Porto: Vegan Portuguese Cooking Class with Meal & Drinks

If you’re dreaming of exploring Portugal’s culinary scene but prefer plant-based options, this Vegan Portuguese Cooking Class in Porto could be a real treat. It’s a cozy, three-hour experience designed to teach you how to craft traditional dishes in a fully vegan way, all while sharing a meal with fellow food lovers.

We really like that this experience combines interactive cooking with the chance to sample your own creations, plus the opportunity to learn local tips and techniques from a knowledgeable chef. The fact that it happens in an intimate apartment setting makes the atmosphere relaxed and personal — no giant, noisy kitchens here.

One thing to keep in mind is that this experience is limited to just five participants, so it’s perfect if you want a more personalized approach. However, it’s also worth noting that the tour runs for three hours, which is pretty standard but might be a bit tight if you’re planning to squeeze in a lot of activities in Porto.

Overall, if you’re looking for an engaging, authentic way to deepen your appreciation for Portuguese cuisine—especially if you’re vegan or curious about plant-based cooking—this class is likely to suit you well. It’s especially ideal for foodies who love hands-on experiences and enjoy sharing meals in cozy settings.

Key Points

• Hands-on learning: Prepare a full vegan Portuguese menu under expert guidance.
• Authentic recipes: Learn traditional techniques and insider tips from local chefs.
• Communal meal: Enjoy a shared, relaxed dining experience paired with wine or drinks.
• Limited group size: Small groups ensure a personalized, engaging experience.
• Includes recipe PDF: Take home digital recipes to recreate at home.
• Location: Cozy apartment setting provides an intimate atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Vegan Cooking Class in Porto

Stepping into this experience, you’ll find yourself in a warm, inviting apartment on Porto’s second floor, which immediately sets a friendly tone. The host, Marinada, begins by welcoming you with pre-prepared appetizers—think of it as a taste teaser and a good way to get chatting with your fellow participants. These little bites are a nice introduction to Portuguese flavors, just enough to whet your appetite.

Once settled, the real fun begins. You’ll be guided through preparing dishes that are traditional yet fully plant-based. The menu typically includes a classic Portuguese main dish and a dessert that showcases local flavors, all vegan. The emphasis is on interactive participation — you’re encouraged to taste and smell as you go, which helps in understanding authentic techniques. The guidance is clear but flexible, allowing you to learn at your own pace.

Throughout the session, you’ll pick up insider tips from your local chef, which might include secrets about ingredient substitutions or cooking tricks that make a real difference. These insights elevate the experience from simple cooking to a genuine learning opportunity. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the dishes during the cooking process, not just at the end, making it a true hands-on experience.

When everything’s ready, you sit down to a communal meal paired with a glass of wine, soft drinks, or natural juices — a lovely way to enjoy the fruits of your labor. The entire workshop wraps up with a digital PDF of the recipes, so you can try making these dishes at home, spreading the Porto magic beyond your trip.

The Breakdown of the Experience

Meeting and Atmosphere

Starting in a cozy apartment, the experience feels very personal. The space is small, with a maximum of five participants, which makes it easy to ask questions and get plenty of hands-on guidance. This intimacy is a real plus, especially if you prefer your cooking classes to be more like a friendly workshop than a large-scale demonstration.

The Appetizer Welcome

Your host Marinada kicks things off with a selection of appetizers, offering an immediate taste of what’s to come. Reviews mention that these appetizers set a warm, welcoming tone, and are a nice way to start the session. Since the appetizers are prepared beforehand, they’re ready to enjoy upon arrival, giving you a good sense of Portuguese flavors early on.

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The Cooking Segment

The heart of the class involves preparing a full menu — including a main dish and a dessert. The guide provides clear instructions, with plenty of tips to help you master techniques that are authentic to Portuguese cuisine, but adapted for vegans. From what we gather, the dishes are traditional enough to satisfy those seeking genuine flavors but are thoughtfully veganized.

Participants have expressed appreciation for the guidance, with one mentioning that the instructor “helped us understand how to bring out the flavors naturally and gave insider tips that made a difference.” The process is very interactive, with tastings during cooking, so you’re constantly adjusting and learning.

The Meal and Drinks

Once the dishes are cooked, it’s time to sit down together. The shared meal offers an opportunity to chat about what you’ve learned, compare notes, and enjoy a relaxed, convivial atmosphere. The pairing of wine and soft drinks is consistently praised, with guests noting the excellent quality of the drinks and how they complement the dishes.

Takeaways and Recipes

Part of the value here is that you get a digital PDF with all the recipes. This means you can revisit what you’ve learned and try making these vegan Portuguese dishes at home, which is especially handy if you’re trying to stick to a plant-based diet or want to impress friends with authentic flavors.

Is This Experience Worth It?

When you consider the price, the value lies not just in the meal but in the learning experience. You’re getting personalized guidance from a local chef, the chance to prepare authentic dishes yourself, and a communal meal to enjoy your creations. Plus, the recipes you take home mean you’re extending the experience well beyond Porto.

Some reviews mention that the class is a bit short for those wanting a more in-depth culinary deep-dive, but three hours is enough to learn and enjoy a complete meal without feeling rushed. The inclusion of drinks and the intimate setting make it feel like a friendly gathering rather than a formal class.

Who Is It Best For?

This experience is perfect for food lovers, especially those interested in vegan cuisine or wanting to explore Portuguese flavors in a hands-on way. It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer small-group experiences over large tours. If you’re keen on learning authentic cooking techniques and enjoying a relaxed meal with fellow travelers, this class will likely be a highlight.

The Practicalities

Location and Convenience

The workshop is held in a cozy apartment in Porto, with precise coordinates provided. While it’s not in a major tourist hub, the address is easy enough to find, and the intimate setting makes the experience feel like visiting a friend’s home.

Duration and Group Size

The class lasts about three hours, which includes preparation, cooking, and eating. Limited to five participants, it’s a good choice if you prefer personal attention and a quieter environment.

Language and Accessibility

The class is offered in both Portuguese and English, ensuring clear communication. The small group size also helps in getting your questions answered comfortably.

Cancellation and Flexibility

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the option to reserve now and pay later adds flexibility if your plans aren’t firm yet.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking an authentic, interactive way to experience Portuguese cuisine in a vegan-friendly way, this class offers a lot of value. The cozy setting, expert guidance, and the chance to enjoy a meal with wine make it more than just a cooking lesson — it’s a shared experience that captures the spirit of Porto’s welcoming vibe.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy culinary activities, small-group settings, and homemade-style dishes. While it might not be ideal if you’re looking for a long, intensive cooking course, it hits the right notes for a memorable, practical, and delicious Porto adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to be interactive and accessible, so even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll find it manageable and fun.

Can I join if I don’t speak Portuguese?
Absolutely. The class is offered in English as well, making it easy for non-Portuguese speakers to follow along.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing is recommended — you’ll be actively involved in cooking, so casual, easy-to-move-in attire is best.

Is the experience family-friendly?
The details specify a small group of up to five participants, but it’s generally suitable for adults. If you’re considering bringing children, it’s best to check with the organizer for specific age recommendations.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the experience includes wine, soft drinks, or natural juices to pair with your meal.

Can I get a vegetarian option instead?
This particular class is vegan-focused, so all dishes are plant-based. If you’re not vegan, you might still enjoy the dishes, but the menu is specifically designed to be vegan.

This Vegan Portuguese Cooking Class in Porto offers a warm, engaging way to deepen your culinary knowledge while enjoying authentic flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just curious about vegan Portuguese food, it’s an experience that’s both practical and memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: