Ceviche Cooking Class Including Pisco Sour Lesson

A Fun and Flavorful Introduction to Peruvian Cuisine in Lima’s Miraflores

If you’re visiting Lima and craving an authentic taste of Peruvian food, this Ceviche Cooking Class Including Pisco Sour Lesson offers a rare opportunity to learn directly from a renowned local chef — Hector Aguilar Valle — in his outdoor garden kitchen. For $250 per person, you’ll spend about two hours immersed in the vibrant culinary traditions that make Peru famous worldwide. The experience is set in the upscale Miraflores neighborhood, known for its beautiful parks, ocean views, and lively dining scene, making it a perfect spot to combine culture with cuisine.

What we really love about this experience is the chance to get hands-on with two iconic Peruvian specialties: ceviche and the Pisco Sour cocktail. Hector’s warm and approachable style makes learning fun, whether you’re a seasoned cook or a foodie eager to try something new. Plus, the fact that ingredients are fresh from the market and the class takes place in a lush outdoor setting adds to the authenticity and relaxed vibe.

One possible consideration is that the class runs around two hours, but many reviews mention they ended up staying nearly four hours — so it’s a longer commitment than initially expected. Planning your afternoon accordingly can help ensure you enjoy every minute without feeling rushed.

This experience suits travelers who love food, cultural learning, and outdoor settings. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or simply curious about Peruvian flavors, this class offers genuine insight and a delightful atmosphere.

• Authentic Local Instruction: Led by Hector Aguilar Valle, an award-winning chef sharing his secrets.
• Hands-On Learning: Prepare and enjoy your own ceviche and Pisco Sour.
• Beautiful Setting: Outdoors in Hector’s garden kitchen, with fresh ingredients from the market.
• In-Depth Experience: Usually longer than the scheduled two hours, allowing for more relaxed participation.
• Practical & Useful: Receive a recipe e-book to continue your culinary journey at home.
• Ideal for Food Lovers: Perfect for those who want an immersive, authentic Peru culinary experience.

Comprehensive Review of the Ceviche and Pisco Sour Cooking Class in Lima

The Location and Setting: A Garden Kitchen in Miraflores

Starting in Lima’s Miraflores neighborhood, this experience is ideally situated in a vibrant and upscale part of the city, renowned for its seaside views and bustling cafes. Hector Aguilar Valle’s outdoor kitchen garden is a highlight itself — an inviting space where lush greenery surrounds you, setting a relaxed, almost farm-to-table tone. The garden’s fresh air and open ambiance lend a calming backdrop to your culinary adventure.

Many reviewers, like irislejan, praised Hector’s responsiveness and the beautiful venue, emphasizing that the class takes place in a “beautiful open space / garden with all utensils and ingredients fresh from the market.” This fresh, natural environment not only enhances the tasting experience but also helps you connect more deeply with the ingredients and cooking process.

The Instructor: Hector Aguilar Valle, a Passionate Peruvian Chef

Hector isn’t just a chef; he’s a storyteller with a passion for sharing Peruvian culinary traditions. His approachable manner and clear explanations are frequent highlights in reviews. Carolyn M notes that preparing food in Hector’s backyard/kitchen was “inc redible” and that he generously shared “all the secrets of Peruvian cuisine.” This personal touch makes the class feel more like a private lesson in a friend’s garden than a sterile cooking demonstration.

The Itinerary: What’s Included and How It Unfolds

The class begins at Hector’s outdoor space, where he introduces the ingredients — many of which are likely sourced from local markets, emphasizing freshness and quality. You’ll learn how to prepare ceviche, a dish that’s both simple and sophisticated, with Hector revealing the “secrets of Peruvian ceviche” and guiding you through each step.

Expect to learn about the essential ingredients: fresh fish, lime juice, onions, chili peppers, and herbs, along with techniques for achieving the perfect balance of acidity and texture. The hands-on process means you’ll be chopping, marinating, and assembling your ceviche, gaining confidence to recreate it at home.

Next, Hector takes you through the art of making a Pisco Sour, Peru’s national cocktail. You’ll learn the proper proportions, shaking techniques, and garnishing tips. The review by irislejan mentions that Hector showed “all the secrets,” making it clear that you’ll leave with the skills to mix this iconic drink confidently.

The Duration and Group Size

The experience is officially scheduled for about two hours, but many, like Carolyn M, found they stayed for nearly four hours, savoring the food and chatting with Hector. The maximum group size is 14 travelers, which strikes a good balance between intimacy and social fun. Smaller groups mean more personalized attention, and Hector’s engaging style ensures everyone participates.

The Food and Drink: Taste, Quality, and Authenticity

The highlight, of course, is tasting your own creations. Expect to enjoy the ceviche you made, paired with some fresh Pisco Sours. The reviews consistently mention the dishes being delicious and authentic. irislejan notes that the ingredients were “fresh from the market,” which no doubt contributed to the vibrant flavors.

The experience isn’t just about cooking; it’s a chance to savor the culinary essence of Peru in a relaxed setting. The recipe e-book you receive at the end helps keep the flavors alive long after your trip.

Practical Details: Price, Booking, and Accessibility

At $250 per person, the class offers good value considering the personal instruction, high-quality ingredients, and the lasting memories. Booking tends to be about 90 days in advance, highlighting its popularity. Last-minute arrangements might be possible through their website, but availability could be limited.

Location-wise, the class is near public transportation, making it accessible from central Lima. The outdoor setting, while beautiful, is weather-dependent — a sunny day enhances the experience, but poor weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling, as noted in their policies.

Cancellation Policy and Flexibility

The class includes free cancellation, provided you cancel at least 24 hours before the start. This added flexibility is particularly useful if your travel plans shift unexpectedly. The provider also offers a full refund if canceled due to bad weather, which shows an understanding of Lima’s variable climate.

Authenticity and Overall Experience

What sets this cooking class apart is Hector’s genuine passion for Peruvian culture and cuisine. Many reviewers mention the personal attention and the beautiful setting, making this more than just a cooking lesson — it’s an authentic cultural experience. The fact that you can learn from a top chef in his outdoor garden is a rare treat.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food lovers wanting to get their hands dirty and learn authentic recipes. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate personalized instruction and outdoor settings, especially those interested in Peruvian culinary traditions. If you enjoy good company and a relaxed atmosphere, this class offers both in abundance.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Experience?

This ceviche and Pisco Sour class hits the sweet spot for anyone eager to explore Peruvian cuisine with a trusted local guide. It offers authenticity, personalized attention, and a beautiful setting that make it more than just a cooking lesson — it’s a memorable cultural encounter.

If you’re looking to return home with not only recipes but also stories of your time in Lima, Hector’s class delivers on that promise. It’s especially ideal for foodies, aspiring chefs, and those who want a relaxed, outdoor experience that’s both fun and educational.

While it’s a bit longer than advertised, that extra time just means more opportunities to learn, taste, and chat. The value lies in the hands-on learning, the beautiful setting, and the chance to take a piece of Peru’s culinary soul back home with you.

FAQ

How long does the class usually last?
While scheduled for about 2 hours, many participants find they stay for nearly 4 hours, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and additional time to taste and socialize.

Can I book at the last minute?
Yes, last-minute reservations may be possible through their website, but availability is limited. Booking in advance is recommended to secure a spot.

Where does the class meet?
The class begins at Ca. Gral. Borgoño 742, Miraflores, Lima. Hector’s outdoor garden kitchen is the main setting, providing a scenic and comfortable environment.

Is transportation available?
The location is near public transportation, making it easy to reach from central Lima or your hotel.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll learn to prepare ceviche and a Pisco Sour, enjoy your creations, and receive a recipe e-book for future reference.

What if the weather turns bad?
The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered a reschedule or a full refund.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Hector’s clear instructions and relaxed setting make it accessible for all skill levels, from novice cooks to seasoned foodies.

Embark on this culinary adventure in Lima, and you’ll come away with new skills, delicious recipes, and a deeper appreciation of Peruvian flavors.