Ubud Cooking Class Bali with Balinese Chef

If you’re visiting Ubud and craving an authentic taste of Bali, this cooking class might just be your perfect activity. With a top-rated 5.0/5 from over 1,500 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this experience enjoyable, educational, and delicious. The class combines a traditional market visit, hands-on cooking, and the chance to savor the food you’ve prepared, all under the guidance of a skilled local chef.

What we particularly love about this experience is how interactive and immersive it is; you’re not just watching a demonstration, you’re literally cooking your own Balinese dishes. Plus, the scenic farm setting and the opportunity to learn authentic recipes make it a standout. On the flip side, the non-refundable policy might be a consideration if your plans are uncertain. Still, this class appeals most to food lovers eager to bring a taste of Bali home—whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Fully hands-on cooking with a Balinese chef in a scenic farm setting.
• Market Tour Included: For morning classes, a traditional Ubud market visit adds cultural richness.
• Multi-Choice Menus: Options for vegetarian or non-vegetarian dishes, covering local favorites.
• Value for Money: At around $36, the class includes ingredients, utensils, and a generous lunch or dinner.
• Flexible Scheduling: Morning and afternoon sessions available, with pickup from Ubud center.
• Authentic Recipes: Step-by-step instructions to help you recreate the dishes back home.

What Makes This Cooking Class Special?

This Ubud cooking class is designed to give you a genuine taste of Balinese cuisine, but with a practical, approachable angle. Led by an experienced local chef, you’ll use your own station and utensils to prepare 7 different dishes, whether you opt for vegetarian or non-vegetarian options. The dishes include classic favorites like Sate (with peanut sauce), Balinese-style Chicken or Fish, Vegetable Curry, and the signature KOLAK PISANG (braised banana in palm sugar gravy) for dessert.

The experience is quite comprehensive. Most visitors highlight how “step-by-step instructions” made it easy, even for those with little cooking experience. Several reviews specifically mention that the chef’s warm humor and clear guidance turned the class into a fun, stress-free cooking session—”You cannot fail in this class,” as one guest put it.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Pickup and Market Visit

The tour begins with pickup from Ubud central hotels—a real plus for convenience. For the morning class, you’ll visit the Ubud Traditional Art Market, which lasts about 30 minutes. This is the perfect way to soak in local color, see the fresh ingredients used in Balinese cooking, and get a glimpse of daily life. Reviewers mention that the market tour is “very informative and interesting,” giving you insight into local produce and spices, which you might find fascinating even if you’re not planning to cook.

If you’re not staying in Ubud center, extra charges apply, so be sure to check if your location is covered.

The Cooking Class

Set in a scenic farm setting, the class lasts approximately 3.5 hours. Here, you’ll be assigned your own cooking station with utensils and ingredients laid out. The chef, Ketut (a name that appears frequently in reviews), is praised for his engaging style—”knowledgeable and entertaining”—making the learning process lively and approachable.

You will prepare 7 dishes, which are tailored to vegetarian or non-vegetarian preferences. Expect to learn how to make Balinese spice paste (Bumbu Bali), peanut sauce, fried chicken (Ayam Bumbu Bali), grilled fish (Pepes Ikan), and more. The menu is designed for you to create a full meal: from starters to dessert, giving you plenty of options to impress friends back home.

The Meal

Once your dishes are ready, you’ll enjoy them at a lovely dining area overlooking the farm. Many reviews mention how delicious the food tastes, with guests describing it as “an Indonesian feast” or “super yummy.” The chance to taste the fruits of your labor in such a serene setting is one of the highlights.

Optional Afternoon Session

For those doing the afternoon class, meet at Lapangan Desa Ubud at 2:30 pm. Whether participating in the morning or afternoon, the overall experience stays consistent: engaging, flavorful, and rewarding.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included are return hotel transfers in Ubud central, an English-speaking chef, a traditional market tour (for morning classes), welcome drinks, cooking utensils, ingredients, and the full 7-dish cooking experience. The meal you prepare is yours to enjoy, giving a true sense of achievement.

Not included are personal expenses at the market, additional beverages, insurance, and transfers from outside Ubud center (which incur extra charges). The non-refundable policy is strict, so plan accordingly.

The Value Proposition

At just around $36 per person, this experience offers excellent value. The price covers transportation, ingredients, instruction, and a full meal—something hard to match elsewhere. The reviews underscore this value: “You cannot fail in this class,” and “The food was amazing,” reflect how well-organized and enjoyable the class is.

Plus, the small group size (up to 24 participants) ensures more personalized attention. Several reviewers comment on the professionalism of the staff and the helpfulness of assistants, making sure everyone feels confident in their cooking.

Authenticity and Cultural Connection

What sets this class apart is the opportunity to connect with Balinese culture through its cuisine. The guide’s explanations about the ingredients and traditional dishes add depth, making it more than just a cooking lesson. Several guests mention how “the warmth and humor of the chef” made the experience memorable, blending education with entertainment.

The market visit especially enriches this perspective. Knowing where the ingredients come from and seeing them firsthand adds authenticity that cannot be replicated in a restaurant setting.

Final Thoughts

This Ubud Cooking Class is ideal for travelers who want to learn traditional Balinese recipes while enjoying a beautiful farm setting. It suits food lovers, curious travelers, and those wanting to bring a piece of Bali home through authentic cooking skills. If you’re after a fun, interactive experience that combines culture, scenery, and fantastic food, this class hits the mark.

The price, inclusions, and overwhelmingly positive reviews indicate excellent value, especially considering the personalized attention and the chance to enjoy your own cooking. Just remember, the non-refundable policy requires some commitment, but many find the experience well worth it.

Whether you’re already a confident cook or just starting out, this class offers a delightful way to spend a few hours in Bali that you’ll remember long after your trip ends.

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, pickup is offered for Ubud central hotels. If you’re staying outside this area, extra charges may apply.

How long does the class last?
The class duration is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including the market visit (for morning classes) and cooking.

Are vegetarian options available?
Absolutely. You can choose between vegetarian and non-vegetarian menus, both covering traditional Balinese dishes.

What dishes will I learn to cook?
You’ll learn to prepare seven dishes, including sauces, curries, satay, grilled fish or chicken, and a sweet dessert—all authentic Balinese recipes.

Is the experience suitable for beginners?
Yes. Many reviews mention the instructor’s clear, step-by-step guidance making it accessible even for beginners.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for cooking. An apron is provided, and it’s advisable to wear clothes you don’t mind getting a little splattered.

Can I participate if I don’t speak English?
The class is conducted in English, but the hands-on nature and visual instructions make it accessible even if your language skills are limited.

What’s the best time to join?
Morning classes include the market visit, which adds cultural flavor. Afternoon sessions focus solely on cooking and are perfect if you prefer a later start.

For anyone eager to truly connect with Bali’s culinary traditions, this class offers a perfect blend of learning, tasting, and scenic beauty. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to gather practical skills, indulge in delicious food, and gain insight into local life—all in a relaxed, friendly environment. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a group, or a couple, this experience promises plenty of flavor and fun.