Imagine strolling through Hanoi’s bustling Ngoc Ha Market, surrounded by vibrant stalls brimming with fresh produce, fragrant herbs, and colorful spices. Now picture rolling up your sleeves in a cozy local home, guided by a friendly chef, and learning to create four or more authentic Vietnamese vegan dishes from scratch. This is exactly what the Hanoi Vegan Cooking Class offers — a memorable, hands-on culinary experience for food lovers and curious travelers alike.

For just $34 per person, you get five hours of immersive cooking, market exploration, and shared dining. What sets this apart are the personalized guidance from experienced local cooks and the opportunity to truly understand Vietnamese flavors, ingredients, and techniques. Two things we love? First, the tour’s intimate approach, which means you’re not just watching a demo but actively preparing dishes. Second, the market visit, where you gain insights into the ingredients that make Vietnamese cuisine so vibrant and distinctive.

Of course, a possible downside is that the class may include participants who are not strictly vegan — as one reviewer noted, you might end up sharing your class with meat-eaters, so if strict veganism is essential for you, it’s worth confirming beforehand. But for most, this experience offers an authentic, friendly immersion into Hanoi’s culinary culture. It’s best suited for those eager to learn new skills, enjoy local flavors, and make the most of a flexible, well-organized tour that combines market shopping with cooking.

Key Points

Authentic Vietnamese Vegan Recipes: Learn to prepare four or more traditional dishes from scratch.
Market Tour: Discover local ingredients in the lively Ngoc Ha Market, a vital part of understanding Vietnamese cuisine.
Expert Guidance: Guidance from an experienced, English-speaking home cook ensures personalized tips and techniques.
Shared Experience: Typically small groups or private options foster a relaxed, friendly environment.
All-Inclusive: Ingredients, cooking equipment, beverages, and even luggage storage are included for a hassle-free day.
Flexible Cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, making it easy to book with confidence.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Hanoi Vegan Cooking Class

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Why Choose This Experience?

If you’re someone who appreciates more than just tasting food but actually wants to understand its roots and master the craft, this class hits the mark. The price of $34 offers a good value — you’re not just paying for a meal but for a full culinary journey that combines learning, tasting, and cultural insight.

The class runs for about five hours, giving you ample time to explore the market, cook, and enjoy your creation. The starting times vary, so you can choose a slot that fits your itinerary, which is handy when planning your Hanoi trip.

The Market Tour: First Stop

Your adventure begins with a guided walk through Ngoc Ha Market. It’s a lively place where locals buy everything from fresh vegetables and herbs to spices and regional specialties. Here, your guide will introduce you to the key ingredients that make Vietnamese cuisine so lively — think fragrant lemongrass, fresh mint, and zingy lime.

As one reviewer put it, “We had a fantastic cooking experience! Cherry was so sweet and speaks perfect English. The food was also extremely delicious 🙂 Overall, highly recommended.” This indicates that the guide’s friendliness and language skills make a real difference, helping you feel comfortable navigating the bustling market.

Cooking Class: From Market to Plate

After the market, you’ll head to a local home — a cozy, welcoming space that feels more like a culinary family kitchen than a commercial cooking school. Here, under the watchful eye of your expert guide, you’ll learn how to prepare authentic Vietnamese vegan dishes. The menu typically includes four dishes, but private options can include up to five with customizable choices.

You’ll see traditional techniques, such as how to make perfect rice paper, how to stir-fry vegetables for maximum flavor, and how to balance sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements. One guest noted, “Cherry was really giving her best and was super friendly. The food was super delicious and plenty.”

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Creating Your Vegan Feast

As you cook, you’ll appreciate the attention to detail — avoiding cross-contact with meat, as one reviewer notes, “she took care that no meat got in contact with our food.” This makes the experience ideal for vegans or those with dietary restrictions.

Once all your dishes are ready, everyone gathers around the table to enjoy the fruits of their labor. You’ll savor a multi-course vegan feast perfectly complemented by traditional accompaniments like pickled vegetables and fresh herbs. In addition, free homemade local wines and beverages are available, adding a convivial touch to the meal.

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Authenticity and Education

What makes this class stand out is the interactive nature. You’re not just watching a demonstration but actively involved in preparing each dish, honing your skills and gaining confidence in your cooking. The guidance from a professional, English-speaking home chef makes all the difference, ensuring you understand each step and the story behind the ingredients.

The Overall Experience

The reviews highlight the positive aspects: “The dishes were amazing and our guide Cherry was knowledgeable and lovely.” Most mention the delicious food, the friendly guides, and the generous portions. One note of caution is that the class may include a mix of vegans and non-vegans, which can influence the menu’s strictness for some. Confirming your preferences in advance can help avoid surprises.

Practical Considerations

Transportation is included from the Old Quarter, making it easy to join without additional hassle. If you’re in a private group, the pickup range extends to 20 km within downtown Hanoi, providing flexibility for those staying farther out. The class is wheelchair accessible, and free showers are available, which is handy if you want to freshen up afterward.

Value for Money

At $34, this experience offers excellent value. You’re getting a full immersion: market exploration, hands-on cooking, a communal meal, and drinks all included. The inclusion of luggage storage and free unlimited homemade wines enhances the convenience, making it a practical choice for travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This vegan cooking class suits travelers eager to learn Vietnamese culinary techniques and connect with local culture through food. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a personalized, small-group atmosphere and want a practical skill they can take home. Foodies, curious cooks, and cultural travelers will find the experience enriching.

Those with dietary restrictions or preferences will appreciate the attention to detail and the opportunity to discuss ingredients or allergies with the guide. However, if strict veganism is a must, it’s worth confirming whether the class will be exclusively vegan or mixed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the price?
Yes, round-trip transfer from the Old Quarter is included, making it convenient to join without worrying about local transport.

Can I participate if I have food allergies?
Absolutely. You’re encouraged to inform the guides about any allergies beforehand, and since you’ll be involved in ingredient selection, they can help tailor the menu.

How many dishes will I learn to prepare?
Typically, you’ll learn to cook four iconic Vietnamese vegan dishes. For private options, up to five dishes with customizable menus are possible.

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to be accessible to all levels, with guidance from experienced local cooks. No prior cooking experience is necessary.

Are beverages included?
The first round of any beverages is included, and in private classes, drinks are unlimited and free throughout the session.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning your Hanoi itinerary.

Final Reflections

For anyone looking to combine culinary learning with culture in Hanoi, this vegan cooking class offers a balanced, engaging, and tasty experience. It’s a wonderful way to see a different side of Vietnam — one where food is alive with flavor and tradition. The combination of a lively market walk, skilled guidance, and a communal meal makes it a memorable activity for solo travelers, couples, or small groups.

If you’re open to trying new dishes, enjoy hands-on experiences, and want to understand Vietnamese ingredients beyond the typical tourist fare, this class hits the sweet spot. And at a reasonable price, it’s a compelling choice for those wanting authentic, practical, and delicious insights into Hanoi’s vegan cuisine.

To sum it up, this Hanoi vegan cooking class is more than just a cooking lesson — it’s a delightful cultural exchange that leaves you with new skills, tasty memories, and a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s vibrant food scene. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, you’ll find value in the friendly guidance, flavorful dishes, and lively market experience that make this tour so special. It’s perfect for travelers who want to go beyond sightseeing and get a true taste of Hanoi’s culinary soul.