Vegan Cooking Class and Market Tour with Chef Tien

A Taste of Hanoi: Vegan Cooking Class and Market Tour with Chef Tien

If you’re dreaming of exploring Hanoi through its food, this Vegan Cooking Class and Market Tour with Chef Tien offers a delightful blend of local culture, fresh ingredients, and culinary skills. Priced at $55 per person and rated a perfect 5.0 by recent travelers, this experience promises a warm, hands-on journey into Vietnamese vegan cuisine. What makes it stand out? The chance to visit a bustling local market, learn the art of making five different vegan dishes, and enjoy your creations in a cozy setting—all guided by a knowledgeable local chef.

One of the things we love about this tour is how it balances practical cooking skills with cultural insights. You’re not just making food — you’re gaining a deeper understanding of how veganism ties into daily Vietnamese life. The only consideration is that some reviews note the class isn’t exclusively vegan—meaning some non-vegan ingredients or market stops may be involved. Still, this shouldn’t deter those genuinely interested in Vietnamese flavors and cooking techniques. Ideal for foodies, vegetarians, vegans, or curious travelers, this class suits those eager to learn authentic recipes and enjoy a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines market exploration with hands-on cooking in a local home setting.
• Cultural Insight: Reveals how veganism intersects with daily Vietnamese life.
• Expert Guidance: Led by Chef Tien, known for his friendly teaching style and culinary expertise.
• Value for Money: At $55, it offers a comprehensive experience, including ingredients, instruction, and food.
• Group Size: Small groups of up to four travelers ensure personalized attention.
• Convenience: Pickup and return transfers from select hotels are included, making it hassle-free.

Exploring Hanoi’s Market and Cooking Scene

Our journey begins with a visit to a vibrant local market, the beating heart of Hanoi’s food scene. This part of the experience is particularly enriching if you’re interested in seeing real Vietnamese daily life. You’ll see vendors selling fresh vegetables, herbs, and seasonings—all of which are essential for Vietnamese cuisine. As some reviewers pointed out, the market stops are an authentic peek into local life, giving you a chance to ask questions, observe locals bargaining, and select ingredients yourself.

Carly_A noted that the guide, Chris, was a great teacher and cook, making the market visit both fun and educational. She also mentioned that while the class was enjoyable, it was not exclusively vegan, which could be a concern if you’re strict about vegan ingredients. Still, the market’s lively atmosphere and the opportunity to pick your own vegetables makes it a memorable start.

The Cooking Experience: Making 5 Vegan Dishes

After the market, you’ll move to Chef Tien’s kitchen—likely a cozy, home-style space that fosters a relaxed learning environment. The core of the class involves making five different vegan dishes, guided step-by-step by your instructor. This isn’t just about following recipes but understanding the techniques and seasonings that define Vietnamese vegan cuisine.

Expect to learn how to craft Vietnamese vegan seasonings and marinades, a skill that can elevate your home cooking long after the class ends. The dishes often include staples like fresh spring rolls, flavorful rice paper wraps, and traditional stir-fries, though the exact menu isn’t specified. What’s particularly appealing is the interactive nature of the class—there’s plenty of opportunity for questions, and the instructor’s friendly approach makes even beginners feel comfortable.

Tasting Your Creations

Once the cooking is done, it’s time to enjoy what you’ve made. With unlimited drinks—soft drinks, coffee, herbal welcome drinks, and water—you can relax and savor your dishes at your own pace. The group setting encourages conversation, making this a social experience that’s as much about food as it is about sharing stories.

Reviewers like Chris’s guidance, praising his patience and knowledge. One shared that they made some delicious vegan dishes, highlighting the quality of the instruction. Even those who are not heavily experienced in cooking found the step-by-step guidance accessible and rewarding.

Practical Details and Considerations

This tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, making it a manageable addition to a day of sightseeing. The maximum group size of four ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere. The pickup from select hotels is a nice touch, removing the need to navigate Hanoi’s bustling streets on your own. The mobile ticket system makes booking straightforward, with most guests booking about nine days in advance—so plan ahead, especially during peak travel times.

The price point of $55 per person offers solid value, considering it includes the ingredients, instruction, market visit, and a generous tasting session. Compared to other culinary experiences, this class focuses on authentic Vietnamese vegan dishes, which is a unique selling point.

Genuine Traveler Insights

From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Chris and Chef Tien are key to making this experience special. Guests appreciate how knowledgeable and friendly they are, often mentioning how easy it is to ask questions and learn fun tips. One reviewer highlighted that Chef Tien’s guidance made it feel like cooking in a friend’s home rather than a formal class.

However, some travelers found the class not exclusively vegan, which is worth considering if your diet is strictly plant-based. The market stops and ingredients may include some non-vegan items, but overall, the focus remains on vegan dishes.

Lastly, the relaxed setting—likely in a home or small restaurant—means you get personal attention, and the small group size minimizes the chaos often found in larger classes. This intimacy allows for a more meaningful, hands-on experience.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re someone who loves learning new recipes and exploring local food culture, this class is a fantastic pick. It’s perfect for vegetarians, vegans, or curious foodies eager to understand Vietnamese cuisine beyond just eating it. The guided market visit and the personalized instruction ensure you walk away with skills you can replicate back home.

Travelers who value authentic, small-group experiences will appreciate the intimate setting, the chance to ask questions, and the opportunity to taste everything you make. While not strictly vegan—based on reviews—it’s a well-rounded, flavorful introduction to Hanoi’s plant-based culinary scene.

This experience shines in its ability to combine cultural insight with culinary skill-building, all in a friendly, relaxed environment. It’s a thoughtful, well-priced way to connect with Hanoi’s vibrant food culture and learn new skills you’ll want to showcase long after your trip.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup from select hotels in Hanoi is included, making it convenient and hassle-free.

How long does the class last?
The entire experience takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing day.

Can I book this experience last minute?
Most travelers book about 9 days in advance, but it’s advisable to secure your spot early, especially during peak seasons.

Is this class suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The step-by-step guidance from Chef Tien makes it accessible for everyone, regardless of cooking experience.

Are drinks provided during the class?
Yes, guests can enjoy unlimited soft drinks, coffee, herbal welcome drinks, and water during the meal.

What if I want a strictly vegan experience?
Some reviews mention the class isn’t strictly vegan, so if you’re very particular, it’s worth considering that some non-vegan ingredients or market stops might be involved.

In summary, this vegan cooking class with a market tour offers an enriching, flavorful glimpse into Hanoi’s food scene. The small-group setting, friendly guides, and focus on authentic Vietnamese vegan dishes make it a worthwhile experience for those eager to learn, taste, and connect with local culture. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan or simply a food lover, you’ll likely find this tour both fun and informative—an authentic slice of Hanoi that you can recreate at home.