Coffee making and tasting experience

An Honest Look at the Coffee Making and Tasting Experience in Hoi An

If you’re a coffee lover exploring Hoi An, Vietnam, this coffee making and tasting tour offers a great chance to go beyond just sipping coffee at a café. Hosted by ThanhUyen Roastery, a well-respected local brand, this experience promises a hands-on journey into Vietnam’s coffee culture, tasting traditions, and social impact.

What we especially like about this tour are the personalized storytelling from a knowledgeable local guide, the opportunity to learn traditional brewing methods, and the chance to sample iconic Vietnamese coffee styles. It’s also commendable that part of the proceeds go toward building schools and supporting children in remote areas—a feel-good addition to your trip.

However, one potential consideration is the relatively short duration of around two and a half hours, which means it’s a quick immersion rather than an in-depth workshop. It’s best suited for travelers who want a meaningful, authentic coffee experience without committing a full day. If you’re interested in Vietnamese coffee, cultural insights, or supporting local causes, this tour will likely appeal to you.

Key Points

• Authentic Vietnamese Coffee: Learn the difference between Robusta and Arabica beans, and taste the real thing.
• Hands-On Experience: Discover how traditional Vietnamese coffee is roasted and brewed, including the iconic egg coffee.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Hosted by a local expert who also owns the ThanhUyen Roastery, ensuring authenticity and personal insights.
• Social Impact: A part of the proceeds supports local charity projects, making your visit meaningful.
• Compact but Informative: Short duration means you’ll get a quick yet thorough introduction to Vietnamese coffee culture.
• Value for Money: At $24.62, you receive multiple tastings, a free coffee gift, and an enriching experience.

An In-Depth Review of the Coffee Making and Tasting Tour in Hoi An

Location and Accessibility

The tour takes place at 106 Lý Thng Kít in Hoi An, a central and accessible location close to public transportation options. The convenience of the meeting point ensures travelers can easily find their way without the hassle of complicated directions.

Booking and Timing

Operating daily from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, the tour fits well into most afternoon plans. Booking is straightforward, with instant confirmation, and the activity is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, which promises a more intimate atmosphere. The mobile ticket format makes it practical for travelers on the go.

Pricing and Value

At around $24.62 per person, this experience offers a fair price considering the hands-on nature of the activity, the tasting, and the inclusion of a free coffee gift. Compared to typical café visits, you’re paying for a guided lesson that deepens your appreciation of Vietnamese coffee, beyond just ordering a drink.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Welcome and Introduction (2:00 PM)

Guests are greeted with a traditional welcome tea, setting a relaxed tone. The host, who is also a co-founder of ThanhUyen Roastery, introduces the tour with authentic enthusiasm, sharing personal stories about the coffee industry in Vietnam.

Vietnamese Coffee History (2:10 PM)

The guide provides a compelling overview of how Vietnamese coffee developed over the years, highlighting its unique place in local culture. This segment sets the context, helping travelers understand why Vietnamese coffee is so distinctive—bold, robust, and often enjoyed with sweetened condensed milk.

Distinguishing Coffee Types (2:30 PM)

One of the tour’s highlights is learning to tell apart Robusta and Arabica beans. You’ll discover how these beans influence the flavor profile and caffeine content, with the guide sharing tips on identifying them visually and through taste. This knowledge helps travelers appreciate the nuances of Vietnamese coffee beyond the surface.

Roasting Process (2:45 PM)

Guests get a front-row seat to the coffee roasting process, a rare chance to see the beans transform from green to aromatic brown. The host explains traditional methods, emphasizing how freshness and quality are prioritized in their roastery. Watching the roasting process is both educational and fragrant—be prepared for a heady aroma that will make your mouth water.

Brewing and Making Coffee (3:00 PM)

The interactive segment involves learning to brew Vietnamese coffee using the phin filter, a simple but effective drip method. You’ll also get to try making Egg Coffee, a creamy, sweet treat unique to Vietnam. The host guides step-by-step, sharing insider tips to get the perfect brew every time, making it a rewarding hands-on activity.

Tasting and Gifts (3:30 PM)

After brewing, you get to sample the freshly made coffee—hot, flavorful, and satisfying. As a token of appreciation, each guest receives a free 150-gram bag of coffee powder, so you can take home a piece of Vietnam’s coffee heritage. The tasting is relaxed, allowing for conversation and reflection on what you’ve learned.

Tour Wrap-Up (3:45 PM)

The experience concludes with a warm farewell, leaving guests with not just new knowledge but also a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s coffee culture. Many reviewers noted how engaging and informative the host was, with one comment highlighting the “passion and depth of knowledge.”

What Makes This Tour Special?

Authenticity: Being run by a local coffee expert and roastery, the tour provides genuine insights into Vietnamese coffee traditions. The guide’s personal stories and detailed explanations bring the experience to life.

Educational Value: Learning how to distinguish bean types, observe roasting, and brew traditional Vietnamese coffee offers tangible skills. It’s especially valuable for those who want to understand the craft behind their favorite drinks.

Quality of Tasting: The freshly brewed coffee, including the iconic Egg Coffee, showcases the diversity and richness of Vietnamese coffee styles. The free gift of coffee powder makes the experience memorable beyond the tour.

Supporting Local Causes: Knowing that part of your payment helps build schools for children in remote areas adds a feel-good element. It’s a way to enjoy your trip while giving back to the community.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Limited to 15 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate setting ideal for questions and personal interaction. Many reviews mention the friendly, approachable guide who is eager to share insights and answer all kinds of questions.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is fairly short, it packs a lot of value into its two-and-a-half hours. There’s no included transportation or meals, so plan accordingly if you want to combine this with other activities. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with mobility considerations, as it involves seated demonstrations and hands-on brewing.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is best suited for coffee enthusiasts wanting an authentic, local experience. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy learning about the cultural nuances of food and drink, or those interested in supporting community projects while traveling. If you prefer a quick, engaging session with plenty of tasting and storytelling, this is an excellent choice.

It’s also suitable for curious travelers of all ages, given the approachable nature of the host and the interactive format. However, if you’re looking for a deep dive into coffee science or extensive brewing classes, you might find this tour more introductory than comprehensive.

Final Thoughts

This coffee making and tasting tour in Hoi An offers much more than just a caffeine fix. It’s an authentic glimpse into Vietnam’s brewing traditions, delivered by a passionate local host who cares about the quality of his craft and the community it supports. The combination of storytelling, hands-on learning, and delicious tasting makes it a memorable stop for any coffee lover.

The value is strong, especially considering the small group size and the added social impact. While it’s a short experience, it leaves enough impression to deepen your appreciation for Vietnam’s rich coffee culture. Perfect for travelers looking for an authentic, educational, and feel-good activity during their stay in Hoi An.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the experience is family-friendly, with hands-on activities and tasting.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 2 hours and 30 minutes, from 2:00 PM to approximately 4:00 PM.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers all coffee and tea tastings, the guided experience, and a free 150-gram coffee powder gift.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, the tour includes only coffee and tea; lunch or alcoholic beverages are not included.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, with full refunds available if canceled early.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation is not included; you need to arrange your own way to the meeting point.

What should I wear?
Comfortable casual clothing is fine. Expect to be seated, with some activity involved in brewing coffee.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility challenges?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to check specific mobility needs with the provider, considering the seating and activity requirements.

In summary, this Vietnamese coffee experience in Hoi An is an engaging, authentic, and socially conscious activity that offers a rich taste of local traditions. It’s perfect for those wanting to learn, taste, and support while exploring one of Vietnam’s most iconic beverages.