For food lovers, nothing beats the joy of discovering new flavours. And while eating out is always exciting, there’s something extra special about learning to make those dishes yourself. London has a rich culinary scene. It offers an abundance of artisan food workshops and classes. You can dive into the world of hands-on cooking there. Whether you’re a beginner, these workshops offer a chance to expand your skills. Or if you have experience as a seasoned home chef, you can further enhance your knowledge. They do so in a fun and interactive way.
In this guide, we’ll explore 10 of the best artisan food workshops and classes in London. From bread-baking to pasta-making and chocolate tempering, these classes promise a taste of culinary magic that’s hard to find elsewhere. Grab an apron, and let’s get started!
1. Bread Ahead Bakery School – Borough Market
Bread Ahead’s baking classes are a top pick for those interested in mastering bread-making. This artisan bakery is famous for its doughnuts and sourdough bread. During their artisan food workshops and classes, you’ll learn the techniques behind various types of bread. These include Italian focaccia. You will also learn how to make hearty British loaves. Plus, you’ll go home with a loaf or two that you baked yourself.
Location: Bread Ahead Bakery School, Borough Market, London SE1 1TL
Website: Bread Ahead Bakery School
2. La Cucina Caldesi – Marylebone
For anyone who loves Italian cuisine, La Cucina Caldesi offers pasta-making workshops that are as enjoyable as they are delicious. Their classes cover everything from mixing the dough to shaping different pasta varieties like tagliatelle and ravioli. With artisan food workshops and classes led by expert chefs, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported straight to Italy.
Location: 14 Cross Keys Cl, London W1U 2DG
Website: La Cucina Caldesi
3. Melt Chocolates – Notting Hill
Calling all chocolate enthusiasts! Melt Chocolates in Notting Hill offers an indulgent workshop. You can learn to temper chocolate like a pro. You will also learn to mould chocolate like a pro. Their artisan food workshops and classes guide you through creating truffles and chocolate bars. They offer insights into the origins of cocoa. You will also learn how to pair flavours. It’s a treat for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Location: 59 Ledbury Rd, London W11 2AA
Website: Melt Chocolates
4. The Ginger Pig – Marylebone
If you’re a fan of meat, you’ll love The Ginger Pig’s butchery classes. They are essential for those keen to understand the art of butchery. Here, you’ll learn about the different cuts and how to prepare meat for cooking. This artisan food workshop is perfect for those who want a deeper connection with the food they cook and eat. You’ll leave with not just knowledge but some expertly prepped cuts to cook at home.
Location: 8-10 Moxon St, London W1U 4EW
Website: The Ginger Pig
5. School of Wok – Covent Garden
School of Wok, led by chef Jeremy Pang, offers one of London’s best artisan food workshops for Asian cuisine. Their courses cover a wide array of techniques, from dim sum folding to Thai street food. These classes are perfect for adventurous eaters. They immerse you in Asian flavours and cooking styles. They offer something unique beyond the usual cooking schools.
Location: 61 Chandos Pl, Covent Garden, WC2N 4HG
Website: School of Wok
6. Cookery School at Little Portland Street – Soho
If you’re searching for variety, the Cookery School at Little Portland Street has many options. It offers a fantastic range of artisan food workshops and classes. From Mexican cuisine to French pastries, their courses are suitable for all levels. They even offer sustainable cooking classes where you’ll learn eco-friendly techniques, perfect for mindful eaters.
Location: 15b Little Portland St, London W1W 8BW
Website: Cookery School
7. Borough Kitchen – Islington and Hampstead
Borough Kitchen specialises in knife skills and cookware essentials. Their classes are perfect for anyone looking to up their kitchen game. These artisan food workshops focus on practical skills. They incorporate high-quality ingredients. They help you feel more at ease with the tools and techniques you’ll use daily.
If you're looking for some weekend recipe inspiration look no further than @thecornerplot's caramelised stuffed peppers which she made in her Netherton Foundry Prospector Pan. pic.twitter.com/CDg3g7JxOb
— Borough Kitchen (@BoroughKitchen) October 27, 2023
Location: 1B, 1C, Hampstead High St, London NW3 1RG
Website: Borough Kitchen
8. London Brunch Club – Various Locations
For a fun, social approach to cooking, try a class with the London Brunch Club. They host themed brunch workshops where you’ll learn to make classic brunch items like eggs Benedict and avocado toast. It’s an ideal class if you’re looking for a laid-back vibe with plenty of delicious food at the end.
Location: Multiple Locations in London
Website: London Brunch Club
9. E5 Bakehouse – Hackney
The E5 Bakehouse focuses on sustainable, organic bread-making. Their classes cover sourdough basics, as well as more advanced techniques for creating beautiful, hearty bread. If you’re a bread lover, this artisan food workshop is an excellent way to delve into slow baking. You will also learn about natural ingredients. Their bakery itself is a cosy spot in Hackney, well worth a visit!
Location: 396 Mentmore Terrace, London E8 3PH
Website: E5 Bakehouse
10. Sozai Cooking School – Aldgate
Sozai Cooking School provides an immersive experience for those interested in Japanese cuisine. Unlike most artisan food workshops, Sozai offers classes that dive deep into Japanese culinary culture. These classes cover ramen, sushi, and even wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets). This school brings a slice of Tokyo to London, ideal for anyone wanting to explore the nuances of Japanese cooking.
Location: 5 Middlesex Street, Aldgate, E1 7AA
Website: Sozai Cooking School
Do you love experiencing cultural diversity in food? If so, check out our blog on Beyond Sushi: Unique Japanese Seafood Dishes in London.
Final Thoughts
London’s artisan food workshops and classes give an enriching experience. They offer foodies a chance to learn more than just what’s on a menu. These experiences, from sourdough and sushi to plant-based delights, are all about connection, creation, and community. If you’re eager to join in the kitchen, these workshops are ideal. They help you improve your cooking skills. You can bring a little piece of London’s vibrant culinary scene into your own home.
So, next time you’re in the city, trade dining out for an apron and get ready for a delicious adventure. Each of these artisan food workshops offers more than just food. They give memories and skills that last well beyond the last bite.
