Salt Lake City: Fun Sushi Making Class (3-Course Meal)

Imagine spending a couple of hours rolling your own sushi, guided by a local chef in Salt Lake City. For around $50, this 2-hour hands-on class offers an engaging way to learn sushi techniques while enjoying a delicious meal. Hosted in a welcoming venue, the class covers the basics of rice prep, knife skills, and rolling, culminating in three iconic sushi rolls: California, spicy tuna, and Philadelphia.

What we really appreciate is how beginner-friendly this experience is—no prior sushi experience needed. The instructor, who speaks clear English and offers step-by-step guidance, ensures everyone leaves feeling confident in their new skills. We also love the option to sip on local and international drinks as we cook, making the session relaxed and fun.

A potential consideration is the venue’s age restriction—participants must be 21 or older if you want to enjoy the drinks. Also, since the class lasts only two hours, those craving a more extensive culinary adventure might find it a bit quick. Nonetheless, this class suits travelers looking for a fun, interactive activity that combines learning with a tasty meal, whether solo, as a couple, or with friends.

Key Points

Hands-on learning: You’ll actively participate in creating three classic sushi rolls, from rice to rolling.
Beginner-friendly: No prior sushi-making experience needed; suitable for all skill levels.
Tasty results: Finish with a beautiful, gourmet sushi platter to enjoy during or after the class.
Local guidance: A knowledgeable chef will teach you proper knife skills and sushi techniques.
Drink options: You can sip on local craft ciders or non-alcoholic beverages while you cook.
Accessible: The venue is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for many travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Sushi Experience in Salt Lake City

Stepping into this sushi class, we immediately notice how approachable it feels. The venue is designed to put newbies at ease, with clear instructions and friendly guidance from your instructor—who is proficient in English. The focus is on teaching you practical skills, not just giving you a quick demo. We loved the way the chef broke down each step, from preparing rice to rolling tightly with bamboo mats—making sure even beginners could follow along comfortably.

What makes this experience stand out is the quality of the instruction. As one reviewer put it, “The guides are very knowledgeable,” which truly enhances the learning process. Their patience and clarity mean you’ll leave not only with a handful of sushi but with confidence to replicate the process at home.

For broader city exploration in Salt Lake City, we've covered these other tours

Itinerary Breakdown

Arrival and Check-in:
Arrive at the venue at least 10 minutes early, check in with staff, and settle in. The location is conveniently marked with GPS coordinates (40.7546, -111.9086). Expect a friendly greeting and a quick overview of the session.

Preparation of Ingredients:
The class begins with a brief introduction to sushi essentials—what rice to use, how to cook it properly, and key ingredients like surimi, tuna, cream cheese, and vegetables. The instructor emphasizes technique, including how to handle knives safely and how to layer ingredients effectively.

Creating the First Roll – California:
We started with a classic California roll, layering surimi (imitation crab), cucumber, and avocado on seasoned sushi rice and nori. Watching and then doing ourselves, we appreciated how this foundational roll introduces the basics of rice spread and rolling technique.

Making the Spicy Tuna Roll:
Next, we learned how to prepare fresh ahi tuna with a spicy sauce. This step highlighted the importance of knife skills, as we carefully sliced the tuna and assembled the roll. The instructor’s guidance made even the spicy filling feel manageable.

Assembling the Philadelphia Roll:
Finally, we crafted the Philadelphia roll with cream cheese, cucumber, and avocado, all wrapped in rice and nori. This step showcased the versatility of sushi ingredients and how to achieve a tight, neat roll.

Plating and Tasting:
Once our three rolls were assembled, we plated them beautifully, then sampled our creations. The chef encouraged us to appreciate the balance of flavors and textures—crunchy, creamy, spicy, and fresh.

The Learning Environment

The class accommodates all levels, from complete novices to those with some sushi experience. The small group size fosters a relaxed atmosphere, allowing everyone to ask questions and get personalized tips. As one participant shared, “The instructor was patient and very knowledgeable,” which made the experience enjoyable and educational.

Drinks are available—ranging from local craft ciders to non-alcoholic options—adding to the convivial vibe. The venue’s accessibility is another plus, making this experience open to a broader audience.

The Value of This Class

Compared to dining out, this sushi-making class offers excellent value. You get hands-on experience, detailed guidance, and a three-course meal you’ve created yourself—all in just two hours. The cost, roughly $50, is reasonable given the quality of instruction and the fun you’ll have. It’s an especially appealing choice for those wanting an authentic, interactive activity without a hefty price tag.

The takeaway? You’ll leave with new skills, a better understanding of sushi, and a platter of your own delicious handiwork. Plus, you’ll have a fun story to tell and maybe even a new hobby to try at home.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Sign Up?

This class is perfect for food lovers, couples, or groups of friends looking for something different in Salt Lake City. It’s especially good if you want a memorable, hands-on activity that’s approachable for everyone, regardless of cooking skills. Travelers interested in Japanese cuisine or culinary novices seeking a confidence boost will find this experience both fun and rewarding.

While in Salt Lake City, here are other experiences we've covered

The Sum Up

In summary, this sushi-making class in Salt Lake City offers a practical, engaging way to learn a new skill while enjoying a tasty meal. The knowledgeable guides and friendly environment make it accessible, and the focus on fundamental techniques ensures you’ll gain skills you can use again. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, it’s a memorable activity that balances education and fun.

The value is clear: for a modest price, you get a lively, informative experience with a gourmet payoff. It’s an excellent choice for those curious about sushi or seeking a relaxed culinary adventure during their Salt Lake City visit.

Overall, if you’re after an authentic, hands-on activity that combines learning, local flavor, and great company, this class is well worth your time—and your appetite.

FAQ

Is this sushi class suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The class is designed to be beginner-friendly. No prior sushi experience is necessary, and the instructor provides step-by-step guidance.

How long does the class last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, which is enough time to learn, roll, and enjoy your creations without feeling rushed.

What kinds of sushi will I make?
You’ll make three rolls: California, spicy tuna, and Philadelphia, each showcasing different ingredients and techniques.

Are drinks included?
Drinks are available for purchase, with options including local craft ciders and non-alcoholic beverages.

Is the venue accessible?
Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for many guests.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the class.

Is this activity suitable for people under 21?
No, participants must be 21 or older if they wish to enjoy the beverages.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing is best—aprons are usually provided, but wearing something that can get a little messy is a good idea.

Will I take home my sushi?
Yes, you’ll get to enjoy your handcrafted rolls during the class, and you can take some home if you like, depending on the venue’s policy.

If you’re looking for a fun, interactive way to experience Salt Lake City’s culinary scene, this sushi class hits the mark. It’s perfect for those wanting to learn a new skill, enjoy good company, and savor some truly fresh, homemade sushi.