Private Market Tour and Australian Cooking Class with a Local Chef in her Home

If you’re craving an experience that combines local flavor, fresh ingredients, and home-cooked Australian dishes, then this privately guided tour with a cooking class might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the descriptions and reviews suggest it offers a genuine and memorable glimpse into Melbourne’s culinary culture.

What we love about this experience is how it seamlessly blends a vibrant market exploration with an intimate cooking lesson in a real home. It’s a chance to see Melbourne’s culinary diversity firsthand and then enjoy the fruits of your labor in a cozy, personalized setting. The standout features include the chance to learn three dishes from scratch and the opportunity to take home recipes and tips.

A possible drawback could be the cost of $240 per person, which isn’t cheap, but considering it includes a guided market tour, a full meal, and personalized instruction, many would agree it offers good value—especially for those who enjoy immersive, authentic experiences.

This tour suits travelers who love food, enjoy hands-on activities, and value personal interactions over large group settings. It’s particularly appealing for those wanting a local, in-depth experience rather than a generic cooking class.

• Personalized experience with a private guide and chef
• Includes market tour, cooking, and a meal with drinks
• Learn to cook three authentic Australian dishes from scratch
• Receives recipes and practical cooking tips to try at home
• Suitable for most dietary restrictions if informed in advance
• Perfect for foodies seeking a local, hands-on experience

The journey begins in Melbourne, where the tour kicks off at 9:00am. The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy to access. From there, you’ll join a private guide for a tour of one of Melbourne’s largest local markets, South Melbourne Markets, renowned for its wide array of fresh produce, specialty stores, and vibrant atmosphere.

During the approximately one-hour market walk, you’ll get an authentic taste of Melbourne’s local food scene. Our reviewer noted the excitement of seeing a salt store with flavors like Black Lava, which highlights Melbourne’s diverse and innovative food culture. The guide points out interesting stalls and allows time to browse, giving you the chance to peruse fresh vegetables, meats, cheeses, and baked goods—all ingredients that will later feature in your cooking class.

The market experience is more than just shopping; it’s about learning how locals select ingredients, and perhaps picking up a few tips on what makes certain Australian products special. For example, you might find yourself chatting about unique spices or seasonal produce, gaining insights that enrich your understanding of local cuisine.

After the market tour, you’ll head to Tonya’s home for the cooking portion of the day. This is where the real magic happens. The class is designed for a single group, ensuring personalized attention. You’ll learn how to prepare three Australian dishes from scratch, with step-by-step guidance from a professional chef who’s eager to share her knowledge.

The dishes vary depending on the season, which actually adds an element of surprise and authenticity. The chef tailors the menu based on available ingredients, but you can expect a focus on local flavors. The emphasis is on hands-on participation, so you’ll be actively involved in chopping, seasoning, and cooking each dish.

What we find particularly appealing is the chance to take home a packet of recipes and cooking tips. This means you won’t just enjoy a meal but also leave with skills and inspiration to recreate Australian cuisine at home.

The cooking class culminates in a shared meal, served with local alcohol—a glass of wine or beer—and non-alcoholic beverages. The relaxed, homey environment fosters conversation and gives you a real taste of local hospitality.

The meal is a highlight, offering a satisfying conclusion to your culinary journey. Expect a homecooked Australian feast, made with fresh ingredients you selected earlier. The inclusion of local alcohol adds a convivial touch, turning the meal into a true social occasion.

Many reviews note the value of the experience, emphasizing the friendly guidance from the chef and the chance to taste well-prepared, authentic dishes. The fact that the experience ends back at the original meeting point makes logistics straightforward, and the 5 to 6-hour duration allows ample time to relax and enjoy.

At $240 per person, this experience is on the higher side for a food tour, but it’s important to consider what’s included: a guided market tour, a private cooking class, a full meal with drinks, and recipes to take home. For travelers who value personalized, immersive experiences, this price is reasonable. It offers a lot more than a typical restaurant meal or group cooking class, especially given the private setting and expert guidance.

What sets this experience apart is the home setting and the direct interaction with a local chef. It’s not a commercial cooking class in a studio but a private session in someone’s home, which adds warmth and authenticity. Many travelers appreciate the chance to connect with Melbourne’s food culture through a local’s eyes, rather than a scripted tourist activity.

Reviewers have expressed positive sentiments about the knowledgeable guidance and the stunning market views, which enhance the overall experience. One reviewer mentioned how fun it was to explore the Salt store and see specialty products—highlighting the rich variety you’ll encounter.

• Book well in advance, as the experience is private and limited to your group.
• Notify the provider of any dietary restrictions or allergies when booking.
• Arrive on time at the meeting point; transportation options are nearby.
• Be prepared for a relaxed, informal atmosphere—wear comfortable clothes suitable for cooking.
• Expect to be actively involved, so bring an enthusiasm for hands-on learning.
• If you’re traveling with vegetarians, gluten-free, or low-carb diets, this can be accommodated if notified at booking.

This experience is ideal for food lovers, curious about Australian cuisine, and those seeking a personalized cultural encounter. It suits travelers who enjoy active participation and want to learn practical skills they can use back home. It’s also perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who appreciate a more intimate, authentic experience.

If you’re after a relaxed, local-focused activity that combines market exploration with home-cooked food, this tour will tick many boxes.

This private Melbourne market and cooking experience offers a rare glimpse into local life and cuisine that’s hard to find on larger, impersonal tours. It’s a fantastic value for those who want more than just sightseeing—who want to learn, taste, and connect.

The experience is especially suitable for culinary enthusiasts eager to get hands-on and for travelers who enjoy personal interactions and authentic settings. If you’re looking for a cozy, informative, and flavorful day in Melbourne, this tour is a thoughtful choice.

While it may seem a bit pricey, the inclusion of market exploration, a full meal, drinks, and recipes makes it a well-rounded, memorable activity. Just remember to book ahead and communicate any dietary needs to ensure the best experience.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience for your group only, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

What does the tour include?
It includes a guided market tour, a home-based cooking class, a three-dish meal with drinks, recipes, and tips, all taxes and gratuities included.

Are dietary restrictions available?
Yes, vegetarian, low-carb, and gluten-free options are available if informed when booking. Be sure to mention any allergies or restrictions.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for cooking, as this is a hands-on activity. No special attire is required.

How long does the experience last?
Expect about 5 to 6 hours, beginning at 9:00am and ending back at the starting point.

Is hotel pickup or drop-off included?
No, transportation is not included, but the meeting point is accessible by public transit.

Can I cancel?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

What if I’m traveling alone?
The experience is private, so solo travelers will have a dedicated guide and chef, making it a very personal experience.

Is this suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with active cooking and a longer experience.

This tour provides a delightful combination of market exploration and home cooking, perfect for those wanting to deepen their appreciation for Melbourne’s local flavors in an intimate setting. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, you’ll come away with new skills, tasty memories, and a greater understanding of Australian cuisine.