Makati: Hands on Manila Cooking Class

Makati: Hands on Manila Cooking Class — An Authentic Filipino Culinary Experience

If you’re visiting Manila and want a taste of local life beyond sightseeing, a hands-on Filipino cooking class is a fantastic option. This activity promises not just a meal, but an engaging glimpse into the flavors and stories behind Philippine cuisine. The class, offered by Explore Manila Tours, has earned an impressive 4.9-star rating from 33 reviews, showing how much travelers appreciate this authentic and family-friendly experience.

What we find particularly appealing are the small group size—limiting to just four participants—and the chance to learn classic Filipino recipes from real locals. Plus, the outdoor setting in the heart of Makati makes it an accessible, relaxed place to cook, chat, and enjoy good food. One thing to keep in mind: the class doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation, which is easy if you download the Grab app, the Philippines’ version of Uber.

This experience is ideal for those who love food, culture, and a bit of hands-on fun. It’s great whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with friends or family eager to explore Filipino flavors in a relaxed environment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Recipes: Learn to prepare traditional Filipino snacks and dishes with the guidance of local hosts.
• Family-Friendly & Accessible: Suitable for most ages (9+), with a focus on simple, wholesome dishes.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to four participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Inclusion & Value: All ingredients, equipment, and non-alcoholic drinks are provided for a hassle-free experience.
• Cultural Insights: Guides share stories behind each dish, adding depth to your culinary journey.
• Convenient Location: Conducted outdoors in Makati, nearby major hotels and malls, perfect for those staying in or near the city center.

Overview of the Experience

The Makati Hands-On Manila Cooking Class offers a straightforward way to dive into Filipino cuisine in an informal, family-friendly environment. The 2-hour class is designed for those curious about Filipino food but not necessarily expert cooks. You’ll learn to make a variety of signature snacks that reflect the diversity of the Philippines—from mountain to sea, as the saying goes.

The course emphasizes simple, wholesome ingredients and techniques that can easily be replicated at home, making it highly practical. As one reviewer notes, “It was a great cooking class with delicious dishes in an open-air setting. I really enjoyed learning from Chyl, who did a wonderful job teaching me!” (Emilie, May 2025). The outdoor setup is both charming and comfortable, offering fresh air and a casual vibe, perfect for those who prefer a less formal cooking environment.

What You Can Expect at the Tour

The activity begins in an outdoor courtyard in front of a coffee kiosk—a relaxed start where your instructor will greet you and guide you through the session. You’ll be handed a complete set of ingredients and tools, with plenty of opportunities to get your hands dirty.

Over the next two hours, you’ll learn how to prepare three signature Filipino snacks. Expect to make a filling noodle dish, savory spring rolls, and a sweet treat like Turon Crepes, which many reviewers say is both simple and delicious. The instructor, usually an English-speaking local, shares tips and tricks, along with colorful stories that bring the dishes to life.

Many reviews praise the personalized attention, noting that the small group size enables everyone to participate actively. “Our host let us really take the lead,” said one reviewer, highlighting the interactive nature of the class (Ciara, May 2025).

Throughout, the instructor also offers insights into Filipino culinary culture, making it more than just a cooking class. As one guest put it, “Chyl was a delight—I thoroughly enjoyed my afternoon (and the food!).” (Vanessa, May 2025).

The Food and Recipes

The dishes you’ll prepare are typical of Filipino meriendas (snacks) famous across the islands. From noodles to crunchy spring rolls and sweet crepes, these are dishes rooted in Filipino history and everyday life. Many reviews comment on how delicious and accessible the recipes are, with some guests saying they left with skills to recreate the dishes at home.

The price of $65 per person might seem modest considering the quality of ingredients, instruction, and cultural insights you receive. Compared to dining out, this activity offers hands-on learning and the chance to take home recipes—adding lasting value to your trip.

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The Location and Practicalities

Conducted outdoors in Makati, the class meets at a courtyard near a coffee kiosk—easy to find if you follow the directions. The activity ends back at the same spot, so transportation arrangements are your responsibility. Many reviews recommend downloading the Grab app for easy rides around the city.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, and the instructor speaks English fluently. It’s not suitable for children under nine or visually impaired participants, but otherwise, it’s an inclusive experience for most.

Review Highlights from Past Participants

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who make the class engaging and fun. Emilie shared, “I highly recommend this activity for anyone in Manila who wants to learn how to cook three signature snacks from the Philippines :)”. Other guests appreciated the storytelling aspect, with Oumou remarking, “The host was a great storyteller which made this even more intimate.”

Many felt the class offered good value for money, describing it as a “fantastic, fun, and informative” experience that left them with new skills and a better appreciation for Filipino cuisine. Vanessa summarized, “Chyl is a delight—her warmth and knowledge made the session memorable.”

Practical Tips for Visiting

• Wear comfortable clothes suitable for cooking and possibly getting a little messy.
• Download the Grab app ahead of time to facilitate easy transportation.
• Arrive a few minutes early to settle in and find the meeting point easily.
• Keep in mind, the class is family-friendly but not suitable for children under 9.
• Booking in advance is recommended, and you can cancel up to 24 hours prior for a full refund.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cooking class is perfect for food lovers and culture seekers who want a deeper understanding of Filipino cuisine. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy interactive, hands-on activities and meeting local guides who share stories alongside recipes. Travelers staying in Makati or nearby will find it convenient and a refreshing break from typical sightseeing.

It’s ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups wanting an authentic, memorable activity that’s both fun and educational. Families with older children will appreciate the family-friendly approach and the opportunity to introduce younger ones to Filipino food.

The Sum Up

In a nutshell, this Makati-based hands-on Manila cooking class offers both delicious food and cultural insights in a relaxed outdoor setting. Its small group size, engaging guides, and authentic recipes create a memorable experience that’s more than just learning to cook—it’s a step into Filipino everyday life. The price point reflects excellent value considering the quality of instruction, ingredients, and storytelling involved.

If you’re eager to explore Filipino flavors, enjoy interactive activities, and bring home a new skill or two, this class is a wise choice. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who value authenticity, local guidance, and a fun atmosphere. With consistent high reviews, it’s a tried-and-true addition to any Manila itinerary.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup or drop-off included?
No, the activity does not include hotel transportation. Participants are responsible for arranging their own rides to and from the meeting point, which is easily done via Grab.

How long does the class last?
The class lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable and enjoyable activity without taking up your whole day.

Is the experience suitable for children?
It’s family-friendly but not suitable for children under 9 years old, likely due to the nature of kitchen work and safety.

Do I need to bring anything?
You only need to wear comfortable clothes. All ingredients, equipment, and non-alcoholic drinks are provided, so no extra supplies are necessary.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Is this experience accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the class is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for most participants.

This hands-on Filipino cooking class offers a fun, authentic way to connect with Manila’s culinary roots. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just curious, you’ll leave with tasty recipes, new stories, and a deeper appreciation for Filipino culture—plus, a full belly.

You can check availability for your dates here: