Cooking Classes in Bangkok

The best way for any foodie to introduce themselves to any new destination is through their taste buds and this is certainly true for Bangkok. From fragrant lemongrass-infused soups to spiced curries and sweet rice desserts, the city is not afraid of flavor.

If you’ve fallen in love with Thai cuisine and want to be able to recreate your favorite dishes at home, you should consider participating in a cooking class in Bangkok. Under the watchful eye of a professional, you’ll learn the tried-and-true techniques to guarantee an exquisite feast.

Here's all you need to know about cooking classes, one of the most captivating gastronomic experiences in Bangkok.

What are the best cooking classes in Bangkok?

Thai cooking class with market tour in Bangkok

Dive into traditional Thai cooking and learn a skill that you can use for years to come through this culinary lesson in Bangkok. Your half-day experience begins by hopping in a tuk-tuk and speeding through the city to a local market.

Here, you’ll shop for the fresh ingredients needed for your lesson and discover the abundance of local produce available in Bangkok, from juicy mangoes to red-hot chilies. Then, you’ll continue on to the venue of your cooking class, where you’ll watch as an expert whips up a variety of dishes in front of you.

Once you’ve observed the techniques used to assemble each food, you’ll have a go at preparing the dishes yourself, with your guide on hand at all times to offer assistance when needed. You’ll create four recipes in total, and the best part is that you’ll get to dine on your creations while they’re still piping hot from the pan.

Blue Elephant cooking class in Bangkok

Those who wish to produce restaurant-quality fare should consider a cooking class at an internationally recognized establishment. This excursion takes place inside Blue Elephant — a restaurant chain with venues in several corners of the world, including Bangkok, Malta and Copenhagen.

On morning tours, you’ll typically have the opportunity to accompany your guide as they shop for the day’s ingredients at a local market before returning to the restaurant to see how this humble produce is transformed into a mouthwatering feast.

You’ll participate in a theory class, which is far from boring, as you learn about the importance of each ingredient and the place it has within the Thai culinary scene. You'll create four or five courses of local fare, sure to be among some of the best you’ve ever tasted.

Private cooking class in Bangkok

With a private cooking class, you’ll benefit from choosing a menu full of your own personal favorite Thai dishes, whether you’re a pad thai enthusiast or fried rice connoisseur. You’ll also experience one-on-one attention from an enthusiastic guide who is dedicated to helping you hone your cooking skills in a stress-free environment.

You’ll visit a market together, where you can ask about unusual ingredients that you see and gain an insight into how the locals live. Whether you’re a meat eater, vegetarian or vegan, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from and you’ll cook four dishes in total, including an indulgent dessert.

Vegan Thai cooking class in Bangkok

Those with dietary restrictions no longer need to miss out on the fun of a cooking class in Bangkok, with this experience catered to plant-based eaters. Alongside a culinary expert, you’ll learn how to adapt traditional Thai dishes to become totally vegan.

While the menu changes every day, you can expect to create hot and spicy soups, as well as steaming curries made with plenty of delicious veggies. Additionally, you’ll also discover local deserts made with coconut and, if none of these tickle your taste buds, you can request to make your most beloved Thai dish vegan-friendly.

Sit down with your group to feast on the fruits of your labor and bond over your shared lifestyle once you’ve whipped up your masterpiece.

Are there any combos available with cooking classes in Bangkok?

Cooking class plus market visit and boat ride in Bangkok

This private excursion enables you to see more of the city in one hassle-free tour.  You’ll begin by wandering through the bustling stalls of a local produce market before continuing with a boat ride in Bangkok.

Wind your way down the Tha Chin River, while enjoying a unique perspective of the city from the water. Back in the home of your local cook, you’ll lovingly create two flavorsome dishes, learning Thai techniques, which include pounding spices, along the way.

Khao Yai day trip plus cooking class from Bangkok

Escape the city for a day and head to the tranquil haven of Khao Yai National Park. Here, you'll energize your soul with an invigorating hike, witness tumbling waterfalls and visit a fruit plantation.

The UNESCO-listed park was the first in Thailand and is home to wild elephants, as well as Sambar deer, and great hornbills. You'll also prepare five classic recipes and sample a selection of delicious ice creams before returning to Bangkok.

Which places are visited?

Cooking classes in Bangkok typically take place in a restaurant, a dedicated cooking school or a local’s home. However, they often begin with a market tour, where you can get acquainted with the local produce. While each market varies somewhat, they generally all sell local varieties of fruits, such as mango, durian and coconut, and vegetables including eggplant and pumpkin.

You may also find a number of seafood stalls, showcasing the catch of the day. Popular Thai seafood includes shrimp, catfish, crab and lobsters. Meat, spices and rice are all items that can usually be found in these local marketplaces, and your guide will fill you in on the uses of any ingredients you’re unfamiliar with.

How much do cooking classes in Bangkok cost?

Half-day cooking classes in Bangkok cost just under US$40 per adult, while children aged 6 to 12 benefit from a discounted rate of about US$10 each.

Vegan cooking classes in Bangkok are capped at eight participants and have a minimum booking requirement of two individuals. You’ll pay between US$70 and US$80 per person.

Afternoon classes held inside an esteemed restaurant cost between US$80 and US$90 per person, while morning tours with a market visit cost US$90 to US$100 each. You can upgrade to a private class, which costs just over US$280 per person for a half-day activity or US$520 for a full-day experience.

Private cooking classes for up to eight guests typically cost between US$60 and US$90 per adult, depending on your group size. Children under 12 pay US$30, no matter the group size.

Combination cooking classes that include a boat ride cost US$240 per person. You can book for up to 15 individuals and with this maximum group size, you’ll each pay US$150.

Khao Yai day trips with a cooking class usually operate in groups of 15 and cost about US$400 per adult, while children aged 2 to 11 pay US$160 to US$170 each.

What is included?

Cooking classes in Bangkok include all ingredients, as well as the guidance of a professional chef or skilled local. You’ll often receive a certificate upon completion alongside a recipe book, which you can use to recreate the dishes at home.

Where do the cooking classes start?

Cooking classes in Bangkok typically begin at an easy-to-reach landmark in the center of the city, such as a train station, or at the venue where you’ll be participating in your lesson. You’ll be informed of the meeting point in advance so that you can plan your route and arrange any necessary transportation ahead of time.

How long does it last?

Cooking lessons in Bangkok typically last between 3 and 4 hours, which allows you plenty of time to visit a market, watch a demonstration, and work your way through several recipes without worrying about the time. If you opt for a combination tour, you can expect it to last up to 6 hours.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Cooking classes in Bangkok are usually not wheelchair-friendly. However, each tour operator has their own list of restrictions and so it’s worth consulting the booking page of any excursion that catches your eye to see whether it is suitable for your group.

When is the best time for a cooking class in Bangkok?

The best time for a cooking class in Bangkok is typically during the cooler, drier months between November and February. However, since most cooking classes are indoors, they can be enjoyed year-round. If your cooking class includes a visit to local markets, opt for morning sessions, when the markets are most vibrant and full of fresh ingredients.

Is it safe?

Yes, cooking classes in Bangkok are generally safe and operated by experienced guides and cooking instructors. However, it is important to inform your tour operator of any dietary restrictions or food allergies.

Are children allowed?

Yes, children are generally allowed to join cooking classes in Bangkok, provided they are accompanied by an adult. Most tour providers also offer reduced rates for children.

Travel tips

• You'll be cooking and eating your own creations, so make sure to arrive with an appetite.
• Wear clothes you don't mind getting a bit dirty and opt for comfortable shoes, especially if your Bangkok cooking class includes a market visit.
• The best way to learn is by asking. Engage with your cooking instructor and ask questions about ingredients, techniques, and Thai cuisine.
• Above all, relax and enjoy the process of cooking. It's not just about the end product, but also about experiencing Thai culture through its cuisine.