Hoi An Food tours – A complete guide for foodies

Discover amazing tips for going on a food tour and learn about experiencing Hoi An food tour. 

As a traveler, backpacker or holiday-goer, you’ll do a couple of food tours in your life, but there is nothing that meets the absolute serendipity feeling of a Hoi An food tour. From start to finish, this experience will feel surreal.

We did a couple of food tours, and whenever anyone comes into The Hangout, we always relay to them that the food tours in Hoi An, are by FAR the best in the country.

We booked through Fuse Hostel for our first and Mad Monkey for our second and would do both again in a heartbeat. Most hostels offer this tour, but these are just the ones we experienced! So, here’s what you need to know about the Hoi An food tour.

Tips for arranging a good food tour in Hoi An

When you decide to plan a culinary trip in Hoi An, you should take into account several aspects to ensure that you will enjoy the culinary experience to the fullest. Here are some tips to help you organize your trip in the best way possible:

  • Research local cuisine: Before traveling to your destination, research typical dishes, recommended restaurants, and local markets where you can try authentic food from the region.
  • Make a list of restaurants you want to visit: Seek recommendations from friends, check out food guides, or look online to create a list of restaurants you can’t miss during your trip.
  • Book in advance: If there is a restaurant you are particularly interested in visiting, make sure you make a reservation in advance to avoid disappointment.
  • Try traditional dishes: Don’t limit yourself to what you already know, dare to try traditional dishes and new flavors that will surprise you.
  • Take part in food tours: To get a deeper understanding of local cuisine, consider joining food tours where you can try different dishes, visit markets, and learn about the local culinary culture.
  • Visit local markets and shops: Don’t miss the opportunity to visit local markets, shops selling typical products and street food stalls to try authentic local flavors.
  • Try street food: Street food is often a great way to try authentic dishes at cheaper prices, so don’t hesitate to enjoy this experience.
  • Enjoy the experience: Remember that a gastronomic trip is not just about tasting the food, but also about enjoying the experience as a whole. Taste, savor and enjoy each bite as if it were unique.

With these tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy your culinary journey to the fullest and discover new flavors and culinary experiences that you’ll definitely want to repeat in the future. Enjoy!

Hoi An Food Tours

Hoi An Food tour 

Let us take you through the Hoi An food tour that we experienced to give you more in-depth insight. And as we mentioned earlier we booked through Fuse Hostel for our first and Mad Monkey for our second tour: 

Cooking Tours

They usually offer cooking tours most mornings, with a second session around midday. We opted for the afternoon sessions because we loved watching the sunset over the lake while enjoying the last meal!

Wear something comfy, especially if you choose the tour that includes the Bamboo Basket Boats—there’s a good chance you’ll get slightly wet! 

Here’s a traveler’s tip: ensure you book through your hostel, as the quality of your tour will likely be higher! This might mean getting to spin/paddle the boat, go mud crabbing, spin the boat, and take some very aesthetic pictures. 

We’ve known some travelers who just showed up and were disappointed when the boat wasn’t spun because they hadn’t booked in advance. It’s great when it works but disappointing when it doesn’t!

Cooking Tours

On the Day

You’ll be taken on a walking tour through the local markets to collect ingredients. The local guide will teach you how to select the best ingredients and explain what everything is. They’ll also share some cultural insights and answer any questions you have!

You’ll meet people from other hostels and come together as a large group for the cooking tour! Here, you’ll have your own little cooking station and be guided through cooking all the dishes along the lush river of Hoi An.

Discovering the Culinary Scene

No visit to Hoi An is complete without experiencing its vibrant culinary scene through a Hoi An Food Tour. Whether we are food lovers or simply looking to immerse ourselves in the local culture, these food tours offer a unique and delicious way to discover the flavors of Hoi An.

One of the best ways to explore the local cuisine is through a Hoi An Street Food Tour. Led by knowledgeable guides who are passionate about food, these tours take us on a gastronomic adventure through the bustling streets of Hoi An. From savory snacks to sweet treats, we will have the opportunity to taste a wide variety of dishes that represent the diverse flavors of Vietnam.

Walking Food Tours

Hoi An Walking Food Tours are a popular choice for those who want to experience the city’s culinary delights at a leisurely pace. As we stroll through the historic streets, our guide will introduce us to local vendors and hidden food stalls, where we can sample authentic Vietnamese dishes.

From the famous Banh Mi—a delicious Vietnamese sandwich filled with fresh herbs, pate, and various meats—to Cao Lau, a regional specialty made with thick noodles, and herbs, each bite will take our taste buds on a delightful journey.

Immersive Food Tours

Hoi An Food Tours offer a more immersive experience, allowing us to not only taste the food but also learn about its history and cultural significance. These tours often include visits to local markets, where we can see the vibrant array of fresh ingredients used in Vietnamese cooking.

We may also have the opportunity to participate in cooking classes, where we can learn how to prepare traditional dishes under the guidance of experienced chefs. By the end of the tour, we’ll not only have a full stomach but also a deeper understanding of the culinary traditions of Hoi An.

Cooking Tours

Signature Dishes

One of the highlights of any food tour in Hoi An is the opportunity to try the city’s signature dish, Cao Lau. This dish is made with noodles that are only produced in Hoi An, giving it a unique texture and flavor. 

The noodles are combined with slices of fresh herbs, and a savory broth, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave us craving more. Other must-try dishes include the local specialty, White Rose Dumplings, and the refreshing Vietnamese Iced Coffee.

Cooking Tours

Key Takeaway 

Hoi An’s food tours offer a truly unforgettable experience, taking us on a journey through the rich and diverse flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.

But just don’t stop at tasting the food when you’re in Hoi An! Make your trip truly unforgettable with a custom tattoo designed just for you! Visit our studio when you’re in Hoi An and let us help you capture the essence of your culinary adventure with a custom tattoo.