DRINKING SCHOOL: Mexican Cocktail & Appetizer Class

Discovering the Flavors of Mexico: A Review of the Drinking School: Mexican Cocktail & Appetizer Class

If you’re looking to turn your evenings in Playa del Carmen into a flavorful adventure, the Drinking School with Chef Coty might be just what you need. This 3-hour experience isn’t your typical cooking class — it combines the art of mixing drinks with creating delicious appetizers, all inspired by authentic Mexican ingredients and seasoned with stories from the chef’s own life. It’s a lively, hands-on event that lets you learn and laugh while tasting some seriously good food and drinks.

What really makes this class stand out are two things: First, the personal touch of Chef Coty’s signature recipes, which aren’t just run-of-the-mill cocktails or snacks — they’re reflections of her own culinary journey, making each sip and bite special. Second, the interactive vibe and friendly guidance from Coty herself, which turns what could be a formal lesson into a fun, memorable experience.

That said, if you’re flying solo, keep in mind you’ll need to coordinate with the team beforehand, as the class requires at least two participants to run. Also, since it’s an all-in-one meal and drink experience, it’s best not to eat beforehand, so you can truly indulge. This experience would suit anyone curious about Mexican flavors, those eager to learn some new skills, or travelers who just want a relaxed, enjoyable evening in a local setting.

Key Points

• Authentic recipes: All cocktails and appetizers are signature creations from Chef Coty’s personal culinary story.
• Fun and educational: You’ll learn to make three different cocktails and three appetizers focused on Mexican ingredients and spirits.
• Inclusive experience: The class includes all ingredients, recipes, and instructions, making it easy to follow and recreate at home.
• Intimate setting: With a maximum of 12 travelers, it feels personal and interactive.
• Perfect for food lovers: Especially those who enjoy hands-on activities and trying new flavors in a relaxed environment.
• Booking tips: Book about 3 weeks in advance for the best chance, and contact in advance if you’re solo.

An In-Depth Look at the Drinking School Experience

When considering a culinary experience like this, we always want to know what makes it worth our time — beyond just the fun of it. The Drinking School: Mexican Cocktail & Appetizer Class ticks several boxes for travelers who want more than just sightseeing. It offers a genuine taste of Mexican culture through food and drink, but with a modern, approachable twist.

The Setting and Location

You’ll meet at El Cielo Residencial in Playa del Carmen, a convenient spot close to public transportation options. The location is not a typical restaurant but a welcoming space where Chef Coty’s personal kitchen serves as the classroom. The intimate atmosphere really helps foster a relaxed vibe, perfect for chatting with Coty and your fellow participants.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The class kicks off at 6 p.m., giving you a lovely early evening start. Over roughly three hours, you’ll:

• Begin by making and tasting your first cocktail. This initial step is a good warm-up, setting the tone for the evening. Coty guides you through the process, explaining the ingredients and techniques, so you’ll get a real sense of how to craft these signature drinks.
• While enjoying your first cocktail, you’ll prepare your first appetizer. This pairing emphasizes Mexican ingredients, and Coty shares stories behind each dish, making it more than just a cooking lesson.
• Next, you’ll repeat the process with a second cocktail and appetizer, building on what you’ve learned and adding some variety.
• Finally, a third round wraps up the evening, leaving you with three cocktails and three appetizers to enjoy or take home.

Throughout the class, Chef Coty infuses her own life experiences into the recipes, making each dish and drink more meaningful than typical offerings. The focus on signature cocktails and appetizers ensures you’re learning something unique — not just the standard margarita and guacamole.

What to Expect from the Recipes

The recipes are crafted to highlight Mexican ingredients and spirits, which might include local herbs, fruits, and traditional flavorings. The approach is practical — you’ll be making everything from scratch, using ingredients provided in the class, and learning techniques that you could replicate at home or impress friends with.

The Learning and Fun Balance

As one reviewer, Irene, put it: “Chef Coty is a sweet and wonderful human being with amazing talent. She guided us through preparing three incredible cocktails and three amazing appetizers. We will definitely return to take a more advanced cooking class. We didn’t want the fun to end.” This captures the spirit of the class perfectly — it’s as much about the experience, laughs, and stories as it is about the food and drinks.

Kenneth, another traveler, described his evening as “fun,” with “lots of laughs and a great time trying new food in CoCo’s kitchen/home.” That’s a good reminder that this isn’t a formal, stiff class — it’s about enjoying yourself and learning in a friendly environment.

The Quality of Instruction

From the reviews, it’s clear that Coty’s guidance is top-notch. Tucker raves about the “world-class instruction,” emphasizing how much he enjoyed the food, drinks, and the overall hospitality. For those new to cocktail mixing or cooking, having a knowledgeable, personable guide makes all the difference.

The Cost and Value

At $105 per person, this class offers a comprehensive package: recipes, ingredients, and hands-on instruction. Compared to exclusive food and drink experiences in Playa del Carmen, this price is reasonable, especially considering the quality of the recipes and the personalized attention. If you’re someone who loves to learn new skills while tasting authentic flavors, this is a good deal.

Who Should Consider It?

This class is perfect for travelers who enjoy interactive experiences, those eager to pick up some Mexican culinary tricks, or anyone looking for a fun, relaxed evening. It’s especially suited for groups, couples, or solo travelers willing to coordinate with the organizers in advance. Keep in mind, since it’s a full meal in drink and appetizer form, don’t plan to eat much beforehand.

Final Thoughts

The Drinking School: Mexican Cocktail & Appetizer Class offers more than just a cooking lesson — it’s a lively, engaging way to connect with Mexican flavors and culture. With Chef Coty’s expert guidance and the chance to make your own signature drinks and snacks, you’re sure to leave with new skills, great stories, and some tasty creations.

If you’re after a genuine, enjoyable experience that combines learning with fun, and you love tasting authentic ingredients, this class is a solid pick. It’s particularly good for those who appreciate a warm, welcoming atmosphere and value quality instruction. Just remember to book ahead, and be ready for a delicious, memorable evening.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, but you’ll need to contact the organizers beforehand because the class requires a minimum of two people to run. It’s a great way to meet others and share a fun evening.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers all recipes, ingredients to prepare the food and drinks, and instructions from Chef Coty. No hidden costs — just show up eager to learn and taste.

How long does the class last?
It runs for approximately three hours, starting at 6 p.m., making it a perfect early evening activity.

Do I need any prior experience?
Not at all. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a complete beginner, Coty’s guidance makes it accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Can I get the recipes after the class?
While not explicitly stated, most similar experiences offer recipes to participants, so you might find you can recreate these at home.

Is this a full meal?
Yes, it’s designed as a full experience — three cocktails and three appetizers — so come hungry or plan to drink responsibly.

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
This experience is tailored toward adults who enjoy cooking and cocktails. It’s not specifically designed for children, and the focus on alcohol suggests it’s best suited for adults.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Last-minute cancellations aren’t eligible for refunds, so plan accordingly.

If you’re craving a lively, tasty, and authentic insight into Mexican cuisine and spirits, this class could just be the highlight of your trip. It’s a blend of culture, skill, and fun that’s hard to beat.