Museum hopping is always fun, but there’s more one can do when traveling, like delve into the soul of Argentina through its cuisine. A cooking class isn’t just a souvenir; it’s an immersive experience that unlocks the secrets behind those sizzling steaks, delicate pastries, and fragrant stews known as guisos. Master the art of the asado, the iconic Argentine barbecue, or whip up flaky empanadas filled with savory goodness. 

These are the top cooking classes in Buenos Aires to discover Argentine culture and cuisine in a hands-on, delicious approach, but they are also so much more: they are a portal to a richer understanding and appreciation of Argentine people, one bite at a time.

Why a Cooking Class

Dinners at Buenos Aires’s fancy restaurants are all well and good, but one of the best things in life is crafting a culinary masterpiece on one’s own. Cooking classes are more than just following instructions; they’re a chance to unleash every foodie’s inner gourmand, experiment with vibrant spices, and bond with fellow food enthusiasts. Visitors will not only leave with a newfound appreciation for Argentine cuisine, but also the ability to recreate those delectable dishes back home, transforming any ordinary night into an adventure through Buenos Aires. 

Think of it as an insider’s passport to replicating the magic, a delicious souvenir that goes far beyond a fridge magnet. So, put on an apron, prepare the taste buds, and dive into the vibrant heart of Argentine cuisine culture through this ultimate guide – after all, the best way to experience a place is often through its flavors.

Criolla Cooking

Criolla Cooking is a culinary haven that celebrates the nation’s vibrant heritage. Is an ode to the warmth of ancestral kitchens, where generations perfected the art of Argentinian fare. Led by English-speaking, culinary masters, the menu dives into the secrets behind those legendary dishes – the melt-in-the-mouth empanadas, the spicy sauces, and the perfectly seared steaks that have become synonymous with Argentina.

This isn’t a mere cooking class; it’s a journey through time, a chance to connect with the cultural melting pot that defines the country. Each one of their classes is a portal to a different flavor. And no meal would be complete without drinks. Criolla’s Argentine wine tastings are the perfect complement to bring out the best of every ingredient. So raise a glass (or a mixing bowl) and choose from one of their classes in the heart of Palermo, Buenos Aires trendiest hub and the best place for food enthusiasts: 

• Foundations of Argentine Cooking: The culinary Rosetta Stone to Argentina’s cuisine. To kick things off, they welcome visitors with a local charcuterie board and two drinks. Then, it’s time to roll-up the sleeves. Under the guidance of Criolla’s expert chefs, travelers will master the art of the cheesy chipa, a warm, savory snack.

The menu also includes empanadas bursting with secret family recipes, tender tenderloin with local veggies, and an indulgent flan con dulce de leche as dessert. And to ensure these delicious memories linger long after the trip, the experience comes with a treasured recipe booklet, to recreate these culinary gems of Argentine cuisine back home. 

• Asado Masterclass: Asado is an art form, and Criolla is the perfect guide for it. This class transform anyone into a grill master, fit for the best restaurants in Buenos Aires, teaching the secrets of succulent meat, sizzling cuts, and the perfect accompaniments. Explore the world of chimichurri, discover the magic of perfectly paired natural wines, make a fire using wood and charcoal, and emerge a true asado aficionado.
• Private Cooking Class: Craving an exclusive, immersive experience? For smaller groups, Criolla’s private class unfolds Argentine cuisine secrets step-by-step, transforming visitors from curious travelers to confident home cooks. It’s a delicious bonding experience with good food: two starters, main course, desert, wine tasting, and all the fun from cooking with friends.

The Argentine Experience

Although not a cooking class, The Argentine Experience is a full night of tasting typical yet sophisticated dishes and getting to really know their ingredients in a unique dining experience in a closed-door restaurant. A five to ten course adventure that makes for an incredible introduction to the traditional local specialties—paired with hand-selected Argentine wines. They cater to pescetarians and vegetarians, ensuring everyone can partake in the feast. 

It includes some of the best things of the local cuisine: 

• A welcoming Patagonian trout tartare and wine based cocktail. 
• An empanada class.
• A typical picada with grilled provolone cheese, sliced chorizo sausage, black sausage roll, and grilled skirt pork steak.
• Three different beef tastings.
•  Dessert tasting to appeal to that sweet tooth.
• Mate class, the local herbal beverage, paired with alfajores con dulce de leche, a pastry delicacy. 

Notable Bar Montecarlo 

Step back in time and clink glasses with Buenos Aires’s past at Montecarlo Bar, a hidden gem in the heart of Palermo Viejo, a great spot for wandering the streets. This legendary establishment, boasting over 100 years of history, it’s a portal to the city’s vibrant soul. Now owned by Paula Comparatore, the mastermind behind the iconic Bar El Federal, Montecarlo exudes a timeless dignity. 

Here, history whispers from the walls, and tradition finds a fresh voice on every plate. Savor the essence of porteña cuisine, the unique culinary tapestry of Buenos Aires, with a menu that honor the past while embracing a touch of modern flair. Montecarlo isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s about cultivating a connection with the city and its stories.

But there’s more than meets the eye. Below Montecarlo, visitors can hone their skills at interactive cooking classes, where they’ll learn to recreate the magic of Argentine cuisine. It’s a journey of discovery with a wide variety of wines and thematic menus that offer a chance to delve into specific regional dishes.

Casa Néctar 

Defined as a “house of exquisite rituals”, Casa Néctar definitely lives up to its definition, a captivating concept dreamt up by renowned chef Toti Quesada. This stunning venue transcends the boundaries of a mere restaurant or cooking school. Nestled within a meticulously restored Barrio Norte mansion, Casa Nectar embodies the essence of “néctar” itself – enjoyment, desire, and pure sensory bliss. Here, exquisite design and historical details set the stage for an unforgettable experience in the city of Buenos Aires. 

Visitors can open their senses (and taste buds) with a stroll through their curated deli market, a treasure trove of local ingredients and artisanal products. These are the building blocks for the culinary creations to either take home and recreate, or learn to master in one of the cooking classes by Toti. These classes are all about embracing the joy of good food, the beauty of connection, and the art of living well by sharing recipes, showcasing different ways of cooking, getting to know a wide variety of national products and having a moment of joy every time. 

Pachamama

“Pachamama,” meaning “Mother Earth,” embodies the spirit of a culinary experience that nourishes both body and soul. A celebration of the land, its bounty, and the joy of sharing it with others. Nestled in the charming Cañitas neighborhood, a secluded but sophisticated area of Buenos Aires, Pachamama it’s an invitation to an intimate gathering. Up to twelve guests gather in a cozy kitchen, united by a love for good food and a desire to connect. 

For three delicious hours, they teach all the secrets of making puffy chipa, juicy empanadas, hearty humita stew, and the art of the mate ritual, a social cornerstone, paired with tasty alfajores filled with dulce de leche. And while getting to enjoy the fruits of their labor, travelers will dive into the fascinating world of Argentine wines, learning how each perfectly complements their culinary masterpieces.

Everything is included – recipes, aprons, and the essential ingredient: good company. Classes are conducted in both English and Spanish, making it a great place to practice language skills while learning the art of Argentinian cuisine.