Experience Cooking Classes in Ho Chi Minh City with Withlocals

"We spent a great day with Elise in Saigon. We started our tour with a visit to a local grocery store where she explained all of the items there that were unique to Vietnam and identified several things that she felt we should bring home to the US. Following our trip to the store, Elise took us to her modest apartment where she and her mother cooked us an amazing meal while sharing with us the details of the recipes so that we can prepare the dishes back home. It was essentially an informal cooking class where we not only learned how to cook some delicious Vietnam dishes, but we also learned about Elise and her mom's life in Saigon. It was truly a special experience. "

"My cooking class experience with Elise and her mom was a delightful immersion into Vietnamese cuisine, filled with warmth, delicious flavors, and the joyful presence of their dog, Nou. It all started at the market, where Elise shared insights into the local foods and traditions of Vietnam. This wasn\u2019t just any market visit; it was an engaging introduction to the ingredients that would later transform into our meal.\n\nIn the comfort of Elise\u2019s home kitchen, her mom took the lead, showing us how to prepare three traditional Vietnamese dishes. Her expertise and welcoming approach made the cooking process both educational and enjoyable. Each dish came together like a piece of art, simple yet wonderfully authentic.\n\nThe aromas that filled the kitchen and the stories exchanged over the stove made the afternoon special. Adding to the charm was Nou, the playful and intelligent family dog. Her cheerful presence and our instant bond brought an extra layer of joy to the experience.\n\nSitting down to eat the dishes we prepared, I felt a sense of accomplishment and connection, not just to the food, but to the culture, traditions, and the lovely companions, human and canine alike. I\u2019m grateful for this lovely Friday afternoon spent with Elise, her mom, and of course, Nou. It was more than just a cooking class; it was a warm and inviting glimpse into the heart of Vietnamese cooking, enriched by the company of wonderful hosts and a delightful four-legged friend. Thank you, Elise, your mom, and Nou, for a memorable experience and for the delicious tastes that I will surely remember."

"We absolutely loved our cooking class with Elise. She was knowledgable, fun, and we tried so many new and different Vietnamese snacks, fruits, and dishes. Thanks for a wonderful local experience!"

"Though our trip is only halfway over, we can say this cooking lesson was the highlight of our vacation. \n\nWe knew the concept was going to be unique and exciting. However, when we met Elise and her mom, they blew our expectations out of the water.\n\nThe tour started with an introduction to Vietnamese food while shopping at a local grocery store. We learned the difference between northern and southern tastes and were introduced to new spices, produce, treats, and grains we had never heard of, all while shopping for food like a local.\n\nThen we went to Elise and her mom's home; we were welcomed like old friends. It was educational, delicious, and filled with laughter the entire time. We hung out in the kitchen, making Vietnamese cakes and learning the intricate process. (Though they made it look as simple as walking).\n\nFinally, we ate dinner, which was the best of our trip! Much like eating at my mom's house: she loaded our plates with food, even though we couldn't stuff anything else in our faces. Haha. We left so FULL!\n\nElise and her mom were engaging, charming, and funny! Thanks for inviting us into your home. We hope to be back soon one day!"

"Elise is a fabulous host! The tour started at a market where Elise showed us various items (produce, protein, spice, noodles, drinks, etc). She is so knowledgeable, and charming to boot! After the market we were welcomed into her home where her and her wonderful mother showed us how to make a mouth watering 3 course meal. We ate. We laughed. We shared stories. We learned a lot about Vietnamese cooking. If you are in Ho Chi Minh, do yourself a favor and sign up for Elise\u2019s class!"

"I had a lovely afternoon cooking with Elise and her mom. They were both so welcoming and kind. I chose the 3 local dishes. I learned so much about Vietnamese food and how the locals cook. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone. "