Balinese cooking school (9 Dish Cooking and Market Tour)

A Taste of Bali: The 9 Dish Cooking and Market Tour in Ubud

If you’re searching for an engaging way to connect with Bali’s culinary soul, the Balinese Cooking School offering a 9 Dish Cooking and Market Tour might just be your perfect match. With a perfect 5-star rating from over 500 reviews, this experience combines hands-on cooking, cultural insights, and local markets all in one compelling package. It’s ideal for food lovers eager to go beyond the typical cooking class, learning authentic recipes while exploring Bali’s vibrant markets and rice paddies.

What we love most about this tour is the attention to detail from start to finish. Not only do you get to prepare a wide variety of traditional dishes—more than most classes offer—but you also walk away with practical skills and recipes that you can replicate at home. Plus, the inclusion of a market visit and rice field tour provides a well-rounded glimpse into everyday Balinese life.

One thing to keep in mind is that this experience is only available from Ubud, with some additional charges if you stay outside the area. Also, the tour’s popularity means you should book about 19 days in advance to secure your spot. If you’re a culinary enthusiast, culture seeker, or simply love delicious, freshly cooked meals, this tour is tailored for you.

Key Points

• In-depth culinary learning with 9 traditional Balinese dishes prepared from scratch.
• Market visit and rice paddy tour offer cultural context and stunning photo opportunities.
• Expert guidance from knowledgeable local hosts and chefs ensures clear instructions.
• Good value for money at $26 per person, including multiple dishes, market visits, and recipes to take home.
• Small group size maximizes interaction and hands-on experience.
• Flexible options for vegetarian and regular menus cater to dietary preferences.

Why This Cooking Class Stands Out

This isn’t just a typical “pick a dish and cook” class. From the moment you’re picked up in Ubud, the tour immerses you in authentic Balinese daily life. The market visit is a highlight—your guide explains how locals buy and sell fresh ingredients like spices, fruits, and vegetables, giving you insight into Balinese food culture. Many reviewers mention how eye-opening and fun this part is, especially when sampling local fruits and pastries.

You’ll also visit a rice field, where you can see how rice is grown and harvested—a fundamental element of Balinese cuisine. One reviewer pointed out how learning about the different types of rice and harvest seasons added fascinating context to their culinary adventure, making the experience more meaningful.

The cooking itself is led by a friendly and highly knowledgeable Bali chef, often praised for their clear step-by-step instructions. Yogi, the instructor in many reviews, is described as warm, funny, and genuinely passionate about sharing his culinary heritage. The fact that the class is small (max 14 travelers) means plenty of personal attention, and everyone gets a chance to participate actively rather than just watch.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Pick-up and Transport:
Most tours start with a pickup in Ubud, often with a friendly driver like Harry, who many reviewers mention by name. The pickup is generally smooth, and the group size is kept intimate for a personal experience. If you stay outside Ubud, expect an extra charge—so be sure to communicate your location when booking.

Market Tour:
The journey begins with a walk through a bustling local market (only in the morning tour). Your guide explains how vendors sell spices, fresh produce, and traditional Balinese sweets. Many guests find this part fascinating, especially if they like seeing authentic local life. It’s also a prime opportunity to pick up ingredients and learn how Balinese people shop for their daily meals.

Rice Paddy Visit:
Post-market, you’re taken to a rice field—another gem according to reviews. Observing the rice-growing process gives a deeper appreciation for the ingredients that form the backbone of Balinese cuisine.

Cooking Class:
The cooking takes place at a local home-turned-kitchen, where you’ll learn to prepare at least nine recipes, including popular dishes like Sate Lilit Bali, Lawar Bali, and Pepes Ayam. Options are available for both regular and vegetarian menus. Many guests mention the fun of cooking multiple dishes at stations, with a friendly team of local kitchen staff assisting.

Tasting and Eating:
At the end, you’ll sit down for a buffet-style meal—a satisfying feast where you taste everything you made. Some even mention packing leftovers for their hotel, which speaks to the generous portions. The food quality consistently impresses, with many reviewers describing the dishes as “superb” and “just like at a Balinese restaurant.”

Additional Activities:
Depending on the time of day, some tours include making Balinese offerings or visiting a local Balinese house, further enriching your cultural understanding.

What Makes the Experience Truly Valuable

One of the biggest strengths of this tour is the balance between culture and culinary education. The guides and chefs are praised for their professionalism and warmth, making everyone feel comfortable and engaged. Many reviews highlight how well-organized the class is, with clear instructions and tips for recreating the dishes at home.

The inclusion of local ingredients and equipment ensures that you learn techniques specific to Bali—like using Bali’s unique spice pastes or cooking with banana leaves—skills you’re unlikely to find in a standard cooking class or at home without local knowledge.

Another aspect many travelers appreciated is the value for money. At just $26, you’re getting a comprehensive experience that covers market visits, rice paddies, multiple dishes, and takeaway recipes. The food tasting and buffet meals are consistently praised as delicious and plentiful, making this a fantastic way to indulge in Bali’s culinary culture without breaking the bank.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This class is best suited for foodies, culture lovers, and travelers seeking a hands-on experience that goes beyond just cooking. If you enjoy exploring local markets and learning about ingredients, you’ll find this especially rewarding. It’s also ideal for those who want practical skills and recipes they can use back home. The small group size and friendly hosts ensure a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers.

However, if you’re not interested in cooking or don’t want to spend time in a kitchen, this might not be your best choice. Also, those staying outside Ubud should be aware of potential additional costs. Still, for the price, this experience offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into Bali’s culinary world.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included within the Ubud area. If you stay outside Ubud, there are additional charges, and you should request pickup when booking.

Can I choose vegetarian options?
Absolutely. The tour offers a vegetarian menu, with dishes like Tofu Bumbu Bali and Pepes Tofu, and many reviews mention how well the vegetarian options are prepared.

How many dishes will I learn to cook?
You will learn to prepare at least nine traditional Balinese dishes, covering a variety of flavors and cooking techniques.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, some cash for additional transport if outside Ubud, and a good appetite. Showing your reservation confirmation is also recommended.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s focus on cooking and cultural visits makes it suitable for older children or teenagers who enjoy hands-on activities.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Last-minute cancellations are not refunded.

To sum it up, this Balinese 9 Dish Cooking and Market Tour offers a wonderful blend of food, culture, and scenic beauty—all at an accessible price point. The knowledgeable guides, delicious dishes, and authentic insights make it a standout experience for anyone wanting to truly understand Bali’s culinary roots. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just a curious traveler, this tour promises a memorable, tasty journey into Bali’s vibrant food scene.