Xiao long bao, Pork thick soup, Bubble milk tea. (Taiwan Cooking Class)-B

If you’re seeking an activity that combines culinary fun with cultural insight, this Taiwanese cooking class focusing on xiao long bao, pork thick soup, and bubble milk tea offers a fantastic way to dive into local flavors. Whether you’re a food lover or simply curious about Taiwan’s unique cuisine, this experience promises to be both educational and delicious.

What we love about this class is its friendly atmosphere, practical approach to ingredients, and the opportunity to sample beloved dishes that are often hard to find outside Taiwan. It’s a great way to connect with local food traditions, learn some handy cooking tips, and take home recipes that will impress friends back home.

One thing to consider is that the class operates on specific days (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday), so planning ahead is essential. This experience is ideal for those who enjoy hands-on activities, cultural exchanges, and want a meaningful souvenir from Taipei that’s more than just a photo.

If you’re looking for a genuine, small-group experience that combines learning with tasting, this class suits travelers eager to get a taste of Taiwan’s culinary soul.

Key Points

• Authentic Dishes: Learn to make classic Taiwanese favorites like xiao long bao and bubble milk tea.
• Cultural Insights: Discover the ingredients and cooking techniques unique to Taiwan.
• Engaging Experience: Small groups (max 10) ensure personal interaction and hands-on participation.
• Value for Money: At $65 per person, you gain practical skills, delicious food, and lasting memories.
• Flexible Schedule: Available on specific days with morning or afternoon options, ideal for fitting into your Taipei itinerary.
• Language Support: Conducted in Chinese, English, and Japanese for easy understanding.

The Details of the Tour

What to Expect from the Class

This 2 hour 30 minute session is designed to be lively, engaging, and highly informative. It takes place in a cozy Taipei location, starting at 2:30 pm and finishing around 5 pm. The class is limited to 10 travelers, which ensures plenty of personal attention and space for questions.

The experience is hosted by Cooking Fun Taiwan, a reputable provider known for blending culinary education and cultural storytelling. The class begins promptly at the meeting point at No. 5, Lane 290, Guangfu South Road in Daan District, conveniently close to public transportation.

The Menu: What You Will Cook and Taste

The star of the session is xiao long bao, famous for its delicate wrapper and rich, savory broth inside. Our reviews praise the hands-on process, with many participants noting how surprisingly fun and satisfying it was to fold these dumplings themselves, with some even mentioning how the instructors guided them through each step. As one reviewer said, “Somehow, with lots of assistance and laughs, delicious XLB dumplings magically folded within our hands.”

You’ll also learn to prepare pork thick soup, a comforting, hearty broth that highlights Taiwan’s love for soul-warming dishes. The recipe promises a balance of flavors, and many students appreciated the chance to see how Taiwanese ingredients elevate simple soups.

And, of course, bubble milk tea — a signature drink that has gained global fame. The class not only teaches you the steps to make it but also offers insights into the unique Taiwanese fruits and vegetables that influence the local cuisine.

The Learning Experience

Beyond just cooking, the class emphasizes understanding Taiwanese ingredients. One reviewer notes, “They even took photos and sent them to us, which is nice to have as a memory,” highlighting the personal touch of the experience.

Participants get a printed recipe after the class, so you can replicate your new skills at home. The instructor speaks multiple languages, making the session accessible whether you’re fluent in Chinese, English, or Japanese.

The Group and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 10 travelers, the class feels intimate and friendly. Many reviews mention the instructor’s warmth and expertise, with one reviewer declaring, “Excellent cooking class with a great instructor.” The small size fosters camaraderie, making it easy to ask questions and share laughs as you work together to fold dumplings or stir soup.

Food, Allergies, and Special Needs

If you have dietary restrictions or food allergies, it’s recommended to notify in advance. The class can accommodate vegetarians and those with specific food taboos if informed beforehand, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.

Practicalities and Booking

Booking typically opens about a month in advance, reflecting the class’s popularity. The flat rate of $65 per person offers a solid value considering the size, quality, and authenticity of the experience. The class is also flexible in cancellation — free up to 24 hours before — which adds peace of mind when planning your trip.

Why Travelers Rate It So Highly

Reviewers consistently describe this class as fun, well-organized, and delicious. Katharina_G mentioned that it was a perfect way to end a trip, appreciating the “nice photos sent afterward” as keepsakes. Mark_S called it a “must-do experience in Taipei,” emphasizing how they made some of the best soup dumplings and bubble tea ever and left with recipes to try at home.

Many highlight the entertaining and supportive atmosphere, with guests feeling encouraged even if they’ve never folded a dumpling before. Jerome_L’s comment about “lots of assistance and laughs” paints a vivid picture of an enjoyable, stress-free environment, which is exactly what you want from a cooking class abroad.

The authentic taste, combined with the chance to learn about local ingredients, makes this experience stand out. It’s not just about cooking; it’s about understanding Taiwan’s culinary heritage in a hands-on way.

The Value Proposition

At $65, this class offers more than just a meal — it’s a cultural exchange, a practical skill set, and a collection of shared memories. You’ll walk away with recipes, a sense of achievement, and a newfound appreciation for Taiwanese comfort food. The small class size guarantees personal attention, and the inclusion of visual and linguistic support makes it accessible for diverse travelers.

While some might find the schedule limited, the experience’s quality more than compensates. If you’re visiting Taipei and love food, this class is an excellent way to connect with local cuisine beyond the usual tourist spots.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cooking class is perfect for foodies eager to replicate Taiwanese dishes at home. It’s also ideal for cultural travelers wanting a deeper understanding of local ingredients and cooking techniques. If you enjoy interactive experiences in a small group, you’ll find this both fun and educational.

Travelers with a sense of humor, patience, and a desire to learn are sure to enjoy the lively atmosphere. Families with children over the age of one are welcome (each adult can bring one child), making it a good family activity too.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarians can participate if notified in advance. The provider can accommodate special dietary needs upon request.

How long does the class last?
The session runs approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, from 2:30 pm to around 5 pm.

Where does the class start and end?
It begins at No. 5, Lane 290, Guangfu South Road, Taipei and ends back at the same meeting point.

What language is used during the class?
The course is conducted in Chinese, English, and Japanese, making it accessible for international travelers.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time, allowing flexibility in your plans.

Are photos taken during the class?
Yes, instructors take photos during the session and send them afterward, providing a lovely memory of your cooking adventure.

Final Thoughts

This Taiwanese cooking class offers a genuine taste of local flavors in a friendly, engaging setting. You’ll learn to craft iconic dishes like xiao long bao, pork thick soup, and bubble milk tea, while gaining insights into the ingredients that make Taiwanese cuisine so distinctive. The small group size and multilingual instruction ensure everyone feels comfortable and included.

Ideal for culinary explorers, families, and anyone wanting a memorable hands-on experience in Taipei, it’s a fantastic way to connect with Taiwan’s food culture. The combination of practical skills, delicious tasting, and cultural understanding makes it a worthwhile addition to your Taipei itinerary.

Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a curious first-timer, this class promises fun, flavor, and a new appreciation for Taiwan’s culinary traditions.