Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Discover Hanoi’s coffee culture through a hands-on class making drip, egg, coconut, and salt coffee. Learn techniques, history, and enjoy delicious drinks.
Our review of the Hanoi Coffee Class offers a deep dive into a fun, authentic experience that’s perfect for coffee lovers and curious travelers alike. For just $25 per person, you’ll spend around two hours learning to craft five traditional Vietnamese coffee drinks in a charming, eco-friendly cafe in the bustling Old Quarter. What makes this experience stand out is not just the chance to master unique brewing techniques but also the opportunity to understand the cultural significance behind Hanoi’s legendary coffee scene.
One of the key things we love about this class is how comprehensive it is—covering everything from drip coffee to Egg Coffee, Coconut Coffee, and Salt Coffee. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the guide (notably Riley, according to reviews) is engaging and knowledgeable. A minor consideration might be the small group size of just 8 participants, which keeps things intimate but can fill up quickly, so booking in advance is wise. This class will suit anyone interested in Vietnam’s coffee traditions, those who want to learn practical skills, or travelers looking for a memorable cultural activity in Hanoi.
Looking for more options in Hanoi? Here are some other experiences worth considering.
Starting Point: Hidden Gem Cafe
The tour begins at the charming Hidden Gem Cafe located in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. This spot is more than just a coffee shop—it’s a showcase of eco-conscious design, creatively repurposing furniture and decor to promote sustainability. As you arrive, you’re greeted by a warm atmosphere that feels both vibrant and relaxed. The cafe itself is a small, cozy space that feels like a welcoming hideaway, perfect for coffee aficionados and casual visitors alike.
Learning to Brew Dripping Coffee
The class kicks off with mastering Vietnamese drip coffee, a process known for its slow, deliberate dripping that produces a rich, strong brew. You’ll learn how to set up the traditional filter, controlling the flow to get the perfect cup. Many reviewers, like Morgan, mention how engaging and hands-on this part is, making it more than just a demonstration. Expect a detailed explanation of the mechanics, along with tips for achieving consistent results at home.
Vietnamese Egg Coffee
Next, the legendary Egg Coffee takes center stage. This signature drink features whipped egg yolk combined with sweetened condensed milk, creating a creamy, dessert-like coffee that’s both comforting and indulgent. Reviewers praise the instructor for making this seemingly complex drink accessible, emphasizing the fun of actually preparing it yourself. Morgan even notes that they made five different types of coffee, including Egg Coffee, which turned out to be a highlight.
Coconut Coffee and Salt Coffee
Adding variety, the class explores Coconut Coffee, combining the tropical flavor with traditional brew, and Salt Coffee, which intrigues many with its savory twist. These drinks highlight Vietnam’s innovative approach to coffee, blending flavors in surprising ways. Riley, the instructor, reportedly shares stories behind each beverage, giving you a richer appreciation of their cultural roots. Rina mentions how the workshop combines history and culture seamlessly, making it more than just a skill-building session.
Tastes and Takeaways
After preparing each drink, you get to taste your creations, often accompanied by small snacks. Many reviews express how satisfying it is to sip the finished product, especially after the hands-on activity. The class wraps up with a discussion about Vietnamese coffee habits, traditions, and the importance of coffee in Hanoi’s social life.
Group Size & Atmosphere
With a maximum of 8 travelers, the class maintains an intimate atmosphere, allowing for personalized instruction and meaningful conversations. Riley and the team create a friendly environment, encouraging questions and sharing stories about Hanoi’s coffee culture. Reviewers like Corry appreciate the “super great” experience and wish they had a written recipe to recreate these drinks back home, highlighting the practical value of the class.
Location & Accessibility
Starting at Hidden Gem Cafe, the spot is centrally located in Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter, making it easy to reach via public transport. The setting is both eco-conscious and charming, with recycled furniture and decor that add to the cozy vibe. The cafe’s design reflects a dedication to sustainability, making the experience not just delicious but also environmentally responsible.
Duration & Price
At approximately two hours, the class is a well-paced activity that fits neatly into a day of sightseeing. For just $25, the value is substantial. You receive hands-on experience, multiple drinks, cultural insights, and a fun story to tell. Many reviewers, including Rina, mention how well-rounded and engaging the class is—making it a worthwhile investment for a memorable Hanoi experience.
Morgan calls it an “amazing class in a cute coffee shop,” highlighting the engaging teaching style of John, the host. She appreciated that they learned to make five different drinks, and the class was described as very interactive. Corry notes the value in learning to prepare five different coffees, adding that a written recipe would be a nice bonus for taking the skills home.
Rina emphasizes the blend of making, history, and culture, praising Riley’s role as an instructor and the lovely ambiance of Hidden Gem. Malcolm mentions the “amazing” experience of trying Vietnamese-style coffee and making it himself, and highlights the chance to sample multiple drinks and enjoy good company.
This Hanoi Coffee Class offers an authentic, hands-on way to explore Vietnam’s beloved coffee culture. For just $25, you learn to make five different drinks, each with its own story and flavor profile, all in a cozy and sustainable setting. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the instructor’s engaging style keeps the experience lively and educational. Whether you’re a coffee fanatic or simply curious about Hanoi’s vibrant cafe scene, this class delivers both practical skills and cultural insights in one delightful package.
If you’re looking for an activity that combines learning, tasting, and cultural discovery, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly ideal for those who value authentic experiences, enjoy making things with their own hands, or want a memorable story to share back home. Just remember to book early, as spots are limited, and prepare to enjoy some of the best coffee Vietnam has to offer.
How long does the Hanoi Coffee Class last?
The class takes approximately 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to learn, make, and taste five different coffees.
What is the price per person?
It costs $25, which includes hands-on instruction, tastings, and cultural insights—an excellent value for a comprehensive experience.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Hidden Gem Cafe in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, making logistics straightforward.
How many people are in each group?
A maximum of 8 travelers ensures a personalized, engaging experience.
Is this activity suitable for all skill levels?
Yes, the class is designed to be accessible for beginners and those with some experience alike.
What kind of coffee drinks will I learn to make?
You’ll learn to prepare traditional Vietnamese Dripping Coffee, Egg Coffee, Coconut Coffee, Salt Coffee, and also enjoy drip black coffee and coffee with condensed milk.
Do I need prior experience to join?
No prior experience is required—just an interest in coffee and learning new techniques.
Is the cafe eco-friendly?
Yes, Hidden Gem Cafe focuses on sustainability, creatively repurposing furniture and decor to minimize environmental impact.
Can I get a recipe to take home?
While reviews suggest a desire for printed recipes, the class emphasizes hands-on learning, so you’ll likely take the knowledge with you, but not a written guide.
Is there a refund policy?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.
This detailed review should help you decide whether this Hanoi Coffee Class is the right fit for your trip—combining fun, learning, and authentic Vietnamese flavors in one memorable experience.