Cooking class and Market visit with Maido’s former creative chef (+ transport)

A Culinary Adventure in Lima: Cooking Class and Market Visit with Maido’s Ex-Chef

Imagine spending five hours in Lima, learning how to prepare classic Peruvian dishes with the guidance of Chef Hector Aguilar, a former creative chef at the renowned restaurant Maido who has now turned his talents to teaching. For $180 per person, you get picked up from your hotel, a guided tour of a lively local market, hands-on cooking, and plenty of tasting—all in an intimate group of no more than 10 participants. It’s a mix of education, delicious food, and cultural insight packed into a well-structured experience.

What makes this tour truly special is the chance to see Peru’s culinary heart in action, from bustling market stalls to the warm, welcoming kitchen of a seasoned chef. We love how the small-group format ensures personalized attention, allowing everyone to ask questions and learn at a comfortable pace. Plus, the inclusion of market ingredients, a Pisco sour workshop, and a recipe ebook makes this a fantastic value for food lovers looking to take a piece of Peru home with them.

One thing to consider is that transportation outside the designated pickup area isn’t included, so you’ll want to be prepared to meet at the specified location or arrange your own transfer. This tour is best suited for travelers eager to get hands-on, learn local food techniques, and enjoy authentic dishes in a friendly environment—perfect for culinary enthusiasts or curious travelers who want to deepen their understanding of Peruvian cuisine beyond just eating out.

Key Points

• Intimate group size ensures personalized instruction and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Expert guidance from Chef Hector, who has Michelin-star experience and a passion for sharing his knowledge.
• Market tour offers insight into local ingredients and culinary traditions.
• Hands-on cooking of authentic Peruvian dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and aji de gallina.
• Complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off adds convenience to the experience.
• Includes recipes and a Pisco sour tutorial for you to recreate at home.

A Closer Look at the Cooking Class and Market Visit

Starting with the Market Tour

Your adventure begins with a guided walk through one of Lima’s key markets, where Chef Hector will introduce you to the freshest ingredients—think vibrant fruits, aromatic herbs, and local specialties. This part of the experience isn’t just sightseeing; it’s an immersion into Peru’s food culture. Expect to hear stories about ingredients’ origins and how they’re used in traditional dishes, giving you a deeper appreciation for what you’ll cook later.

Many reviewers have praised this aspect. As one reviewer put it, “Visiting the market with Chef Hector was the highlight—seeing where the ingredients come from and learning how to pick the best produce makes all the difference.” It’s a lively, colorful scene that sets the tone for the entire day and provides terrific photo opportunities.

The Cooking Session

Back in the kitchen, you’ll be hands-on with Chef Hector guiding your every step. Expect to learn professional techniques for crafting the perfect ceviche, where the freshness of the fish and the acidity of the citrus are crucial. Chef Hector shares tips that elevate home cooking—like how to get the right balance of flavors and presenting dishes beautifully.

Other dishes you might prepare include lomo saltado (a flavorful stir-fry with beef and potatoes), aqui de gallina (a creamy chicken stew), and shrimp causa (layered potato and prawn dish). The focus is on techniques and authenticity, so you’ll come away with skills you can replicate at home.

Making Pisco Sours & Tasting

No Peruvian meal is complete without a Pisco sour. Chef Hector demonstrates how to make this iconic cocktail, sharing secrets to perfecting the balance of tartness, sweetness, and foam. You’ll even get video tutorials and a recipe ebook to take home.

Throughout the class, you’ll sample various fruits and dishes—a chance to taste the local ingredients as they’re meant to be experienced. The small group size makes conversation lively and educational, allowing you to ask questions about the dishes or ingredients.

The Meal and Takeaways

Once everything is prepared, you’ll sit down to enjoy your home-cooked Peruvian feast, appreciating the flavors and techniques you’ve just learned. The experience doesn’t end there—recipes provided afterward mean you can impress friends or recreate your favorites at home.

The Experience and What It Means for Travelers

This cooking class offers more than just recipes. It’s a cultural encounter, bridging the gap between local traditions and your own kitchen. The knowledgeable guidance from Chef Hector turns what could be intimidating into approachable, fun, and rewarding. His friendly attitude and expertise make learning enjoyable, even for beginners.

The small group setting encourages interaction and personalized attention, so if you’re someone who prefers hands-on learning rather than large tours, this experience is ideal. The hotel pickup adds a layer of convenience, especially if you’re staying in Miraflores or nearby.

Many guests have called it the highlight of their trip, praising the combination of market visit, professional techniques, and authentic dishes. Reviewers have especially appreciated Chef Hector’s willingness to share tips, recipes, and his enthusiasm for Peruvian food.

Practical Considerations

While the price of $180 is a bit on the higher side for a cooking class, the quality of instruction, market insights, and culinary souvenirs (recipes and ebook) make it a worthwhile investment. Keep in mind that transportation outside the pickup zone isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

The five-hour duration is enough to immerse yourself without feeling rushed, and the maximum of 10 travelers ensures a relaxed, engaging atmosphere. It’s suitable for families (children must be accompanied by an adult) and anyone with food allergies or intolerances, which can be accommodated with advance notice.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a food lover eager to learn authentic Peruvian dishes, this class is a perfect fit. It’s equally ideal for travelers wanting a cultural experience that combines sightseeing and hands-on activity. It suits those who appreciate small-group intimacy, expert guidance, and a relaxed pace.

However, if your main goal is sightseeing without a focus on food, or you’re on a tight budget, this might not be the best fit. Still, for anyone wanting to take a piece of Peru home—literally and figuratively—this experience offers lasting memories and skills that extend well beyond the kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included outside the pickup area?
No, transportation outside the designated pickup point is not included. You will need to arrange your own transfer if you’re not within the pickup zone.

What dishes will I learn to make?
You’ll learn how to prepare a traditional 3-course Peruvian meal, with options including ceviche, lomo saltado, aji de gallina, and shrimp causa, depending on the menu of the day.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, food intolerances and allergies can be catered for if you notify in advance.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 10 participants, which fosters a friendly, interactive atmosphere.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers the guided market tour, cooking class with Chef Hector, fruit tasting, Pisco sour workshop, recipes, and either lunch or dinner.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the experience is best suited for those interested in cooking and food.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Final Thoughts

This cooking class in Lima offers a genuine insider’s view of Peruvian cuisine, led by a passionate chef with Michelin-star experience. It’s a wonderful way to deepen your appreciation for local ingredients, culinary traditions, and the vibrant food scene that defines Lima. The combination of market visit, hands-on cooking, and cocktail making makes it a comprehensive experience—particularly suited for those who want to learn, taste, and take home recipes.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious traveler, this experience unlocks the secrets behind Peru’s best dishes in a friendly, approachable environment. If culinary adventures are your thing, this class is a smart choice—offering genuine flavor, expert guidance, and a memorable culture.

References

Viator – Cooking Class in Lima with Market Visit