Private Cooking Class: Make Your Own Dim Sum In Shanghai

Unlock the Secrets of Shanghai’s Dim Sum in a Private Cooking Class

If you’ve ever wanted to bring home more than just photos from your trip to Shanghai, a private dim sum cooking class might be just the ticket. This experience promises to teach you how to make some of the city’s most beloved bites, all in a cozy, private setting within the vibrant French Concession. While we haven’t personally attended, reviews paint a picture of engaging instruction, tasty results, and a genuine cultural experience that appeals to food lovers and curious travelers alike.

What makes this class especially attractive? First, the personalized attention from your instructor ensures you’re not just watching a demo but actively participating. Second, the variety of dim sum options allows you to customize your learning experience—whether you’re into classic shrimp dumplings or sweet sesame balls. Third, the value for money is hard to beat, with a full meal of your own handmade creations included in the price.

That said, a potential consideration is the location — the class is held in a somewhat tricky-to-find industrial-style kitchen in the French Concession. While this might require some initial navigation, many find the authentic setting more than makes up for it. This experience suits foodies, those eager to learn local culinary techniques, or travelers wanting an intimate, hands-on activity that elevates their Shanghai visit.

Key Points

• Hands-on learning: You’ll actively make two dim sum dishes, not just observe.
• Private setting: Personalized guidance from a professional instructor ensures detailed attention.
• All-inclusive: Ingredients, equipment, and your finished dim sum are provided—no hidden costs.
• Flexible options: Choose your preferred dishes from a diverse menu, including dumplings and desserts.
• Great value: At just $96, this class combines fun, education, and a delicious meal.
• Convenient location: Located in the French Concession, near public transportation.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Itinerary and Setting

This 2-hour private class takes place in a modern, industrial-style kitchen within Shanghai’s French Concession—a neighborhood celebrated for its charming blend of history and sophistication. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your instructor, who has received high praise for their clear, friendly teaching style. The focus isn’t just on copying recipes but understanding the techniques and flavors that make Shanghai dim sum special.

You get to pick two dishes from a menu that includes well-loved favorites like Xiaolongbao (steamed pork dumplings with soup), Shrimp Dumplings, and Egg Rolls. The menu also features sweet treats like Sesame Balls and Red Bean Paste Sweet Soup. This flexibility means you can tailor the class to your tastes, whether you want to learn a savory staple or indulge in a dessert.

The kitchen setup is described as functional and modern, with all necessary cooking equipment and ingredients provided. The instructor, who speaks excellent English, walks you through each step, demonstrating techniques and offering personalized advice. Reviewers highlight that the instructor is patient, witty, and thoughtful—qualities that help demystify the process even for beginners.

Making Your Dim Sum

Once you’ve chosen your dishes, the instructor guides you through the preparation process. From dough kneading to filling shaping, every step is explained clearly, with opportunities to ask questions. Many reviewers appreciated the time spent questioning techniques, noting that it made the learning richer and more tailored.

You’ll enjoy the satisfaction of handcrafting your own dim sum, from pleating dumplings to sealing buns. This hands-on aspect is what sets this class apart from simple demos. Several reviews mention how proud participants felt seeing their creations come to life, often remarking about how delicious everything turned out.

Tasting and Sharing Your Creations

At the end of the class, you get to enjoy the fruits of your labor. The instructor plates your dim sum beautifully, and you sit down to savor your freshly made bites. Reviewers report that the taste was excellent, often praising the authenticity and flavor depth. One reviewer, Rob, emphasized how their dim sum and spring rolls turned out “delicious,” crediting the instructor for speaking “fantastic English” and providing clear, engaging guidance.

Many also appreciated the social aspect—being able to share a meal with fellow participants or just enjoy your own culinary achievements in a relaxed setting. It’s a satisfying way to round off a cultural activity that combines learning with eating.

The Practicalities

Costing $96, the class offers remarkable value—you’re paying for a comprehensive, guided experience plus a meal of your own creation. The price includes all ingredients, equipment, and instruction, making it straightforward and transparent.

The meeting point is in the French Concession, accessible via public transportation. The class starts at 10:00 AM, but you can specify your preferred time when booking, which is a helpful feature for fitting into your travel itinerary. No hotel pickup is included, so plan to meet at the designated location.

What Reviewers Say

• Oliver describes the class as “excellent,” noting that everything turned out “looking amazing” and would highly recommend it.
• Reed praises the instructor’s wit, patience, and organization, emphasizing how well everything was explained and how the class was “a steal” for the price.
• Yuan highlights the authentic recipes and the good English speaking instructor, making the experience accessible even for beginners.
• Tonya mentions the small class size, which ensures plenty of personal attention, and John appreciated the chance to ask questions freely.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This class is perfect for food lovers eager to learn authentic Shanghai recipes. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a personalized, hands-on activity rather than a large-group demonstration. The private setting ensures you get all the attention and guidance needed, making it ideal for beginners or those with some cooking experience.

If you’re interested in culinary culture or want a memorable activity that combines learning, eating, and culture, this class delivers. It’s a great choice for couples, small groups, or families with older children (children under 2 go free, but must be accompanied by an adult).

However, if you prefer a highly structured or guided tour with transportation included, this might not be the best fit. The location can be a bit tricky to find, so be prepared for a short walk or to ask locals for directions.

The Sum Up

This private dim sum cooking class in Shanghai offers exceptional value and an authentic cultural experience. It’s well-suited for those who want to learn a new skill, enjoy a delicious meal they’ve prepared themselves, and gain insight into local culinary traditions. The personalized instruction, variety of menu options, and intimate setting make it stand out from more generic cooking classes.

For foodies, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a memorable hands-on activity, this experience is a fantastic way to deepen your understanding of Shanghai’s culinary scene. Plus, you get to take home a batch of delicious, freshly cooked dim sum—what’s not to love?

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small group, this class promises a fun, educational, and tasty adventure in the city’s vibrant French Concession.

FAQ

What dishes can I choose to make?
You can select two dim sum items from a menu that includes options like Shrimp Dumplings, Xiaolongbao, Egg Rolls, Sesame Balls, and Sweet Soups. Just advise your choices when booking.

Is the class suitable for children?
Children under 2 are free to join, but must be accompanied by an adult. Reviewers mention that the class is small and suitable for families with older children who can participate actively.

Do I need to bring anything?
No, everything needed for the cooking—ingredients and equipment—is provided. Just bring your enthusiasm and maybe an apron if you prefer.

Can I choose a different time for the class?
Yes, you can specify your preferred start time—morning, afternoon, or evening—when booking, to fit your schedule.

Is transportation included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to meet at the designated location in the French Concession, accessible by public transit.

How much does it cost and is it worth it?
At $96, the class offers excellent value considering it includes instruction, ingredients, and a meal of your own making. Reviewers agree that it’s a worthwhile investment for a memorable culinary experience.

In short, this private cooking class is a wonderful way to dive into Shanghai’s culinary world with expert guidance in an intimate setting. It’s perfect for those eager to learn authentic techniques, enjoy delicious bites, and take home lasting memories of their trip.