Cooking classes in Quepos let you master Costa Rica’s authentic home cooking while learning about local ingredients and traditions.
The best classes are small-group sessions that teach staples like Casado (the national dish) and incorporate medicinal plant knowledge. What makes these stand out is the combination of hands-on cooking practice and cultural insights from experienced local guides.
We love the classes that include market visits and those featuring traditional cooking methods – they’re consistently rated highly for being both fun and educational.
Classes are well-organized and most offer good accessibility options.
Check our carefully selected top picks below for the best cooking experiences in Quepos.
Key Points
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The Manuel Antonio Local Cooking Class offers an immersive culinary and botanical experience with a 5.0 rating from 13 reviews.
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The Cooking Class with Medicinal Plants Garden Visit provides a guided tour of Costa Rica’s culinary and botanical heritage in a small-group format.
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The 3 Hour Cooking Class and Medicinal Plants Garden is a highly-rated 5.0-star experience that teaches participants to craft local Casado dishes.
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All cooking classes in Quepos feature accessibility features such as hotel transfers, wheelchair access, and infant seats.
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Participants consistently praise the cooking classes for their friendly guides, delicious meals, and rich insights into Costa Rican culinary and botanical traditions.
Cooking Class & Medicinal Plants Garden Manuel Antonio
The Cooking Class & Medicinal Plants Garden in Manuel Antonio offers a unique hands-on experience for travelers seeking to enjoy Costa Rican cuisine and culture. This small-group class focuses on teaching participants about local cooking methods and ingredients, including medicinal plants from the hosts’ garden.
The menu features Costa Rican favorites like the Casado, which includes rice, beans, salad, vegetables in a special sauce, and a choice of chicken in tomato and cilantro sauce or fish in coconut sauce. A vegetarian option is also available. The class is fully interactive, allowing participants to enjoy the meal they prepare.
Accessibility is a priority, with hotel transfers, wheelchair accessibility, infant seats, and accommodations for up to 10 travelers.
While non-refundable, the class is highly recommended by past participants, who praise the friendly and informative guides, engaging cooking process, and delicious results. The educational aspect of the medicinal plants is also highlighted as a memorable part of this authentic Costa Rican experience.
Read our full review: Cooking Class & Medicinal Plants Garden Manuel Antonio Review
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Manuel Antonio Local Cooking Class With Botanical Garden Tour
Manuel Antonio’s Local Cooking Class with Botanical Garden Tour offers travelers a captivating glimpse into the culinary and botanical wonders of Costa Rica. Rated 5.0 out of 13 reviews, this activity promises an immersive experience, with a sample menu featuring the local Casado dish, which is child and vegan-friendly.
Priced at $97 per person, the class includes a lunch, coffee or tea, and a guided tour of the botanical and medicinal plants gardens, as well as a visit to a sugarcane mill.
The class accommodates up to 15 travelers and is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with infant seats available. While the activity is noted as more of a vegetable preparation experience than a full cooking class, participants praise the delicious food and the pleasant hosts.
With a 92% traveler recommendation rate, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to explore the rich culinary and natural heritage of Quepos, Costa Rica.
Read our full review: Manuel Antonio Local Cooking Class With Botanical Garden Tour Review
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Cooking Class in Manuel Antonio With Medicinal Plants Garden Visit
Situated in the heart of Manuel Antonio, this captivating cooking class offers travelers an immersive journey into Costa Rica’s rich culinary and botanical heritage.
With a focus on local culture and nature, the small-group format ensures personalized attention from the expert instructors.
The experience begins with a guided tour of the nearby vanilla and cacao plantations, sugarcane mill, and medicinal garden, providing invaluable insights into the ingredients and techniques used in traditional Costa Rican cuisine.
Participants then learn to prepare local specialties, including the popular Casado, a hearty and vegan-friendly dish.
Lunch and refreshments are included, and transfers are provided in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Catering to a maximum of 15 travelers, the class is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome.
With a perfect 5.0 rating from 9 reviews, this cooking class promises an enriching and delicious encounter with Costa Rican culinary and botanical wonders.
Read our full review: Cooking Class in Manuel Antonio With Medicinal Plants Garden Visit Review
Book now: Check availability
3 Hour Cooking Class and Medical Plants Garden
Nestled within the lush environs of Quepos, this captivating Hour Cooking Class and Medical Plants Garden invites discerning travelers on an immersive exploration of Costa Rica’s rich culinary and botanical heritage.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars based on 6 reviews, this experience promises a delightful blend of hands-on cooking, educational insights, and a serene stroll through a vibrant medicinal plants garden.
Participants will craft a local Casado dish, a quintessential Costa Rican meal suitable for all ages and dietary preferences, including vegans.
The experience includes pickup from your hotel, access to a well-equipped kitchen, and a guided tour of the on-site botanical gardens and sugarcane mill.
Throughout the class, guests will learn about the diverse uses of regional medicinal plants while savoring a refreshing coffee or tea.
With a maximum group size of 15, this intimate culinary and horticultural adventure promises an authentic and memorable experience in the heart of Quepos.
Read our full review: 3 Hour Cooking Class and Medical Plants Garden Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Certifications Do the Cooking Class Instructors Hold?
The cooking class instructors often hold certifications from renowned culinary institutes, demonstrating their expertise in the field. These credentials ensure students receive high-quality instruction and can trust the instructors’ knowledge and skills.
Are Dietary Restrictions Accommodated in the Cooking Classes?
The cooking classes typically accommodate various dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free. Instructors work closely with students to ensure their needs are met and they can fully participate in the hands-on cooking experience.
Can I Take the Cooking Class Without the Medicinal Plants Tour?
Yes, you can typically take the cooking class without the medicinal plants tour. Many cooking schools offer standalone cooking classes that don’t require participation in additional tours or activities.
How Large Are the Cooking Class Group Sizes?
The cooking class group sizes typically range from 4 to 8 participants. This allows for a hands-on, interactive experience where the instructor can provide personalized attention to each student. The small group size ensures an intimate and engaging learning environment.
Are the Cooking Classes Suitable for Children or Families?
The cooking classes are generally suitable for children and families, with many offering kid-friendly menus and hands-on activities. Instructors commonly welcome younger participants and tailor the curriculum to accommodate different age groups and skill levels.
The Sum Up
Quepos offers a variety of immersive cooking experiences that allow visitors to learn about local cuisine and traditional medicinal plants. These hands-on classes provide a unique opportunity to explore the rich culinary heritage of the region while connecting with the natural environment. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious foodie, these classes are a must-try for anyone visiting the Manuel Antonio area.