Melbourne: Choose Your Asian Cuisine Cooking Masterclass

Imagine spending three hours in a cozy Melbourne kitchen, mastering how to cook signature dishes from Asia’s most beloved cuisines—from Thailand to Japan, Korea to Sri Lanka. For $130 per person, you join a small, friendly group led by expert native chefs who share stories from their travels and culinary backgrounds. The class is held at Otao Kitchen, a well-organized and welcoming setting that makes learning feel natural rather than intimidating.

What we really love about this experience is the attention to authentic flavors—the chefs’ firsthand knowledge shines through in every recipe—and the opportunity to sit down and enjoy your freshly cooked meal or take it home to share. We also appreciate that recipes are provided for future recreations, making this more than just a fleeting culinary adventure. However, one consideration is that hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, so you’ll want to plan your transport to the venue.

This class is perfect for food lovers eager to expand their palate and cooking skills, especially those who enjoy interactive, hands-on experiences. If you’re interested in regional flavors, like Thai, Japanese, or Indian cuisine, and want to learn from people with real Asian travel experience, this is a treat worth considering.

Key Points

• Authentic learning experience with native chefs sharing personal insights.
• Hands-on cooking of signature Asian dishes using fresh ingredients.
• Meal enjoyment at the end, with options to sit down or take food home.
• Recipe booklet ensures you can recreate dishes after your trip.
• Flexible timings available in the morning, afternoon, or evening.
• No included transport, so plan your arrival accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect

The Otao Kitchen class invites you into a warm, inviting space where Asian culinary traditions come alive through the skills of experienced chefs. Each session focuses on a different cuisine, including options like Thai, Japanese, Korean, Indonesian, Sri Lankan, Indian, Vietnamese, and Chinese. This variety means you can tailor your experience based on your culinary curiosity or preferences.

The Classroom Setting

From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice the emphasis on fresh ingredients, vibrant spices, and traditional techniques. The atmosphere is relaxed but focused, with groups kept small enough to get plenty of individual attention. You’ll be working directly with your chef, learning tips and tricks learned from years of travel and kitchen experience.

The Cooking Process

Expect to get your hands dirty as you prepare your chosen dishes. The chefs walk you through each step, explaining why certain ingredients are used and how to balance flavors like sweet, sour, salty, and spicy. Expect to learn how to handle exotic spices and fresh produce that you might not find in your local grocery store.

While specific dishes vary depending on the cuisine of the day, they typically include signature items like Thai curries, Japanese sushi or ramen, Korean barbecue elements, or Indian curries and breads. The chefs often share personal stories from their travels, adding a layer of cultural understanding to the cooking process.

The Meal and Take-Home Recipes

After cooking, you’ll sit down with your fellow participants and enjoy your creation—a true communal experience that accentuates the joy of shared food. Many reviews highlight that the dishes are delicious and satisfying, with one reviewer noting, “We loved the way our chef explained every step and the flavors were exactly like those from the countries we visited.”

If you prefer, you can take your food home to share with friends or family—perfect for impressing at your next dinner party. Plus, the recipes provided ensure you can recreate the dishes long after your Melbourne stay.

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The Chefs and Their Stories

A highlight for many is the knowledge and passion of the instructors. These chefs have traveled extensively through Asia and bring that authentic perspective into their classes. They’re eager to share personal anecdotes and culinary secrets, making this more than just a cooking lesson—it’s a cultural exchange.

One reviewer praises the friendly, approachable nature of the chefs, mentioning that “they made every step simple and fun,” which is ideal if you’re new to Asian cooking. Others appreciate the insight into regional differences, helping you understand why dishes taste the way they do.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour fee of $130 per person covers the cooking class, all ingredients, and recipes to take home. You’ll also enjoy complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, enhancing the experience and making it feel more festive.

However, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to Otao Kitchen. The venue is easily accessible in Melbourne, and given the class’s flexible scheduling (morning, afternoon, or evening), you can plan your day accordingly.

The Practical Side: Group Size, Duration, and Accessibility

With a duration of around 3 hours, this experience offers a good balance between learning and enjoyment. The group sizes are typically small, ensuring you get plenty of personal attention. The class is wheelchair accessible and conducted in English, making it suitable for most travelers.

One safety note: open-toed shoes are not allowed, so wear closed footwear for comfort and safety.

The Value: Is It Worth It?

At $130, the class offers a hands-on, authentic culinary experience that combines learning, cultural insight, and delicious food. Comparing this to other experiences, you’re paying for expert guidance from native chefs, fresh ingredients, and take-home recipes—an excellent deal for foodies.

If you’re wanting to expand your cooking repertoire and learn regional flavors directly from those who know them best, this class provides a high-value, memorable experience. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy your creations together fosters a communal atmosphere that many find rewarding.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This class suits adventurous eaters, home cooks eager to learn new skills, and travelers who enjoy interactive cultural experiences. It’s especially ideal if you have an interest in Asian cuisines or want to gain confidence in preparing exotic dishes back home.

Those looking for a relaxing, social activity with a guaranteed reward—delicious food—will find this experience particularly satisfying. It’s also a great choice if you’re traveling solo or with a small group and want to meet like-minded food lovers.

The Sum Up

If you’re in Melbourne and craving a culinary adventure with a cultural twist, the Choose Your Asian Cuisine Cooking Masterclass at Otao Kitchen offers a practical, well-rounded experience. You’ll learn from passionate, knowledgeable chefs who bring firsthand Asian travel experience into every dish, making your journey both educational and delicious.

The class’s interactive nature, combined with authentic recipes and the chance to enjoy your creations, makes it a standout activity for food lovers. It’s a perfect way to spend an afternoon or evening if you want to connect with Melbourne’s multicultural vibe and come away with new skills.

While you’ll need to arrange your transport, the value, authenticity, and fun of this class are well worth the effort. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, this experience will leave you with a full belly and new culinary confidence.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The chefs focus on making each step simple and approachable, even if you’ve never cooked Asian food before.

Are ingredients provided?
Yes, all fresh ingredients are included, along with recipes to take home so you can recreate the dishes later.

What cuisines can I choose from?
Each class features a different cuisine, including Thai, Japanese, Korean, Indonesian, Sri Lankan, Indian, Vietnamese, or Chinese.

Can I sit down to eat after cooking?
Yes, you’ll have the option to enjoy your meal at the end of the class, or take your food home.

Are drinks included?
Yes, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are complimentary during the class.

Is the venue accessible?
Yes, Otao Kitchen is wheelchair accessible.

What should I wear?
Closed-toe shoes are required for safety reasons.

How long does the class last?
Approximately 3 hours, including cooking and eating.

This Melbourne cooking class promises an engaging, flavorful experience that’s both educational and fun. Perfect for those wanting to bring a slice of Asian cuisine into their kitchen, or simply enjoy a cultural activity with a delicious payoff.

You can check availability for your dates here: