Private Filipino Cooking Class in the Heart of Manila,Makati City

A Taste of the Philippines: Private Filipino Cooking Class in Makati

If you’re looking for a way to truly connect with Filipino culture, what better way than through its cuisine? This private cooking experience takes you into the home of Cinty, a passionate wellness chef and nutritionist, right in the bustling heart of Makati. For $110 per person, you’ll spend about three hours learning to prepare iconic dishes like adobo or sinigang, and then sitting down to enjoy your culinary creations. The experience is highly rated at a perfect 5.0 based on five reviews, which speaks volumes about its authenticity and quality.

What makes this tour stand out is the personalized attention you’ll receive in a spacious home kitchen, along with the opportunity to explore Filipino ingredients firsthand, especially if you opt for the market tour. Cinty’s approach blends traditional techniques passed down from her family with modern, health-conscious twists, making it both an educational and delicious experience. We love how approachable and welcoming the setting feels—like cooking with a friendly neighbor rather than in a busy restaurant.

A small consideration is the lack of hotel pickup, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the starting point. But for those eager to learn authentic Filipino recipes in a cozy setting, this is a minor inconvenience compared to the rich experience you’ll gain. This tour suits food lovers, culture seekers, and anyone curious about Filipino cuisine who appreciates hands-on learning in a relaxed environment.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Learn traditional Filipino dishes directly from a local chef and nutritionist.
• Personalized Cooking: Create two dishes from scratch, with options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with dietary restrictions.
• Market Tour Option: Visit Guadalupe public market for fresh ingredients, gaining insight into Filipino food culture.
• Home Setting: Enjoy a private, comfortable environment that feels like cooking with a friend.
• All-Inclusive Price: Meals, taxes, tips, and drinks included—no hidden costs.
• Ideal for: Food enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and anyone seeking a meaningful culinary experience in Manila.

Exploring the Experience in Detail

The Location and Meeting Point

The tour begins at the Wildflour Restaurant in Rockwell Center, Makati—a lively, modern spot that’s easy to find and well-connected by public transport. The choice of this venue offers a relaxed start to your day, and it’s a sensible place to meet your host, Cinty, a chef whose warmth and expertise quickly make you feel at home.

The Private Cooking Class: What to Expect

Once settled into Cinty’s spacious kitchen, you’ll get a brief introduction to Filipino ingredients—think vibrant spices, vinegars, and aromatic oils. Cinty, who is both a certified nutritionist and a wellness chef, takes time to explain the health benefits and history behind each ingredient, making the process both educational and flavorful.

You’ll work hands-on to prepare two dishes, which might be traditional favorites like adobo or sinigang, or vegan/vegetarian adaptations if you prefer. The flexibility here is a real plus, as dietary restrictions are accommodated with prior notice. One review highlights that Cinty’s tailored menu and her explanation of ingredients “went around explaining the different ingredients and showed me how they were used,” which adds an enriching layer to the cooking process.

The Market Tour Option

For those interested in the local food scene, Cinty offers a short drive to Guadalupe public market, one of the largest wet markets in Makati. This lively space is a feast for the senses, with stalls offering fresh seafood, meats, vegetables, and tropical fruits. Walking through the market, you’ll gain insight into Filipino food staples and get to pick out ingredients—an essential part of understanding any cuisine.

One guest praised this part of the experience, saying, “she went around explaining the different ingredients,” which helps demystify the flavors and products used in Filipino cooking. After shopping, Cinty takes you to her favorite vendors for quality ingredients, ensuring your dishes are made with the freshest supplies.

The Meal and Atmosphere

After all the chopping, seasoning, and simmering, you’ll sit down at a table to enjoy the home-cooked meal. Whether it’s a hearty adobo, sour sinigang, or a vegan twist on these classics, it’s a true taste of Filipino comfort food. The meal is served with a choice of local beer or wine, adding to the laid-back atmosphere.

Reviews emphasize how satisfying it is to sit down and savor the dishes you helped create. One mention notes that the experience was “better than all the restaurants I went to here and healthier to boot,” highlighting the quality and care put into each meal.

Practical Details

The tour lasts around three hours, which provides ample time for hands-on cooking, ingredient shopping (if opted), and leisurely eating. The price covers all taxes, fees, gratuities, and drinks, making it straightforward and transparent. However, hotel pickup isn’t included, so plan your transportation accordingly—either by taxi or ride-sharing app.

Why This Tour Works Well

This experience is ideal for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—they’re eager to understand Filipino culture through its food. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer a private, personalized setting over large group classes, as Cinty’s home offers an intimate space for learning and eating.

Food lovers will appreciate the chance to learn real recipes with authentic ingredients. The flexibility for vegetarian, vegan, lactose free, and gluten free diets makes this accessible to many dietary needs. And the inclusion of a market visit adds a vibrant, local flavor that isn’t often found in standard cooking classes.

Final Thoughts

This private Filipino cooking class offers a rare glimpse into the heart of Filipino hospitality and culinary tradition. With a knowledgeable, passionate guide like Cinty, you’re not just learning recipes—you’re gaining insight into the cultural significance behind each dish. The personal attention, the high-quality ingredients, and the relaxed home environment make this experience stand out.

It’s perfect for those who love hands-on activities and want to go beyond restaurant dining to truly understand local flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious foodie, you’ll leave with new skills, delicious memories, and a deeper appreciation of Filipino cuisine.

If you’re in Makati and craving an authentic, meaningful food experience, this class is a wonderful choice—informative, warm, and genuinely fun.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
Yes, Cinty can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, lactose free, and gluten free diets. Just let her know in advance when booking.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 3 hours, including cooking, eating, and possibly shopping if you choose the market tour.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Wildflour Restaurant in Rockwell Center, Makati, which is easily accessible by public transportation.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What’s included in the price?
All taxes, fees, handling charges, gratuities, and alcoholic beverages. The meal you cook is also part of the package.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to two days in advance for a full refund, making this a flexible option if your plans are uncertain.

This Filipino cooking class in Makati offers an authentic, personalized way to explore the country’s flavors and culinary traditions. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just love good food, it promises a memorable and tasty adventure that goes beyond the usual tourist fare.