Pete’s Peruvian Cooking Class

A Hands-On Taste of Cusco: Pete’s Peruvian Cooking Class

If you’re looking to get a real feel for Peruvian cuisine in Cusco, Pete’s Peruvian Cooking Class offers an engaging, tasty, and intimate experience. For $52 per person, you’ll spend about three hours immersed in the local food scene—shopping at a nearby market, learning to prepare four traditional dishes, and savoring your own culinary creations alongside a classic Pisco Sour. The class is small—limited to nine participants—which means plenty of personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

What we love about this experience is how it combines market visits with hands-on cooking, giving you a deeper understanding of Peruvian flavors beyond just eating out. Plus, the opportunity to sit down and enjoy a homemade meal, served with a well-crafted Pisco Sour, makes it feel like a genuine taste of Cusco. The class is ideal for food lovers, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a meaningful connection to Peruvian culture through its cuisine.

One thing to consider is that some reviews mention inconsistencies in the experience—so managing expectations about a perfectly smooth class is wise. However, with a high rating of 5.0, most guests find it worth the time and money. This activity suits those who appreciate authentic, interactive experiences with a focus on local ingredients, flavors, and conviviality.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience that combines market shopping and cooking.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a friendly vibe.
• Delicious dishes like Lomo Saltado and Quinoa Soup, plus cocktails like Pisco Sour.
• Learn from a local chef who guides you through each step with patience.
• Great value for a three-hour hands-on culinary adventure.
• Suitable for foodies and travelers wanting a cultural connection.

Exploring Pete’s Peruvian Cooking Class: An In-Depth Review

The Experience at a Glance

Located just off the bustling streets of Cusco, Pete’s Peruvian Cooking Class is designed to give you a practical introduction to Peruvian cuisine. Starting at just after 3:00 p.m., the class lasts roughly three hours, providing enough time to explore local ingredients, learn some cooking techniques, and enjoy a communal meal. The price of $52 per person is quite reasonable, especially considering the inclusion of market visits, instruction, and a meal.

This experience is set up to be interactive and intimate, with no more than ten participants at a time. You’ll meet at a central Cusco location on San Juan de Dios street, where the journey begins with a review of the recipes and a shopping list. The class then moves from the kitchen to the local market, giving you a chance to see and taste exotic fruits and fresh ingredients that are staples in Peruvian cooking.

What We Love: Market Visits and Authentic Dishes

One of the standout features of this class is the market visit. Walking with your chef through the local market, you’ll get a close-up look at the colorful produce, herbs, and spices that form the backbone of Peruvian dishes. This isn’t just a quick stop—it’s a vital step that helps you appreciate the freshness and diversity of ingredients that make Peruvian cuisine so vibrant.

Back in the kitchen, you’ll get hands-on experience preparing four authentic dishes. While the specific menu might vary, dishes like Lomo Saltado, Quinoa Soup, and the national drink Pisco Sour are commonly included. Guests have described the cooking process as fun and educational, with the instructor helping even complete novices (as Gabi_Q’s review highlights: “He was so friendly and helpful”).

The Cooking and Dining Experience

The actual cooking segment offers a chance to see how traditional dishes are assembled—often with simple ingredients but complex flavors. You’ll learn techniques that you can try at home, like stir-frying beef for Lomo Saltado or preparing a flavorful quinoa soup.

Once finished, the class transforms from a cooking lesson into a communal meal. You’ll sit down and enjoy your creations, served in a restaurant-like setting. Gabi_Q praised the experience, saying, “Our dinner was fantastic,” and Kerrie called it “great fun and good food.” The addition of a Pisco Sour elevates the experience, allowing you to toast Cusco and its lively culinary scene.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Limited to nine or ten participants, the class fosters a relaxed and friendly environment. It’s perfect for those who prefer a more personal touch over large, tour-group style experiences. Guests consistently mention the helpfulness and warmth of the instructor, making it easy to ask questions and feel comfortable.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, one guest, Francisco_B, expressed dissatisfaction, claiming the class was a “SCAM” because of missing ingredients and poor organization. It’s worth noting that this is an outlier, and the vast majority of feedback highlights the quality and fun of the experience. Still, it’s wise to manage expectations—this is a hands-on class, and minor hiccups can happen.

Also, because the class involves walking to a market, consider whether you’re comfortable with some physical activity or navigating busy streets. The timing, from 3:00 to about 6:00 p.m., generally works well for an afternoon activity, especially after sightseeing in Cusco.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

1. Introduction and Recipe Review

The class kicks off in the kitchen where you’ll review the recipes and make a shopping list. This step is more than just a formality; it helps you understand the ingredients needed for each dish. Expect some discussion about the history or significance of the dishes, which adds context.

2. Tasting Exotic Fruits

Before heading out, you’ll have the chance to try seasonal fruits that are less common outside Peru. This part of the experience adds an element of culinary discovery and helps you appreciate the diversity of local produce.

3. Market Visit

Walking with your instructor, you’ll visit a central local market—close enough to explore your surroundings, but lively enough to see a true slice of Cusco life. You’ll purchase the remaining ingredients needed for your menu, giving you insights into how locals shop for everyday cooking.

4. Returning to the Kitchen and Cooking

Back in the kitchen, the chef will guide you step-by-step through preparing each dish. The focus is on technique and flavor, not just following a recipe. You’ll handle ingredients, learn new skills, and perhaps even make a few mistakes, which are all part of the learning process.

5. The Feast

Once cooking is complete, it’s time to sit down and enjoy the fruits of your labor. The dishes are served as if in a restaurant, with plenty of time to savor each bite. The shared meal reinforces the social aspect of food and leaves you with new culinary confidence.

The Practicalities and Value

The $52 fee covers everything—market shopping, instruction, ingredients, and the meal. Considering the personal attention, quality of ingredients, and the memorable experience of cooking and eating in Cusco, the cost is quite justified. It’s an excellent value for anyone eager to deepen their culinary appreciation and take home more than just photographs.

The class’s timing at 3:15 p.m. makes it convenient as an afternoon activity, especially after morning sightseeing. The small group size ensures you won’t feel rushed, and the friendly atmosphere makes it a great choice for solo travelers, couples, or small groups.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food lovers who want more than just a meal—they want a story, skills, and an authentic taste of Cusco’s culinary traditions. It suits travelers interested in local markets and ingredients, as well as those wanting a hands-on activity that offers a deeper cultural connection. If you’re willing to get a little dirty in the kitchen and enjoy sharing a meal with new friends, you’ll find this class rewarding.

However, if you prefer guided tours with less physical activity or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider alternative options.

The Sum Up

Pete’s Peruvian Cooking Class offers more than just a cooking lesson—it’s a window into Cusco’s flavorful world. You’ll shop at local markets, learn from a friendly chef, and create a meal that reflects the essence of Peruvian tradition. It’s a memorable, tasty, and reasonably priced way to connect with Cusco’s culinary culture.

This class is especially suited for curious travelers who love food and want an intimate, engaging experience. The focus on authentic dishes and local ingredients makes it stand out among many cooking classes, especially for those eager to take a piece of Cusco home in both their memories and skills.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a complete novice, this class provides a respectful, fun, and flavorful taste of Peru—perfect for enriching your Cusco journey.

FAQ

Is this cooking class suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention that the instructor is friendly and helpful, making it accessible even if you’ve never cooked Peruvian dishes before.

What dishes will I learn to prepare?
While the menu can vary, some common dishes include Lomo Saltado, Quinoa Soup, and the national drink Pisco Sour. The experience is designed to teach traditional recipes.

How long does the class last?
It runs for about 3 hours, starting around 3:15 p.m., which makes it a perfect afternoon activity.

Are ingredients and market visits included?
Yes. You’ll visit a local market with your chef to buy missing ingredients, and everything needed for the dishes is included in the price.

Is the group size small?
Yes, limited to around nine to ten participants, ensuring personalized attention and a sociable atmosphere.

What is the cost of the class?
The fee is $52 per person, which covers instruction, ingredients, market visits, and your meal.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where is the meeting point?
The class begins at C. San Juan de Dios 283, Cusco. It’s near public transportation options.

Is there anything I should bring?
No special items are needed; just arrive ready to cook and taste. An apron and enthusiasm are all you need!

This hands-on culinary experience in Cusco is a superb way to deepen your understanding of Peruvian cuisine, meet new friends, and enjoy a delicious meal you’ve prepared yourself. It’s an authentic, fun, and tasty part of any trip to Cusco—highly recommended for those who savor good food and culture.