Taipei is the capital of Taiwan, the island nation situated off the coast of mainland China. Although the Taiwanese cuisine shares many commonalities with Chinese cuisine, the island’s tropical climate and indigenous influences have allowed it to develop its own unique gastronomy.

A cooking class in Taipei provides participants with an immersive experience and an opportunity to gain a first-hand appreciation of Taiwanese cuisine.

Here's all you need to know about cooking classes, one of the most captivating gastronomic experiences in Taipei.

What are the best cooking classes in Taipei?

Taiwan has its very own culinary style, and you have a variety of cooking classes to choose from when you are visiting Taipei.

Taiwanese breakfast cooking class

Breakfast is considered one of the most enjoyable meals of the day. When you join a traditional breakfast cooking class, you will learn to make delicious dishes like Scallion Pancakes, Egg Crêpe and handmade fresh soy milk.

Street food cooking class

Street food in Taipei includes some of the country’s most loved, but quick and easy to prepare dishes. Street food, also called xiao chi or “small eats” includes dishes like steamed buns with braised pork belly, traditional bubble tea and braised pork rice.

Traditional Taiwanese cooking class

Taiwan is fortunate to have plenty of freshly grown local produce, which grows abundantly in the tropical climate. Using many of these ingredients, a traditional cooking class will teach you to prepare delicacies such as steamed buns, meat dumplings and tapioca milk tea, also known as bubble tea.

Gourmet cooking class

Learn about the origins of some of Taiwan’s most popular gourmet dishes, as you prepare them under expert guidance. Although items on the menu may vary, dishes like fried rice, 3-cup chicken and tofu pudding can be expected. You will get to prepare and enjoy the dishes you cook, and will receive a copy of the recipes and a photograph to remember your experience by.

Private Taipei breakfast and lunch culture and cooking tour

To immerse yourself into a country’s culture in the quickest way, learn about their cuisine and culinary traditions. On a private day tour that includes a breakfast tasting and lunch cooking experience, you and your group will benefit from your instructor’s personal attention.

Which places are visited?

If you book a cooking class in Taipei, there is a good chance that your activity will begin with a visit to a local market to select the ingredients you will use in the preparation of your dishes.

After leaving the market, you will head to the kitchen or venue, where your instructor will guide you through the process of preparing your selected items. They may also provide you with a cooking demonstration of other Taiwanese delicacies.

Once your food is ready, you will sit with the other participants and enjoy the fruits of your labor in the company of your cooking instructor.

How much do cooking classes in Taipei cost?

Taiwanese breakfast cooking classes start from €80 per person and include a lesson in preparing many of Taiwan’s favorite breakfast dishes.

Street food cooking classes, which are an introduction to some of Taiwan’s favorite dishes, start at €75 per person.

Traditional Taiwanese cooking classes are priced from €65 per person and include the making of three dishes.

Gourmet cooking classes in a small groups cost about €80 per participant. The menu changes depending on ingredient availability.

Private Taipei breakfast and lunch culture and cooking tours are full-day experiences and cost €200 to €300 per person, depending on the size of your group.

What is included?

A cooking class in Taipei includes all the ingredients required to cook your dishes, the instruction and supervision of your experienced cook or chef, and possibly additional food and drinks that will be served with your freshly prepared dishes.

A visit to the local market is also commonly included, and some tours offer return hotel transfers.

Where does it start?

Some tours include pickups if you are staying in Downtown Taipei City. If a transfer is not included, you will be provided details of your meeting point or the exact location of your cooking class when you confirm your booking.

How long does it last?

Typically, cooking classes in Taipei last between 2 and 3 hours. Tours that include market visits can last longer, and full-day tours that include a cooking class can take as long as 8 hours.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

There are cooking tours in Taipei that accommodate wheelchair users and people with mobility constraints. Most tours will include information about their accessibility, but if in doubt, check with the tour operator.

For health and safety reasons, cooking classes may not be possible if you have a visual or auditory impairment.

When is the best time for a cooking class in Taipei?

The best time for a cooking class in Taipei is spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). Aside from having mild temperatures and less rainfall, these seasons provide a diverse array of fresh ingredients for classes. Avoid summer due to the typhoon season and high heat. Morning classes are preferred to dodge afternoon showers and to capitalize on fresh market ingredients.

Travel tips

Wear comfortable clothing you don't mind getting a bit dirty and closed-toe shoes. You'll be standing for an extended period while cooking.
If you are unsure what kind of cooking class to book, consider going on a Taipei food tour to get a feel of local flavors.
Many cooking classes include a trip to a local market. It's a fantastic opportunity to learn about Taiwanese ingredients and get your bearings in Taipei.
Don't be afraid to ask the instructor questions and bring along a small notebook to jot down tips and tricks.
Notify the class organizers ahead of time if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies.

Cooking Classes in Taipei