Cooking Class near Disney in Tampa Florida

If you’re looking to add a tasty, authentic twist to your Tampa trip, this private cooking class with Eric and Nancy might just be what you need. It’s a chance to step into a local’s kitchen, learn from someone with over 40 years of experience, and walk away with both new skills and a delicious meal. We’ve checked out the details and reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

One thing we really like about this experience is how personalized it is—since it’s private, you get a custom session tailored to your tastes and dietary needs. Plus, Eric’s warm, welcoming attitude shines through, making you feel like a guest in a friend’s home rather than a tourist in a class. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the location—your transport options might be limited since it’s not right in the heart of the tourist hub, but it’s only about 30-45 minutes from major spots like Clearwater, St Petersburg, or Disney.

This experience is best suited for food lovers who want a genuine home-cooked meal, those interested in learning new recipes, and folks who enjoy a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or a small group, if you like hands-on activities and authentic cultural experiences, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Authentic, private experience in a local Tampa home, perfect for personalized attention.
• Learn to cook two dishes from scratch, with options including Mexican, American BBQ, seafood, or Sunday brunch.
• Welcoming hosts who love sharing their passion for food and storytelling.
• A chance to enjoy a fresh, homemade meal in a warm, relaxed setting.
• Flexible dietary accommodations available if you let the hosts know in advance.
• Includes alcoholic beverages and all fees—no hidden costs.
• Ideal for those craving a cultural culinary insight but not necessarily a family-friendly activity unless you’re traveling with food-loving kids.

What to Expect from Your Tampa Cooking Class

From the moment you arrive at Eric and Nancy’s beautiful home, you’ll feel the inviting atmosphere. The setting is spacious, bright, and designed to make you feel comfortable. This isn’t a sterile kitchen classroom; it’s a real home where food is prepared with care and love. Eric’s friendly personality makes the entire experience feel like cooking with a good friend rather than attending a formal class.

Your 1.5-hour hands-on session begins in the open, welcoming kitchen. You’ll learn to make two dishes, tailored to your choice of menu—whether that’s a lively Mexican Fiesta with fresh ingredients, an American BBQ with perfectly grilled meats, seafood caught that day, or a Sunday brunch with all the fixings (only on Sundays). Depending on your selection, you’ll get a good mix of prep, cooking, and plating, all while chatting with your hosts about their travels, their love for food, and their lives in Tampa.

After cooking, you’ll gather around Nancy and Eric’s dining table to enjoy the meal you helped create. This gives you a chance not just to taste your efforts but to savor a relaxed, community-style feast. The meal is complemented with some tea or coffee, rounding out the experience with a comforting finish.

The Dishes and Menus

You’ll choose one of four exciting menu options, which keeps things fresh and seasonal. The Mexican Fiesta promises vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, perfect if you love bold, zesty dishes. The American BBQ option showcases grilled meats—Eric is a pro with the outdoor grill, ensuring your meats are cooked to perfection. Seafood lovers will appreciate Eric’s local fish or shrimp, caught that very day—adding a real sense of freshness to your meal. The Sunday brunch is a more laid-back option, ideal for a midday feast with all the classic brunch staples.

The ability to customize for dietary needs is a plus—if you’re vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, just let the hosts know when booking. The experience is private, so your group gets all the attention, making it ideal for couples, friends, or small families interested in a culinary adventure.

The Value of this Experience

At $88 per person, this experience offers good value, especially considering it includes all fees, taxes, and alcohol. Compared to dining out at a restaurant, you’re getting the added benefit of a personalized, interactive activity that teaches you new skills. Plus, cooking in someone’s home often feels more genuine and memorable than a commercial class.

Several reviews highlight how much people appreciated the warmth and friendliness of Eric and Nancy. One reviewer called them “super awesome people” who made the experience feel like “meeting new friends,” emphasizing the personal touch you get when cooking in a home environment. Food quality also gets high praise, with guests mentioning “amazing Mexican food” and “the best Sangria I have ever had.”

Given the positive feedback, it’s clear that this isn’t just about the food—it’s about the experience, the stories, and the connections made over a shared love of cooking.

The Location and Accessibility

While it’s not located directly in the Disney area or downtown Tampa, the home is within a 30-45 minute drive from popular spots like Clearwater and St Petersburg. This makes it a nice option if you’re staying in one of these areas and want a break from the usual tourist activities. The meeting point at Kingsbury Circle is convenient, near public transportation and with easy parking options.

Keep in mind, hotel pickup isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your transport. If you’re coming from Disney or other attractions, plan your route accordingly—most guests find that it’s worth the short drive for the authentic experience.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cooking class is especially suited for those who enjoy hands-on activities, local culture, and good food. If you’re traveling with a partner or small group who loves to cook or wants to learn new recipes, it’s a perfect fit. It also appeals to travelers who prefer intimate, private experiences over large tours—here, you’re the only group, ensuring personalized attention.

It’s also great for foodies eager to understand more about regional cuisine—whether that’s Mexican, American BBQ, or fresh seafood. If you’re interested in a relaxed, genuine experience that combines learning, eating, and storytelling, this will meet your expectations.

Final Thoughts

This Tampa-based private cooking class offers a warm, authentic taste of local hospitality. You’re not just learning to cook—you’re sharing stories, enjoying good company, and walking away with a meal you helped create. The fact that it’s run in a real home adds to the charm, making it feel less like a tourist activity and more like a visit to a friend’s place.

While it might not be the best choice if you’re looking for a large group tour or a culinary school-style experience, it excels if you want something relaxed, personal, and genuinely flavorful. The reviews clearly show that guests leave feeling like they’ve made new friends and learned something new—and that’s a rare find.

If you’re a curious traveler who appreciates good company and great food, this class is worth considering. It’s a cozy, memorable way to add a local flavor to your Tampa adventures.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the hands-on, relaxed environment could work for children who enjoy cooking, especially if they’re comfortable in a home setting. Just check with the hosts beforehand.

Can I request vegetarian or gluten-free menus?
Yes, Eric can accommodate all special dietary needs if you inform him when booking. The menu options may vary depending on the season, but flexibility is available.

What’s included in the price?
The $88 fee covers the private cooking class, all fees and taxes, alcohol beverages, and gratuities. It’s a comprehensive cost without hidden charges.

Where does the class take place?
In a spacious, welcoming home in Tampa, about 30-45 minutes from major attractions like Clearwater, St Petersburg, and Disney.

How long is the class?
Approximately 3 hours in total, with about 1.5 hours dedicated to the hands-on cooking portion.

Is transportation provided?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.

What if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?
Just let the hosts know in advance, and they’ll do their best to accommodate your needs.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 2 days in advance for a full refund.

This private Tampa cooking class offers a chance to connect with local culture through food, learn new recipes, and enjoy a cozy meal in a welcoming home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking to try something different, it’s a delightful way to spend part of your trip.