A Culinary and Cultural Solo Journey in Hoi An

Hoi An's Enchanting Evening

Today was a day of contrasts, from the serene beauty of the ancient town to the vibrant energy of its artistic performances and the explosion of flavors in its culinary scene. It was a day that truly captured the essence of Hoi An, leaving me with memories I know I'll treasure long after I've returned to Berlin.

My day began, as many have here in Hoi An, with a delightful breakfast at Sabirama Cooking Tour & Restaurant. It’s funny, I’m a chef, yet I find myself constantly drawn to cooking classes and food tours when I travel. Maybe it's the joy of learning new techniques, or perhaps it's the simple pleasure of experiencing how different cultures express themselves through food. Sabirama was a great choice. It's located a bit outside the main town, in the center of Bay Mau coconut forest. The restaurant is known for cooking tours and class. This morning I simply enjoyed a traditional Vietnamese breakfast, fueling up for the day ahead.


Explore the essence of Vietnamese cuisine with immersive cooking classes and delightful dining experiences at Sabirama Cooking Tour & Restaurant.

After breakfast, I decided to wander through Phố cổ Hội An - lối vào chính, the main entrance to the ancient town. The area is known for old houses and architecture. Although I had visited the ancient town several times during my stay, there was always something new to discover. Today, I focused on the details I hadn't noticed before – the intricate carvings on the ancient houses, the colorful lanterns casting a warm glow, and the quiet corners where I could simply sit and observe life unfolding around me.


Explore the enchanting streets of Phố Cổ Hội An, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with history, culture, and delicious Vietnamese cuisine.

The beauty of Hoi An lies not just in its picturesque streets, but in the vibrant culture that breathes life into every corner.

For lunch, I ventured to SENSE COFFEE and CRAFT BEER. After days of mostly Vietnamese food, I was in the mood for something different. I decided to try one of the local craft beers. It was an IPA, hoppy and refreshing, and paired perfectly with a burger. It was a satisfying meal that provided a welcome change of pace.


Experience Da Nang's best local brews at SENSE COFFEE and CRAFT BEER - where quality meets comfort in every sip.

As the sun began to set, I made my way to the Hội An Lune Center for the Performing Arts. I had heard so much about their shows, particularly the bamboo circus performances, and I was eager to experience it for myself. The Lune Center itself is an architectural marvel, designed with inspiration from oriental cultures that use the lunar calendar. The theater is located where the Thu Bon River meets the Hoai River.


Discover the heart of Vietnamese culture at Hội An Lune Center for the Performing Arts, where tradition meets creativity in extraordinary performances.

I attended the Teh Dar show, which celebrates the culture of Vietnam's Central Highlands. The skill and artistry of the performers were truly breathtaking. The way they moved with the bamboo, creating intricate structures and telling stories through their bodies, was mesmerizing. The live music added another layer of depth to the performance, creating an immersive experience that transported me to another world. It was a performance I won't soon forget.

After the show, I was ready for dinner. I chose Coconut boat - basket boat - cooking class - restaurant - Gold coconut tour. This place offered not just a meal, but an experience. I decided to go for the seafood hotpot, eager to taste the fresh flavors of the sea.


Discover the enchanting blend of coconut boat adventures and authentic Vietnamese cooking classes in beautiful Hội An.

The hotpot arrived, a bubbling cauldron of fragrant broth filled with an assortment of seafood – shrimp, squid, fish, and clams. I savored each bite, dipping the seafood in various sauces and enjoying the explosion of flavors. The atmosphere was lively and convivial, with other diners sharing stories and laughter. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with cultural exploration and culinary indulgence. I felt completely satisfied and content.

To cap off the evening, I decided to check out Mezcal Cocteleria [ Hoi An Bar]. I’d read online that this bar was known for its mezcal-based cocktails and its intimate atmosphere. It was tucked away on the second floor of an old house.


Delight in the art of mixology at Mezcal Cocteleria, Hoi An's premier cocktail bar offering innovative drinks and a vibrant lounge atmosphere.

The bar's standout feature is its diverse and creative cocktail menu. The bartenders are highly professional and always ready to offer recommendations. I ordered a margarita, which was described as unbeatable. Sipping my cocktail, I reflected on the day's adventures. The Mezcal Cocteleria is more expensive than other local bars, but the quality makes it worthwhile.

As I prepare for tomorrow, I am excited to see what it holds. I plan to visit the Hoi An sculpture promenade and the Thu Bồn River. I'm also looking forward to trying Dng.coffee for breakfast, Nhà hàng Già Rừng for lunch, and Cơm Linh - Vietnamese Restaurant for dinner. And perhaps a bit of shopping at Hart Hoi An - Upcycled Home Decor. Good night from Hoi An!

I’m starting to feel at home here, which is a welcome feeling when you are traveling solo. Lena and Mateo would love it here, I am sure. Maybe we can plan a family trip here next year?