A Warm Welcome to Hanoi

Arriving in Hanoi, I was immediately struck by the vibrant energy of the city. The bustling streets, the symphony of honking scooters, and the tantalizing aroma of street food stalls all around me. It was my first time in Vietnam, and I was eager to dive into the local culture. What better way to start than with a coffee class that promised to reveal the secrets of Vietnamese coffee making?

I had heard about the Hanoi Coffee Class and knew it was a must-do for any coffee lover. As someone who left the corporate world to explore Southeast Asia, I was always on the lookout for unique experiences that wouldn’t break the bank. This class seemed like the perfect blend of culture, learning, and, of course, caffeine.

Brewing Up a Storm

The class was held in the charming district of Hàng Bạc, a place that felt like a step back in time with its narrow streets and colonial architecture. Our instructor, a passionate barista, welcomed us with a warm smile and a promise of a caffeine-fueled adventure.

We started with the basics, learning about the Phin filter, a quintessential tool in Vietnamese coffee making. As we brewed our first cup using Arabica and Robusta beans, the rich aroma filled the room. Tasting the two side by side was an eye-opener; the Arabica was smooth and slightly sweet, while the Robusta packed a punch with its bold, bitter notes.

Next, we moved on to the famous Egg Coffee, a Hanoi specialty. Whisking egg yolks with sugar and coffee, I was skeptical at first, but the result was a creamy, frothy delight that tasted like a dessert in a cup. It was fascinating to learn about the history behind this unique drink, a testament to the resourcefulness of the Vietnamese people during times of scarcity.

A Taste of Vietnam’s Coffee Culture

The class didn’t stop there. We explored the central region’s Salt Coffee, a surprising combination that balanced the bitterness of the coffee with a hint of saltiness. It was a revelation, and I couldn’t help but marvel at the creativity of Vietnamese coffee culture.

Finally, we delved into the world of Cold Brew, a trendy favorite among the younger crowd. Our instructor showed us how to add a twist to this classic by infusing it with local flavors. The result was a refreshing, invigorating drink that was perfect for Hanoi’s warm afternoons.

As a bonus, we got to taste a unique peanut butter coffee, a delightful concoction that left me craving more. The class was not just about making coffee; it was a journey through Vietnam’s rich coffee heritage, each cup telling a story of tradition and innovation.

Leaving the class, I felt a newfound appreciation for Vietnamese coffee and the culture that surrounds it. It was a reminder of why I chose this path of exploration and discovery, meeting new people and learning about their stories along the way. If you find yourself in Hanoi, don’t miss the chance to experience this aromatic adventure for yourself.