If you’ve ever dreamed of making your own Chinese feast, this full-day cooking class in London might just be your new favorite way to spend a day. It’s a chance to get hands-on with classic techniques, master real wok skills, and enjoy some well-chosen wine while you cook.

Our review focuses on what makes this experience special—and what to keep in mind before booking. We love how approachable it is, even for total beginners, and the fact that it combines practical cooking skills with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. The wine aspect is a nice bonus, making the session feel more like a social event than a class.

One possible downside is its duration—at around 3 hours, it’s not quite a full day, despite the name, which might be a little confusing. Also, if you’re traveling with children or young teens, this isn’t suited for them since the activity is strictly for those 16 and older.

If you’re looking to add some authentic Chinese cuisine to your repertoire and enjoy a lively, interactive experience, this class is likely to suit adventurous foodies and those who love a good cooking challenge.

Key Points

Learn authentic wok techniques, including stir-frying and steaming, essential to Chinese cooking.
Master knife skills with a Chinese cleaver, which adds precision and confidence in the kitchen.
Discover the fundamentals of Chinese seasoning and sauces, such as soy, oyster, and black bean sauce, to enhance your dishes.
Create a meal of several dishes, including Hunan beef, Jiaozi dumplings, and steamed Sea Bass, providing a well-rounded experience.
Enjoy a glass of wine while cooking, making the experience more relaxed and social.
Suitable for all levels, from complete beginners to more experienced cooks, with individual prep stations and pair cooking at the hob.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Class

This class offers a full-immersion into Chinese banquet cuisine in a friendly and well-organized setting. Led by a Head Chef and an Assistant, the class accommodates 6 to 12 students, making it intimate enough for personalized guidance but lively enough for a social atmosphere. You’ll be provided with your own chopping board and prep space, and the cooking at the hob is done in pairs, encouraging teamwork and conversation.

The menu is thoughtfully curated to give you a variety of flavors and techniques. Expect to learn how to make spicy Hunan beef, which packs a punch, as well as Jiaozi dumplings—a skill that’s always handy—and vegetable Chow Mein and Stir-Fried Green Beans in Chilli Hoisin Sauce. The highlight for many is the steamed Sea Bass, a delicate dish that showcases steaming techniques.

As part of the learning process, you’ll get a chance to use a Chinese cleaver—a tool that can seem intimidating but is crucial for authentic cuts. The instructor emphasizes seasoning and sauce selection, so you’ll finish with a solid understanding of how to balance flavors and choose ingredients that elevate your dishes.

The class culminates in tasting your creations, accompanied by a well-chosen glass of wine. The relaxed environment encourages conversation with fellow participants, and you’ll leave with not just new recipes but newfound confidence in Chinese cooking.

While in London, here are other experiences we've covered

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Starting the Day: Introduction and Technique Demonstration

Usually, the day begins with a short introduction to Chinese cuisine and the ingredients you’ll be working with. The instructor will demonstrate key techniques, such as wok stir-frying, deep-frying, and steaming, before you start practicing them yourself.

The focus here is on fundamentals—how to use your wok efficiently, proper knife handling with a Chinese cleaver, and the basics of seasoning. This part of the class is especially valuable for beginners who want to learn in a low-pressure setting.

Hands-On Cooking: Making the Menu

Once the basics are covered, it’s time to get hands-on. You’ll be working on a variety of dishes, each teaching a different skill:

Hunan Beef: Spicy, flavorful, stir-fried beef with peppers, showcasing high-heat wok techniques.
Jiaozi Dumplings: Folding and sealing dumplings, a classic skill that takes time to master but is very satisfying.
Vegetable Chow Mein: Stir-fried noodles with fresh veggies, emphasizing quick-wok cooking.
Green Beans in Chilli Hoisin Sauce: A simple yet bold side dish that teaches balance of flavors.
Steamed Sea Bass: An elegant dish that highlights steaming’s precision and finesse.

Throughout this process, you’ll learn to how to incorporate sauces like soy, oyster, black bean, and sweet and sour sauce**—key to authentic Chinese flavors.

More Great Tours Nearby

Learning from the Pros

The class is led by an experienced English-speaking chef who makes everything accessible. Reviewers mention the instructors are approachable, patient, and eager to share their knowledge. Many comments highlight the personalized attention, with individual stations for prep and pairing up for cooking at the hob.

While in London, here are other experiences we've covered

Tasting and Wine

After all the hard work, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. The instructor encourages tasting each dish, explaining how different seasonings and sauces work together. The wine served with the meal adds a relaxing touch, making it easier to discuss techniques and share tips.

Post-Class Tips

You’ll want to bring some Tupperware to take home leftovers—many find it’s a good way to savor their new skills later. The class doesn’t include transportation, so plan to arrive prepared for a lively, hands-on experience that will hopefully inspire you to try Chinese cooking at home.

Analyzing the Value

At $264 per person, the price might seem steep for some, but considering you’re getting a full 3-hour class with expert instruction, hands-on practice, a variety of dishes, and wine, it’s a fair deal. The ability to learn real Chinese techniques and pick up new skills that you can replicate adds long-term value.

Participants often mention the quality of the wine as a highlight, making the experience feel more like a fun, social event than just a cooking lesson. The small group size and individual stations make it a personalized experience, especially for those who appreciate detailed guidance.

Accessibility and Considerations

The class is suitable for all experience levels, which broadens its appeal. It’s not recommended for children under 16, so this is more of an adult activity. The menu can accommodate vegetarians and allergy concerns if notified in advance, which is a plus.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

If you’re an adventurous eater eager to learn real Chinese cooking techniques, this class will be a hit. Foodies who enjoy interactive, social experiences will appreciate the wine and the lively atmosphere.

It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling solo or as a couple, thanks to the pairing-up system which promotes camaraderie. However, if you’re looking for a quick activity or are traveling with children, this might not fit your plans.

The Sum Up

This full-day Chinese banquet cooking class offers a practical and enjoyable way to broaden your culinary skills in London. You’ll come away with genuine techniques, new recipes, and the confidence to cook Chinese dishes at home—plus the bonus of enjoying good wine in a friendly setting.

It’s best suited for food lovers, beginners willing to learn, or anyone eager to get a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine. The experience balances hands-on practice with expert guidance, making it well worth the price for those who want more than just a sightseeing tour.

While 3 hours isn’t a full day, the depth of instruction and quality of dishes make it feel substantial. Just remember it’s not a kids’ activity and requires a bit of time commitment. If that sounds like your kind of culinary adventure, this class could be your ticket to an impressive new skill.

Ready to Book?

London: Full Day Chinese Banquet Cooking Class with Wine

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The class is designed to be welcoming for all skill levels, including those with no prior cooking experience.

How long is the class?
The class lasts around 3 hours, giving you plenty of hands-on practice without it feeling rushed.

Can I participate if I have food allergies?
Yes, the menu may contain allergens like nuts, shellfish, gluten, and egg. The provider can accommodate vegetarians and allergies if notified in advance.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring some Tupperware if you want to take leftovers home. All ingredients and equipment are provided.

Is wine included?
Yes, a glass of wine is included to enjoy while you cook and taste your dishes.

What’s the group size?
Class sizes range from 6 to 12 students, maintaining a friendly and interactive environment.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your plans.

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, it’s only for participants aged 16 and older.

Is the class accessible for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options are available upon request, and the provider is happy to accommodate dietary preferences.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, making it easy to fit into your travel schedule.

This Chinese banquet cooking class in London offers a tasty mix of skills, flavors, and fun. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, it’s a chance to learn, taste, and enjoy—plus, you’ll walk away with a new appreciation for Chinese cuisine.