Cultural and Culinary Adventure in Hoi An

Exploring Hoi An's Soul: Ceramics, Cuisine, and Culture

Today was a day dedicated to diving deeper into the heart of Hoi An, experiencing its rich history, tantalizing cuisine, and vibrant arts scene. It's days like these that make me so grateful for the opportunity to share these journeys with you all. I always feel a sense of excitement when I can fully immerse myself in a new culture, and today was no exception.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Bale Well Restaurant. Hans and I were eager to try this local favorite, known for its authentic Vietnamese flavors. We arrived to a bustling, open-air setting, filled with the aroma of grilled meats and fresh herbs.

The Bale Well experience is quite unique. There's no formal menu; instead, they offer a set meal that includes a variety of dishes meant to be assembled into your own rice paper rolls. We were presented with a table full of barbecued pork, crispy rice pancakes (bánh xèo), fresh herbs like coriander and mint, and a flavorful dipping sauce. It was a hands-on experience, and I must admit, my first few attempts at rolling were a bit clumsy, with ingredients spilling out. But with a little guidance from the friendly staff, I soon got the hang of it.

The flavors were incredible – the smoky pork, the crunchy herbs, and the perfectly balanced sauce created a symphony in my mouth. It was a truly authentic and satisfying meal, and I appreciated that it was a bit off the main tourist streets, giving it a more local feel. It reminded me of the street food back home in Thailand, where the best flavors are often found in the most unassuming places.

Food is not simply organic fuel to keep body and soul together, it is a vehicle for communication, a way of sharing love and laughter, and a vital expression of culture.

After breakfast, we made our way to the Museum of Trade Ceramics. Housed in a beautifully restored traditional Vietnamese building, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Hoi An's history as a major trading port. As someone who appreciates history and cultural exchange, I was eager to explore the exhibits.


Explore Hoi An's rich history at the Museum of Trade Ceramics, showcasing captivating artifacts from centuries of cultural exchange.

The museum showcases a diverse collection of pottery and porcelain artifacts from various parts of Asia and the Middle East, some dating back to the 15th century. Each piece tells a story of the intricate trade routes that connected Hoi An with the rest of the world. I was particularly drawn to the Chinese ceramics from the Ming and Qing dynasties, with their exquisite designs and vibrant colors. Hans, with his engineering background, was fascinated by the craftsmanship and the techniques used to create these delicate pieces.

We spent a couple of hours wandering through the museum, admiring the artifacts and learning about the cultural exchanges that shaped Hoi An. It was a reminder of how interconnected the world has always been, and how trade and cultural exchange can enrich a society.

For lunch, we decided to try Restaurant & Cafe Tuấn Rich Flavor of Hoi An Vietnamese Familly Restaurant. This family-run restaurant is known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine and warm hospitality. We were greeted by Vicky, the owner, who made us feel right at home. The restaurant has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with a local touch that I appreciated.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Tuấn Rich Flavor Restaurant in Hoi An - a culinary journey full of rich flavors and warm hospitality.

We ordered a variety of dishes, including the grilled tilapia with rice and green papaya salad, and the crispy fried wontons. The flavors were rich and authentic, and the ingredients were fresh. I could taste the love and care that went into each dish. Hans particularly enjoyed the grilled tilapia, while I couldn't get enough of the crispy wontons. It was a delightful meal, and the prices were very reasonable.

In the evening, we had dinner at Kumquat BBQ Restaurant Cooking Class. This restaurant offers not only delicious food but also cooking classes, which I found particularly interesting given my profession. The restaurant is owned by a family, with Thanh (Victor) as the chef, boasting over 15 years of cooking experience.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cooking in Hội An's scenic Tra Que Village at Kumquat BBQ Restaurant Cooking Class.

We opted for the BBQ, and it was a fantastic experience. The ingredients were fresh and flavorful, and we enjoyed grilling our own food at the table. It was a fun and interactive way to enjoy a meal, and the atmosphere was lively and festive. I even picked up a few cooking tips from Thanh, which I'm excited to try out in my own cooking classes back in Hannover.

After dinner, we headed to the Hội An Lune Center for the Performing Arts to see a show. The Lune Center is a unique bamboo theater that hosts a variety of cultural performances. We were fortunate enough to see the Teh Dar show, a Vietnamese Bamboo Circus that tells stories of tribal life in southwest Vietnam through music, dance, and acrobatics.


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

The show was mesmerizing. The performers were incredibly talented, and the use of bamboo as both a prop and a structural element was ingenious. The music was haunting and evocative, and the costumes were vibrant and colorful. It was a truly immersive experience, and I felt transported to another world. The show is performed most days of the week, except Mondays and Thursdays, making it quite accessible for tourists.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to have a nightcap at The Deck Hoi An. This rooftop bar offers spectacular views of the ancient town and the Thu Bon River. We sipped on expertly crafted cocktails, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the twinkling lights of the city below. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with cultural immersion and culinary delights. The Deck offers a wide selection of beverages, including signature cocktails inspired by local tales.


Discover the enchanting riverside vibe at The Deck Hoi An, where exquisite drinks and stunning views meet in perfect harmony.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Hoi An Village Experience and take a kayak tour. I'm looking forward to discovering more of the natural beauty and local culture that Hoi An has to offer. And of course, I'll be sure to share all of our adventures with you all. Good night from Hoi An!