Want to learn authentic Central American cooking? Antigua’s best cooking classes offer hands-on experiences in Spanish colonial settings.
The standout options get straight to the point: traditional Guatemalan dishes taught by local experts, Caribbean-style cooking with rum pairings, and market-to-kitchen workshops that begin with ingredient shopping and end with rooftop meal preparation.
We especially love the small-group format (typically 4-8 students) that ensures personal attention from instructors.
The market tours are particularly valuable – you’ll learn to select local ingredients while rubbing shoulders with residents doing their daily shopping.
Check out these top cooking experiences that showcase the best of Antigua’s culinary scene:
Key Points
- Authentic Guatemalan Cooking Class in Jocotenango village offers hands-on preparation of traditional dishes with vegetarian options and a chocolate plantain dessert.
- Nicoles Table – Cooking With Rum provides an immersive culinary adventure focused on Caribbean cuisine and rum-infused dishes with a rum tasting.
- Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour begins with a guided tour of a local market followed by a cooking session in a rooftop kitchen with mountain views.
- Guatemalan Cooking Class & Market Tour includes a visit to a local market and rooftop cooking at Milton’s home, where participants learn to prepare traditional dishes.
- Make Your Own Mayan Pepian – Cooking Class focuses on the traditional Mayan dish Pepian, featuring Chicken Mayan Pepian, rice or corn tamales, and tortillas.
Authentic Guatemalan Cooking Class in Antigua
For travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in Antigua, the Authentic Guatemalan Cooking Class stands out as a top-rated option. With 169 glowing reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this class from Cuscun Guatemalan Food has earned a Badge of Excellence for its authentic and engaging approach.
Located in the charming Jocotenango village, the class offers a hands-on experience where participants learn to prepare traditional Guatemalan dishes, including vegetarian options like Pepián and empanadas.
Guided by local chefs, the class also covers a chocolate plantain dessert and Rellenos de Platanos. Meals are enjoyed on a rooftop terrace or in a colonial-style dining room, complemented by snacks, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages.
Convenient transportation options are available, with hotel pickup or the option to meet directly at the Cuscun Cooking School. The class accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
Despite some critiques about the high cost, the Authentic Guatemalan Cooking Class provides an unparalleled opportunity to take in the vibrant food culture of Guatemala.
Read our full review: Authentic Guatemalan Cooking Class in Antigua Review
Book now: Check availability
Nicoles Table – Cooking With Rum
Nicoles Table – Cooking With Rum offers travelers an immersive culinary adventure in Antigua. Located in the heart of the island, this four-hour cooking class explores the vibrant flavors of Caribbean cuisine, with a focus on rum-infused dishes.
With a maximum of 12 guests, the intimate experience provides one-on-one attention from the expert instructors, Nicole and Adam. Guests can expect to prepare a variety of appetizers, main courses, and desserts, including coconut crisps, rum-infused sweet potato soup, and a decadent butter rum cake.
The class also includes a rum tasting, showcasing four distinct rums from Jamaica, Barbados, and other Caribbean regions. Participants rave about the delicious food and the welcoming atmosphere, with many planning to recreate the dishes at home.
Priced from $164 per person, the class is accessible to a minimum of two travelers and includes hotel or port pickup, transportation, and all necessary ingredients.
With 88 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, Nicoles Table – Cooking With Rum is a must-try for any foodie visiting Antigua.
Read our full review: Nicoles Table – Cooking With Rum Review
Book now: Check availability
Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour
Travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience in Antigua, Guatemala can embark on the acclaimed Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour. Offered by Cuscun, a local cooking school, this highly-rated activity boasts 86 reviews and a 100% recommendation from travelers.
The experience begins with a guided tour of a vibrant local market, where participants gain insights into traditional Guatemalan practices and browse the diverse selection of fruits, vegetables, meats, and more.
The class then moves to a rooftop kitchen with stunning mountain views, where guests learn to prepare classic dishes like Pepian, Jocon, Doblados, and Rellenitos. The cooking process is led by knowledgeable instructors, and participants enjoy a delicious lunch, snacks, and alcoholic beverages.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, the class provides a personalized and engaging atmosphere. Praised for its friendly guides and beautiful settings, the Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour is a must-do activity for all ages and skill levels in Antigua.
Read our full review: Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour Review
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Guatemalan Cooking Class & Market Tour
This acclaimed cooking class and market tour in Antigua, Guatemala, provides travelers with an immersive cultural experience. Rated 5.0 out of 74 reviews, this 100% recommended experience promises an authentic taste of Guatemalan cuisine.
For $85 per person, participants visit a local market to explore fresh ingredients before heading to the rooftop of Milton’s family home, with stunning views of the Fuego volcano.
Under Milton’s guidance, travelers learn to prepare traditional Guatemalan dishes like tostadas, pepián, and rellenitos. The class includes snacks, local fruits, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and private transportation.
With a maximum group size of 6, the experience offers personalized attention in an intimate setting. Reviewers praise the authenticity, hospitality, and mouthwatering flavors.
Whether a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, this cooking class delivers a delightful immersion into Guatemalan culinary culture.
Read our full review: Guatemalan Cooking Class & Market Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Make Your Own Mayan Pepian – Cooking Class
Although Antigua’s culinary scene offers a diverse array of cooking classes, the “Make Your Own Mayan Pepian – Cooking Class” stands out as a quintessential experience.
Hosted by Kukul Tales in the heart of Antigua, Guatemala, this 5-star rated class invites participants to learn the art of preparing the traditional Mayan dish, Pepian. The menu features the signature Chicken Mayan Pepian, a thick and flavorful soup made with roasted ingredients, accompanied by rice or corn tamales, Guatemalan tortillas, and a refreshing Mayan beverage.
With a 100% recommendation rate from previous travelers, this class promises an immersive cultural experience, taking place at a convenient meeting point near public transportation. Accessible to most, the class welcomes participants, though it’s not wheelchair-friendly and infants must sit on laps.
Offering flexibility, the class is subject to availability, with confirmation provided within 48 hours and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
Read our full review: Make Your Own Mayan Pepian – Cooking Class Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Cooking Classes?
The cancellation policy typically allows customers to cancel or reschedule classes with a 24-48 hour notice, though some providers may have stricter policies. Refunds are often available for last-minute cancellations, subject to the provider’s terms.
Do the Classes Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?
The cooking classes generally accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies. Students are encouraged to inform the instructors of any special dietary needs when signing up, so the menu and recipes can be adjusted accordingly.
Can the Classes Be Customized for Private or Group Bookings?
The classes can typically be customized for private or group bookings. Organizers work closely with clients to tailor the experience, accommodating dietary needs and group preferences to ensure a personalized and enjoyable cooking class experience.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for Multiple Class Bookings?
Many cooking class providers offer discounts or package deals for multiple class bookings. Customers can often save money by signing up for a series of classes or bringing a group. Packages may include extras like recipe books or cooking utensils.
What Is the Recommended Attire or Dress Code for the Classes?
The recommended attire for cooking classes is typically casual and comfortable. Students should wear closed-toe shoes, avoid loose clothing, and tie back long hair to ensure safety and ease of movement during the class.
The Sum Up
Antigua’s cooking classes offer a delightful immersion into Guatemalan cuisine. Whether you’re learning to make traditional dishes like pepian or experimenting with local ingredients like rum, these classes provide an authentic, hands-on experience. With market tours and expert instruction, you’ll leave with newfound culinary skills and a deeper appreciation for Antigua’s vibrant food culture.