Vegan/Vegetarian Cooking Class with Local Chef in Hoi An

Introduction

Imagine spending a few hours in Hoi An learning how to cook some of Vietnam’s most beloved dishes—without the fuss of markets or farm visits. That’s exactly what this Vegan/Vegetarian Cooking Class with a Local Chef offers. It’s a straightforward, focused experience that zeroes in on culinary skills and authentic flavors while providing a cozy, family-friendly environment.

What stands out is the simplicity and quality—you get just the cooking, and that’s enough to leave you with new recipes and a real taste of Vietnamese cuisine. The flexible menu, friendly instruction, and small group size make it an appealing choice for foodies who want a genuine, interactive experience.

One thing to keep in mind is the timing and scheduling—the class runs around 2.5 hours, which is perfect for a short visit, but you’ll need to plan ahead for the booking. The tour’s price point at $27 per person offers excellent value considering the hands-on nature and included recipes. This experience tends to suit travelers who enjoy cooking, want a more intimate activity, or have limited time but still want an authentic culinary encounter.

Key Points

• Focused Cooking Experience: No market or farm visits—just learn to cook four traditional dishes.
• Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine: Recipes like Bánh xèo, spring rolls, and papaya salad bring genuine flavors.
• Friendly Local Chef: Enthusiastic and eager to share Vietnamese culinary tips and ingredient names.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 10 travelers, ensuring personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Inclusive and Practical: Recipe book and ingredients provided; dietary preferences can be accommodated.
• Value for Money: At $27, it’s affordable for a memorable, hands-on culinary class.

The Experience Breakdown: What to Expect

Meeting and Introduction

We loved the way this tour begins with a warm welcome at “my house,” a cozy meeting point that feels more like visiting a friend than a formal class. You’re greeted with a refreshing welcome drink, setting a relaxed tone. From there, the instructor—known simply as Mr. Cu—takes charge of the ingredients, showing you how to select the freshest produce, with Vietnamese names and tips on choosing high-quality items.

Cooking in a Short Time

This is a short, efficient class—about 2.5 hours—perfect for travelers with limited time. The focus is entirely on cooking, not sightseeing or shopping. Mr. Cu prepares all the ingredients beforehand, so your task is mainly to follow instructions, but he’s keen to show you the secrets behind selecting ingredients and share stories about Vietnamese cuisine. His enthusiastic teaching style, combined with his friendliness, makes the session engaging.

The Menu and Dishes

The menu varies slightly depending on the time slot, but the core dishes remain consistent:

• Bánh xèo: rice pancake with fresh salad, crispy and savory, served with herbs.
• Papaya salad: with shrimp crackers, offering a fresh and tangy flavor.
• Fried spring rolls: crispy and golden, a Vietnamese classic.
• Seasonal fruit: a sweet, refreshing finish.

For evening classes, the menu may shift slightly, but you’ll still prepare four local dishes. The focus on vegetarian/vegan options makes it a great choice for those with dietary preferences.

Hands-On Cooking and Cultural Insights

During the class, you learn to prepare each dish, with step-by-step guidance. The chef shares valuable knowledge about Vietnamese culinary culture, which enhances the experience beyond just the cooking. Reviewers noted how the food was among the best they had in Vietnam, emphasizing the quality and authenticity achieved in this short session.

Dining and Recipe Sharing

Once cooked, you sit down to enjoy your creations—whether for lunch or dinner depending on the session. The included recipe book allows you to recreate these dishes back home, extending the experience beyond Hoi An. Since drinks are not included, you might want to bring or buy beverages separately.

Practical Details and Flexibility

The meeting point is conveniently located in Hoi An, with the 6:00 pm session’s meeting point confirmed via WhatsApp, ensuring clear communication. The class is suitable for service animals, and near public transportation, making it accessible.

The Value in Focus

At just $27 per person, this cooking class offers substantial value—especially considering the personalized attention from Mr. Cu and the quality of instruction. No hidden extras or shopping obligations mean you pay for what you get: a fun, authentic, and delicious Vietnamese cooking experience. The small group size—maximum of 10 travelers—means plenty of interaction and the chance to ask questions, making it ideal for those wanting a more intimate class.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food lovers who want to get hands-on and learn how to make Vietnamese dishes from scratch. It’s also suitable for families or groups with limited time but desire an authentic culinary activity. If you enjoy casual, friendly environments and want to avoid overly commercialized tours, this class hits the mark.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking an authentic, focused cooking experience in Hoi An, this class offers a delightful mix of learning, tasting, and cultural insight. The emphasis on vegetarian/vegan dishes ensures it’s accessible for different dietary needs, while the small-group format guarantees individual attention and a relaxed vibe. It’s a wonderful way to gain new skills, enjoy delicious food, and take home recipes that will remind you of Vietnam long after your trip.

This tour really shines in its simplicity and sincerity—no complex itineraries or added attractions, just pure cooking fun. If your goal is to connect deeply with Vietnamese cuisine in a friendly setting, this is likely to be one of your favorite memories from Hoi An.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, the class is designed to focus on vegetarian and vegan options, with particular emphasis on vegetarian dishes like Bánh xèo and fresh salads.

What dishes will I learn to cook?
You’ll learn how to make four local dishes, including rice pancakes (Bánh xèo), papaya salad with shrimp crackers, fried spring rolls, and seasonal fruit.

How long is the class?
The class lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it a perfect short activity for a busy travel schedule.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the cooking class, ingredients, and a recipe book. You will also enjoy the meal you prepare, served as lunch or dinner.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to bring your own or purchase them separately.

Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point is at “Hoi An Village Experience by Mr. Cu,” and the activity concludes back at the same location.

Is transportation provided?
No, the tour does not include hotel transfers. It’s recommended to meet at the designated location, which is accessible by public transportation.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Refunds are processed promptly, providing flexibility for travel plans.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
Let the tour organizers know beforehand, and they will do their best to accommodate your dietary needs, especially if you have specific vegetarian or vegan preferences.

Whether you’re craving a relaxed, authentic culinary experience or looking to hone your Vietnamese cooking skills, this class offers a genuine taste of Hoi An’s flavors in a friendly, no-fuss setting.