London: Dim Sum and Bao Cooking Class with Wine

If you’re craving an engaging culinary experience that combines hands-on learning with delicious food, the London Dim Sum and Bao Cooking Class with Wine from School of Wok might just be your next favorite activity. It’s a chance to master traditional Chinese dishes in a friendly, small-group environment, all while enjoying a glass of wine or beer. That’s right—your taste buds get to enjoy the fruits of your labor, and you’ll walk away with new skills to impress at home.

What really makes this experience shine are the expert guidance, the authentic techniques taught, and the chance to savor your own creations in a lively, supportive setting. You’ll learn to wrap dim sum and bao in authentic styles, discover the secrets behind Chinese seasoning, and get a taste of proper steaming techniques—all in just three hours. Plus, it’s suitable for all levels, from total beginners to seasoned home cooks eager to refine their skills.

One possible consideration? The class size is kept small, which is fantastic for personalized attention, but it does mean booking ahead is recommended if you want to snag a spot. Still, if you’re a foodie eager to explore Chinese cuisine or simply looking for a fun, interactive activity in London, this class offers incredible value and memorable experiences.

This tour suits those who love cooking classes, want to learn authentic recipes, or are simply curious about Chinese flavors. It’s also perfect for anyone interested in pairing their new dishes with a good glass of wine, making it a well-rounded culinary outing.

Key Points

• Authentic Techniques: Learn to wrap and fold dim sum and bao in traditional style from expert chefs.
• Comprehensive Skills: Gain knife skills, seasoning knowledge, and steaming techniques for perfect results.
• Enjoyable Atmosphere: Small group sizes ensure personalized attention and an engaging experience.
• All-Inclusive Price: Includes all ingredients, equipment, apron hire, a digital recipe pack, and unlimited drinks.
• Tasty End Result: Savor your handmade creations with a glass of wine or beer, and take leftovers home.
• Suitable for All Levels: Perfect whether you’re a complete beginner or have some kitchen experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Location and Setting

Set in South East England, the School of Wok provides a lively, professional environment that feels more like a communal kitchen than a sterile classroom. The space is well-organized, with individual chopping boards and prep stations for each participant, allowing you to focus on your craft without feeling crowded. The atmosphere is friendly and encouraging, with the guidance of both a head chef and an assistant—ensuring everyone receives personal attention.

What You Will Learn

The class begins with the basics of knife skills, including chopping, slicing, and dicing with a Chinese cleaver. This is more than just a quick demo; you’ll actively practice these techniques, which are fundamental to authentic Chinese cooking. As you progress, you’ll learn the art of wrapping dim sum and bao—from simple folds to more elaborate shapes—so you can impress friends and family with your newfound skills.

A highlight of the class is understanding Chinese seasoning and sauce selection. Chef-led explanations reveal how specific spices and sauces enhance flavor, helping you master the balance of sweet, salty, and umami tastes. You’ll also explore traditional steaming methods using bamboo baskets—an essential step to achieving the right texture and flavor.

The Cooking Process

Throughout the session, you’ll be guided step-by-step through preparing a variety of dim sum and bao fillings and doughs. The chefs encourage questions, and reviews have praised their patience and expertise. One participant noted, “It was inspiring to have a professional clarify the correct folding techniques and seasoning choices.” You’ll get hands-on experience with wrapping and folding, which is crucial for beautiful, professional-looking dim sum.

Once assembled, the dishes are steamed in bamboo baskets—an authentic method that imparts subtle flavor and ensures soft, tender results. The experience is very tactile, with a focus on mastering the delicate art of folding and steaming.

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Tasting and Takeaways

After the cooking, everyone gathers around a table to enjoy the fruits of their labor—a variety of freshly steamed dim sum and bao, paired with a glass of wine or beer. Many reviews mention how satisfying it is to eat something you’ve just made from scratch, with comments like “the flavors were better than I expected,” and “it felt great to create something so delicious myself.”

Participants also receive a digital recipe pack to recreate the dishes at home, plus leftovers from the class. The fact that ingredients and equipment are provided means you can focus entirely on learning without worrying about shopping or prep.

Practical Details: What to Expect

Duration and Group Size

The class lasts around 3 hours, striking a perfect balance between comprehensive learning and keeping energy levels high. Group sizes range from 6 to 12 students, offering enough personal attention without feeling crowded. Smaller groups mean more time for individual questions and hands-on practice.

Cost and Value

At $156 per person, the price reflects the inclusion of all ingredients, professional instruction, apron hire, unlimited drinks, a digital recipe pack, and the opportunity to take home leftovers. Compared to dining out, it offers an interactive, educational experience that’s both fun and useful—plus, you’ll gain skills to continue cooking authentic Chinese food at home.

Accessibility and Dietary Considerations

The class welcomes those aged 16 and over and can accommodate food allergies and dietary needs when informed in advance. Ingredients may include common allergens like nuts, shellfish, gluten, or eggs, but alternative recipes or ingredients are often offered. The class is conducted in English.

What Not to Bring

For safety and comfort, avoid high heels, open-toed shoes, pets, and going barefoot. A practical note for attendees planning their outfit!

The Authenticity and Experience

Reviewers consistently mention the authenticity of techniques learned—like steaming in bamboo baskets and folding dim sum in traditional styles. Many say the skills they gain go beyond just this class, empowering them to make restaurant-quality dishes at home.

Participants also appreciate the informal, friendly atmosphere, with one reviewer noting, “The instructor was very patient and answered all our questions, no matter how trivial.” This approachable environment makes it ideal for novices, but also rewarding for those with some culinary experience.

What truly elevates this experience is the pairing with wine or beer, making it feel like a proper culinary treat rather than just a cooking lesson. The selection of drinks is praised for complementing the dishes and enhancing the overall enjoyment.

Final Thoughts: Is This Experience for You?

This Dim Sum and Bao Cooking Class delivers a genuine, practical look at Chinese cuisine—perfect for food lovers eager to go beyond takeout. Whether you’re looking to impress friends with homemade dim sum, expand your cooking repertoire, or simply enjoy a fun, social activity, this class offers exceptional value. The small-group setting, expert guidance, and inclusive atmosphere make it a standout choice for anyone curious about authentic Chinese flavors.

If you enjoy interactive experiences that leave you with both memories and new skills, this class should be on your London bucket list. Plus, with the ability to take leftovers and recipes home, it’s a perfect way to extend the fun beyond the kitchen.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
All ingredients, equipment, apron hire, digital recipe pack, unlimited soft drinks, wine or beer, and a light lunch are included in the price of $156.

How long is the class?
The class lasts approximately 3 hours, providing enough time to learn, cook, and enjoy your creations.

Are there options for dietary restrictions?
Yes, the class can accommodate allergies and dietary needs if informed in advance. Alternatives for common allergens like nuts, shellfish, gluten, or eggs are often available.

Can I take leftovers home?
Absolutely. You’re encouraged to take home any remaining food after the class.

Is this suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the class is designed for all levels, including beginners. The step-by-step guidance ensures everyone can follow along and succeed.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and closed shoes are recommended. Avoid open-toed shoes or high heels for safety.

How many people are in each class?
Class sizes typically range from 6 to 12 participants, allowing for personalized attention from the chefs.

Is the class conducted in English?
Yes, the instruction is in English.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

Overall, this cooking class offers a valuable, authentic culinary experience that combines education, fun, and great food. It’s perfect for curious cooks, foodies, or anyone wanting to add a touch of China to their home cooking repertoire.

You can check availability for your dates here: