Cooking Class with Celebrity Chef Tony Hu

Cooking Class with Celebrity Chef Tony Hu: A Practical Guide for Food Lovers in Chicago

Imagine spending 90 minutes in the company of Chicago’s culinary star, Chef Tony Hu, learning to cook two of his signature dishes—Chefs Special Dry Chili Chicken and Crispy Lemon Shrimp. This hands-on experience takes place at the Lao Sze Chuan restaurant in Chicago’s vibrant Chinatown, offering an intimate look into Sichuan cuisine with a friendly, expert chef guiding you every step of the way. Priced at $135 per person, and often booked 15 days in advance, this workshop is perfect for those who want to deepen their appreciation of Chinese food or simply enjoy a culinary adventure in a welcoming setting.

What makes this experience special is the chance to learn authentic cooking techniques directly from Chef Tony Hu—whose dishes are featured on major TV channels like NBC and ABC—and to enjoy a meal that you helped create. We love how the session combines cultural storytelling with practical skills, making it more than just a cooking class. Plus, the added perks—like a professional photo, exclusive discounts, and a free pedicab voucher—bring extra value to this immersive experience.

One potential consideration is the minimum group size: with at least four participants needed to run the class, your plans could be canceled if numbers are low. This is worth keeping in mind if you’re traveling solo or in a small group. This experience suits foodies, first-time Chinatown visitors, and those interested in Chinese culture who enjoy learning by doing in a lively, interactive environment.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Learn real Sichuan techniques from Chef Tony Hu himself.
• Cultural Connection: Every dish tells a story, making this more than just a cooking class.
• Inclusive for All: No prior experience needed—just a hunger to learn and taste.
• Extras & Perks: Enjoy a shared meal, professional photos, discounts, and a pedicab voucher.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 15 travelers for a more personalized experience.
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind.

An In-Depth Look at the Chef Tony Hu Cooking Experience

What You Can Expect at the Starting Point

The workshop begins at Lao Sze Chuan, located at 2172 S Archer Ave in Chicago’s Chinatown. This spot is not only a restaurant but a hub for authentic Sichuan flavors, making it a fitting setting for such a cultural and culinary exchange. The meeting time is at 11:30 am, and after a quick check-in, you’ll be introduced to the chef and the menu for the day.

This is a small-group experience, capped at 15 people, which means you’ll get plenty of hands-on attention and the chance to ask questions. The atmosphere is warm rather than formal—expect the kind of setting that encourages interaction and fun, especially if you come with friends or family.

The Learning Process: Step-by-Step

Chef Tony Hu’s guidance is the heart of this class. You will learn guided cooking steps with expert tips, focusing on traditional techniques and key ingredients that define Sichuan cuisine. For instance, you might find yourself mastering the art of balancing spicy, sour, and numbing flavors in dishes like the Dry Chili Chicken.

The dishes you prepare—Chefs Special Dry Chili Chicken and Crispy Lemon Shrimp—are both crowd-pleasers, and you’ll get to see how simple ingredients transform into flavorful, restaurant-quality dishes. The chef emphasizes storytelling, sharing the history and cultural significance behind each dish, which adds depth to the experience.

Why We Love the Hands-On Approach

We appreciated how Chef Tony Hu personally guided each step, sharing tips that would be hard to gather from a cookbook or YouTube video. For example, understanding the proper technique for crispy shrimp or how to balance spice and acidity gives you skills to replicate these dishes at home.

The interactive setting allows for questions and personalized advice. One reviewer noted, “Chef Tony was approachable and generous with tips, making it feel like a private lesson.” This intimate format helps demystify Chinese cooking and boosts confidence in the kitchen.

The Meal and Extra Inclusions

After cooking, you’ll sit down to enjoy the fruits of your labor. The shared meal is a highlight—tasting your own creations is always more satisfying than eating something prepared elsewhere. The experience also includes insights into ingredients like Sichuan peppercorns and dried chilies, giving you a better understanding of what makes this cuisine so distinctive.

You’ll also receive a professional photo of yourself at the event, which is fun to share and keepsake of your culinary adventure. The package includes exclusive discounts on future workshops and VIP status at Lao Sze Chuan, adding value for repeat visits or future cooking classes.

Additional Perks and Logistics

• A free Chinatown Pedicab voucher (valid for 2025), perfect for exploring the neighborhood after the class.
• A special gift from the Chinatown Visitor Center, adding a personal touch.
• The entire experience is located near public transportation, making it accessible without a car.

Cost and Value Analysis

At $135, this class isn’t cheap, but it offers considerable value. You’re not just paying for the dishes—you’re investing in educational insights, cultural storytelling, and a memorable experience. The inclusion of a shared meal, professional photos, and discounts makes it a well-rounded package for anyone eager to deepen their culinary knowledge.

Who Will Enjoy This?

This experience is perfect for culinary enthusiasts who enjoy hands-on learning, first-time visitors who want a unique cultural activity, and even small groups or corporate teams looking for a creative team-building activity. If you love Chinese food or simply want to explore a new cuisine in an authentic setting, you’ll find this class both fun and rewarding.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For travelers looking to add a culinary twist to their Chicago visit, this class is a fantastic choice. It combines cultural storytelling, professional guidance, and delicious food—and does so in a friendly, accessible environment. We think that learning to cook signature dishes like Dry Chili Chicken and Lemon Shrimp offers lasting value, especially for those who want to recreate authentic Sichuan flavors at home.

However, keep in mind the minimum participant requirement. If you’re traveling solo or in a very small group, it’s wise to book early or confirm the schedule before planning your day. The class’s moderate price point makes it a good investment for a memorable, educational, and tasty experience.

This experience caters to food lovers eager to learn, culture seekers, and those wanting a fun, interactive activity in Chicago’s Chinatown. It’s more than a cooking class—it’s an opportunity to connect with Chinese heritage through flavors and stories, making it a worthwhile addition to your Chicago itinerary.

FAQ

What is the duration of the class?
The workshop lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time for hands-on learning and tasting.

Where does the experience start and end?
It begins at Lao Sze Chuan at 2172 S Archer Ave and ends back at the same location.

How many people can participate?
A maximum of 15 travelers can join each session, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is prior cooking experience necessary?
No, this class is suitable for beginners; no prior experience is needed, just a willingness to learn and taste.

What is included in the price?
You’ll get guided cooking steps, a shared meal, VIP status at Lao Sze Chuan, exclusive discounts, a professional photo, and a Chinatown Pedicab voucher.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience, providing flexibility.

Are there any additional costs?
Gratuities are suggested at $15–$20 per participant, but all meals, instructions, and perks are included in the price.

Is this experience accessible?
Yes, the location is near public transportation, and service animals are allowed.

To sum it up, joining Chef Tony Hu for this interactive Sichuan cooking class is a delightful way to explore Chinese cuisine firsthand. It’s perfect for those who want to learn, taste, and connect with culture in a warm, engaging environment. Whether you’re a foodie, a cultural enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun activity, this workshop offers a meaningful, flavorful experience in the heart of Chicago’s Chinatown.