Bali’s Best Cooking Classes – Learn How to Make Traditional Balinese Dishes

One of the best ways to experience the culture of Bali is through its rich and flavorful cuisine. While dining at a local warung is a great way to taste authentic Balinese dishes, learning how to cook them yourself takes the experience to a whole new level.

Bali is home to incredible cooking classes that allow you to dive deep into the island’s culinary traditions, from selecting fresh ingredients in local markets to mastering the art of Balinese spice pastes and traditional cooking techniques. If you want to bring a piece of Bali’s flavors back home, here are the best cooking classes where you can learn to make authentic Balinese dishes.

1. Paon Bali Cooking Class – A Local Experience in Ubud

For a true Balinese home cooking experience, Paon Bali Cooking Class in Ubud is one of the most highly recommended. This family-run class is held in a traditional Balinese home, offering an authentic glimpse into local culinary life.

Why Join Paon Bali Cooking Class?

• Visit a local market to learn about spices, fresh vegetables, and Balinese cooking essentials.
• Learn traditional cooking techniques from local chefs in a home kitchen.
• Cook multiple dishes including Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Satay Lilit (minced seafood skewers), and Lawar (Balinese salad).

What to Expect?

• Morning market tour followed by a hands-on cooking session.
• A chance to learn about Balinese food culture and home-style cooking.
• Vegetarian and vegan-friendly options available.

Local Tip: Book in advance, as this class is one of the most popular in Ubud and fills up quickly.

2. Balinese Farm Cooking School – Cook in a Rice Field Setting

If you want a more immersive countryside experience, the Balinese Farm Cooking School offers a farm-to-table cooking class in the middle of lush rice fields.

Why Join Balinese Farm Cooking School?

• Harvest fresh ingredients from an organic farm before cooking.
• Scenic countryside location with beautiful rice field views.
• Learn the fundamentals of Balinese cuisine, including how to make Bumbu Bali (spice paste) from scratch.

What to Expect?

• Guided farm tour to pick herbs and vegetables before cooking.
• Hands-on class where you’ll cook dishes like Ayam Betutu (Balinese spiced chicken) and Pepes Ikan (grilled fish in banana leaves).
• Enjoy your meal in a traditional bamboo hut surrounded by rice fields.

Local Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking through rice paddies and farm areas.

3. Pemulan Bali Farm Cooking School – Best for Sustainability Lovers

For travelers who love eco-friendly experiences, Pemulan Bali Farm Cooking School is one of the best places to learn about sustainable farming and traditional Balinese cooking.

Why Join Pemulan Bali Cooking School?

• Learn about organic farming and the importance of fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
• Ideal for vegetarians and vegans, with plant-based Balinese dishes on the menu.
• Hands-on experience, from picking vegetables to preparing the meal.

What to Expect?

• Farm tour to harvest ingredients, followed by a step-by-step cooking session.
• Learn to make dishes like Gado-Gado (Indonesian salad with peanut sauce) and Tempeh Manis (sweet fried tempeh).
• Relax and enjoy your homemade meal in a peaceful jungle setting.

Local Tip: This class is perfect for families and groups looking for a fun and educational cooking experience.

4. Anika Cooking Class – Best for Traditional Market Tours

Located in Kuta, Anika Cooking Class is known for its comprehensive market tours and deep dive into Balinese spices and traditional cooking methods.

Why Join Anika Cooking Class?

• Visit a bustling local market and learn how to choose the freshest ingredients.
• Expert Balinese chefs guide you through the cooking process.
• Hands-on experience in making dishes like Rendang (slow-cooked beef curry) and Bubur Injin (black rice pudding).

What to Expect?

• Market tour experience, where you’ll learn about exotic Balinese ingredients.
• Step-by-step cooking demonstration followed by hands-on preparation.
• End the session with a delicious Balinese feast.

Local Tip: This class is great for first-time travelers looking to explore Balinese flavors and local markets.

5. Tresna Bali Cooking School – A Gourmet Balinese Experience

If you’re looking for a more upscale and gourmet cooking class, Tresna Bali Cooking School offers a premium experience in a luxurious open-air kitchen.

Why Join Tresna Bali Cooking School?

• Private, small-group experience, making it more personal and interactive.
• High-quality organic ingredients sourced from local farmers.
• Learn advanced cooking techniques, making it perfect for food lovers.

What to Expect?

• A guided cooking session in a luxury kitchen surrounded by nature.
• Create dishes like Ikan Pepes (grilled fish wrapped in banana leaves) and Sate Lilit (Balinese minced meat skewers).
• Enjoy a multi-course meal in a beautiful, peaceful setting.

Local Tip: This is a great option for couples or small groups looking for an exclusive cooking experience.

Learn the Secrets of Balinese Cuisine

Taking a cooking class in Bali is more than just learning how to cook—it’s about understanding the culture, ingredients, and traditions that make Balinese food so special. Whether you want to join a farm-to-table experience, learn from a local family, or dive into Balinese spice blends, there’s a perfect cooking class for every traveler.

Best Cooking Classes Based on Your Style:

• Best for Traditional Home Cooking: Paon Bali Cooking Class
• Best for Nature Lovers: Balinese Farm Cooking School
• Best for Organic & Vegan Cooking: Pemulan Bali Cooking School
• Best for Market Tours: Anika Cooking Class
• Best for Luxury Experience: Tresna Bali Cooking School

For a truly immersive culinary experience, book a cooking class with Bali Gate Tours and discover the flavors of Bali through hands-on learning and local insights.