Private Filipino cooking class in a local Manila Home

Luzon , Philippines

Private Filipino cooking class in a local Manila Home

Active

(28 reviews)

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

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore Isi's vegetable garden and pick a few calamansis, before heading into her kitchen for your private class, where she will teach you to prepare Filipino family recipes that have been passed down through generations. After cooking, you will sit down and share the meal you helped prepare at Isi's dining table in her home. Your meal will include dishes such as ensaladang pako (local fern salad in a calamansi and raw honey dressing), grilled shrimp in a cilantro chimichurri (an Isi creation), ginataang kalabasa at sitaw (squash and green beans in a coconut milk stew), mechado (soy marinated beef, cooked in an onion and tomato sauce) or inihaw na baboy (grilled pork chops) followed by homemade calamansi pie for dessert made by her best friend Earnest.

This experience is a true glimpse into the Filipino culture and cuisine with a warm and friendly local, in her home in Taguig, Metro Manila.

Available options

Cooking + lunch

What's included

Beer

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Lunch or Dinner

Gratuities

Private Filipino cooking class with your host Isi

What you'll see

Isi has been in the food business for over ten years - creating recipes for dairy companies and restaurants, doing food styling and photography and selling spices online. She has recently started "Chili Asylum", an institution dedicated to marketing fresh chilies and chilli products sourced directly from Filipino farmers. Isi says she learned everything she knows about cooking from her Nanay (grandmother) who she watched cook fresh lunches and dinners everyday growing up. Isi loves cooking and serving the local, regional food she grew up eating. Isi enjoys collaborating with other chefs and food lovers in the food business to create new and delicious food.

Isi will take you through her small vegetable garden where she grows lemongrass and calamansi, a distinctive Filipino citrus fruit that she uses to flavor her food. Isi's food is redolent of flavors such as calamansi, garlic, chilies, coconut milk and fish sauce. In her kitchen she will teach you to prepare Filipino family recipes that have been passed down through the generations. You can choose between a hands-on lesson and a cooking demonstration during which you will watch her prepare the meal. Just let her know your preference!

Your menu might include dishes such as ensaladang pako (local fern salad in a calamansi and raw honey dressing), grilled shrimp in a cilantro chimichurri (an Isi creation), ginataang kalabasa at sitaw (squash and green beans in a coconut milk stew), mechado (soy marinated beef, cooked in an onion and tomato sauce), inihaw na baboy (grilled pork chops) followed by homemade calamansi pie for dessert made by her best friend Earnest.

Leave with new recipes, a new friend, and lifelong memories.

Please note, this is not a professional cooking class, rather this experience is a visit into an authentic, local home to meet a local person and share the culture and cuisine together.

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

25 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

Please note this is not a professional cooking class, rather an insider glimpse into Filipino culture and cuisine with a local expert cook in her home

Dress code is smart casual

Meeting point

Meet your host Isi at her home. Please allot enough time to get to Isi's home in Taguig, Metro Manila, especially during heavy traffic times. Exact address can be found in your ticket upon booking confirmation

Important notes

Meeting Location: Meet your host Isi at her condo. Here is a Google Maps link to her condo: https://goo.gl/maps/Texrqo9rQiXQK2aq7

Please allot enough time to get to Isi's home in Taguig, Metro Manila, especially during heavy traffic times. In Manila, we recommend using GrabTaxi/GrabCar or your hotel’s car service to get you around the city.

Address: Two Serendra, Unit 1520 Dolce, 1634 McKinley Pkwy, Taguig, Metro Manila, 11th Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Bonifacio Global City
Here is a Google Maps link to her home: https://goo.gl/maps/Texrqo9rQiXQK2aq7

If you need assistance, please contact Isi at +63 91981 81220 or eatmattersph@gmail.com

Please note: Our hosts prepare for your experience ahead of time and are excited to host you. If you cannot make it, please let your host know.

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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 Luzon

Luzon, the largest and most populous island in the Philippines, is a vibrant mix of bustling cities, serene landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. From the capital city of Manila to the stunning rice terraces of Banaue, Luzon offers a diverse travel experience that caters to all types of travelers.

Top Attractions

Intramuros

Intramuros is the historic walled city in Manila, built during the Spanish colonial period. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a glimpse into the Philippines' rich history.

Historical Half day to full day Moderate

Banaue Rice Terraces

The Banaue Rice Terraces, also known as the 'Eighth Wonder of the World,' are ancient terraces carved into the mountains by the Ifugao people. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer breathtaking views.

Nature Full day to overnight Moderate

Pagudpud Beaches

Pagudpud is known for its pristine beaches and clear waters. It's a popular destination for those looking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Luzon.

Beach Full day to overnight Budget to Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Adobo

A savory dish of meat (usually chicken or pork) marinated in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices, then braised.

Main Course Can be made vegetarian with tofu or vegetables.

Sinigang

A sour tamarind-based soup with meat (pork, shrimp, or fish) and vegetables.

Soup Vegetarian versions are available.

Halo-Halo

A popular shaved ice dessert with a mix of sweet beans, fruits, jellies, and evaporated milk.

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan options are available.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Banaue Rice Terraces Exploring Taal Volcano Beach hopping in Pagudpud Spa treatments in Manila Visiting Intramuros in Manila Exploring the museums in Makati Snorkeling and diving in Pagudpud None

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This period offers pleasant weather with lower humidity and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach trips.

24°C to 32°C 75°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Filipino, English
Widely spoken: English, Tagalog
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Philippine Peso (PHP)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Luzon is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid petty crime and scams.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps like Grab.

Getting there

By air

Ninoy Aquino International Airport • 7 km from Manila city center

By train

Tutuban Station

By bus

EDSA Cubao, Pasay

Getting around

Public transport

Jeepneys are a popular and affordable mode of transport, especially in urban areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Makati Intramuros Banaue

Day trips

Baguio

250 km from Manila • Full day to overnight

Baguio, known as the 'Summer Capital of the Philippines,' offers cool weather, beautiful landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage.

Taal Volcano

80 km from Manila • Half day to full day

Taal Volcano is an active volcano with a stunning crater lake. It offers a unique adventure experience with a horseback ride and a short hike to the crater.

Festivals

Sinulog Festival • Third Sunday of January Pahiyas Festival • May 15

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in the local language to enhance your travel experience and connect with locals.
Use ride-hailing apps like Grab for convenient and safe transportation.
Carry cash, as not all establishments accept credit cards, especially in rural areas.
Dress appropriately for the occasion and respect local customs and traditions.
Be cautious of your belongings, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.