Hanoi Cooking Class & Market Tour: 3 Dishes + Egg Coffee

Summary

Vietnamese Cooking Experience in Hanoi Old Quarter

You’ll shop Hanoi’s bustling market with a local guide, pick fresh ingredients, then cook three classic Vietnamese dishes side by side with new friends. Finish off with homemade egg coffee and recipes to take home—a true taste of Hanoi life.

What’s the experience like?

The morning air at the local market hits you first—fresh herbs, a little whiff of fish sauce, chatter from vendors calling out prices. Our guide, Linh, knew everyone by name. She pointed out which limes were best for dipping sauce and let us try a sliver of green mango right there at the stall. We picked up pork belly for Bun Cha and wild betel leaves for the beef rolls. I’d never seen so many types of mint in one place.

Back at the kitchen, we took a breather while staff rinsed our haul. The room smelled like lemongrass and garlic already. Linh explained each ingredient again—why you use fish sauce instead of soy here, how to slice pork just thin enough for the grill. I went with fried spring rolls, Bun Cha, and Banh Xeo (that crispy pancake). Everyone in the group chose their own three dishes, so there was a lot going on—someone was always flipping something or rolling rice paper.

We all sat down together to eat what we’d made—messy hands and all. The egg coffee came last; it’s sweet and creamy, almost like dessert but with a kick of caffeine. Linh emailed us recipes after class so I could try making it again at home (though my kitchen doesn’t smell quite as good). If you’re curious about real Vietnamese food—not just eating it but making it—this is worth your morning.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Cooking Class and Market Visit

• Visit local market and buy ingredients
• Rest and prepare ingredients
• Guide explains ingredients and seasoning
• Cook 3 chosen Vietnamese dishes
• Enjoy the cooked dishes with the group

Top questions

Can I choose which dishes to cook?

Yes! You can pick any three dishes from our menu when you join the class.

Is this class suitable for beginners?

Absolutely—our guide explains every step clearly and helps you along the way.

Are vegetarian options available?

Please let us know your dietary needs when booking; we can adapt most recipes.

Do I need to bring anything?

Nope! We provide all ingredients and equipment—you just show up ready to cook.

What’s included

You’ll get all the ingredients from the market trip, bottled water during class, and enjoy every dish you cook yourself—including that famous egg coffee at the end.