Cabo San Lucas Cooking Classes by Chef Ari

If you’re craving an authentic culinary experience during your trip to Cabo San Lucas, a cooking class with Chef Ari might just be your perfect fit. While I haven’t personally taken this class, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions give us a clear picture of what to expect. Whether you want to learn how to make traditional Mexican dishes or simply enjoy a fun, relaxed environment with stunning ocean views, this experience delivers.

What we love about this class is the personalized attention and the beautiful setting. Chef Ari’s background—training in San Francisco, Bangkok, and Paris—translates into thoughtful, expertly prepared dishes that are accessible to home cooks. Plus, the chance to visit a local farmers market on Tuesdays adds an extra layer of immersion for the food lover.

On the flip side, travelers should consider that this experience is hosted at Chef Ari’s private home, which, while beautiful, might require some extra directions or assistance in finding. Also, the class size is small (up to 10 people), so larger groups might need to book ahead or consider private options.

This class seems best suited for foodies, couples, or small groups looking for an authentic, memorable experience that combines learning with breathtaking scenery. If you enjoy hands-on activities and good conversation over good food, this is worth considering.

Key Points

Authentic Mexican cuisine: The class focuses on traditional dishes, providing a true taste of local flavors.
Stunning setting: Held at Chef Ari’s beautiful home overlooking the Pacific Ocean with views of Land’s End.
Personalized experience: Small groups ensure plenty of individual attention and a more intimate atmosphere.
Educational and fun: Learn new skills without feeling overwhelmed, with ample opportunity for questions.
Great value: For $125, you get a 3-hour hands-on cooking session, delicious food, and optional margaritas.
Flexible options: Smaller groups can request private classes at your own villa or home.

A Closer Look at the Cooking Class Experience

The Venue and Atmosphere

Imagine cooking in a beautiful home with views of the Pacific Ocean and Land’s End in the distance. That’s exactly the setting at Chef Ari’s residence. It’s a relaxed, welcoming space designed to make you feel at home while you learn to cook authentic Mexican dishes. The ambiance combines natural beauty with a top-tier commercial kitchen, meaning you’re working in a professional-grade environment but with the comfort of a private, intimate setting.

The Itinerary: What Will You Do?

The class typically lasts about three hours, during which you’ll participate in creating an appetizer and an entrée. The process is hands-on, with Chef Ari guiding you through ingredient selection, preparation, and presentation. Reviewers repeatedly mention how Ari’s explanations are clear and enthusiastic, making even complex techniques seem manageable.

On Tuesdays, there’s an added option to visit the local farmers market, providing insight into local ingredients and a chance to pick fresh produce. This optional activity is especially appreciated by those who enjoy exploring local markets while traveling.

What You’ll Cook and Eat

While the specific menu varies, reviewers often highlight dishes that are delicious, authentic, and beautifully presented. The pleasure here isn’t just in the act of cooking but in sharing a fresh, homemade meal at the end. Many reviews mention how the food exceeded expectations, with flavors that are rich yet simple.

Drinking and Extra Touches

For an additional fee, you can enjoy handmade Margaritas made with top-shelf 100% agave tequila and fresh lime juice. These margaritas are a highlight for many, adding a celebratory touch to your cooking experience. The group size is small, which makes the service personalized, and the views from the kitchen add to the overall enjoyment.

The Reviews: Authentic Voice of Past Participants

Multiple reviews praise Chef Ari’s passion, professionalism, and warmth. One review mentions that “Ari is amazing and passionate,” and her team is described as “outstanding.” The small group sizes (often fewer than 10 people) receive high praise for personalized attention, making it easy to ask questions and get help.

Many comment on the delicious food and spectacular setting. One reviewer states, “The location/setting is awesome,” emphasizing how the ocean views elevate the experience. Another notes how the dishes are made with fresh ingredients and simple techniques, making it accessible for home cooks to recreate later.

Value for Money

At $125 per person, this class offers a lot of value. You not only learn new cooking skills but also enjoy a meal that you helped prepare, along with optional margaritas and spectacular scenery. When considering the price, reviews reveal that many find it worth every peso, especially given the professional kitchen, personal attention, and memorable setting.

Practical Details

Location and Meeting Point

The class begins at Casa Maya, Manzana 02, Lote 14, Colonia Cresta del Mar, in Cabo San Lucas. Directions are straightforward if you get instructions from Chef Ari beforehand—many reviewers mention that Ari is happy to provide clear directions or even help with private arrangements.

Duration and Group Size

The class lasts approximately 3 hours. It’s designed for small groups—maxing out at 10 travelers—which enhances the learning experience and allows for more interaction.

Booking and Cancellation

Confirmed bookings are secured with instant confirmation, and the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility is helpful if plans change unexpectedly.

Additional Options

If you’re traveling with a larger group or prefer a private experience, Chef Ari can arrange a class at your villa or home—a fantastic option for special occasions or just a more personalized experience.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cooking class is perfect for food lovers eager to learn authentic Mexican recipes in a beautiful setting. Couples and small groups will particularly enjoy the intimate atmosphere and stunning views. It also appeals to those who want a hands-on activity that ends with a communal meal, offering both a cultural and culinary escape.

If you’re looking for an experience that combines learning, eating well, and enjoying breathtaking scenery, this class hits all those marks. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate good value, personalized attention, and authentic flavors.

The Sum Up

This Cabo San Lucas cooking class with Chef Ari offers a genuinely rewarding culinary adventure. From the beautiful oceanfront setting to the professional kitchen and passionate instruction, it stands out as a memorable activity. The focus on authentic Mexican dishes makes it a worthwhile cultural experience, especially for those eager to bring a piece of Mexico home through their cooking.

The small group size ensures you’ll receive plenty of guidance, and the option to visit a local farmers market adds an extra layer of local flavor. Plus, the delicious dishes and optional margaritas make this a festive, fun experience that’s great value for the price.

This class is best suited for small groups, couples, or individual travelers who want to learn new skills, enjoy stunning scenery, and savor good food. If authentic Mexican cuisine and a hands-on experience sound appealing, Chef Ari’s class will likely become a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

How long does the cooking class last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, giving enough time for hands-on cooking and socializing.

Where does the class take place?
In Chef Ari’s beautiful home overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Cabo San Lucas, with optional private classes at your villa.

What is included in the price?
You get to participate in cooking a traditional appetizer and entrée, enjoy your meal afterwards, and have access to the professional kitchen and stunning views. Margaritas are available for an additional fee.

Can I visit a local farmers market during the class?
Yes, if your group is 10 or fewer, you can request a visit to the local farmers market on Tuesdays, which adds an authentic local flavor to your experience.

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Reviewers mention that Ari’s explanations are clear and approachable, making it suitable for all skill levels.

What if I want a private experience?
Chef Ari can arrange private classes at your home or villa for larger groups or special occasions.

How do I get to the meeting point?
Directions are provided by the organizer, and Ari is happy to give guidance. The address is Casa Maya, in Colonia Cresta del Mar.

Is there a minimum number of participants?
Yes, the experience requires a minimum number of travelers, but if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the class begins, ensuring flexibility if needed.

This cooking class in Cabo San Lucas offers a delightful blend of learning, eating, and enjoying spectacular scenery—all with a friendly, professional touch. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting to bring a little of Mexico’s culinary soul home with them.