Home Cooking Class in Istanbul with a Local Chef

5.0
(2 reviews)
Istanbul, Turkey

3 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

This isn’t a polished studio or a touristy demo — it’s a real Istanbul kitchen, in a home filled with stories, spices, and laughter. Your host is a former restaurant chef who now cooks for joy, inviting guests to gather around her table and learn recipes passed down through generations. “Cooking should feel like talking with an old friend,” she says — and that’s exactly how this experience feels. You’ll come for the food, but stay for the warmth, the rituals, and the unexpected moments of connection that unfold over simmering pots and shared plates.

Example Menu

Main

Zeytinyağlı Dolma - Sarma

Stuffed Vine Leaves and Bell Peppers with Olive Oil

Starter

Turkish Pastry

Starter

Eggplant Meze

What's Included

Coffee and/or Tea
Tips and gratuities.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Once you are in Poyracık Sk. Look for number 29. You can call me when you arrive and I will open the door.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What to expect

Join a small-group cooking class inside a real Istanbul home, hosted by a local chef who spent years in professional kitchens before turning her passion inward — to cook, share, and connect. You'll be welcomed with Turkish coffee and friendly conversation, then dive into a hands-on session where you’ll prepare traditional dishes like sarma (stuffed grape leaves), seasonal meze, and hearty Turkish mains.

Each dish is introduced with its story and ingredients laid out on the table. Your host demonstrates, then it’s your turn to wrap, mix, and stir — no prior cooking experience needed. As the food cooks, you’ll help set the table and maybe even pick up a few Turkish words. Once ready, you’ll gather for a shared meal, swapping stories and taking photos. At the end, recipes are emailed, along with personalized tips for exploring Istanbul.

Your host shares, “Cooking together creates connection — it’s always about more than just the food.”

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
Supplied by Lokal Bond

Tags

Cooking Classes
Small Group
Food & Drink
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

5.0 Based on 2 2 reviews
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