How to Choose the Best Cooking Class in Lisbon (2025 Guide for Food Lovers)
- Carina Brito
- Dec 4
- 3 min read
Lisbon is one of Europe’s most exciting food destinations — a city where tradition meets creativity, and where travellers are increasingly looking for authentic food experiences instead of tourist traps. It’s no surprise that Cooking Classes in Lisbon have become one of the top activities for visitors from the USA, Canada and across Europe.
But with so many options on Google, Tripadvisor and Airbnb, how do you choose the best cooking class in Lisbon for your trip?This guide will help you understand what to look for, what to avoid, and how to find a class that gives you an unforgettable, genuinely Portuguese experience.
1. Choose a Class That Focuses on Traditional Portuguese Cuisine
Many cooking classes in Lisbon advertise “Portuguese food”… but actually offer simplified or tourist-friendly menus.
A truly authentic experience will include recipes such as:
Bacalhau (codfish) dishes
Pastéis de Nata
Portuguese stews and rice dishes
Traditional desserts from different regions
Tip: Look for a class that teaches recipes you can actually recreate at home — something especially appreciated by travellers from the US & Canada.
2. Small Groups Make a Huge Difference
Large-group classes are cheaper, but you’ll spend most of your time watching rather than cooking.
The best cooking classes in Lisbon offer:
Groups of 8–12 people max
Hands-on participation
Space to cook individually or in pairs
Real interaction with the chef
Small groups also create a more personal atmosphere — perfect if you're travelling as a couple, with friends or even solo.
3. Look for Local Chefs Who Truly Know Lisbon’s Food Culture
The chef should be more than a cooking instructor — they should be a storyteller.
A good Lisbon cooking class should include:
Cultural background of each dish
Stories about local products and traditions
Tips on what to eat and where to go in Lisbon
Insights into Portuguese culinary culture
This transforms a class from a simple workshop into a memorable food journey.
4. Check If the Class Includes Market Visits
A market tour is one of the best ways to discover Lisbon’s flavours.
If this is important to you, look for a class offering:
A guided walk through Mercado
Explanation of local produce and traditional ingredients
The chance to buy fresh fish, vegetables and seasonal products
It’s a fantastic way to understand Portuguese food from the source.
5. Read Reviews Carefully (But Know What to Look For)
When searching “best cooking class in Lisbon”, you’ll find hundreds of 5-star reviews. But focus on the ones mentioning:
✔ Authenticity
✔ Hands-on experience
✔ Great atmosphere
✔ Local chef knowledge
✔ Easy booking and good communication
✔ Memorable food & fun experience
These are the signals of a high-quality class — not just a tourist production line.
6. Value for Money: What Should Be Included
A good Lisbon cooking class generally includes:
All ingredients
Local wine
Full meal after the class
Apron & utensils
Small-group environment
Printed or digital recipes
Anything less, and the price should reflect it.
7. Want an Authentic, High-Quality Experience? Try The Chef’s Company
If you're looking for a top-rated, authentic and small-group Portuguese cooking class, The Chef’s Company is one of the best choices in Lisbon for travellers from the USA, Canada, Europe and Australia.
We offer:
Traditional Portuguese Cooking Classes
Pastel de Nata Workshops
Market Experience + Cooking Class
Small groups & local chefs
Real Portuguese recipes you can recreate at home
A warm, friendly and hands-on experience
If you want a truly local moment — not a tourist production line — you’re in the right place.
👉 Book your Cooking Class in Lisbon directly on our official website: www.thechefscompany.pt
9. Final Tip: Book Early (Especially from May to October)
Cooking classes in Lisbon sell out quickly, especially among travellers from:
USA
Canada
UK
Germany
Australia
To get your preferred day and time, book at least 1–2 weeks in advance.