St John S in Antigua isn’t just about beaches and sunshine; it’s also a fantastic place to learn new skills and learn about local flavors. What makes these workshops stand out? For starters, they combine hands-on cooking with stunning sea views, making every class more than just a culinary lesson. Whether you’re interested in mastering the art of jerk, exploring rum’s role in Caribbean cuisine, or cooking up fresh seafood, there’s an authentic experience waiting for you. We’re especially fond of the All About Jerk Cooking Class for its rich flavor profiles and scenic setting, and the Rum Cooking Class for its flavorful combination of spirits and dishes.
If you’re curious about the options, below is a quick overview. Each offers a unique taste of Caribbean culture through cooking, with practical skills and memorable moments along the way. Keep reading to find the one that matches your interests and travel style.
1. All About Jerk Cooking Class
This hands-on class teaches you everything about Jerk cooking, including the spices, techniques, and history of this iconic Caribbean style. You’ll prep a delicious lunch and then enjoy it on a veranda overlooking the Caribbean Sea, making for a memorable dining experience. The instructor shares insights into how jerk evolved from local traditions, giving you a richer understanding of Jamaican culture, despite being in Antigua. It’s rated 5/5 based on 17 reviews, reflecting its popularity.
What makes this tour special? You get to learn not just recipes, but also how to cook Caribbean-style at home. The class emphasizes flavors that define the region and offers a fun, social atmosphere where you can connect with fellow travelers. The cooking process is straightforward enough for most, and the view makes the meal’s conclusion even better. Some reviews mention the authenticity of the spices and the friendly guidance from the instructor.
Bottom Line: If you love spicy flavors and want a genuine taste of Caribbean cuisine, this class offers a perfect mix of hands-on learning and scenic dining. It’s ideal for foodies eager to bring home a piece of Jamaica’s culinary heritage.
2. St. John’s: Rum Cooking Class with 6 Rum Tastings
At number 2, the Rum Cooking Class combines Caribbean spirits with culinary tradition in a four-hour experience rated 5/5 from six reviews. In this class, you’ll explore rum’s role in Caribbean cuisine and culture, preparing dishes that highlight its flavors. The tour includes six different rums from Antigua, Guyana, Martinique, and Cuba, which you’ll taste while learning how rum can be used in cooking.
What makes this experience stand out? The pairing of rum tasting with food is both educational and flavorful. You’ll prepare a three-course meal that incorporates rum, from appetizers to desserts, and then enjoy your creations on a veranda overlooking the sea. The instructor is knowledgeable about both the spirits and culinary techniques, making it a well-rounded cultural lesson. The reviews praise the combination of food, drink, and the gorgeous setting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who love spirits and want to understand how to cook with rum, this class offers a rich introduction to Caribbean flavors, paired with tastings that expand your palate.
3. St. John’s: From the Sea Cooking Class
The From the Sea Cooking Class is a hands-on experience working with fresh seafood available on the day. Rated 5/5 from five reviews, this class emphasizes local fish varieties like mahi-mahi and snapper, preparing a full three-course meal. Participants help cook each dish—from appetizer to dessert—and then sit down to enjoy their efforts on a veranda overlooking the Caribbean.
What sets this apart? The focus is on seafood, which is central to Caribbean cuisine, and the class’s flexible approach means every day’s catch influences the menu. The instructor shares personal stories about living in the West Indies, adding a casual, local flavor to the experience. Guests often comment on how fresh the seafood is and how much they’ve learned about regional ingredients. The class is informal, making it accessible for all skill levels.
Bottom Line: If you’re a seafood lover eager to cook with the freshest local fish and hear stories about island life, this class offers a delicious and authentic culinary journey.
4. Coordinating Curry Cooking Class
Rounding out the list, the Curry Cooking Class teaches you how to prepare West Indian chicken curry and dhal puri roti. Led by Nicole, the class is a friendly, hands-on experience focusing on favorite local dishes. You’ll cook together and enjoy a three-course lunch on a veranda overlooking the Caribbean Sea. This class is rated 5/5 from four reviews, highlighting its quality and welcoming atmosphere.
What makes this tour unique? It emphasizes cultural authenticity—you’ll learn how to make the best local dishes in a relaxed environment. The recipes are comprehensive, and participants leave with detailed instructions to recreate the dishes at home. Many mention the warmth of Nicole and the value of the experience for its practical skills and tasty meal. It’s an excellent choice for those interested in Caribbean comfort food and cooking techniques.
Bottom Line: If you want to master classic West Indian dishes in a friendly setting, this class offers practical skills and a delicious meal on the veranda with a view.
How to Choose the Best Workshop in St John S
Choosing among these excellent options depends on your interests. If you love spicy flavors and want a hands-on jerk experience, the All About Jerk Cooking Class is your best bet. For those curious about Caribbean spirits and how they influence food, the Rum Cooking Class offers a flavorful, educational experience. Seafood lovers should consider the From the Sea Cooking Class for the freshest catch and regional stories. Finally, those eager to learn authentic West Indian dishes like curry and roti will find the Curry Cooking Class both fun and rewarding.
Think about your budget, time constraints, and what kind of flavors or skills excite you most. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak travel months, to secure your preferred class and date. For a deep dive into Caribbean cuisine and culture, these workshops offer a practical, memorable way to connect with the island’s rich culinary traditions.
Final Thoughts
St John S offers a fantastic variety of cooking workshops that go beyond typical tours, immersing you in local flavors and stories. The All About Jerk Cooking Class and the Rum Cooking Class stand out for their combination of flavor, learning, and scenic dining. Seafood enthusiasts will appreciate the From the Sea Cooking Class, while those interested in authentic West Indian fare should consider the Curry Cooking Class.
No matter which you choose, booking ahead is wise—these classes tend to fill up quickly. Each offers a unique way to bring a taste of the Caribbean home with you, whether through recipes, skills, or new friends. So pick the one that excites you most and get ready to cook, learn, and enjoy the stunning views.