Ankara might not be the first city that comes to mind for culinary adventures, but it’s actually a fantastic place to learn authentic Turkish cooking. The city combines modern life with rich local traditions, making it an ideal spot for hands-on food experiences. We especially love the Baklava Cooking Class because it offers a cozy, home-based environment where you prepare an iconic Turkish sweet from scratch, and you can’t beat the personal touch of a home-hosted experience. Plus, you get to enjoy your creations with Turkish coffee and warm conversation, an authentic slice of hospitality.
In addition, Ankara offers a variety of cooking experiences that cater to different interests and schedules. Whether you’re into sweet pastries like baklava or want to explore the full spectrum of Turkish dishes with an emphasis on sustainability, there’s something for all. Below, we introduce two top-rated cooking classes that stand out for their authenticity, teaching style, and memorable moments.
1. Ankara: Baklava Cooking Class
At number 1 on our list, this baklava-making class is a delightful way to dive into Turkish culinary traditions. The tour lasts about 4 hours, and you’ll step into a cozy kitchen in Central Anatolia where a welcoming local host guides you through every step of creating this sweet pastry. You’ll learn how to knead the dough, prepare the filling, and simmer your homemade syrup—skills that turn simple ingredients into a masterpiece.
What sets this class apart is the personal, home-style atmosphere. It’s not a commercial kitchen but a living room filled with the aroma of fresh ingredients and friendly conversation. You’ll make savory börek and a meze like kıtır or mercimek köftesi, giving you a broader taste of Turkish snack culture. The experience is topped off with Turkish coffee, which is served strong and black—perfect for soaking up the flavors and stories shared by your hosts. Visitors consistently praise this class for its authenticity and warmth. The price of $61 per person is reasonable for a meaningful day of cooking and cultural exchange.
Bottom line: If you want a hands-on, authentic Turkish baking experience in a home setting, this class offers good value and plenty of memorable moments. Perfect for foodies eager to learn a signature dessert and enjoy local hospitality.
2. Ankara: Home Cooking Class, Sustainable Tables & Stories
Coming in second, this three-hour class focuses not just on cooking but on sustainable practices and storytelling behind Turkish cuisine. Taught by Belma and Bengi, the experience includes preparing a full-course Turkish meal using seasonal ingredients, emphasizing zero-waste cooking. This isn’t just about recipes; it’s about understanding the meaning of sofra (the Turkish table) and how food connects to community and environment.
This class excels in its interactive approach—your hosts share stories of traditional dishes and the importance of sustainability in Turkish food culture. You’ll learn techniques to reduce waste in your own kitchen while making dishes that showcase Turkish flavors. After cooking, you’ll sit down together to enjoy the meal you’ve prepared, sharing laughs and stories in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
With a duration of 3 hours, the class is ideal for travelers who want a more comprehensive cultural experience alongside their culinary lesson. It appeals to those interested in ethical eating and learning how to cook with seasonal, local ingredients. The reviews highlight the warm connection with the hosts and the practical knowledge about zero-waste cooking. The class’s value lies in its combination of cultural storytelling, sustainability education, and delicious food—making it a well-rounded experience for around the same price as other classes.
Bottom line: This class is best suited for eco-conscious travelers or those who want to deepen their understanding of Turkish cuisine beyond just recipes. It’s a meaningful, engaging way to learn about Turkish food and sustainability.
How to Choose the Right Cooking Class in Ankara
When deciding between these options, consider what kind of experience you’re after. If your goal is to master the art of baklava and enjoy a cozy, home-based atmosphere, the Baklava Cooking Class is your best bet. It’s perfect for those who want to bring a sweet piece of Turkey home with them. On the other hand, if you’re interested in full-meal preparation, learning about sustainability, and storytelling, the Home Cooking Class with Sustainable Tables & Stories offers a more comprehensive cultural experience.
Also, think about your schedule. The baklava class is longer (4 hours), while the sustainable class is slightly shorter at 3 hours. Both are located in Central Anatolia, making them easily accessible. Budget-wise, both are reasonably priced, but the baklava class provides a more focused, niche experience—great for dedicated dessert lovers.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak tourist seasons, to secure a spot. These classes are popular because they offer authentic, intimate insights into Turkish cuisine—an experience you won’t find in restaurants or larger groups.
Final Thoughts
Ankara’s cooking classes offer a fantastic way to connect with Turkish culture through food. Whether you choose to learn how to make baklava in a cozy home setting or explore full-course meals that emphasize sustainable practices, both options promise a memorable, hands-on experience. For travelers eager to bring home recipes and stories, the baklava class is a sweet, authentic choice. For those curious about modern Turkish cuisine and ethical food practices, the sustainable table experience will resonate.
We recommend booking early, especially if you’re traveling during busy months. Both classes provide a genuine taste of Turkish hospitality and culinary tradition—so don’t miss out on these unique opportunities to cook like a local in Ankara.