Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Wine Bar in Nashville

Our review takes a close look at a sushi-making class in Nashville that promises more than just cooking — it combines learning, tasting, and socializing in a relaxed setting. While we haven’t personally taken this class, the detailed overview reveals a pretty appealing experience for those eager to master sushi skills and enjoy some local wines in a charming environment.

Two aspects stand out immediately: the opportunity to learn from an experienced chef like Dylan and the chance to pair your creations with carefully selected wines. These elements elevate what might otherwise be just a hands-on cooking class into an authentic, memorable night out.

However, a potential consideration is the price point — $75 per person. For this, you get a structured, two-hour session with all materials provided, but if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more casual tasting, you might find other options more economical.

This experience suits foodies, beginners curious about sushi, couples, or groups looking for a fun activity that combines education and socializing. Anyone interested in a taste of Nashville’s local culinary scene with a Japanese twist will find this class appealing.

Key Points

• Hands-on learning: You’ll actively participate in making two sushi rolls from scratch.
• Expert guidance: Chef Dylan provides clear instructions, making it suitable for beginners.
• Wine pairing: The relaxed wine bar atmosphere allows you to taste wines that complement your sushi.
• All materials included: No need to bring anything — everything is provided for you.
• Flexible timing and location: Starts at 6:00pm at Grinder’s Switch Winery, making it easy to fit into an evening plan.
• Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds flexibility.

An Overview of the Experience

This 2-hour sushi-making class offers a blend of culinary skills, local ambiance, and wine tasting. Hosted at a cozy wine bar within the historic Marathon Village, it feels intimate yet lively. The setting encourages mingling and relaxing, making it more than just a lesson — it’s a social event sharing good food and wine.

Chef Dylan leads the class, guiding participants through the process of preparing seasoned sushi rice, a crucial foundation for good sushi. We loved the way the instructor breaks down the steps, making it accessible for novices while still engaging for those with some kitchen experience.

The class covers slicing techniques for fresh ingredients like avocado, cucumber, and mango. Under Dylan’s watchful eye, you’ll learn how to slice with precision, which makes all the difference in sushi presentation and texture. The fact that all necessary ingredients and tools are provided means you can focus fully on learning and having fun.

The two flagship rolls are classic and refreshing. First, a California roll featuring avocado, cucumber, and surimi. This is a familiar favorite that introduces you to the basics of rolling and assembling. Then, a veggie roll with mango, avocado, and cucumber offers a bright, flavorful alternative, perfect for those who prefer plant-based options.

Throughout, participants are encouraged to enjoy wines chosen to complement sushi flavors. The pairing aspect is a real highlight, adding a sophisticated touch to this casual activity. The bar offers drinks ranging from $3 to $20, allowing you to indulge without feeling pressured.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The session begins promptly at 6:00pm at the Grinder’s Switch Winery. Expect a warm welcome and a quick overview of what you’ll be doing. Instructors emphasize safety and technique early on, especially for those new to sushi preparation.

The first part of the class is dedicated to making the seasoned sushi rice. This step is fundamental — properly seasoned rice is the backbone of sushi, and Dylan’s detailed explanation helps you understand how to achieve that perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Next, you’ll move on to preparing fresh ingredients. Slicing mango, avocado, and cucumber involves some knife skills; Dylan demonstrates how to do this efficiently and safely. Participants then get hands-on with assembling their rolls, rolling tightly to get that professional look.

This part of the class is lively and interactive, with everyone sharing their progress and tips. It’s a great chance to learn from others’ techniques and mistakes, which makes the experience more engaging.

Finally, you’ll slice your sushi rolls into bite-sized pieces, learning to cut cleanly without crushing the roll. At this stage, Dylan offers tips on presentation, making your sushi look as good as it tastes.

Throughout the session, you sip on wines, which are carefully selected to enhance the flavor of your sushi. While the class doesn’t include drinks, the bar menu is accessible for purchase, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the evening.

Authenticity and Value

Foodies and beginners alike appreciate how authentic and approachable this class feels. The focus is on learning practical skills in a welcoming environment. The fact that all ingredients and tools are provided means there’s no extra hassle or hidden costs, making the $75 price quite reasonable for this level of interaction.

Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guidance of Chef Dylan and the delicious wine pairings as standout features. One review mentions the “excellent wine selection” that adds a refined touch, making the experience feel more special than just a cooking class.

Another reviewer appreciated the relaxed vibe: “It felt like a fun night out with friends,” emphasizing the social component. The small group size (up to 25 travelers) ensures personalized attention and lively conversations.

Practical Details

Starting at 6:00 pm, the class lasts approximately two hours — an ideal length for those wanting an evening activity without it dragging on. The meeting point, at Grinder’s Switch Winery, is accessible via public transportation and close to central Nashville, making it easy to include in your evening plans.

All participants receive confirmation within 48 hours of booking, and the free cancellation policy offers peace of mind should your plans change. Dietary needs are accommodated if communicated in advance, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.

Final Thoughts

This sushi-making class in Nashville offers a well-balanced mix of skill-building, tasting, and socializing. It’s perfect for beginners eager to learn sushi techniques, couples looking for a fun night out, or food lovers wanting to deepen their culinary knowledge. The combination of expert guidance, quality ingredients, and wine pairing creates an experience that feels both educational and indulgent.

While the price might be higher than just dining out, you’re gaining much more — a new skill, a memorable evening, and some delicious food you’ve made yourself. The relaxed, friendly setting ensures you’ll leave feeling accomplished and inspired to try sushi at home.

For travelers wanting a hands-on, authentic activity that’s different from sightseeing tours or typical tastings, this class makes a charming, engaging choice. Just remember to book in advance, especially during busy seasons, as it’s popular and booked an average of 35 days ahead.

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The class is designed to teach the basics of sushi making, with clear guidance from Chef Dylan, making it accessible even if you’ve never cooked sushi before.

Are all ingredients included?
Yes, all necessary ingredients and cooking tools are provided, so you don’t need to bring anything extra.

Can I purchase drinks during the class?
Drinks are available for purchase at the bar, with prices ranging from $3 to $20. The class itself does not include drinks, but you are encouraged to enjoy wine during the session.

Where does the class take place?
The class is hosted at Grinder’s Switch Winery within Marathon Village, a cozy and accessible location in Nashville.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

How long is the class?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect evening activity without overextending your schedule.

This Nashville sushi class offers an engaging way to spend an evening — combining culinary skills, local wines, and a friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just curious about sushi, you’ll find this experience both enjoyable and rewarding.