Chicago: Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Distillery

Trying your hand at making sushi can seem intimidating, especially if you’ve only ever eaten it at restaurants. This Sushi Making Cooking Class in Chicago offers an inviting way to learn the craft from a local chef in a lively setting, perfect for anyone curious about Japanese cuisine or just looking for a fun culinary outing. It’s held at a local distillery, adding a bit of unexpected charm and social buzz to your experience.

What we really appreciate about this class is how accessible it is — no previous cooking experience is needed, and the focus is on having fun while learning practical skills. Plus, the inclusion of all ingredients and equipment means you can focus on the process without worrying about anything but your own participation. A small downside? It’s a short session, so don’t expect to become a sushi master after just two hours, but it’s a great starting point.

This experience is especially well-suited for curious travelers, food lovers, or couples looking for a relaxed, interactive activity. Whether you’re visiting Chicago on a weekend or seeking a unique activity to break up your sightseeing, this class offers both a taste of Japanese culinary culture and a memorable social outing.

Key Points

• Hands-on Learning: You’ll actively participate in preparing sushi rice, slicing ingredients, and assembling rolls.
• No Experience Needed: The class caters to beginners, making it accessible for everyone.
• All-Inclusive: All ingredients and equipment are provided, so you just need to show up ready to learn.
• Creative Menu: You’ll make both a classic California roll and a veggie roll with fresh mango and cucumber.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Hosted at a local distillery, the environment encourages socializing and fun.
• Affordable Price: At $75 per person for two hours, it offers solid value for a culinary experience in Chicago.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Sushi-Making Class

Location and Setting

Set in a local distillery, this class combines the lively, social vibe of a boutique spirits venue with the charm of a hands-on cooking session. The setting creates an informal atmosphere where you can feel comfortable trying your hand at sushi for the first time. The ambiance is casual but focused — perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed environment over a formal cooking school.

Duration and Timing

Spanning two hours, most classes are available in the evening, making it easy to slot into a busy travel schedule. The timing is typically around dinner or early evening, so you could even make it a fun precursor to a night out — or a tasty start to your night.

Group Size and Instruction

While specific group sizes aren’t listed, the fact that all equipment and ingredients are included suggests a small class environment. The instructor, who speaks English, guides you through each step with clear, friendly instructions. This personal approach often results in a more engaging and customized experience. Multiple reviews mention the professionalism and helpfulness of the chef, which enhances learning and enjoyment.

More Great Tours Nearby

What You’ll Learn

The core of the class is about mastering the art of sushi-making — from preparing perfect sushi rice to using professional slicing techniques. The chef will demonstrate the correct way to cut ingredients with precision, which is crucial for the appearance and texture of your sushi. You’ll learn ingredient selection, understanding what makes for fresh, flavorful fillings, and how to assemble a roll that looks as good as it tastes.

Menu Highlights

The menu includes two main types of sushi:

• The California Roll, filled with surimi (imitation crab), creamy avocado, and crunchy cucumber, wrapped in nori and sushi rice. It’s a good choice for beginners because of its familiar ingredients and straightforward assembly.
• The Veggie Roll, featuring fresh mango, avocado, and cucumber, providing a refreshing, slightly sweet alternative.

Both rolls are typical staples that help you grasp the basic rolling technique while offering a satisfying tasting experience.

Practical Details

All necessary equipment and ingredients are provided, which means you won’t need to bring anything or worry about sourcing specific items. The class includes step-by-step instructions, allowing you to confidently create your own sushi at home later.

Guests can purchase beverages if they wish, adding a social component — a nice touch that encourages mingling or relaxing during the session. However, transportation isn’t included, so plan accordingly if you’re coming from outside the city or staying nearby.

The Value

At $75 per person, the class offers a reasonable price for a quality, hands-on culinary experience. Given that all ingredients and equipment are included, and you get to take home what you make (or simply enjoy it during the session), it’s a good investment for foodies or curious travelers. It’s especially notable considering the price point in a major city like Chicago.

What Past Participants Say

While ratings stand at 3.8 out of 5, reviews highlight the friendliness of the instructor and the fun, social atmosphere. Many appreciate the chance to learn new skills in a relaxed environment, with some mentioning that it’s perfect for beginners. One reviewer noted, “The instructor was very helpful, and I finally learned how to slice sushi ingredients properly,” which speaks to the practical value of the class.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This class is ideal for travelers seeking an interactive activity that’s easy to fit into an evening or weekend. It’s perfect if you want a taste of Japanese cuisine without committing to a multi-day cooking course. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy culinary adventures will find it engaging — as long as you’re open to a casual, social environment. Since no prior experience is required, even complete beginners can walk away with new skills and a sense of accomplishment.

Perfect for:

• Curious food lovers eager to learn a new skill
• Visitors looking for a fun, social activity
• Those wanting to explore Chicago’s local food scene differently
• Anyone with a palate for fresh, flavorful ingredients

The Sum Up

This Chicago sushi-making class offers a practical and entertaining way to try your hand at Japanese cuisine. It strikes a good balance between informative instruction and relaxed social fun, making it suitable for anyone who wants to broaden their culinary skills without a hefty commitment. The inclusion of all ingredients, plus the chance to learn professional slicing techniques, makes it a worthwhile experience for both first-timers and those with some sushi familiarity.

While it’s a short session, it provides enough insight and hands-on practice to inspire you to try making sushi at home. The lively setting at a local distillery adds a unique touch, making it more than just a cooking class — it’s a small, social event you’re unlikely to forget.

If you’re in Chicago and craving a culinary adventure that’s both fun and educational, this class is a solid choice. It’s a wonderful way to spend a couple of hours, connect with others, and come away with new skills and a tasty souvenir in hand.

FAQ

Is previous cooking experience necessary?
Not at all. The class is designed for beginners, so you can participate without any prior skills.

How long is the class?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, usually in the evening, making it easy to fit into most schedules.

Are all ingredients and equipment provided?
Yes, everything needed for making sushi is included, so you just need to show up and participate.

Can I purchase beverages during the class?
Guests are welcome to buy drinks to enjoy during the session, but beverages are not included in the price.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation isn’t included, so plan your journey to the venue accordingly.

What types of sushi will I learn to make?
You’ll create a classic California roll and a veggie roll with mango and cucumber, perfect for beginners wanting to learn the basics.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby