Group Cooking Class at Marcelo Batata in Cusco

Discovering Peruvian Flavors at Marcelo Batata in Cusco

This 3-hour group cooking class in Cusco, Peru, offers a genuine taste of local cuisine, blending hands-on cooking with cultural storytelling. For $99 per person, you’ll join a small group of up to 12 people, ensuring plenty of personal attention and interaction. Led by knowledgeable chefs, your culinary adventure begins at C. Palacio 135, where you’ll explore a vibrant market, learn about regional ingredients, and create a series of iconic dishes like ceviche and lomo saltado.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances practical skills with cultural insights—not just cooking, but understanding the stories behind each dish. The intimate size guarantees a friendly atmosphere, perfect for anyone eager to connect with local flavors. The second highlight is the comprehensive tasting segment—from fresh fruits unique to Peru to traditional Pisco spirits—that enriches your appreciation for the country’s culinary diversity.

One consideration to keep in mind is the price, which is quite reasonable given the quality and amount of food, drinks, and personalized attention involved. However, you should note that hotel transportation is not included, so plan accordingly.

This tour appeals most to foodies, curious travelers eager to learn local cooking techniques, or anyone looking for an engaging way to understand Cusco beyond its sights. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy interactive experiences and cultural storytelling, as verified by glowing reviews from past participants.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Hands-on cooking of classic Peruvian dishes like ceviche and lomo saltado.
• Cultural Learning: Insights into Peruvian ingredients, history, and Pisco culture.
• Small Group: Limited to 12 people for personalized guidance and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Local Market Visit: Tasting local fruits and exploring regional produce.
• All Skill Levels Welcome: Suitable for novices and experienced cooks alike.
• Tasting and Drinks: Includes a 2-course dinner, snacks, and alcoholic beverages like Pisco cocktails.

A Deep Dive Into the Cusco Cooking Class Experience

Location and Duration

Held at Marcelo Batata in Cusco, this small-group class lasts about 3 hours—a perfect length to learn, cook, and savor without feeling rushed. The meeting point is in the historic heart of Cusco, at C. Palacio 135, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing or activities in the city. The session starts at 2:00 pm, ideal for an afternoon activity that can lead into a relaxed evening.

What the Tour Includes

The class is designed to be fully participative. You will explore the local market, tasting regional fruits and learning about Andean ingredients. This market visit is not just a quick stop but a chance to touch, see, and understand what makes Peruvian cuisine unique. The experience then moves into the kitchen, where you’ll learn to prepare traditional dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado, and Pisco sours.

All along, a professional chef guides you, offering tips, tricks, and insights about each dish’s history and significance. Post-cooking, you’ll enjoy a delicious two-course dinner paired with a Pisco sour, transforming your efforts into a full culinary feast. Plus, you’ll get to sample small bites, including traditional snacks made from alpaca and guinea pig, adding an adventurous note to your culinary journey.

The Signature Dishes

• Ceviche: Learn how to prepare Peru’s iconic dish with fresh fish, lime, and regional seasonings. Expect tips on selecting the best ingredients for vibrant flavors.
• Lomo Saltado: A classic stir-fry that combines local ingredients in a wok, giving you a taste of fusion between Peruvian and Asian influences.
• Pisco Sours: Discover the versatility of Peru’s national spirit, tasting pure Pisco and making cocktails under expert guidance.

Authenticity and Education

Guests repeatedly praise the knowledgeable guides—with hosts like Jose and Christina—who make the learning engaging and fun. You’ll leave not just with new recipes but with stories and background that deepen your appreciation for Peruvian culture. One reviewer mentioned, “I learnt so much about the history of Peruvian food, and tasting fruits that only grow here was a real highlight.”

Many reviews emphasize how easy the dishes are to make, even for those who don’t cook regularly. “We loved every minute,” says one guest, “and were surprised at how simply these dishes could be prepared at home.”

Value for Money

At $99, the experience offers great value considering the inclusion of fresh ingredients, expert guidance, drinks, and a full dinner. The fact that all of this is in a small-group setting amplifies the value, making it a more personalized experience than larger classes. Also, the ability to accommodate dietary restrictions—vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose intolerant—is a big plus, as guests can inform in advance.

What Guests Say

Reviewers describe the class as “fun,” “informative,” and “a highlight of their trip.” Comments like “Jose’s market and cooking space is first class,” and “I fell in love with Peruvian food,” show how this class resonates on a personal level. Several mention that the experience is not just about cooking but about understanding Peru through its flavors and stories.

Possible Drawbacks

While the tour is comprehensive, it doesn’t include hotel pickup and drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation. Also, at 12 participants maximum, the class might fill quickly, so booking well in advance is recommended—most guests book about a month ahead.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This class is perfect for food lovers who want to go beyond just tasting and actually learn how to prepare authentic dishes. If you’re curious about Pisco, regional ingredients, or want a hands-on activity that offers cultural insights, you’ll find this invaluable. It’s especially ideal for travelers who enjoy small-group settings with personalized interaction and storytelling.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a complete beginner, you’ll appreciate how approachable and fun the dishes are. Past reviews highlight how even those who don’t cook often come away feeling confident about replicating these dishes at home.

The Sum Up

If you’re visiting Cusco and want a taste of local life that combines culinary skill-building with cultural storytelling, this cooking class at Marcelo Batata ticks all the boxes. The intimate group size, professional guidance, and focus on regional ingredients make it more than just a cooking lesson—it’s a window into Peruvian traditions.

The experience suits adventurous foodies eager to learn, culture enthusiasts interested in stories behind the dishes, and anyone wanting a fun, interactive meal in the heart of Cusco. The combination of tasting, cooking, and storytelling ensures you’ll leave with more than just recipes—you’ll carry home a piece of Peru’s culinary soul.

For those seeking a genuine, down-to-earth culinary encounter that’s both educational and delicious, this class offers excellent value and memorable moments. Book early, arrive ready to get your hands dirty, and prepare for a delightful afternoon that captures the essence of Cusco’s vibrant flavors.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to accommodate all skill levels, and many guests mention how easy and fun the dishes are to make.

Are dietary restrictions accepted?
Absolutely. The tour can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose intolerant diets. Just inform the organizer during booking.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers all ingredients, guidance from a professional chef, a two-course dinner, snacks, bottled water, and alcohol including Pisco cocktails.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan your transportation to and from the meeting point.

Can I join if I don’t like seafood or exotic meats?
The class features ceviche and other traditional dishes; if you have specific dietary preferences or restrictions, you should mention them when booking.

What is the maximum group size?
Limited to 12 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

When does the class start?
The class begins at 2:00 pm, making it a perfect afternoon activity for travelers exploring Cusco.

How long is the class?
Approximately 3 hours, a nice balance of learning, cooking, and eating.

Will I receive the recipes?
Yes, the instructor will send the recipes after the class, so you can try making these dishes back home.

Is it appropriate for teenagers?
The minimum age is 15, making it suitable for teenagers with an interest in cooking and culture.

This cooking class offers a genuine, hands-on way to connect with Cusco’s vibrant culinary scene. It’s a delightful mix of learning, tasting, and storytelling—perfect for those wanting to see Peru through its flavors.