along the maritime Silk Road, establishing the ancient riverside town as one of Southeast Asia's most vibrant and welcoming trading ports.

Later, as the cruise glides back beneath the night sky, and the lights of hundreds of silk lanterns can be seen reflecting on the river, the crew serves The Sweet Departure -- a cheesecake with refreshing mango coulis and a hint of nori ocean seaweed -- a dessert that weaves foreign flavours, tropical produce, and changing sea tides together into one captivating final impression.

Just like the riverscapes the vessel moves through, cultural influences, local ingredients, and timeless traditions are woven into every moment of the culinary journey, offering a true glimpse into Hoi An’s fascinating heritage, and a deeper encounter with the destination. 

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The Merchant River Cruise is offering a 20% discount for reservations in the soft opening period until 31 July, 2026.