Hanoi: Hanoi Egg Coffee Class learning 5 coffees and stories

Imagine sitting in the bustling heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, learning the secrets behind some of Vietnam’s most iconic coffees. For just $28 per person, you can spend roughly an hour and a half to two hours with a friendly instructor, mastering the art of five different Vietnamese coffee styles — including the famed Egg Coffee — while enjoying complimentary snacks like banh mi or spring rolls. The class is offered in English, making it accessible for travelers from all over the world who want to deepen their understanding of Vietnam’s beloved caffeine culture.

Two elements make this experience particularly appealing. First, you’ll get to make and taste five distinct types of coffee: the classic Phin drip, Egg coffee, Coconut coffee, Salt coffee, and Orange or House coffee. Each one offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s inventive coffee traditions. Second, the storytelling aspect woven into the lesson enriches the tasting experience — you won’t just learn how to brew, but also why these coffees matter culturally. The only caveat? It’s a fairly short experience, so if you’re after a deep dive into coffee processing or Vietnam’s entire beverage history, you might find yourself wanting more. Still, for those curious about local flavors and fun, hands-on activity, this class hits the spot.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy interactive experiences and want a taste of local life without breaking the bank. If you’re a foodie, a coffee lover, or simply looking to meet interesting people — this class offers a genuine slice of Hanoi’s vibrant café scene.

Key Points

Hands-on coffee making with five different styles that showcase Vietnam’s inventive brewing.
Engaging storytelling that reveals cultural stories behind each coffee.
Inclusive experience with an English-speaking instructor and recipes to take home.
Tasty complimentary snacks like banh mi or spring rolls help balance the caffeine.
Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Accessible for all travelers, including wheelchair users, in a friendly setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Hanoi Egg Coffee Class

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What’s Included and How It Works

For $28, you’ll receive a well-rounded experience that covers tools, ingredients, a welcome tea, and the chance to taste all five coffees you’ll make. The class lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, with a starting point conveniently located at 08 Gia Ngu Street — a central spot in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. You’ll meet your instructor, Ruby, who has earned glowing reviews for her patience, friendliness, and depth of knowledge.

The class begins with a brief introduction to Vietnamese coffee — covering varieties, roasting techniques, and cultural drinking customs. Expect a relaxed atmosphere, where you can ask questions and get hands-on practice. Ruby guides you step-by-step as you prepare each coffee, explaining the significance of each style and sharing stories that make the experience more meaningful. The highlight, of course, is replicating the Egg Coffee, a creamy, whipped egg yolk concoction that’s become an international symbol of Hanoi’s inventive spirit.

The Coffee Making Process

You’ll learn how to brew Phin coffee — Vietnam’s classic drip method — giving you a taste of what locals start their mornings with. Then you’ll move onto Egg coffee, where a sweet, frothy egg yolk mixture tops strong coffee, creating a velvety drink that’s both rich and surprisingly light. Coconut coffee introduces a tropical twist, blending local beans with coconut milk for a smooth, fragrant sip. Salt coffee offers a salty-sweet surprise, balancing bitterness with a touch of flavor enhancement, while Orange or House coffee provides a refreshing, citrus-infused variant.

Each coffee is served with a small snack, like banh mi or spring rolls, making it easier to enjoy the caffeine without feeling overwhelmed. You’ll also receive recipes, so you can try making these drinks back home or at your next stay in Hanoi.

The Classroom and Atmosphere

Ruby’s instructions are clear and friendly, making the learning process accessible for all skill levels. The class size is intimate enough to ask questions, but large enough to foster a lively, communal feeling. The setting is simple and practical, emphasizing the hands-on aspect over fancy decor, which we find ideal for an authentic experience.

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Authenticity and Cultural Insight

What sets this class apart is the storytelling. Ruby shares anecdotes about Vietnam’s coffee history, how certain styles came to be, and the cultural significance of coffee in Hanoi’s daily life. This turns a simple skill workshop into a mini cultural lesson, something we deeply appreciate.

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Practical Considerations

While the class is wheelchair accessible and conducted in English, it’s worth noting that it doesn’t include transportation or sightseeing — this is a dedicated coffee experience. The timing is flexible, with options available based on availability, so plan accordingly. If you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a more comprehensive tour, this may be a brief stop rather than a full-day activity.

Feedback from Other Travelers

One reviewer noted, “Ruby was amazing — nice, patient, and very informative,” highlighting how engaging and personable the instructor is. Others appreciated the mix of learning and tasting, calling it a “recommended activity.” The inclusion of snacks like banh mi or spring rolls gets special mention as a nice touch that rounds out the experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re curious about Vietnam’s coffee traditions, enjoy interactive, hands-on experiences, or want a fun, affordable activity in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, this class is perfect. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors who want to connect with local culture in a relaxed setting, or for solo travelers seeking a convivial, educational experience. While not a deep dive into the entire coffee process, it offers enough variety and storytelling to satisfy most casual enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts

In a city famed for its vibrant street life and culinary richness, this Coffee Class stands out as a simple, authentic way to connect with Hanoi’s local customs. For just $28, you’ll gain practical skills, taste a selection of special coffees, and enjoy engaging stories told by a knowledgeable guide. It’s a fantastic introduction for coffee lovers or anyone wanting to add a flavorful, memorable experience to their Hanoi trip.

If you’re after a fun, affordable activity with good value, this class hits the mark. It’s ideal for those who want more than just sightseeing — a taste of daily life, served up with a side of good humor and great stories.