Sushi Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in Minneapolis

This review covers a unique culinary adventure that combines the art of sushi-making with the lively atmosphere of a craft brewery in Minneapolis. While we haven’t personally participated, the experience promises a fun, interactive evening that’s perfect for food lovers, curious beginners, or anyone looking to try something different.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert chef guiding the class ensures you’ll get authentic techniques that elevate your home sushi skills. Second, the combination of craft beer and sushi offers a relaxed, social vibe that’s hard to match in typical dining settings.

The only potential downside is that the experience is fairly short — around two hours — so if you’re craving a more extensive culinary session or multiple dishes, you might find this just scratches the surface. Nevertheless, if you value quality over quantity and enjoy a social environment, this tour is well worth considering. It’s especially suited for couples, friends, or anyone eager to learn a new skill in a fun setting.

Key Points

• Interactive learning with a talented chef guiding you through sushi techniques
• Includes all necessary equipment and ingredients for making two signature rolls
• Relaxed brewery atmosphere with craft beer available for purchase
• Great value at $75 for a memorable two-hour class
• Ideal for beginners and sushi enthusiasts alike
• Free cancellation policy for flexible planning

If you’re considering adding a culinary twist to your Minneapolis trip, this sushi-making class at a local brewery offers a surprisingly balanced mix of skill, flavor, and social fun. Here’s what you need to know to decide if it’s right for you.

The Setting: A Craft Brewery in Minneapolis

The class takes place at Torg Brewery, located at 8421 University Ave NE in Spring Lake Park. This isn’t your typical classroom; it’s a vibrant, lively brewery environment where locals gather over craft beers. The informal atmosphere helps ease any nerves about making sushi from scratch, especially for first-timers.

The brewery setting is one of the tour’s biggest selling points. Being able to sip on locally brewed beers as you learn creates a casual, convivial vibe. Though drinks are not included in the price, a range of beers from $3 to $20 can be purchased, allowing everyone to find something to enjoy alongside their culinary efforts.

The Itinerary: From Rice to Rolls

The two-hour experience is designed to be hands-on and engaging. It begins with the chef guiding you through the process of preparing perfectly seasoned sushi rice. This step is crucial, as rice is the foundation of good sushi — fluffy, sticky, and subtly flavored.

Next, the focus shifts to sharpening knife skills. If you’re unfamiliar with sushi knife techniques, you’ll appreciate the expert guidance in slicing fresh ingredients. The class emphasizes technique over speed, so don’t worry if you’re new to cooking or sushi rolling.

The chef then leads you in crafting two types of sushi rolls:

• A classic California roll, featuring imitation crab, avocado, and cucumber. It’s a familiar favorite, especially for those new to sushi.
• A spicy salmon roll with fresh salmon, spicy sauce, cucumber, and crisp leaf lettuce, adding a flavorful punch.

Throughout the process, the chef offers tips on rolling and slicing, helping you achieve tight, attractive sushi. Once your rolls are complete, you’ll get to taste your creations — a satisfying reward for your efforts.

The Food: Simple, Delicious, and Authentic

While the class only covers two rolls, both are well-chosen to showcase different techniques and flavors. The California roll is a safe, satisfying choice for beginners, with familiar ingredients and easy rolling. The spicy salmon roll introduces a bit of heat and freshness, giving a nice contrast.

Participants have praised the deliciousness of the food. One reviewer mentioned “delicious sushi and tapas,” highlighting how satisfying the results are. The fact that all ingredients and equipment are provided means you don’t need to bring anything — just your enthusiasm.

The Craft Beer Component

Although drinks are not included in the price, the brewery’s selection adds a fun dimension. You can purchase local beers to sip while you work, adding a relaxed, social element. This aspect makes it perfect for date nights or group outings. The brewery’s vibrant setting encourages conversation, making it more than just a cooking class — it’s a social experience.

Practical Details and Booking

Costing $75 per person, the class offers good value considering the quality of instruction and the ingredients provided. It’s a popular booking, typically reserved 17 days in advance on average, so planning ahead is wise.

The experience lasts around two hours, and the maximum group size of 25 ensures you’ll get ample attention from the chef. Confirmations are received within 48 hours, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for travelers with changing plans.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This class is best suited for beginners and foodies eager to learn a new skill without a lengthy commitment. It’s also great for couples or friends wanting a fun, interactive outing. If you’re a sushi aficionado, you may find it more introductory, but even experienced cooks will appreciate the professional guidance and social vibe.

This Minneapolis sushi class offers a balanced mix of hands-on learning, social atmosphere, and delicious flavors. The fact that all ingredients and tools are provided saves you the hassle of shopping and prep, allowing you to focus on the craft and fun.

The brewery setting adds a relaxed, friendly environment where you can really enjoy the process and celebrate your creations with a craft beer. The affordability at $75 makes it accessible for most travelers, especially when you consider the value of learning a new skill and enjoying local food.

While the experience is relatively brief, it’s packed with practical techniques and tasty results. Whether you’re visiting Minneapolis and want a break from sightseeing or looking for a unique date idea, this class delivers a memorable, engaging evening.

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The class is designed to accommodate all skill levels, including complete beginners. The chef provides all necessary equipment and instruction, making it easy to follow along.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are available for purchase at the brewery’s bar. You can buy local beers ranging from $3 to $20 to enjoy while you cook.

How long does the class last?
The class runs for approximately two hours, providing enough time to learn techniques, make two rolls, and enjoy tasting your creations.

What ingredients are used in the rolls?
The class features a classic California roll with imitation crab, avocado, and cucumber, and a spicy salmon roll with fresh salmon, spicy sauce, cucumber, and leaf lettuce.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, the experience is designed to be flexible and can cater to various dietary needs. It’s best to notify the organizers in advance.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 17 days in advance on average, so planning ahead guarantees you a spot.

This sushi-making class in Minneapolis blends culinary skill, social fun, and local flavor into a compact, memorable experience. The chance to learn from a professional chef, craft your own rolls, and enjoy craft beer makes it stand out from typical food tours. It’s a perfect activity for food lovers, curious cooks, or those looking for a novel date night.

While it doesn’t cover a huge menu or last hours, the focus on quality, technique, and authentic flavors delivers excellent value. The casual brewery setting makes it accessible and enjoyable, especially if you love combining food with a good drink.

If you’re visiting Minneapolis and want to add an interactive, flavorful activity to your itinerary, this sushi class offers a fantastic way to do it. Just remember to book in advance, arrive ready to roll, and enjoy the delicious results you’ll create.