Private Filipino Cooking Class in the Heart of Manila,Makati City

If you’re looking for a way to truly connect with Philippine culture beyond the usual tourist spots, this private Filipino cooking class in Makati offers an engaging, authentic experience. Led by Cinty, a talented wellness chef and nutritionist, this three-hour session combines hands-on cooking with cultural insights, all hosted in her spacious, welcoming home kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just curious about Filipino flavors, this class promises a genuine taste of the Philippines.

What really makes this experience stand out is the personalized approach—Cinty tailors the menu to your preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free options. We also love that it’s not just about cooking but about understanding ingredients and culinary traditions, making it both fun and educational. One potential consideration is that the location — starting at a popular Makati restaurant — doesn’t include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport.

This class is perfect for travelers who enjoy interactive, cultural activities that go beyond sightseeing, especially if they appreciate healthy eating and want a deeper dive into local flavors. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a meaningful culinary experience, this class is a lovely way to spend an afternoon or evening in Manila.

Key Points

• Authentic, personalized experience: Hosted in Cinty’s home, focusing on Filipino traditions and cuisine.
• Hands-on learning: You’ll actively prepare two dishes from scratch, gaining practical skills.
• Flexible menu options: Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free choices are available.
• Market tour option: Includes a visit to Guadalupe public market, offering a behind-the-scenes look at fresh Filipino ingredients.
• Includes a shared meal: Savor the dishes you’ve cooked, served with local beer or wine.
• Price and value: At $110 per person, the experience offers a good balance of culture and culinary skill-building.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The beauty of this class is that it isn’t just a demonstration—you get to roll up your sleeves and be part of the cooking process. Hosted by Cinty, who is both a certified nutritionist and a wellness chef, the setting feels more like a warm home than a commercial kitchen. This creates an intimate environment where you can ask questions freely and truly learn about Filipino culinary traditions.

Itinerary and What to Expect

The experience typically lasts around three hours, starting at the designated meeting point, Wildflour Restaurant in Makati’s Rockwell Center. From there, your journey begins with a warm welcome from Cinty, who takes the time to understand your dietary preferences—whether that’s vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free—before planning the menu.

The core of the class involves learning to make two Filipino dishes from scratch. These could include classics like adobo, the savory, tangy braised meat or vegetable dish, or sinigang, the sour tamarind-based soup. The menu’s flexibility means you might also get to explore dishes that have been adapted into vegan or vegetarian versions, which many reviewers appreciated. One guest noted, “I learned a lot about Filipino dishes and how to prepare them, including the details of the oils and seasonings.”

Market Tour – An Extra Touch of Authenticity

Opting for the market tour, Cinty will take you to Guadalupe public market, just a 7-minute drive from her home. Here, you’ll browse through stalls selling fresh seafood, meats, vegetables, and tropical fruits. Many reviews highlighted this as a highlight—“Cinty explained the ingredients and took me to her favorite sellers,” one reviewer shared. This part of the experience adds context, helping you understand where Filipino ingredients come from and how they’re selected—valuable knowledge for recreating dishes at home.

Cooking and Dining

After shopping, you’ll return to Cinty’s kitchen to prepare your chosen dishes. Guided by her expert advice, you’ll learn essential techniques and ingredient pairings. The intimate setting means she can tailor the experience, offering insights into Filipino culinary customs and health benefits.

Once your dishes are ready, you’ll sit down to enjoy a home-cooked Filipino meal, complemented by local beer or wine. This isn’t just about the food—it’s about sharing a moment of Filipino hospitality. One guest remarked, “The meal was fantastic, healthier than restaurant options, and we felt genuinely welcomed in her home.”

Dietary Flexibility and Accessibility

Cinty’s ability to accommodate different diets makes this class suitable for a wide range of travelers. Vegetarian, vegan, lactose-free, and gluten-free options are all possible, so long as you specify your needs when booking. The experience is private, meaning your group gets focused attention, allowing for a more personalized lesson.

Practical Details

• Price: $110 per person, which covers the cooking class, all ingredients, the meal, and optional market tour.
• Duration: Approximately 3 hours.
• Location: Starts at Wildflour Restaurant in Rockwell Center, Makati.
• Transportation: Not included, so plan to arrive via taxi, Grab, or public transit.
• Availability: Booked about 48 days in advance on average, so plan ahead.
• Booking: Confirmations are generally received within 48 hours, based on availability.

Authenticity and Value

While the price might seem steep compared to cooking classes elsewhere, it’s clear that you’re paying for a personalized, authentic experience with a knowledgeable host. The reviews highlight that Cinty’s explanations about ingredients, her warm hospitality, and her ability to tailor the menu make the class stand apart from more generic classes.

Most reviewers left feeling they gained valuable skills and a deeper appreciation of Filipino cuisine. One wrote, “I felt welcomed in her kitchen. I learned a lot about Filipino dishes and how to prepare them, including the details of oils and seasonings,” reflecting the educational quality.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

• For food lovers, it’s a chance to go beyond tasting and discover the “how” and “why” behind Filipino dishes.
• For those with dietary restrictions, the flexibility makes it accessible.
• If you’re interested in local markets and ingredients, the optional market tour provides an insightful, sensory experience.
• The private setting ensures a relaxed environment where you can ask all your questions and really connect with the host.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This class is ideal for travelers who appreciate hands-on activities and want to learn about Filipino cuisine directly from a local expert. It’s perfect if you’re health-conscious or have special dietary needs, thanks to Cinty’s wide accommodation options. Couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking an intimate cultural encounter will find this especially rewarding.

However, keep in mind that transportation isn’t included, so those relying on public transit or taxis should plan accordingly. It’s also best suited for those comfortable spending around three hours focused on cooking and eating, rather than quick sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

This private Filipino cooking class in Makati offers a rare opportunity to gain practical cooking skills, learn about Filipino ingredients, and enjoy a warm, homey meal—all in a relaxed, personalized setting. Its blend of market tour, culinary instruction, and shared meal creates a balanced experience that’s both fun and meaningful.

The attention to dietary preferences and the ability to customize dishes makes it accessible to many travelers. The genuine hospitality and knowledge shared by Cinty shine through, leaving guests not just with new recipes, but with a deeper appreciation for the food and culture of the Philippines.

If you love food, seek authentic cultural experiences, and appreciate the value of learning directly from a knowledgeable host, this class is a fantastic choice. It’s a chance to step into a local’s home, learn traditional recipes, and come away with skills you can try at home.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup or drop-off included?
No, the experience starts at Wildflour Restaurant in Makati, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from the meeting point.

What dietary restrictions can Cinty accommodate?
She can handle lactose-free, gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan diets. Be sure to mention your restrictions when booking so she can prepare accordingly.

How long is the class?
The class lasts approximately three hours, including the market tour (if chosen), cooking, and dining.

What dishes will I learn to make?
You’ll learn to prepare two dishes, which may include traditional Filipino staples like adobo or sinigang, or their vegan/vegetarian adaptations.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to two days in advance for a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The private setting makes solo travelers feel welcome, and you’ll be able to connect easily with Cinty and the group.

In sum, this private Filipino cooking class offers an enriching, tasty, and personal dive into the Philippines’ culinary soul. It’s a perfect pick for adventurous eaters eager to learn, especially those who enjoy a mix of cultural insight and practical skills.