Xiao Long Bao & Boba Tea Cooking Class in Taipei

Imagine spending an afternoon mastering the art of making Xiao Long Bao, the beloved soup dumplings that Taiwan is famous for, and pairing them with a freshly made Bubble Milk Tea. That’s exactly what you get with this highly-rated cooking class in Taipei. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned home cook, this experience promises an engaging, authentic taste of Taiwanese cuisine in an intimate and relaxed setting.

One of the things we love about this class is how it balances fun and education. The instructor, who is both professional and approachable, guides you through the process of creating tender, flavorful dumplings and the perfect bubble tea. Plus, the chance to feast on your own culinary creations makes it feel like a true cultural indulgence.

A potential consideration is the class duration—just two hours—which is ideal for a relaxed afternoon, but might feel a bit condensed if you want to go into more detail or explore additional dishes. Still, for most travelers, this brief but comprehensive session hits the sweet spot.

This experience suits those eager to learn authentic Taiwanese cooking, food lovers who enjoy making their own dishes, or travelers looking for a hands-on activity that’s both educational and delicious. Perfect for small groups or families, it offers a friendly environment where everyone can participate and enjoy.

Key Points

• Authentic Cooking Skills: Learn how to craft juicy Xiao Long Bao with dough made from scratch.
• Hands-On Experience: You’ll actively participate in preparing soup dumplings, smashed cucumber salad, and bubble milk tea.
• Inclusive for All Levels: No prior cooking experience needed—this class welcomes everyone.
• Enjoy Your Creations: Feast on your handmade dishes at the end of the class.
• Small Group Atmosphere: With a maximum of 8 travelers, the experience remains intimate and personalized.
• Vegetarian Options: Available, featuring ingredients like luffa and mushroom for dumplings.

This cooking class offers more than just a demonstration; it’s a full participation experience designed to make you feel confident recreating Taiwanese classics at home. Starting at CookInn’s Zhongshan branch, the class begins at 2:30 pm and lasts approximately two hours. The small group size—no more than 8 participants—means plenty of personalized attention from your instructor, who is fluent in English and clearly passionate about sharing Taiwanese cuisine.

Making Xiao Long Bao from Scratch

The highlight for many participants is learning to make juicy soup dumplings. The instructor takes you step-by-step through creating the tender dough, emphasizing techniques that ensure your dumplings are perfect—thin yet sturdy skins that hold flavorful broth and meat fillings. As one reviewer noted, the instructor was “helpful and professional,” ensuring even beginners can succeed.

What sets this class apart is the focus on dough made from scratch. This hands-on approach gives you a real sense of accomplishment, and the knowledge to replicate the process at home. You’ll learn tips on how to fold and pleat the dumplings, which are essential skills for authentic Xiao Long Bao.

Taiwanese Smashed Cucumber Salad and Bubble Milk Tea

Beyond dumplings, the class also covers seasonal greens—specifically, a classic Taiwanese smashed cucumber salad. This dish is refreshingly simple but packed with flavor, offering a perfect contrast to the rich dumplings. It’s a great way to expand your understanding of Taiwanese side dishes and enjoy a variety of textures.

The Bubble Milk Tea segment is equally engaging. You’ll learn how to brew the tea, prepare the milk, and assemble the iconic drink with tapioca pearls. The fact that you get to make this from scratch makes it all the more satisfying—an authentic skill to show off back home.

Feast on Your Creations

Once your dishes are ready, you’ll sit down to enjoy everything you’ve made. Several reviews mention how rewarding it is to see your own handiwork on the plate, especially when it tastes as good as what you’d find in a Taipei restaurant. The experience of eating your own dumplings and sipping freshly brewed bubble tea elevates this class from a simple cooking lesson to a genuine cultural experience.

Vegetarian Options and Accessibility

A vegetarian version is available, featuring Luffa & Mushroom Xiao Long Bao and seasonal greens, making this class inclusive for different dietary needs. The instructor is attentive to these requests, ensuring everyone gets a satisfying experience.

This class is priced at $75 per person, which we find reasonable considering the skill you gain and the delicious meal you get to enjoy afterward. Compared to dining out, it offers more value because you leave with new abilities and recipes to recreate in your own kitchen.

The meeting point at CookInn is conveniently located in the bustling Datong District, making it easy to include in a day of sightseeing. Since it’s a mobile ticket, booking is straightforward, and the 16-day average notice period means you’ll want to plan ahead.

The small group size—up to 8 travelers—is ideal for those who prefer a more intimate, engaging atmosphere without feeling rushed or lost in a crowd. Plus, the flexible cancellation policy—free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—adds peace of mind for travelers with uncertain plans.

Reviewers consistently praise the class for its delicious food and friendly atmosphere. David_T mentioned, “Our group was only 4 people, so a more intimate experience with one instructor looking after all of us,” highlighting how personalized the class feels. The instructor’s good command of English and professionalism makes learning easier.

ChunKit_M noted that it’s “a fantastic way to spend a few hours with friends and family,” emphasizing the fun and relaxed environment suitable for all ages. Multiple reviews also highlight the quality of the dishes—featuring freshly made dumplings and bubble tea—which guests find rewarding both in taste and process.

If you’re a foodie eager to understand Taiwanese cuisine beyond just eating it, this class offers a genuine opportunity to learn and create. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy hands-on activities and want a fun, relaxed, and educational experience during their stay in Taipei.

Those traveling with family or friends will find this activity especially charming, as the small group setting promotes interaction and shared enjoyment. Plus, with vegetarian options available, it’s accommodating for different dietary preferences.

On the flip side, if you’re looking for a lengthy cooking class or a deep dive into multiple dishes, this might feel a bit brief. But for a flavorful, approachable introduction to Taiwanese cooking, it hits the mark.

This Xiao Long Bao & Boba Tea cooking class offers more than just a meal—it’s an interactive journey into Taiwan’s culinary soul. You’ll learn practical skills, enjoy delicious food, and come away with new recipes to impress friends and family. The small group size, professional guidance, and authentic flavors make this experience stand out as a worthwhile addition to any Taipei itinerary.

It’s especially suited for curious travelers, food lovers, or anyone seeking a memorable, engaging activity that combines learning with tasting. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned home cook, this class provides the right balance of instruction and fun, culminating in a satisfying feast of your own making.

Is the class suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class welcomes all skill levels, and the instructor provides step-by-step guidance to ensure everyone can participate and succeed.

How long does the class last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect afternoon activity without feeling rushed.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian versions of Xiao Long Bao with Luffa & Mushroom are offered, along with seasonal greens.

Where does the class take place?
The meeting point is at CookInn in the Datong District of Taipei, an easily accessible location.

What foods will I make and eat?
You will learn to make juicy Soup Dumplings (Xiao Long Bao), a Smashed Cucumber Salad, and Bubble Milk Tea.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the class, allowing flexibility for your schedule.

Is this experience family-friendly?
Absolutely. The positive reviews mention that kids are welcome, and the friendly environment makes it a great family activity.

How much does it cost?
The class is priced at $75 per person, offering good value considering the hands-on nature and the food you’ll enjoy.

If you’re looking to deepen your appreciation for Taiwanese cuisine while having a fun, interactive experience, this cooking class offers a memorable way to do just that. It’s a chance to learn from a skilled instructor, enjoy delicious food, and walk away with new skills—and maybe even a new favorite dish to cook at home.