Shanghai’s cooking classes cut straight to the authentic food experiences you’re looking for.
These intimate sessions teach you how to make local specialties like dumplings, xiaolongbao soup dumplings, and wok-fried dishes. Most classes start with trips to bustling local markets and include hotel pickup.
I especially love the traditional dim sum workshops – they’re practical, hands-on, and taught by experienced local chefs who share family secrets.
The market-to-table experiences stand out for their personal touch and insider knowledge of ingredients.
Check out these excellent cooking classes that bring Shanghai’s food traditions right to your kitchen:
Key Points
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Woknroll offers an immersive 3.5-hour Chinese cooking class led by a certified English-speaking master chef, featuring hands-on dumpling and iconic dish preparation.
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Private Dim Sum Cooking Class in Shanghai’s French Concession provides a personalized experience with instruction on dumplings, egg rolls, and desserts.
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Chinese Kitchen Cooking Class focuses on the art of making Xiaolongbao, or soup dumplings, with a hands-on 2.5-hour session.
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Online Cooking Class by Sunflower Li teaches authentic fried rice preparation, with vegan options and convenient Zoom-based instruction.
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Private Wet Market Tour and Cooking Class offers an immersive culinary journey through Shanghai’s vibrant market, followed by a hands-on cooking session.
Woknroll: Immersive Chinese Cooking Class With Master Chef
Enjoy the vibrant culinary world of Shanghai with WoknRoll’s immersive Chinese cooking class led by a certified English-speaking master chef with over a decade of experience.
For Kč6,729 per group (up to 2 participants), you’ll spend 3.5 hours learning to make traditional dumplings and iconic dishes, gaining hands-on experience and secret cooking recipes.
Explore a local wet market, prepare fillings, and master folding skills. Then, cook Kung Pao Chicken and a Shanghainese casserole dish.
Flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance ensure your travel plans are covered.
Suitable for all, with dietary needs accommodated, you’ll enjoy traditional Chinese tea and take home your culinary creations.
Read our full review: Woknroll: Immersive Chinese Cooking Class With Master Chef Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Cooking Class: Make Your Own Dim Sum In Shanghai
One private dim sum cooking class in Shanghai’s French Concession allows you to learn the art of making bite-size Chinese delicacies.
With a 100% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, the class teaches you to prepare dumplings, egg rolls, and desserts.
All equipment, ingredients, and detailed instruction are provided, and you can choose the dishes you’d like to make. The menu includes the must-try xiao long bao.
The class includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and gratuities. It’s wheelchair and stroller accessible, with a vegetarian option available.
From $88 per person, you can reserve now and pay later for flexibility, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Read our full review: Private Cooking Class: Make Your Own Dim Sum In Shanghai Review
Book now: Check availability
5hrs Chinese Kitchen Cooking Class: Xiaolongbao Soup Dumplings
Nestled in a residential compound in Shanghai’s Xuhui District, the hrs Chinese Kitchen Cooking Class offers a 2.5-hour immersive experience centered around the city’s signature dish – the iconic Xiaolongbao, or soup dumplings.
Led by friendly, English-speaking chefs, this hands-on class teaches participants to make dumplings with broth inside, from scratch. You’ll learn to prepare the dough and fillings using fragrant Chinese spices and vegetables, then cook the dumplings through both steaming and pan-frying methods.
Complimentary tea is served, and vegan and vegetarian options are available. The class accommodates small groups of up to 15 people, suitable for all ages, and hotel pickup and drop-off are provided.
Online Cooking Class Fried Rice by Sunflower Li
Conducted entirely online, Sunflower Li’s Fried Rice cooking class provides a hands-on culinary experience from the comfort of your own kitchen.
Located in Shanghai, China, this private class offers a vegan option at varying prices based on group size. The class takes place via Zoom, with the activity ending back at the virtual meeting point.
Included are all necessary cooking ingredients, though any other expenses aren’t covered. While not wheelchair accessible, this class is suitable for most travelers, requiring only a moderate level of physical fitness.
Confirmed bookings allow for free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
With a perfect 5-star rating across 3 reviews, this class promises an authentic Chinese culinary adventure.
Read our full review: Online Cooking Class Fried Rice by Sunflower Li Review
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Private Shanghai Wet Market Tour and Chinese Cooking Class
Embark on an immersive culinary journey through Shanghai’s vibrant wet market and uncover the secrets of authentic Chinese cooking in this private tour and class.
Led by an informative and friendly guide, you’ll explore the bustling wet market, learning about the fresh ingredients used in traditional Chinese cuisine.
Then, in a hands-on cooking class, you’ll prepare a delectable meal using your market finds.
With free hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip transfers, and an air-conditioned coach, this experience offers convenience and comfort.
Recommended for those with moderate fitness, this private tour provides personalized attention and an opportunity to savor the flavors of Shanghai.
Read our full review: Private Shanghai Wet Market Tour and Chinese Cooking Class Review
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Private Chinese Wok Cooking Class in Shanghai
Although located just minutes from the bustling Xujiahui commercial district, the private Chinese wok cooking class in Shanghai offers a serene and intimate setting for budding home cooks.
Over the course of two hours, you will learn the basics of three iconic stir-fry dishes: sweet and sour pork, kung pao chicken, and Shanghai stir-fried noodles.
Led by an expert chef, the hands-on lesson emphasizes proper wok technique and the philosophy of balancing seasonings.
After the cooking session, guests can enjoy the fruits of their labor with a delicious lunch.
With its wheelchair accessibility, private format, and flexible scheduling, this class provides a well-rounded introduction to authentic Shanghainese cuisine.
Read our full review: Private Chinese Wok Cooking Class in Shanghai Review
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Private Home Cooking Class With Shanghai Mama
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of authentic Shanghainese cuisine with the Private Home Cooking Class with Shanghai Mama.
This highly-rated experience boasts 10 stellar reviews and a 100% recommendation rate from travelers. Enjoy a personalized lesson from a private guide as you visit a local food market and cook a delectable lunch in a private home.
With wheelchair accessibility, vegetarian options, and free cancellation, this class caters to diverse needs. Guests rave about the exceptional hospitality, cultural insights, and flavorful dishes, making it a must-do for foodies and those seeking an authentic Chinese culinary adventure.
At $199.11 per person, this class offers unbeatable value for an unforgettable experience.
Read our full review: Private Home Cooking Class With Shanghai Mama Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Class Size for These Cooking Classes?
The average class size for cooking classes can vary, but they typically range from 4 to 12 participants. This allows for personalized attention from the instructor and hands-on learning in a small group setting.
Do the Classes Provide Vegetarian or Vegan Menu Options?
Many cooking classes do offer vegetarian and vegan menu options to accommodate dietary preferences. You’ll want to check with the specific class you’re interested in to see what menu items they provide.
Can the Classes Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?
Yes, many cooking classes can accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies. Instructors will work with you to modify recipes and provide alternative ingredients to ensure you have an enjoyable and safe learning experience.
Are There Any Age or Skill Level Requirements for the Classes?
Most cooking classes don’t have strict age or skill level requirements, but they’ll likely tailor the curriculum to the participants. You’ll want to check with the specific class to see if they have any guidelines or prerequisites.
Do the Classes Offer Any Discounts or Package Deals?
Many cooking classes offer discounts or package deals. You may find options like multi-session packages, student or senior discounts, or deals when purchasing classes in advance. Be sure to inquire about any special offers when booking your cooking instruction.
Recap
Shanghai’s cooking classes offer a diverse range of experiences, from immersive Chinese cuisine workshops with master chefs to private in-home lessons with local grandmothers. Whether you’re craving to learn the art of xiaolongbao or eager to explore the vibrant wet markets, there’s a class to suit every foodie’s palate. With hands-on instruction and insider tips, you’ll leave these classes with newfound culinary skills and a deeper appreciation for Shanghai’s rich gastronomic heritage.