Best Cooking Classes in Bali – Learn Authentic Balinese Recipes

Discover Bali Through Its Flavors – Join the Best Cooking Classes in Bali
Bali is more than just stunning beaches and breathtaking landscapes it's also a food lover’s paradise. The island’s rich culinary heritage is deeply rooted in tradition, with dishes that blend fresh herbs, aromatic spices, and time-honored cooking techniques. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Balinese culture is by joining a Balinese cooking class, where you can learn the secrets of authentic Balinese recipes straight from local chefs.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, these cooking classes in Bali will take you on a gastronomic adventure, from shopping for fresh ingredients in a traditional market to preparing a delicious Balinese feast in a hands-on cooking session.
What Makes a Balinese Cooking Class Special?
A Balinese cooking class isn’t just about following recipes it’s about experiencing Bali’s vibrant food culture from the inside. Here’s what makes these classes unique:
- Market Tours – Many classes start with a trip to a traditional Balinese market, where you’ll handpick fresh ingredients and learn about local produce.
- Hands-On Cooking – Under the guidance of experienced local chefs, you’ll get to prepare traditional Balinese dishes from scratch.
- Cultural Experience – Learn about the significance of Balinese food in rituals and ceremonies, as well as the unique flavors that define Balinese cuisine.
- Enjoy Your Own Creations – After cooking, you’ll sit down and enjoy a home-cooked Balinese meal with your fellow participants.
Top Balinese Cooking Classes You Should Try
1. Paon Bali Cooking Class (Ubud)
Located in the heart of Ubud, Paon Bali is one of the most popular cooking schools in Bali. The class starts with a guided market tour, followed by a cooking session in a traditional Balinese kitchen surrounded by rice fields.
Location: Ubud
Dishes You’ll Learn: Nasi Goreng, Chicken Satay, Lawar, Balinese Curry
Best For: First-time visitors looking for an immersive cultural and culinary experience
2. Pemulan Bali Farm Cooking School
If you’re looking for a farm to able cooking experience, Pemulan Bali Farm is the perfect choice. Unlike other classes, this one is held on an organic farm, where you’ll pick fresh vegetables before heading to the kitchen.
Location: North Ubud
Dishes You’ll Learn: Vegetarian and non-vegetarian Balinese dishes, including Tum Ayam and Sayur Urab
Best For: Foodies who want to learn about sustainable cooking and local farming practices
3. Casa Luna Cooking School (Ubud)
Run by renowned chef Janet DeNeefe, Casa Luna Cooking School is a must-visit for serious food lovers. Classes here focus on Balinese cuisine and its connection to Balinese Hindu culture.
Location: Ubud
Dishes You’ll Learn: Babi Kecap, Pepes Ikan, Gado-Gado, Balinese Sauces
Best For: Travelers looking for a deeper understanding of Balinese cuisine and traditions
4. Bamboo Shoots Cooking School (Sanur)
For those staying in South Bali, Bamboo Shoots Cooking School in Sanur offers a fun and interactive cooking experience. The class begins with a market tour, followed by a hands-on cooking session in a beautiful open-air kitchen.
Location: Sanur
Dishes You’ll Learn: Balinese Satay, Ayam Betutu, Sayur Lodeh
Best For: Travelers staying in Sanur or the surrounding area
5. Jambangan Bali Cooking Class (Ubud)
A family-run cooking school, Jambangan Bali Cooking Class offers a warm and welcoming experience. You’ll not only learn how to cook, but also experience traditional Balinese hospitality.
Location: Ubud
Dishes You’ll Learn: Lawar, Bumbu Bali, Sate Lilit
Best For: Those looking for a local and family-oriented cooking experience
What to Expect in a Balinese Cooking Class?
Each cooking class in Bali may offer slightly different experiences, but here’s a general idea of what you can expect:
- Market Tour – Visit a traditional market to shop for fresh ingredients
- Introduction to Balinese Spices – Learn about essential Balinese herbs and spices
- Hands-On Cooking – Prepare a full-course Balinese meal with step-by-step guidance
- Feast on Your Creations – Enjoy the dishes you’ve prepared in a relaxed setting
- Take Home Recipes – Get detailed recipes to recreate Balinese dishes at home
Why You Should Take a Cooking Class in Bali?
- Learn Authentic Balinese Cooking – Discover the flavors that make Balinese cuisine unique
- Engage with Local Chefs – Learn directly from Balinese culinary experts
- Hands-On Experience – Get practical cooking skills that you can use anywhere
- Take a Piece of Bali Home – Impress your family and friends with authentic Balinese recipes
Whether you’re a beginner or a passionate home cook, a Balinese cooking class is a fun, delicious, and cultural way to experience Bali. It’s not just about the food—it’s about the stories, traditions, and love that go into every dish.
Cook Like a Local in Bali!
Taking a cooking class in Bali is one of the best ways to connect with the island’s culture. Not only will you learn authentic Balinese recipes, but you’ll also gain a deeper appreciation for the traditions that shape Balinese cuisine.
So, the next time you visit Bali, make sure to book a cooking class, explore local markets, and enjoy a feast of your own making. Happy cooking!