Tokyo: Izakaya-Style Cooking Class With Sake Pairing

For those seeking an authentic taste of Japan, this Izakaya-style cooking class in Tokyo promises an immersive culinary adventure. Participants can look forward to mastering traditional dishes like wagyu steak and tempura while exploring the art of sake pairings. With personalized guidance and a convivial atmosphere, this hands-on experience offers a unique window into Japan’s vibrant izakaya culture. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, this class promises to elevate your appreciation for the depth and complexity of Japanese cuisine.

Key Points

• This 3-hour Izakaya-style cooking class in Tokyo teaches participants to prepare traditional Japanese dishes, including wagyu steak and tempura, ideal for sake pairing.
• The class has a maximum of 6 participants and includes a sake tasting session featuring 4 types of sake or 5 Japanese drinks.
• All necessary ingredients and cooking equipment are provided, and participants receive take-home recipes to recreate the dishes at home.
• The class is suitable for participants aged 12 and older, with vegetarian options available, but not recommended for those with gluten-free or vegan dietary needs.
• The class has received a 5/5 rating based on customer reviews, with praise for the guide’s thorough explanations and the enjoyable, authentic cooking experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The Izakaya-style cooking class in Tokyo offers a unique experience for visitors, with prices starting from $104.92 per person.

The 3-hour class is limited to 6 participants and is conducted in English. Cancellations up to 24 hours ahead of time are eligible for a full refund. Guests have the option to reserve now and pay later.

The class features hands-on cooking of small dishes ideal for sake pairing, including wagyu steak, Japanese rolled omelette, skewers, tempura, and pickles.

Participants will also enjoy a sake tasting or 5 Japanese drinks, and receive take-home recipes and a local guide during the experience.

Class Features and Highlights

While the class teaches participants to prepare small dishes ideal for sake pairing, it also provides an understanding of Japanese home drinking culture and beverage pairings.

Recipes include wagyu steak, Japanese rolled omelette, skewers, tempura, and pickles. The hands-on cooking experience mimics a traditional "nomikai", or Japanese drinking party.

Participants can enjoy sake tasting or 5 different Japanese drinks throughout the class. All ingredients and cooking equipment are provided, and attendees receive take-home recipes to recreate the authentic dishes learned.

The class is designed to be a fun, engaging experience for anyone over 12 years old.

Included in the Experience

As part of the Izakaya-style cooking class, participants can expect a hands-on cooking experience with various Japanese dishes. The class includes:

Included in the Experience	Description
Hands-on Cooking	Learn to prepare small dishes ideal for sake pairing
Sake Tasting	Taste 4 types of sake or 5 Japanese drinks
Provided Ingredients	All ingredients and cooking equipment are provided
Take-Home Recipes	Receive recipes to recreate the dishes at home
Local Guide and Photos	Guided by a local expert and receive tour photos

Participants will leave with new culinary skills, an understanding of Japanese home drinking culture, and memorable photographs from the experience.

Participant Information and Restrictions

Anyone over 12 years old can participate in the Izakaya-style cooking class.

Vegetarian options are available, but the class isn’t suitable for vegans or those with gluten-free dietary needs.

Given the hands-on nature of the class, it isn’t recommended for guests with mobility issues; private tours would be a better option in that case.

Children under 12 aren’t allowed to join the class, though a kids’ playroom is available.

The cooking class is designed for an enjoyable, interactive experience, so participants should be prepared to actively engage in the preparation of Japanese dishes and drinks.

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Customer Reviews and Feedback

The Izakaya-style cooking class has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an overall rating of 5/5 based on 3 customer reviews.

Participants praised the guide’s thorough explanations and engaging instruction throughout the hands-on experience.

The class is recommended for:

1. Couples
2. Friends
3. Solo travelers and families

Reviewers emphasized the enjoyable, authentic cooking experience and the opportunity to learn how to prepare various Japanese dishes ideal for sake pairing.

The class is well-suited for anyone over 12, though vegetarian options are available (not suitable for vegans or gluten-free diets).

Preparing the Dishes

During the Izakaya-style cooking class, participants learn to prepare a variety of small dishes that pair well with sake.

The recipes include wagyu steak, Japanese rolled omelette, skewers, tempura, and pickles. Under the guidance of the local chef, students learn proper techniques for prepping and cooking each item.

They gain insights into Japanese home drinking culture and discover the art of beverage pairing.

The hands-on experience allows participants to recreate these authentic dishes at home, bringing the flavors of an Izakaya into their own kitchens.

Exploring Sake Pairings

As part of the Izakaya-style cooking class, participants have the opportunity to explore the art of sake pairing.

Guided by the instructor, the experience focuses on:

1. Tasting four distinct sake varieties, each with unique aromas, flavors, and characteristics.
2. Learning how to pair the sakes with the handcrafted dishes, such as the wagyu steak and Japanese rolled omelette.
3. Understanding the traditional Japanese drinking culture and how sake complements the small plates served at an Izakaya-style hotel.

This sake pairing component adds a deeper layer of authenticity to the overall cooking class experience.

Experiencing the Nomikai Culture

How does the cooking class capture the essence of a traditional Japanese nomikai? By blending hands-on cooking with convivial sake tasting, the class provides an intimate, immersive experience reminiscent of a lively nomikai. Participants share dishes, swap stories, and savor the flavors of Japan while enjoying quality beverages – just like locals do. The class format allows for casual camaraderie, fostering a sense of togetherness.

What to Expect	Why It Matters	How It’s Achieved
Hands-on cooking	Active participation mirrors a nomikai	Preparing small dishes ideal for sake pairing
Sake tasting	Showcases Japanese drinking culture	Sampling 4 types of premium sake
Communal atmosphere	Recreates the spirit of a nomikai gathering	Limited group size encourages interaction

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Cooking Class?

The cooking class doesn’t have a strict dress code. Comfortable, casual clothing that allows for easy movement during the hands-on cooking is recommended. Participants should avoid attire that could get easily stained from food preparation.

Can I Request a Specific Dietary Requirement Not Mentioned?

While the class doesn’t explicitly mention accommodating specific dietary requirements like vegan or gluten-free, participants can likely request alternative options. It’s best to reach out to the provider directly to inquire about customizing the experience.

Is It Possible to Extend the Class Duration?

While the standard class duration is 3 hours, it may be possible to extend the class length. Participants should inquire about this option when booking, as extended classes may incur additional fees or require special arrangements.

Do I Need to Bring Any Personal Belongings?

You don’t need to bring any personal belongings. The class provides all the necessary ingredients and cooking equipment. Just come ready to enjoy the hands-on cooking experience and sake tasting.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included in the Price?

There are no additional fees or taxes mentioned in the pricing details. The quoted price of $104.92 per person covers all aspects of the cooking class experience, including the hands-on instruction, sake tasting, and take-home recipes.

The Sum Up

The Izakaya-Style Cooking Class in Tokyo provides an immersive culinary experience, teaching participants to craft traditional Japanese dishes while exploring the nuances of sake. With personalized instruction and a intimate class size, guests can expect a well-rounded introduction to Japan’s vibrant food culture. Whether a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, this class offers a chance to savor the flavors of an authentic izakaya.

You can check availability for your dates here: