Private Taiwanese Cooking Demonstration of Family Recipes in Taipei
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enjoy a private and authentic cooking class in a local home with host Catherine who learned to cook by watching her mother who is a wonderful cook. This is a perfect experience for anyone looking to connect with local culture over food. The cooking demonstration will take place in a local home kitchen where Catherine will show you how to make 2-3 traditional Taiwanese dishes from family recipes. After the cooking demonstration, you will enjoy your meal together in your host's Taiwanese home.
• Cooking demonstration in a local home
• Introduction to Taiwan's heritage and cuisine
• 100% private activity
• Experience Taiwanese hospitality in a residential Neihu neighborhood
• Vegetarian and gluten free options available
If you choose the market tour grade option, your experience will include a visit to the local Taipei street market. Catherine will introduce you to her favored vendors, local produce and together you will purchase a few ingredients for your Taiwanese cooking class.
Available options
Market tour, cooking and lunch
Private market tour: Explore on foot a local street market with your host as she introduces you to vendors she typically shops from.<br/>Duration: 4 hours: Your market tour will last about 45 minutes. Walk 5 minutes to your host's home for your cooking class.
Cooking class and dinner
Cooking class and lunch
What's included
Private cooking lesson with your host Catherine
If you choose the "market + cooking" tour grade option, your experience includes a market tour
Gratuities
What's not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ZH-CN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Meeting point
Please meet your host Catherine at her home in the neighborhood of Neihu in Taipei. Exact address can be found in your ticket upon booking confirmation. If you choose the market tour + cooking tour grade option, your meeting location is different - please check your ticket for meeting instructions.
Important notes
Meeting Instructions (cooking class only): Please meet your host Catherine at her home for your cooking class. Here is a Google Maps link to her location: https://goo.gl/maps/F2TGwAXxVBaijX3X8. The nearest Metro station is Wende station (Exit 2) on the brown-colored Wenhu Line. Catherine’s home is about 550m from the station, about an 8-minute walk. The Wenhu Line runs from Muzha to Neihu districts, cutting through downtown Taipei, intersecting with the red-colored Tamsui-Xinyi Line, green-colored Songshan-Xindian Line, and blue-colored Bannan Line. There is a bus stop along the main road, a 2-minute walk to Catherine’s home serviced by several bus numbers: 214, 222, 278, 286, 287, 552, 620. Cab and Uber drivers are also familiar with the neighborhood and you will be able to arrive at the destination easily.
Address: 2F, Alley 16, Lane 22, Wende Road, Neihu (114台灣台北市內湖區文德路22巷16弄22號), Taipei, Taiwan
Meeting Instructions (market tour + cooking class): Please meet your host Catherine at Wende Metro station (Exit 2) on the brown-colored Wenhu Line if you chose the market tour + cooking class tour grade option. Here is a Google Maps link to the location: https://goo.gl/maps/TK8xTrCqcKqnBEKd8
Phone: +886 922 881 957
Email: yuyulan9@gmail.com
Please contact your host directly if you have dietary requests or need help with directions.
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Traveling Spoon is a supplier of Viator and TripAdvisor. We offer travelers authentic food experiences with locals, in their homes. Founded by two travelers and food lovers, Traveling Spoon helps others make meaningful cultural connections through food. Contact us at reservations@travelingspoon.com if you have general questions about our services. For specific questions related to your booking please contact your host directly with the contact information provided above.
We hope you have a meaningful experience and look forward to hearing about it!
About Taipei
Taipei, the vibrant capital of Taiwan, is a fascinating blend of traditional culture and modern innovation. Known for its bustling night markets, towering skyscrapers, and lush green mountains, Taipei offers a unique urban experience with a rich cultural heritage.
Top Attractions
Taipei 101
Once the tallest building in the world, Taipei 101 is an iconic skyscraper and a symbol of modern Taipei. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck on the 89th floor.
Architecture/Observation Deck
1-2 hours
NT$600-800 (observation deck ticket)
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
This national memorial hall is dedicated to Chiang Kai-shek, former leader of the Republic of China. The hall features a large museum, gardens, and a daily changing of the guard ceremony.
Historical/Memorial
1-2 hours
Free (museum admission may vary)
Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan)
Elephant Mountain is a popular hiking spot offering one of the best views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline. The hike is relatively short and suitable for most fitness levels.
Nature/Scenic Viewpoint
1-2 hours (hike and sightseeing)
Free
Shilin Night Market
One of the largest and most famous night markets in Taipei, Shilin Night Market offers a wide variety of street food, snacks, and shopping. It's a must-visit for food lovers.
Food/Market
2-3 hours
Budget to moderate (depending on food and shopping)
Beitou Hot Springs
Beitou is known for its natural hot springs, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. There are several public and private hot spring resorts to choose from.
Relaxation/Spas
2-3 hours
Moderate to expensive (depending on the resort)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Beef Noodle Soup
A hearty soup made with tender beef, chewy noodles, and a rich, flavorful broth. It's considered Taiwan's national dish.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains beef and gluten (noodles).
Bubble Tea
A popular Taiwanese beverage made with tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls. It comes in various flavors and can be enjoyed hot or cold.
Drink
Vegetarian (if made without dairy).
Oyster Omelet
A savory omelet made with fresh oysters, eggs, and a sweet and tangy sauce. It's a popular street food item.
Snack
Contains seafood and eggs.
Stinky Tofu
Fermented tofu with a strong odor, usually deep-fried and served with pickled cabbage and sauce. It's an acquired taste but a must-try for adventurous eaters.
Snack
Vegetarian (if made without meat-based broth).
Popular Activities
Hiking in Yangmingshan National Park
Paragliding in Wuling Farm
Visiting Beitou Hot Springs
Tea tasting in Maokong
Exploring historic temples and shrines
Visiting museums and art galleries
Kayaking in the Tamsui River
Stand-up paddleboarding in Ximending
Best Time to Visit
October to December
This period offers pleasant weather with comfortable temperatures and clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. It's also the time for various festivals and events.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Mandarin Chinese
- Widely spoken: English, Taiwanese (Hokkien), Hakka
- English: Moderately spoken (in tourist areas and among younger generations)
Currency
New Taiwan Dollar (TWD)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Taipei is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, visitors should still take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
Getting there
By air
- Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport • 40 km from city center
- Taipei Songshan Airport • 10 km from city center
By train
Taipei Main Station, Banqiao Station
By bus
Taipei Bus Station, Taipei City Hall Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Taipei Metro is clean, efficient, and easy to use. It operates from 6:00 AM to midnight and has both English and Chinese signage.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Taiwan Taxi App
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Ximending
Daan
Zhongshan
Day trips
Jiufen
40 km from Taipei • Half day to full day
A charming mountain town known for its narrow streets, tea houses, and historic sites. Jiufen is often compared to a smaller version of Tokyo's Golden Gai.
Yehliu Geopark
40 km from Taipei • Half day
A unique geopark featuring fascinating rock formations, including the famous Queen's Head, created by erosion over thousands of years.
Tamsui
15 km from Taipei • Half day to full day
A historic district at the mouth of the Tamsui River, known for its beautiful sunset views, historic sites, and vibrant night market.
Festivals
Taipei Lantern Festival • February (dates vary, typically around the Chinese New Year)
Taipei Pride • Late October (dates vary)
Taipei International Food Show • June (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Use the EasyCard for convenient and discounted payments on public transportation, as well as for access to some attractions and shops.
- Visit popular attractions, such as Taipei 101 and the National Palace Museum, early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Explore the city's vibrant night markets, such as Shilin and Raohe, for an authentic and unforgettable culinary experience.
- Take a day trip to nearby attractions, such as Jiufen, Yehliu Geopark, and Tamsui, to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.
- Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases to enhance your travel experience and connect with locals.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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