Best cooking class in Hoi An with Jolie (JHA3)

A Delightful Taste of Vietnam: Cooking with Jolie in Hoi An

Imagine spending a couple of hours in the company of a friendly Vietnamese chef, learning to make authentic dishes like Pho or Banh Xeo, while surrounded by the charm of Hoi An. This cooking class, priced at around $32 per person for roughly 2.5 hours, offers just that. Located at 14 Lu Trng L in Tân An, the experience is held in a cozy, intimate setting with a maximum of 10 participants, making it perfect for those who want a personal touch and the chance to really get involved.

What we love about this class is how focused on health and freshness it is — the emphasis on organic ingredients, vegetables, and fruit makes the dishes not only tasty but nourishing. Plus, the opportunity to play the piano or guitar adds a playful, artsy vibe that sets this experience apart. The other highlight is the small-group size, which means more personalized attention from your guide, as confirmed by multiple reviews praising the friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

One thing to keep in mind is that the class begins at 10:00 am, and if you’re visiting during a public holiday, there’s a small surcharge of $9 per person. Also, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own pick-up or be prepared to walk to the meeting point. This class is best suited for travelers eager to learn authentic Vietnamese cooking in a relaxed, fun environment — especially if you appreciate fresh, organic ingredients and a bit of musical fun.

Key Points

• Affordable and value-packed: For $32, you get a hands-on cooking class, a delicious lunch, fresh juices, and fruits.
• Intimate experience: Groups are capped at 10, ensuring personalized instruction and interaction.
• Vegetarian-friendly: All vegetarian options are available, with ingredients tailored to dietary preferences.
• Fun and relaxed atmosphere: The chance to play the piano or guitar adds a unique, creative element.
• Authentic Vietnamese dishes: Master four signature recipes with professional guidance.
• Learn about traditional Vietnamese cuisine: Discover the flavors and techniques that make Vietnamese food standout.

An In-Depth Look at the Cooking Class Experience

Location and Setting

Set in the vibrant town of Hoi An, the class at 14 Lu Trng L is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy to reach. The setting is welcoming, with a cozy kitchen where the chef and other participants gather around a shared work surface. For those who love a personal touch, the small group size guarantees you’ll get ample attention and space to make mistakes — and have fun.

The Itinerary: Step-by-Step

The class kicks off at 10:00 am, with a warm welcome from your native host, who will guide you through the entire experience. The focus is on learning to cook Vietnamese food in a healthy way, emphasizing organic, fresh ingredients. While the exact dishes vary depending on the day, travelers consistently report preparing four traditional Vietnamese signatures, such as Pho, Papaya Salad, Banh Xeo (Vietnamese pancakes), and other local favorites.

What makes this class special is the hands-on approach. You won’t be just watching — you’ll be flipping pancakes, rolling spring rolls, or tossing salads. One review vividly describes the joy of learning to flip pancakes and throw them at each other, which adds a layer of fun and camaraderie that many travelers cherish.

The Food and Drink

After all the effort in the kitchen, you’ll sit down to enjoy your creations in a communal setting. Alongside the dishes, the class offers wholesome, fresh juices and seasonal fruits. Several reviewers mention how delicious the food was, with one praising the “classic Vietnamese dishes” they now hope to recreate at home.

The Atmosphere

Beyond the cooking, what makes this experience truly special is its laid-back, fun atmosphere. The presence of a piano and a guitar invites guests to unwind and even play a tune if they feel like it — a quirky touch that adds to the memorable experience. Multiple reviews highlight how friendly and welcoming the staff, especially Rosie and Hannah, are, making everyone feel like part of a friendly culinary family.

The Value

At $32 per person, the class provides excellent value considering the personalized instruction, ingredients, lunch, and drinks included. For those interested in authentic cooking techniques and healthy eating, this is a worthwhile investment. Plus, the small-group setting means you get plenty of interaction, ensuring you leave with new skills and ideas for home cooking.

Practical Considerations

Be aware that transportation isn’t included, so plan your arrival accordingly. If your tour date falls on a public holiday, a $9 surcharge per person applies, payable onsite. The experience is suitable for vegetarians, with ingredients adjusted to suit dietary needs. Remember, bookings tend to be made about six days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

Why Travelers Love It

The recurring praise from reviews underlines how engaging and enjoyable the class is. One traveler wrote, “We had the best time — Hannah was very helpful, and the food was delicious.” Others appreciated how fun and interactive the lessons are, especially the pancake-flipping contest and the relaxed vibe. Several reviewers say it’s one of the highlight experiences of their trip, especially for food lovers eager to learn authentic Vietnamese recipes.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This cooking class suits travelers who love interactive, hands-on experiences. If you’re a vegetarian or looking for a healthy, organic menu, you’ll appreciate the focus on fresh ingredients. Those who enjoy a musical, artsy atmosphere will find the piano and guitar a delightful addition. Finally, if you’re after a personalized, small-group setting that encourages fun and learning, this class hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

Cooking with Jolie in Hoi An offers a genuine taste of Vietnamese cuisine in a friendly, relaxed environment. The focus on healthy ingredients and interactive instruction makes it more than just a cooking class — it becomes a memorable cultural experience. The small group size, professional guidance, and lively atmosphere ensure you’ll leave not only with new recipes but also with a better understanding of Vietnamese food and a few stories to tell.

For travelers seeking an affordable culinary adventure, especially those who appreciate authentic flavors and a fun, informal setting, this class is a top choice. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a curious foodie, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here — and perhaps a new favorite dish to impress your friends back home.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this cooking class?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point at 14 Lu Trng L.

What time does the class start?
The class begins at 10:00 am, so plan to arrive a little earlier to settle in.

Can vegetarians participate?
Absolutely. Vegetarian ingredients are provided, and the menu can be adjusted to suit dietary preferences.

How long does the class last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including cooking and eating.

What is the price per person?
The cost is $32 per person, which includes the cooking lesson, lunch, juice, and fruits.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before will not be refunded.

Is the small group size beneficial?
Yes, groups are limited to 10 travelers, ensuring more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Are there any extra charges?
A $9 surcharge applies on public holidays, payable on-site.

Can I add a market tour or other experiences?
While not included here, other similar tours are available, such as local market visits and eco-cooking tours, which you might find interesting.

This detailed look at Jolie’s cooking class in Hoi An highlights its value for anyone eager to take a delicious, authentic Vietnamese culinary journey with a friendly and engaging group. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie, a vegetarian, or simply someone wanting to enjoy an immersive cultural activity, this experience offers a tasty slice of Vietnam that you won’t forget.