Can Vegetarians Join a Vietnamese Cooking Class in Hoi An?
There is something I often think about when I talk with people who are planning a trip to Hoi An. Many of them love Vietnamese food, but they are vegetarian — and they wonder whether a cooking class is really for them.
The short answer is yes. Vegetarian options are available, and a cooking class can still be a highlight of your trip. The key is to confirm the details before you book, so the team can prepare a menu that works for you.
In this guide, I will explain what to expect as a vegetarian, how to inform Jolie in advance, and what to confirm before you book.
Can Vegetarians Join a Vietnamese Cooking Class in Hoi An?
Yes. According to the Jolie Cooking Class website, vegetarian options are available. That means the class can be adapted so you can enjoy the full experience — from visiting the market to cooking and sharing the meal — without worrying about hidden meat or fish sauce.
Vietnamese cooking uses a lot of fresh herbs, vegetables, tofu, rice, and noodles, so many dishes adapt naturally to a vegetarian menu. The team can adjust recipes, swap sauces, and prepare a separate version of a dish for you when needed.
At the same time, it is important to be clear about what kind of vegetarian diet you follow. Some people eat eggs and dairy, some do not. Some people avoid fish sauce but are fine with oyster sauce, while others avoid all animal-based sauces. The more specific you are, the easier it is for the team to prepare the right menu.
You can find more details on the Hoi An Cooking Class Experience page, which covers what is included in the class. Hoi An Cooking Class Experience
How Should You Inform Jolie About Your Diet?
Before you book, it helps to share a few details with the team. A short message is enough — you do not need to write a long explanation.
Here is what to include:
- Your diet type: vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, or another style — and whether you eat eggs, dairy, or honey.
- Ingredients you avoid: for example, meat, seafood, fish sauce, oyster sauce, shrimp paste, or eggs.
- The menu you are interested in: if you already know which class you want to join, mention it so the team can check which dishes can be adapted.
- Other requirements: for example, gluten-free, nut-free, or halal — so everything is prepared correctly from the start.
You can share these details when you book, or by contacting the team before your class. The earlier you tell them, the more time they have to prepare your ingredients and adjust the menu.
A quick note on expectations: most dishes can be adapted, but not every dish can be made in a fully vegetarian version without changing its character. The team will let you know which dishes work best for your diet, so you can enjoy the class without surprises.
What If You Have Food Allergies?
If you have a food allergy, the same rule applies: tell the team before you book.
According to the FAQ section on the Jolie Cooking Class website, guests are encouraged to inform the team about dietary requirements and food allergies when making a reservation. That early notice matters, because it lets the team check ingredients, clean surfaces and tools, and prepare your portion separately when needed.
It is also worth asking about cross-contact. In a shared kitchen, the team can take steps to reduce risk, but if you have a severe allergy, ask directly how they handle it. A good host will give you a clear, honest answer.
For more answers to common questions, visit the Jolie Cooking Class FAQs. Jolie Cooking Class FAQs
What Should You Confirm Before Booking?
Before you confirm your booking, a short checklist helps you avoid misunderstandings. Here are the key points to confirm:
| What to confirm | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Vegetarian options | Confirms the class can be adapted to your diet |
| Planned menu | Shows which dishes you will cook and which ones will be adapted |
| Ingredients to avoid | Makes sure sauces and hidden ingredients are checked |
| Food allergies | Lets the team prepare safely and reduce cross-contact |
| Other requirements | Covers gluten-free, nut-free, halal, and any other needs |
Once these points are confirmed, you can book with confidence.
Is Jolie the Right Choice for Vegetarian Travellers?
For many vegetarian travellers, Jolie is a good fit because the class is small, hands-on, and run by a local family. You are not just watching a demonstration — you cook the dishes yourself, ask questions, and learn how to adapt Vietnamese recipes at home.
The class runs for about 3 hours and costs US$30 per person. You will visit a local market, learn to cook Vietnamese dishes with fresh ingredients, and enjoy the meal you prepared together. Learn more about what a Hoi An cooking class includes what a Hoi An cooking class includes — and if you want ideas for what else to eat in town, see our guide to what to eat in Hoi An what to eat in Hoi An.
If you are vegetarian, the best next step is simple: when you book, mention your diet in the booking note or message the team. They will confirm your menu before the class, so you can arrive relaxed and ready to cook.
Ready to Cook?
Book your Hoi An Cooking Class Experience Book your Hoi An Cooking Class Experience and mention “vegetarian” when you book — the team will prepare a menu that works for you.
Contact:
Phone/Zalo: +84 399 67 68 52
Email: joliecooking@gmail.com
Address: 14 Luu Trong Lu, Hoi An, Vietnam
