Hoi An: Vietnamese Coffee Making Workshop

Introduction

If you’re looking to add a flavorful and authentic activity to your stay in Hoi An, the Vietnamese Coffee Making Workshop offers an engaging way to discover local culture through its beloved beverage. This 1.5-hour experience is not just about brewing coffee—it’s about understanding Vietnam’s unique coffee traditions, supporting local initiatives, and having fun doing it.

What sets this experience apart are the hands-on nature of the workshop, the variety of coffees you learn to make, and the warm, welcoming environment created by guides who are passionate about their craft. The opportunity to make incense and take a memorable photo adds a charming personal touch.

One thing to keep in mind is that the venue can host up to 100 guests at a time, so the atmosphere might feel lively and bustling, which could be a consideration if you prefer more intimate experiences.

This tour appeals to those who love food and drink experiences, are curious about Vietnamese culture, or want to support meaningful community projects while traveling.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Good To Know

• Authentic Vietnamese coffee techniques including drip, coconut, and egg coffee.
• Educational and fun, led by knowledgeable guides.
• Supports local charities with part of the fee.
• Includes a light snack and a creative incense-making activity.
• Flexible start times to fit your schedule.
• Vegetarian options available with plant-based milk.

What to Expect from the Coffee Workshop

Warm Welcome and Introduction

Your experience kicks off with a friendly greeting and a cup of tea, setting a relaxed tone. Guides like Ly and the Sua Café team are known for their warmth and professionalism, making you feel comfortable from the start. They’ll share insights into Vietnam’s coffee scene, including the differences between Robusta and Arabica beans and their specific growing regions. The aroma of the beans and the stories behind them immediately deepen your appreciation for the craft.

Coffee Tasting and Education

You’ll get to smell and recognize the distinct scents of the two main coffee varieties, which is a lovely sensory introduction. This part of the session is appreciated by guests: “They were so friendly and informative and gave an authentic experience,” says Laura from Ireland. The guides often share personal anecdotes and local insights, making this more than just a class—it’s a cultural journey.

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Hands-On Brewing

The fun begins as you learn to brew traditional Vietnamese drip coffee using a phin filter—an essential skill for any coffee lover. The guides demonstrate the process first, then cheerfully watch as you try your hand. Once your café is brewing, you move on to other variations: coconut coffee, egg coffee, and salty coffee. The inclusion of coconut and egg coffees is a highlight, giving you a chance to taste and make these iconic drinks that are sold all over Vietnam.

Guests frequently praise the interactive nature of the workshop: “The coffee class was so much fun and very informative,” says Olivia from the UK. The option for vegetarians to use plant-based milk means everyone can enjoy their creations fully.

Tasting and Snacking

As you sip on your freshly brewed coffees, a light snack accompanies your tasting. It’s a perfect way to relax and reflect on what you’ve learned. The reviews mention the delicious rice pancakes made after the workshop, which adds an extra culinary touch.

Creative and Cultural Activities

Beyond coffee, the experience includes making incense—a calming activity that helps you connect with local spiritual practices—and a chance to take a photo with the staff. Many reviewers have enjoyed this personal touch, making the experience more memorable.

Flexibility and Accessibility

The workshop offers multiple start times, making it easy for travelers with varied schedules. The venue is accessible from Hoi An’s old town, and the whole session is designed to be approachable, no matter your coffee expertise.

The Experience: Deep Dive into the Details

The Itinerary Breakdown

The experience begins with a warm reception, where guides introduce the essential differences in Vietnamese coffee beans—Robusta being more bitter and robust, and Arabica offering a subtler flavor. Guests often comment on the guides’ knowledgeable and friendly approach. Olivia mentions that the guides are so knowledgeable, which enhances the educational value.

Next, you’re shown how to brew Vietnamese drip coffee using the iconic phin filter. This method, while simple, produces a rich, concentrated brew that’s integral to Vietnamese coffee culture. You’ll learn to control the brewing time and adjust the coffee-to-water ratio for different styles.

Moving on, you’ll prepare coconut coffee, blending coffee with coconut milk—an indulgent treat—egg coffee, a creamy, frothy delight— and salty coffee for the adventurous. Many guests, like Felicia from Sweden, mention how learning about the differences in coffee preparation and tasting the varieties makes for a highly educational experience.

The workshop also emphasizes authenticity and community impact. Mae from France highlights that a large part of the fee supports children in need, including building schools and homes. This component offers a meaningful aspect to your participation, making the experience more than just a tasting session.

Making Your Own Coffee

The hands-on brewing allows you to get a real feel for each technique. The staff is attentive, guiding you through every step with patience. For those who enjoy learning practical skills or want to replicate the drinks at home, this is an ideal opportunity.

Snacking and Reflection

The light snack—often rice pancakes—complements your coffee tasting, and many reviewers mention how much they enjoyed this part. The taste of freshly made coffee, combined with the informal, relaxed atmosphere, makes it a perfect mid-morning or afternoon activity.

Incense Making and Photos

The addition of making incense is a charming cultural touch. Guests have expressed how calming and meditative this activity feels. The photo with staff offers a personal souvenir that captures the friendly, community-driven spirit of the workshop.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With the venue accommodating up to 100 guests, the experience is lively but well-organized. Many reviews describe a relaxed and welcoming environment, where you can ask questions freely and enjoy plenty of interaction.

Value and Practical Considerations

Pricing and Value

While the tour cost isn’t explicitly listed here, the reviews suggest that the experience offers excellent value. Learning to make multiple types of coffee, enjoying snacks, and supporting a charity make it a worthwhile investment for foodies and culture lovers.

Accessibility and Comfort

Guests are encouraged to bring comfortable clothes and a camera. The entire session is designed to be accessible, with options for vegetarians and flexible start times.

Cancellation and Booking

You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility is ideal for travelers who want to keep plans adaptable.

Who Should Book This Experience?

This workshop is perfect for coffee enthusiasts eager to learn authentic Vietnamese brewing techniques. It also appeals to cultural travelers interested in understanding local customs and supporting community projects. If you enjoy interactive, hands-on activities and want a memorable, educational experience in Hoi An, this is a solid choice.

Travelers looking for a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with knowledgeable guides will find this workshop engaging and enriching. It’s especially suitable for those who value supporting social causes and experiencing something beyond typical tourist fare.

The Sum Up

The Vietnamese Coffee Making Workshop in Hoi An offers a comprehensive, authentic, and enjoyable way to connect with local culture. With a focus on interactive learning, community support, and delicious drinks, it provides real value for curious travelers. The guides’ warmth and knowledge elevate the experience, making it more than just a class—it’s a taste of Vietnamese life.

Ideal for food lovers, culture seekers, and social conscious travelers, this experience delivers both educational content and meaningful engagement. It’s a fantastic opportunity to master Vietnamese coffee techniques while supporting worthy causes, all in a friendly and lively environment.

If you’re in Hoi An and want a fun, informative, and tasty activity, this workshop is a must-try. You’ll leave not only with new skills but also with a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s rich coffee culture and community spirit.

FAQ

How long does the workshop last?
It lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable and engaging activity for most travelers.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, plant-based milk is available for vegetarians, allowing everyone to enjoy their coffee.

Can I choose my preferred start time?
Yes, the workshop offers multiple start times to fit your schedule.

Is the venue accessible for all guests?
While specific accessibility details aren’t provided, the experience is designed to be welcoming and accommodating.

What should I bring to the workshop?
Bring a camera and wear comfortable clothes to enjoy the full experience.

Is there a chance to take home something from the workshop?
You’ll make your own coffees and incense, and can take a photo with the staff as a souvenir. The incense-making activity offers a personal keepsake as well.

This detailed review should help you decide whether the Hoi An Vietnamese Coffee Making Workshop is the right addition to your travel itinerary—delicious, educational, and supporting a good cause all in one go.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby