Cooking Class in Turkey From Istanbul

If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul and want to truly connect with Turkish culture, taking a cooking class is an experience you won’t regret. This particular culinary tour, offered by Istanbul Walks, promises a 2-hour hands-on journey into Ottoman-inspired dishes, topped with a generous lunch, local wines, and the convenience of hotel pickup. With a high satisfaction rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 23 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this experience both fun and educational.

What we love most about this tour is the expert guidance—you’ll be learning from a professional chef who keeps the atmosphere lively and approachable, even for complete beginners. Plus, the opportunity to cook traditional recipes like stuffed vine leaves and kirde kebab, then sit down to enjoy your creations, really elevates the experience beyond just a class.

However, a consideration is that this experience is approximately four hours long—so it’s best suited for those with a flexible schedule or a keen interest in culinary arts. It’s also worth noting that drinks outside of the included wine are not covered, and there’s no hotel drop-off, so plan your transportation accordingly.

This cooking class is ideal for foodies, travelers eager to learn authentic recipes, and anyone who appreciates cultural experiences that combine education with delicious food. Whether you’re a novice or someone with some kitchen experience, the focus on Ottoman cuisine makes this a memorable part of any Istanbul trip.

Key Points

• Authentic Ottoman Recipes: Learn to make dishes rooted in Turkey’s imperial past, like stuffed vine leaves and Kirde kebab.
• Expert Guidance: A professional chef guides you through each step, sharing tips and techniques that are easy to replicate at home.
• All-Inclusive Experience: The tour includes hotel pickup, a 3-course homemade lunch, and wine tasting, offering good value for the price.
• Accessible for All: No prior cooking experience needed—this class is designed to be welcoming for beginners.
• Cultural Immersion: The class takes place at the renowned Deraliye Restaurant in Sultanahmet, a historic and atmospheric setting.
• Limited Group Size: With a maximum of 6 travelers, you get personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Pickup and Arrival

Your day begins with a hotel pickup, typically from a central Istanbul hotel, making logistics straightforward—especially if you’re staying in Sultanahmet or nearby. This service, included in the price, saves you the hassle of navigating busy streets or public transportation, particularly useful if you’re unfamiliar with Istanbul.

Arriving at Deraliye Restaurant, you’re greeted in a setting that oozes Ottoman charm. The restaurant’s interior is a blend of elegance and tradition, providing the perfect ambiance for a culinary adventure. The atmosphere is described as chill and welcoming—a perfect environment to relax and focus on your cooking.

The Cooking Class

Once seated with your fellow participants, the class begins with a brief discussion of the day’s menu. Expect to get hands-on preparing dishes like stuffed vine leaves with sour cherries or Sailors rolls—delicious pastries with cheese and honey. The guide, a professional chef, shares valuable tips and traditional techniques, often dating back to Ottoman times, making the process both educational and fun.

According to reviewers, the chef, Mr. Neceti Yilmaz, is notably personable, blending professionalism with humor. One guest remarked that he and the accompanying chef were “very professional and efficient,” making the cooking flow smoothly. The instructions are clear enough for beginners but also enriching for those with some cooking experience.

A Taste of Ottoman Cuisine

What makes this class stand out is the focus on Ottoman cuisine, which presents a unique twist compared to typical Turkish cooking classes. The dishes are described as simple to prepare, yet packed with flavor and history. The recipes involve traditional techniques, such as rolling vine leaves with sour cherries or shaping Kirde kebab—a grilled meat dish that’s both authentic and flavorful.

Participants often comment on how the chef’s guidance makes complex-looking dishes approachable. One review highlights that “dishes are based on Ottoman cuisine and are delicious, yet quite unexpected,” emphasizing their simplicity and authenticity.

The Lunch Experience

After about two hours of cooking, it’s time to sit down and enjoy your efforts. The class includes a three-course meal, featuring the dishes you prepared, complemented by local wines. Reviewers consistently mention how delicious the food is, praising the quality of the ingredients and the well-balanced flavors.

Many describe the lunch as a highlight—savoring the dishes created with fresh ingredients, in a setting that feels both festive and relaxed. One guest noted, “every dish was delicious,” and another raved about the “great wine selection” that paired well with the meal.

Post-Lunch & Ending the Tour

The experience concludes back at Deraliye Restaurant. While there’s no hotel drop-off, the central location makes it easy to continue your explorations in Sultanahmet or to head to nearby attractions. The entire experience, from pickup to lunch, lasts roughly four hours—making it a well-paced way to spend a morning or early afternoon.

Pricing and Value

At approximately $296.46 per person, the tour provides significant value considering everything included—hotel pickup, a professional chef-led class, the chance to cook authentic dishes, a three-course meal, and wine tasting. When you think about the experience as a cultural and culinary immersion, it’s a worthwhile investment for those interested in Turkish cuisine.

Some reviewers highlight that booking in advance (about 48 days prior) is recommended, likely due to limited group sizes and popular demand. The small-group setting (max 6 travelers) enhances the experience, offering more personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cooking class is best suited for adventurous food lovers eager to learn about Ottoman and Turkish cuisine firsthand. It’s perfect if you’re seeking a hands-on activity, enjoy culinary arts, or want to bring authentic recipes home. The class’s accessibility makes it appealing to beginners, but even seasoned cooks will enjoy the insights and techniques shared.

It’s ideal for travelers who value culture and want a memorable, delicious experience in the heart of Istanbul. If you’re budget-conscious, consider the overall value—this isn’t just a cooking class; it’s an authentic taste of Istanbul’s culinary heritage.

The Sum Up

This Turkish cooking class in Istanbul offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience that combines learning, tasting, and cultural appreciation. From the expert guidance of a personable chef to the beautiful setting of Deraliye Restaurant, every detail contributes to a memorable day. The inclusion of a three-course lunch and local wines makes it a great value, especially for those who want to deepen their understanding of Turkish flavors.

While it’s a longer activity, the price reflects a premium, intimate experience that’s worth every penny for foodies. It’s perfect for those seeking to connect more deeply with Istanbul’s culinary traditions—whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned cook.

For travelers who want to return home with new skills, fantastic recipes, and stories to tell, this class hits the sweet spot. It’s a genuine, flavorful way to spend part of your Istanbul adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your central Istanbul hotel, making transportation easy and stress-free.

Do I need cooking experience?
No. The class is designed for all abilities, including complete beginners, and the chef provides easy-to-follow instructions.

What dishes will I learn to cook?
Expect to prepare traditional Ottoman-inspired dishes like stuffed vine leaves with sour cherries, Sailors rolls, and Kirde kebab.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers all taxes, fees, handling charges, the cooking class, hotel pickup, a three-course lunch, and wine tasting.

Is there a vegetarian option?
Yes, vegetarian options are available. Just advise at booking if you require this accommodation.

How long does the experience last?
The entire activity takes about four hours, with two hours dedicated to cooking and the rest to eating and relaxing.

Can I book this tour for a specific date?
Booking in advance is recommended, especially around 48 days before your desired date, to secure a spot.

This Turkish cooking class offers a delightful way to deepen your culinary understanding of Istanbul while enjoying authentic flavors and beautiful surroundings. It’s a hands-on experience that balances education with enjoyment, perfect for anyone curious about Turkish cuisine or looking to add a tasty highlight to their trip.