Hoi An: Sunset BBQ Dinner with Professional Chef

A Cozy Culinary Escape in Hoi An: Sunset BBQ Dinner with a Professional Chef

Imagine trading the bustling streets of Hoi An for a peaceful village setting, where the air is filled with the aroma of sizzling grilled seafood and herbs. For around $51, you can spend 4 to 5.5 hours enjoying a sunset BBQ dinner led by a professional chef, with options that include a visit to a local market and organic vegetable garden. This experience, based in Cam Thanh Coconut Village, offers a charming slice of Vietnamese life and cuisine that feels both authentic and approachable.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances culinary discovery with culture—you’re not just eating, but also learning about local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. The relaxed atmosphere, especially in a local home setting, makes it a refreshing departure from typical tourist dinners. Plus, the inclusion of local wine adds a nice touch of sophistication without breaking the bank.

One thing to consider is that the tour’s start times vary, and if you prefer a more structured, guided experience that includes market visits and organic garden tours, the second option might be best. If you’re just after a straightforward, delicious BBQ dinner in a peaceful setting, the first option offers simplicity and intimacy. This experience suits travelers who enjoy authentic food, cultural insights, and a relaxed vibe—especially those who appreciate the beauty of a Vietnamese sunset.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Local Setting: Enjoy your BBQ in a friendly home environment in Cam Thanh Coconut Village, away from tourist-heavy spots.
• Flexible Options: Choose between a straightforward BBQ or a combined eco-tour with market visits and organic garden tours.
• Culinary Variety: Sample a wide range of Vietnamese dishes, from traditional specialties to fresh seafood and grilled meats.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Savor your meal while watching the sunset, with a glass of local wine in hand.
• Cultural Insight: Learn about local markets, organic gardening, and Vietnamese cooking techniques from a professional chef.
• Value for Money: At $51, the experience includes all food, a glass of wine, and personal service, making it a good value for a memorable evening.

An Authentic Taste of Vietnam in a Peaceful Setting

When you think of Vietnam, the vibrant streets of Hoi An, with their bustling markets and colorful lanterns, often come to mind. But this sunset BBQ experience offers a different perspective—an opportunity to step back from the busy town center and enjoy a more intimate, local environment. Hosted in a welcoming home in Cam Thanh Coconut Village, the setting feels genuine, and the focus is on sharing good food and good company.

The experience begins either at 17:00 with a straightforward BBQ meal or around 15:00 if you opt for the eco-tour version that includes a visit to the local market and organic vegetable garden. The latter provides a well-rounded introduction to Vietnamese ingredients and culinary traditions, with a chance to sip Vietnamese coffee and stroll through organic gardens—an aspect that many travelers find enlightening and refreshing.

The highlight, of course, is the BBQ dinner, featuring local specialties like deep-fried wontons, crispy pork spring rolls, pomelo salad, and beef with lemongrass. For seafood lovers, the menu includes red snapper, oysters, clams, and squid, all grilled to perfection. The top blade beef mignon is a tender option for those craving red meat. The meal is served in generous portions, and the wine—either La Roca or San Marino from Chile—complements the flavors beautifully, elevating the meal without adding a hefty cost.

The relaxed vibe is reinforced by the setting and the personal attention from the chef, who serves the dishes directly from the grill. Travelers have shared positive impressions, with one noting, “We loved the way the chef explained the dishes and kept the atmosphere lively and friendly.” The combination of food, scenery, and local culture makes this a memorable outing.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins at 46 Huynh Thi Luu Street in Hoi An, with options for a quick, straightforward BBQ or a longer eco-tour route. The duration varies from 4 to 5.5 hours, giving ample time to relax, eat, and take in the sunset. If you prefer a more leisurely experience, the longer eco-tour option will suit you better, as it includes visits to markets and gardens.

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The Market and Organic Garden Visits (Option 2)

If you choose the eco-tour, your day starts with pickup from your hotel in the Hoi An Oldtown area—convenient if you’re staying in town. You’ll then visit a local market, where you can observe local vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and seafood—an eye-opening glimpse into everyday life. Following that, a trip to an organic vegetables garden offers insight into Vietnamese farming practices and sustainable food sourcing.

This part of the tour is especially meaningful for those interested in food provenance and local traditions. After enjoying Vietnamese coffee and strolling through the garden, you’ll head back to the host’s home for the BBQ. The meal features a variety of dishes, from signature Vietnamese starters to grilled seafood and meats, all served with a local glass of wine.

The BBQ Meal

Whether you go for the simple or combined option, the meal takes place in a relaxed, convivial atmosphere. The chef, often a local expert, personally grills each dish, ensuring freshness and optimal flavor. The menu features entry dishes on bamboo trays like deep-fried wontons, crispy spring rolls, pomelo salad, and beef with lemongrass, giving you a taste of regional cuisine.

The main course includes a selection of seafood—like oysters, clams, squid, prawns, and fish—as well as pork ribs and chicken wings. The top blade beef mignon provides a tender red meat option that’s perfect for grilling. These dishes are all seasoned with Vietnamese herbs and spices, allowing you to savor authentic flavors.

Dessert and Drinks

The meal concludes with a seasonal fruit platter, a refreshing way to cleanse the palate. For vegetarians or vegans, the chef is happy to prepare an alternative upon request, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. The included glass of wine adds a touch of elegance, and the relaxed setting makes it easy to unwind and chat with your fellow travelers.

Authentic and Practical Insights

One of the biggest advantages of this experience is its authenticity. You’re not in a touristy restaurant but in a local home, which means you get a genuine feel for Vietnamese hospitality and cuisine. The chef’s personal service and the opportunity to learn about local ingredients heighten the value of this outing.

Travelers often remark on the quality of the food and the atmosphere. For example, “The seafood was fresh, and the way the chef explained each dish made it feel like a true Vietnamese family dinner.” Others appreciate the relaxed sunset setting, which makes this more than just a dinner—it’s a memorable experience in a peaceful environment.

Pricing at $51 per person seems fair considering it includes multiple dishes, a glass of wine, and a personalized chef experience. If you opt for the eco-tour, the added insights into local markets and organic gardening make it an even richer experience, especially for those curious about Vietnam’s culinary roots.

Group Size and Convenience

The experience is typically conducted in small groups, which fosters a friendly and intimate atmosphere. The optional hotel pickup makes logistics easier, especially if you’re staying in Hoi An’s Oldtown area. If you prefer to explore at your own pace, the meeting point is centrally located, making it accessible for most travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This BBQ dinner is perfect for travelers who crave authentic Vietnamese flavors in a relaxed, scenic setting. It’s well-suited for food lovers, culture enthusiasts, and those wanting a break from the more crowded tourist spots. Families, couples, and solo travelers all find value here, especially if they enjoy learning about local ingredients and savoring freshly grilled seafood and meats.

If you’re interested in combining culinary discovery with a little eco-tourism, the second option with market and garden visits is a great choice. But even the straightforward BBQ alone offers a chance to unwind at sunset, enjoy good food, and connect with local life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
You’ll enjoy all dishes on the BBQ menu, a glass of wine, and personal service from a professional chef.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, free pickup is offered at hotels in the Hoi An Oldtown area, making it easier to join the tour.

How long does the experience last?
The tour lasts between 4 and 5.5 hours, depending on the option you select and starting times.

Can I do this tour if I don’t want to visit the market or garden?
Yes, the straightforward BBQ option starts at 17:00 and does not include the eco-tour activities.

Are vegetarians and vegans accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options can be prepared upon request.

What is the ambiance like?
Expect a relaxed, friendly atmosphere in a local home setting, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the sunset.

Is alcohol included?
Yes, one glass of wine (either red or white) is included with your meal.

How is the seafood prepared?
The seafood, including oysters, clams, squid, and fish, is grilled fresh at the BBQ stall, seasoned with herbs and spices.

The Final Word

This Sunset BBQ Dinner with a professional chef offers a genuine taste of Vietnamese cuisine amid a tranquil village setting. It combines the pleasures of outdoor dining, local ingredients, and cultural insights in a way that feels both accessible and memorable. Whether you’re a foodie eager to learn about authentic Vietnamese dishes or someone simply seeking a peaceful evening in Hoi An, this experience strikes a good balance of value and authenticity.

For travelers who enjoy relaxed, intimate environments and are curious about Vietnamese culinary traditions, this tour provides a delightful evening out. It’s especially fitting if you want to escape the busy streets and enjoy a sunset in the company of good food and warm local hospitality. Consider this experience if you’re seeking a meaningful, flavorful break in your Vietnam itinerary—savoring the simple pleasure of a well-cooked BBQ in a beautiful setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: