Ceviche & Empanadas Cooking Class

Imagine spending an afternoon in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, not just tasting but actually making some of the country’s most beloved dishes. For about two and a half hours, you’ll join Chef Scott Alan and a small group of fellow foodies to learn how to craft authentic ceviche, empanadas, and tropical cocktails while taking in views of the iconic Arenal Volcano. At $76.93 per person, this experience offers a delightful blend of culinary instruction, cultural insight, and stunning scenery—a true highlight for food lovers and curious travelers alike.

Two things we love about this class are the personalized attention from the instructor and the beautiful setting. Chef Scott’s friendly approach makes even beginners feel comfortable, and his detailed explanations help you master techniques that you can recreate at home. Plus, the panoramic views of the volcano provide a memorable backdrop for your culinary adventure. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that transportation from your hotel isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point. This class is perfect for those who enjoy hands-on activities and want a genuine taste of Costa Rican cuisine, especially families or small groups looking for an engaging, local experience.

Key Points

• Personalized Instruction: Small-group setting ensures more attention and better learning.
• Authentic Costa Rican Recipes: Includes ceviche, empanadas, cocktails, and a banana dessert.
• Beautiful Location: Breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano enhance the experience.
• All-Inclusive: Food, drinks, and recipes to take home are included, offering excellent value.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for kids and adults, with opportunities to learn new skills.
• No Transport Included: Guests should plan their own way to the meeting point.

What You Can Expect from the Ceviche & Empanadas Cooking Class

This two-and-a-half-hour session is hosted by Chef Scott Alan, who brings warmth and enthusiasm to every aspect of the class. You’ll meet at Costa Rica Cooking’s kitchen in San Carlos, a location that offers a stunning view of El Arenal Volcano—a dramatic backdrop that makes this culinary experience even more memorable. The class size is capped at 12 travelers, which means plenty of room for questions and hands-on practice, making it ideal for those who want personal guidance.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Introduction and Overview
The session begins with a warm introduction, where Chef Scott explains what you’ll be making and shares a bit about Costa Rican food culture. This sets the tone for an engaging, educational experience rather than just a cooking demonstration. You’ll learn that Costa Rican cuisine revolves around fresh ingredients, simple preparation, and vibrant flavors—an ethos that guides the dishes you’ll prepare.

Ceviche Preparation
The first dish on the menu is ceviche, a popular appetizer featuring raw fish or shrimp “cooked” in lime juice, mixed with onions, cilantro, and other fresh ingredients. We loved the way Chef Scott emphasized basic techniques, like how to cut and prepare seafood safely and efficiently. According to reviews, participants appreciated the “hands-on training” and clear explanations, which made it easy even for novice cooks to follow along successfully.

Empanadas Making
Next, you’ll learn how to make empanadas—delicious turnover-style pastries filled with various ingredients. The class covers dough preparation, stuffing, and sealing techniques. Based on reviews, even those who didn’t consider themselves natural cooks found themselves confidently creating empanadas, with some even managing to make meatless versions. One reviewer mentioned how Chef Scott’s instructions made her realize she could understand and use a knife properly, which speaks to the approachable teaching style.

Cocktail and Dessert
A highlight for many is the opportunity to craft traditional Costa Rican mojitos, mocktails, and tropical drinks. All drinks are included, and you can sip on as many as you’d like. The class concludes with a sweet banana flambé, showing how local ingredients can be transformed into an impressive dessert. Reviewers rave about the “delicious” food and drinks, often noting the leftovers—like the empanadas—were just as tasty once taken home.

Take-Home Recipes and Memories
Of course, no class is complete without the recipes. Chef Scott provides detailed instructions so you can recreate these dishes back home, ensuring the experience extends beyond the kitchen. It’s perfect for those who love to cook or want authentic recipes to impress friends and family.

Why This Experience Stands Out

The small group size (maximum of 12) encourages interaction, making it more than just a cooking lesson—it’s a social and cultural exchange. The setting itself, with views of the volcano and an open kitchen design, creates an inspiring environment. We also appreciate that the food quality and instruction consistently receive high praise; many reviews mention that this class was “worth every penny,” with Chef Scott’s personable approach making the learning process fun and accessible.

The reviews highlight that children and adults alike enjoyed the class, and even those with little cooking experience left feeling accomplished. Several travelers said it was one of the “best” activities of their trip, especially noting how the food was “delicious” and the drinks “so good.” The fact that you get to take home leftovers, along with recipes, means you leave with tangible souvenirs of your Costa Rican culinary adventure.

Practical Details and Considerations

The cost of $76.93 per person covers all food, drinks, and recipes—an excellent value considering the personalized attention and the memorable setting. The class begins at 10:00 am, and although transportation from your hotel isn’t included, the meeting point is conveniently located in San Carlos near public transportation options. Remember, booking about 26 days in advance is typical, so plan your schedule accordingly.

The class is ideal for small groups, families, or couples looking for an interactive cultural experience. Since the minimum number of participants is two, solo travelers should check the availability in advance. It’s a great activity for those who enjoy hands-on learning, tasty food, and scenic views—perfect for an engaging morning or early afternoon in La Fortuna.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy cooking or want to learn some authentic Costa Rican recipes, this class offers both instruction and fun in a beautiful setting. Families with children will appreciate how approachable and family-friendly the experience is, with many reviews mentioning kids watching and participating. Travel lovers interested in local culture will find this a meaningful way to connect with Costa Rican traditions through its cuisine. And if you’re a small group seeking a memorable activity that combines scenery, food, and socializing, this class hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This ceviche and empanadas cooking class in La Fortuna is much more than just a culinary lesson—it’s a chance to share a local tradition in a stunning setting. Chef Scott’s friendly teaching style, combined with the breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano, creates an environment where learning feels natural and enjoyable. The all-inclusive price delivers excellent value, especially given the quality of the food, drinks, and recipes you’ll take home.

For travelers who want an authentic, hands-on experience that’s as much about culture as it is about cooking, this class is a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for small groups, families, or anyone eager to learn new skills while savoring the flavors of Costa Rica. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a complete novice, you’ll leave with new confidence and a full belly—plus some delightful memories of your time in La Fortuna.

FAQ

Do I need to know how to cook to join this class?
Not at all. The class is designed to be accessible for beginners, and the instructor’s clear guidance makes it easy to follow along.

Is transportation from my hotel included?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point in San Carlos.

What is included in the price?
All food, drinks (including unlimited mojitos, sodas, wine, beer, and tropical beverages), and recipes are included. You also get to enjoy the dishes you prepare.

How many people are in each class?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, which helps ensure personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Can children participate?
Yes, reviews mention children watching and participating. It’s family-friendly and suitable for kids aged 7 and up.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not refundable.

This cooking class in La Fortuna offers a lively, authentic way to spend part of your trip—whether you’re looking to impress at home or simply enjoy a fun, flavorful morning with new friends and a volcano view.