Hanoi Traditional Cooking Experience: Local Market, Local Food

Hanoi , Vietnam

Hanoi Traditional Cooking Experience: Local Market, Local Food

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About this experience

Experience the daily life of Hanoi by visiting local markets and interacting with vendors. This provides a glimpse into the vibrant and bustling atmosphere of local commerce. Learn to cook traditional Vietnamese dishes from experienced local chefs. This hands-on experience ensures you not only taste but also understand the techniques and ingredients that make Vietnamese cuisine unique. Visiting local markets allows you to see and select fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This ensures the dishes you prepare are authentic and of the highest quality. Gain insights and tips from local chefs and guides who are passionate about their culture and cuisine. They can share stories and traditions that enrich your understanding of Vietnamese food. Such tours often create lasting memories, as you actively participate and learn something new, rather than just observing.

Available options

Hanoi Traditional Cooking Experience: Local Market, Local Food

Pickup included

What's included

Pick Up at Hotel/Homestay in Old Quarter Area Only

Steamed rice comes along with dishes you have cooked

Learn to cook 3 dishes + learn to make egg coffee/ egg beer

Well-trained chef & professional tour guide

Shopping at local market to buy ingredients is available

This is a cooking class, you will do by yourself from the beginning till products are made.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

1. PICK UP from hotels located in Hanoi Old Quarter by walking

• MORNING CLASS: 8:00 A.M-8:15 A.M
• AFTERNOON CLASS: 1.30 P.M-1.45 P.M

Stop 2

2. WELCOME DRINKS at our restaurant with tea/ instant coffee/water.
3. CHEF RECOMMENDS 3 DISHSES to cook + offer extra egg coffee / egg beer + gives you guidelines on ingredients.
4. LEARN SOME BASIC VIETNAMESE SENTENCES to communicate with local shopkeepers. Eg: How to bargain a price? How to greet someone in Vietnam? How much is it? …
5. GO SHOPPING AT LOCAL MARKET with guide to buy all the ingredients according to the guidelines.
6. LEARN TO COOK
7. ENJOY YOUR FOOD YOU HAVE COOKED
8. GET CERTIFICATES

Stop 3 Pass by

MENU:

This is a customized menu. Customers have a short discussion with the chef about which dishes everyone agrees to cook. You have 02 free selected dishes and 01 dishes recommended by the chef.
We OFFER FREE 01 special drinks from Vietnam to learn how to do it.
Your choice of:
“Ca Phe Trung”: Local selected coffee with whipping egg yolks is an inspiration of Hanoians
“Bia Trung”: Beer with whipping egg yolks is an inspiration of Hanoians who love the taste of beer with whipping eggs. It might seem strange at first but it is worth a try.

Stop 4 Pass by

TRADITIONAL VIETNAMESE CUISINE:

“BUN CHA”: - Grilled pork belly in deeping fish sauce. Comes with fresh noodles and local herbs.
“PHO BO HA NOI” - Rice noodle soup with beef, Hanoi style
“PHO GA HA NOI” - Rice noodle soup with chicken,Hanoi style
“NEM RAN HA NOI” - Traditional spring rolls with minced pork.
“PHO CUON HA NOI” - Fresh noodle rolls with beef and fresh local herbs.
“NOM GA HOA CHUOI” - Banana flower salad with chicken
“GA XAO SA OT” - Sauteed chicken with lemongrass and chili. Served with steam rice.
“PHO CHIEN PHONG BO” - Deep fried crispy noodle with sauteed beef and bok-choy

VEGAN OPTIONS:
“NOM HOA CHUOI CHAY” - Banana flower salad
“NAM HAP XA” - Steamed assorted mushrooms with lemongrass
“PHO CHIEN PHONG RAU CU” - Deep - fried noodles with sauteed assorted vegetables
‘NEM RAN CHAY” – Deep - fried spring roll with assorted vegetables
“PHO NUOC CHAY” - Vegan rice wartery noodle soup
“DAU HU SOT ME” - Deep fried tofu, tamarind dressing.

Stop 5

9. DROP OFF AT HOTELs (in Hanoi Old Quarter only)
- MORNING: 11.30 A.M
- AFTERNOON: 5.30 P.M

What's not included

Beverages, Personal Expenses and Tips for guide

All other services not clearly mentioned above

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

We can accommodate dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc. If you have dietary requirements, please indicate them when booking.

About Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a vibrant city steeped in history and culture. Known for its French colonial architecture, bustling Old Quarter, and rich culinary scene, Hanoi offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences.

Top Attractions

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is a serene oasis in the heart of Hanoi, surrounded by lush greenery and historical landmarks. The lake is a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is the historic and cultural heart of Hanoi, featuring narrow streets lined with traditional shops, temples, and colonial-era architecture. It's a vibrant area with a rich history and bustling atmosphere.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, shopping and dining vary

Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is a historic Confucian temple dedicated to education and literature. It's a serene and culturally significant site, featuring beautiful architecture and a peaceful garden.

Historical 1-2 hours 30,000 VND

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a significant historical site where the embalmed body of Vietnam's revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh, is displayed. The mausoleum is a place of pilgrimage and a symbol of Vietnam's history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Opera House

The Hanoi Opera House is a stunning example of French colonial architecture, featuring elegant design and a rich history. It's a popular venue for cultural performances and events.

Architecture 1-2 hours for a performance Varies by event

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pho

A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup with a flavorful broth, rice noodles, and thinly sliced meat, typically beef or chicken.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Bun Cha

Grilled pork patties served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat

Banh Mi

A Vietnamese sandwich with a crispy baguette, filled with various ingredients such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.

Snack/Lunch Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Egg Coffee

A unique Vietnamese coffee made with strong drip coffee, condensed milk, and a frothy egg yolk mixture.

Drink Contains eggs and dairy

Popular Activities

Kayaking in Ha Long Bay Trekking in Sapa Boat ride in Hoan Kiem Lake Coffee at a local café Exploring the Temple of Literature Visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Swimming and snorkeling in Ha Long Bay Egg coffee tasting

Best Time to Visit

October to December

This period offers pleasant weather with lower humidity and temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is less crowded compared to the peak tourist season.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Vietnamese
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hanoi is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and scams can occur, and travelers should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Use reputable taxi companies and insist on using the meter or agree on a price before starting your journey.
• Be wary of strangers offering help or services, as they may be trying to scam you.

Getting there

By air

Noi Bai International Airport • 28 km from city center

By train

Hanoi Railway Station

By bus

Giap Bat Bus Station, My Dinh Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system in Hanoi is affordable and covers most of the city. However, it can be crowded and confusing for first-time visitors.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Quarter French Quarter Ba Dinh District Tay Ho District

Day trips

Ha Long Bay

165 km from Hanoi • Full day to overnight

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts and islets, emerald waters, and scenic beauty. It's a popular destination for cruises, kayaking, and exploring caves.

Ninh Binh

90 km from Hanoi • Full day

Ninh Binh is known as 'Halong Bay on land' due to its stunning limestone karsts, rice paddies, and historic sites. It's a popular destination for cycling, boat rides, and exploring ancient temples.

Sapa

320 km from Hanoi • Overnight to multi-day

Sapa is a mountainous region known for its stunning rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and trekking opportunities. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural experiences.

Festivals

Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year) • January or February (based on the lunar calendar) Mid-Autumn Festival • September or October (based on the lunar calendar) Hanoi International Film Festival • October or November (annual)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Explore the city's hidden gems and lesser-known attractions, such as the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural and the Temple of Literature.
Try local street food and visit markets for an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
Use a navigation app, such as Google Maps or GrabMaps, to help you get around the city and avoid getting lost.
Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation, to avoid petty crime and scams.