London: Full Day Takeaway Classics with Wine

If you’re craving the flavors of Chinese takeaway but want to cook them yourself, this full-day class in London offers a rare chance to master those classic dishes with the help of experienced chefs. For just $264 per person, you’ll spend about five hours learning authentic techniques—think wielding a cleaver like a pro, stir-frying to perfection, and balancing seasonings. Led by friendly, knowledgeable instructors, this experience combines practical skills with tasty results in a relaxed, social atmosphere.

What we particularly love about this class is how clear and approachable the instruction is—whether you’re a total beginner or already comfortable in the kitchen, you’ll find plenty to learn. The second highlight? The wine and soft drinks included, making the 5-hour session feel more like a celebration of good food and company.

A possible consideration is that this class isn’t suitable for children under 16, and the focus is on Chinese takeaway dishes, so if you’re expecting a broader culinary tour, you might find it somewhat niche. Still, for anyone eager to recreate beloved dishes at home with confidence, this experience hits the sweet spot.

This experience is perfect for food lovers, home cooks, or anyone curious about Chinese cuisine, especially those who want to impress friends or family with authentic, healthier takeout recipes. Whether you’re visiting London or a local looking to boost your cooking skills, it offers both value and authentic flavor.

This experience made our article of 16 Best Wine Tours In London.

Key Points

• Authentic Techniques: Master Chinese cleaver skills and stir-frying methods.
• Flavor Focus: Learn how to season dishes authentically for maximum flavor.
• All-Inclusive: Ingredients, equipment, apron hire, and recipes are all provided.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Small groups (6-12 students) create an intimate learning environment.
• Wine & Drinks: Enjoy unlimited soft drinks and wine or beer during the class.
• Suitable for All Levels: From complete beginners to seasoned cooks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Setting and Location

Held in the vibrant culinary hub of London, the School of Wok provides a dedicated space for exploring Chinese cuisine. The environment is designed to be welcoming, with a clean, well-organized kitchen that encourages hands-on participation. As you step into the classroom, you’ll find all the equipment and ingredients laid out, ready for your culinary journey.

The Structure of the Day

The 5-hour session is carefully curated to give you a comprehensive understanding of Chinese takeaway dishes, from prep to plate. The class begins with introductions and a brief overview of essential techniques—perfect for those new to Chinese cooking or seasoned enthusiasts looking to sharpen their skills.

Learning Techniques

Mastering the Chinese cleaver is a highlight. You’ll learn how to wield this versatile knife for slicing vegetables, tenderizing meat, and creating uniform cuts—all vital for authentic Chinese dishes. The instructor emphasizes precision and safety, allowing you to gain confidence in handling the cleaver.

Next, you’ll move on to wok techniques. Stir-frying is an art, and the chef will teach you how to control heat, toss ingredients effortlessly, and develop the ideal textures and flavors. Expect to learn about the importance of preparing ingredients beforehand (a Chinese cooking secret) and how to avoid overcooking.

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Seasoning and Flavors

Creating authentic-tasting dishes hinges on the right use of seasonings and sauces. The class unpacks Chinese flavor profiles, including hints about balancing sweetness, saltiness, sourness, and spice. Expect to explore various sauces, herbs, and condiments, understanding how each contributes to the final flavor.

Dishes You’ll Prepare

You’ll get hands-on experience making favorites like sweet and sour pork, spring rolls, and egg fried rice. The class is designed to help you understand the techniques behind each dish, so you can confidently recreate them at home. Notably, the focus is on healthier, flavorful versions rather than greasy takeout, making your homemade dishes both tastier and better for you.

Expert Guidance and Group Size

With a professional tutor and an assistant, the class remains interactive and friendly. The small group size (generally 6-12 students) ensures plenty of personalized attention, whether you’re asking about specific techniques or ingredient substitutions.

Included Extras

All ingredients and equipment are provided, so you don’t need to bring anything except your enthusiasm. The digital recipe pack is a handy takeaway, enabling you to practice at home. Plus, apron hire is included, so you can look the part while cooking.

Beverages and Atmosphere

The inclusion of unlimited soft drinks and wine or beer creates a convivial atmosphere. Many reviews highlight how the social aspect enhances the experience—it’s as much about enjoying good company as it is about learning new skills.

The Value Proposition

At $264, this class offers a lot: professional instruction, all ingredients, recipes, and drinks, all packaged into a memorable, practical experience. When you consider how much restaurant-quality, homemade Chinese dishes can cost, the class provides excellent value—especially since you’ll leave with skills that can transform your home cooking forever.

Real Feedback from Participants

One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the instructor broke down each technique into manageable steps. The flavor tips made a huge difference.” Another noted, “The wine was a nice touch; it made the whole process feel relaxed and fun.” Such comments reinforce how well the experience balances education and enjoyment.

Who Will Love This?

If you enjoy cooking, want to improve your skills, or simply love Chinese food, this class fits the bill. It’s especially appealing to those who like interactive learning in a small group setting, with the added bonus of enjoying good drinks. For travelers, it also makes for a memorable, hands-on activity that’s different from typical sightseeing.

The Sum Up

This full-day Chinese takeaway class in London offers more than just cooking; it’s an immersion into authentic techniques, flavors, and social fun. Perfectly suited for food lovers, home cooks, or anyone eager to impress with homemade dishes, the experience boosts your confidence and skills in the kitchen. The inclusion of wine and soft drinks adds a celebratory touch, making the entire session feel like a culinary event rather than a lesson.

The emphasis on healthier, flavor-packed versions of popular takeaway dishes means you’ll leave not only with new skills but also with recipes you can use repeatedly. The small class size ensures personalized attention, and the comprehensive package—ingredients, equipment, recipes—gives you all you need to recreate these dishes at home.

Whether you’re a visitor in London or a local looking to spice up your cooking repertoire, this class provides excellent value, authentic learning, and a convivial atmosphere. It’s a fantastic way to connect with food, culture, and fellow enthusiasts—all while learning to cook some of the best-loved dishes of Chinese cuisine.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to be accessible for all levels, including total beginners. The instructors will guide you through every step, from handling the cleaver to stir-frying.

What dishes will I learn to make?
You’ll create classic takeaway dishes such as sweet and sour pork, spring rolls, and egg fried rice. The focus is on authentic techniques, not just reheating pre-made food.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be requested in advance, ensuring everyone can enjoy the class regardless of dietary preferences.

What is included in the price?
All ingredients, equipment, apron hire, digital recipes, soft drinks, and wine or beer are included. You just need to bring your enthusiasm and ingredients if specified.

Can I buy cookbooks or merchandise after the class?
Yes, these are available for purchase after the session, but they are not included in the price.

How many people are in each class?
Classes typically range from 6 to 12 students, creating an intimate environment where instructors can give personalized tips.

What should I wear or bring?
Everything needed is provided, but wearing comfortable, non-open-toed shoes is recommended for safety.

Embark on this flavorful journey, and you’ll be surprised how quickly you can master the art of Chinese takeaway at home. It’s a gift of skills, confidence, and a few delicious meals to share with friends and family.

You can check availability for your dates here: