London is a haven for food lovers, especially those who prefer plant-based meals. The city’s diverse culinary scene means you can find everything from traditional pubs to innovative vegetarian dishes. But for those who want a more interactive experience, taking a vegetarian or vegan cooking class is a fantastic way to learn new skills and enjoy authentic flavors. We particularly like the Vegetarian Chinese Cooking Class with Wine for its hands-on approach and the chance to master wok cooking with a vegetarian twist. It’s a fun, immersive experience with a relaxed vibe, perfect for foodies eager to cook and sip wine in the company of fellow travelers.
London’s vegetarian tour options are varied, focusing on different Asian cuisines, which are naturally rich in vegetable-based dishes. Whether you prefer Korean, Thai, or Chinese, each offers a unique perspective on vegetarian cooking, often combining flavor mastery with cultural insights. From making kimchi and Korean seasoning to Thai curry pastes, these experiences go beyond typical sightseeing—giving you practical skills and delicious recipes to take home. Below, you’ll find three of the best vegetarian and vegan cooking tours that stand out for their authenticity, expert guidance, and engaging hands-on format.
1. London: Vegetarian Chinese Cooking Class with Wine
Priced at $156 per person for a 3-hour session, this class combines authentic Chinese dishes with a vegetarian twist. The focus is on mastering wok techniques, including the coveted wok hei flavor, which adds that smoky, fragrant touch to stir-fries. The instructor guides you through key Chinese seasonings and flavor profiles, making it clear how to balance salty, sweet, sour, and savory.
What makes this class stand out is the interactive, hands-on approach. You get to prepare and cook several dishes, such as vegetable stir-fry, tofu dishes, and flavorful sauces. As you cook, you can enjoy a glass of wine, which enhances the relaxed, social atmosphere. Many reviews highlight the thorough guidance and the delicious results, with one noting, “I came away with confidence to cook Chinese at home.”
This experience is ideal for food lovers interested in learning wok skills and Chinese flavor profiles in a fun, friendly setting. The class is suitable for vegetarians and those seeking a practical skill they can replicate later. The only potential downside is that it’s a relatively short session, so if you want a more comprehensive culinary deep dive, you might prefer longer classes.
Bottom Line: A lively, approachable class perfect for those who want to impress friends with authentic Chinese vegetarian dishes and enjoy wine in good company.
2. London: Vegetarian Korean Cooking Class with Wine
At $156 for a 3-hour class, this hands-on experience is tailored to vegetarian Korean cuisine, including recipes like kimchi, Yachaejeon (vegetable pancakes), and vegetarian Kimbap. The instructor takes you through Korean seasoning secrets and helps you develop knife skills, especially with the use of a Chinese cleaver, which is a fun and useful skill.
This class is unique because it focuses on making traditional Korean dishes from scratch, emphasizing the importance of fermentation and seasoning. Guests particularly enjoy the lively, social atmosphere, often noting how the instructor makes everything clear and accessible. One review states, “I learned so much about Korean flavors, and the kimchi I made at home was a hit.” You also get to enjoy a glass of wine, adding to the convivial vibe.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on DIY kimchi and vegetable pancakes, giving you skills to recreate these dishes anytime. It’s best suited for those interested in Asian flavors and willing to get a bit messy in the kitchen. The only drawback could be the level of knife work involved—beginners might find the chopping challenging.
Bottom Line: A highly engaging class that offers authentic Korean recipes and practical skills, ideal for foodies eager to explore Korean vegetarian cuisine.
3. London: Vegetarian Thai Cooking Class with Wine
For $156 and lasting 3 hours, this class dives into the fragrant world of vegetarian Thai dishes. You’ll learn how to make red curry paste from scratch using a pestle and mortar, creating the base for delicious vegetable curries. The class emphasizes knife skills, including proper use of a Chinese cleaver, and how to balance Thai flavors—sweet, sour, salty, and spicy.
This experience is distinguished by its focus on fresh vegetables and aromatic ingredients, resulting in vibrant, wholesome meals. The instructor is an expert guide, offering insights into Thai culinary traditions and flavor combinations. Many participants praise the hands-on experience with one saying, “I now feel confident making authentic Thai curry at home.” You’ll also enjoy a glass of Monsoon Valley Thai wine, which complements the meal beautifully.
This class is ideal for those who want to learn Thai cooking techniques and create dishes bursting with flavor. The focus on creating curry paste and vegetarian dishes makes it particularly appealing to spice lovers and veggie enthusiasts alike. Potential downsides include the level of knife work required, which may be challenging for complete beginners, but overall, it’s a rewarding experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who love bold flavors and want to master Thai cooking in a lively, hands-on environment.
How to Choose
When selecting the best vegetarian or vegan tour in London, consider your interests, budget, and how much hands-on cooking you want to do. If your goal is to learn Chinese wok techniques, the Vegetarian Chinese Cooking Class offers a great introduction. For a taste of Korean fermentation and knife skills, the Vegetarian Korean Class is ideal. If you’re passionate about Thai flavors and curry making, the Vegetarian Thai Class is your best bet.
Think about how much time you want to spend and whether you prefer a shorter class focused on specific dishes or a more comprehensive experience. All three tours include a glass of wine, making them perfect for a relaxed, social outing. Booking early is advisable, especially during busy tourist seasons.
Final Thoughts
London offers a wonderful range of vegetarian and vegan food tours that combine culture, cooking, and fun. Whether you want to master wok-cooked Chinese dishes, learn the secrets of Korean fermentation, or create aromatic Thai curries, these classes deliver hands-on skills you can show off at home. For the best value and most authentic experience, we recommend booking ahead and choosing based on your culinary curiosity and preferred cuisine. Each of these options promises a memorable, tasty adventure — so get your apron ready and enjoy discovering new flavors in London’s vibrant plant-based food scene.