Introducing the Sensational Sushi Making Class in Tampa

If you’re considering a fun, educational activity that combines culinary skills with a cultural twist, the Sensational Sushi Making Class in Tampa might just be your perfect match. Hosted in St. Petersburg, this two-hour experience is designed for anyone eager to learn the craft of sushi from a talented chef. Whether you’re a total beginner or someone with a bit of kitchen experience, this class offers both entertainment and practical skills.
What we really like about this class is how it balances hands-on involvement with expert guidance—you’ll learn to make sushi rice from scratch and roll your own creations, which is a satisfying skill that can impress friends at your next dinner party. Plus, the inclusion of both a spicy tuna roll and a plant-based vegetable roll means you’ll walk away with versatile recipes that suit different tastes. The second thing that stands out is the friendly, knowledgeable chef leading the session, making the experience welcoming and informative.
One potential downside to consider is that drinks are not included, so you’ll need to BYOB or purchase some at the venue. Also, since the class is booked approximately 42 days in advance on average, it’s wise to plan ahead if you want to secure a spot during peak times.
This class suits travelers who love food experiences, enjoy hands-on activities, or simply want a fun way to learn a new skill while on vacation. It’s particularly ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking for an authentic, engaging activity.
Key Points

- Hands-on learning: You’ll actively participate in making sushi, not just watch a demonstration.
- All equipment provided: The chef supplies everything needed—ingredients, tools, and guidance.
- Skill-building focus: From mastering rice to rolling perfect sushi, you’ll gain practical skills.
- Variety of options: Includes a spicy tuna roll and veggie hand roll for diverse tastes.
- Expert guidance: A talented chef walks you through each step, ensuring confidence.
- Great value for the price: At $75 per person, it offers a memorable culinary experience with takeaway skills.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in St Petersburg
What to Expect from the Sushi Class

This two-hour session begins at the lively Mastry’s Brewing Co. in St. Petersburg, a comfortable spot that sets a relaxed, informal tone. From the start, you’ll notice that the class emphasizes learning the essentials—making perfect sushi rice is the cornerstone, and the instructor will teach you the precise techniques needed for a fluffy, flavorful base.
Once the rice is ready, the focus shifts to assembly. You’ll get your hands dirty (in the best way), as you craft a spicy tuna roll with fresh tuna, cucumber, and a spicy sauce that packs a punch but isn’t overwhelming. The chef will guide you on how to balance flavors and roll tightly so your sushi looks as good as it tastes. For those who prefer plant-based options, you’ll also prepare a vegetable hand roll, with ingredients like avocado, carrots, cucumbers, and shiitake mushrooms, making this a versatile class suitable for vegetarians or those seeking lighter fare.
Throughout the class, the guide’s expert advice is invaluable. They’ll explain not just the how but the why behind each step—like the importance of rice temperature or the right amount of pressure when rolling. This helps ensure you’ll be able to replicate what you’ve learned at home with confidence.
At the end, you’ll sit down to enjoy your sushi creations, which makes the whole experience more satisfying. It’s a chance to taste your handiwork and share some laughs, especially if you’re in a small group or solo, making new friends along the way.
Deep Dive into the Itinerary
Start Point: The class begins at Mastry’s Brewing Co., a friendly, casual hub located at 7701 Blind Pass Rd. in St. Petersburg. The meeting time is 6:00 pm, perfect for winding down after a day of sightseeing or relaxing with a craft beer from the brewery.
The Learning Process: The session is designed to be interactive. The chef provides all necessary equipment and ingredients, removing any hassle for participants. You’ll start with a demonstration of how to prepare sushi rice—this is the foundation of good sushi, and the chef will explain why proper rice preparation is crucial for texture and flavor.
Making the Rolls: After rice prep, you’ll move on to assembling your sushi. You’ll learn to roll with precision, creating the spicy tuna roll, filled with fresh tuna and cucumber, and topped with a spicy sauce. The chef will teach you how to balance flavors to achieve that perfect bite.
Vegetable Roll: For vegetarians or those wanting a lighter option, the vegetable hand roll is a highlight. Incorporating avocado, carrots, cucumbers, and shiitake mushrooms, it’s a feast for the eyes and the palate. This part of the class underscores how sushi can be adaptable to different dietary preferences.
End of Class: The activity concludes back at the starting point, giving you ample opportunity to savor your sushi, ask final questions, or take photos of your creations. Since drinks are not included, you might consider bringing your own or enjoying a brew from Mastry’s Brewing Co.
Why This Experience Offers Good Value

At $75 per person, you’re paying for a personalized, engaging lesson that leaves you with tangible skills. Instead of just watching a chef prepare sushi, you’re actively involved—this kind of experiential learning is often more memorable. Plus, you leave with the knowledge to try sushi-making at home, which can be both fun and cost-effective in the long run.
The class’s inclusion of all necessary equipment and ingredients means no hidden costs or surprises. You won’t have to hunt down supplies or worry about missing items. The small group size, capped at 25 travelers, encourages interaction and personalized attention.
While drinks aren’t included, that allows flexibility—if you prefer wine, sake, or craft beers, you can BYOB, adding a personalized touch to your experience. The 2-hour duration strikes a good balance: enough time to learn, practice, and enjoy without feeling rushed.
Who Would Benefit Most?

This class is perfect for foodies eager to learn a new skill, couples looking for a fun date night, or small groups seeking a memorable activity. It suits all skill levels, especially those who want a practical, hands-on experience rather than a passive demonstration. Travelers interested in Japanese cuisine or looking to add a personal touch to their culinary repertoire will find this especially rewarding.
Final Thoughts

The Sensational Sushi Making Class in Tampa offers a genuine, interactive way to explore Japanese cuisine outside of traditional dining experiences. It combines expert guidance with practical skills—no previous sushi-making experience required, just a willingness to get your hands a little sticky. You’ll leave with more than just new recipes; you’ll have a sense of accomplishment and a handful of tips to impress at your next dinner party.
The setting at Mastry’s Brewing adds a relaxed vibe, making it a fun, informal environment to learn. The class offers a great balance of instruction and participation, making it a worthwhile addition to any Tampa/St. Petersburg itinerary, especially if you’re a foodie or a curious traveler.
If you’re after a memorable, skill-building activity that leaves you with delicious results and a smile, this sushi class is worth considering. Just remember to book well in advance, as popularity tends to grow and spots fill quickly.
FAQ

Is the price of $75 per person worth it?
Yes, considering all equipment and ingredients are provided, and you gain practical skills you can use again, it offers good value for a fun, memorable experience.
Do I need to bring anything?
No, all necessary tools and ingredients are supplied by the chef. However, drinks are not included, so bring your own if you wish.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the class, which makes it flexible for travel plans.
Is this suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely. The class is designed for all skill levels, emphasizing step-by-step guidance.
What dietary options are available?
A vegetarian vegetable roll is included, so vegetarians can participate comfortably.
Where does the class start and end?
It begins at Mastry’s Brewing Co. at 6:00 pm and ends back at the same location, making logistics simple.
Are there group size limitations?
Yes, the maximum group size is 25 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Will I get to eat what I make?
Yes, you’ll enjoy your sushi creations at the end of the class, a satisfying way to conclude the activity.
If you’re looking to turn a casual dinner into an educational adventure, this hands-on sushi class offers a practical and enjoyable way to do just that—plus, you’ll impress friends with your new skills.
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