Mexico is known for a lot of things: Mayan ruins, idyllic beaches, diving prime spots, boho-chic towns, and cosmopolitan cities. But one of the main reasons visitors return time (including me) and time again is its food. And who could blame us?!
Mexican cuisine is famed all over the world. There are so many varieties, dishes, and flavors, that you could keep busy during your trip merely by eating. That’s why attending a cooking class is one of the best things to do in Playa del Carmen, especially when the weather forecast is predicting rain.
You’ll learn from an experienced, professional chef all the secrets about some of the most traditional Mexican dishes. The best part is that you’ll get to make them yourself! At the end of the class, you’ll not only indulge in delicious food but take the recipes home.
➥ Why consider these Playa del Carmen cooking classes? While I haven’t personally attended a class in Playa, I’ve taken multiple cooking classes around Mexico which gives me the insight to choose the best ones. Drawing from my six-month Mexican journey and a decade in the travel industry, I’ve selected classes that offer hands-on cooking experiences.
I generally use Viator to book tours around the world. I especially recommend it for its great cancellation policy. You can cancel most activities up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund, no questions asked.
Are you in a rush? These are the best cooking classes:
| THE BEST COOKING CLASS | Mexican Cooking Experience and Local Markets Tour |
| CENOTES & COOKING CLASS | Cenotes by Bike and Mayan Cooking Class |
| COCKTAILS CLASS | Drinking School: Mexican Cocktail and Appetizer Class |
OUR PICK: The BEST Cooking Class in Playa del Carmen
This Playa del Carmen Mexican Cooking Experience and Local Markets Tour is a 5-hour class. It starts with a visit to shops and spice markets, led by a guide. You’ll learn all about the produce and ingredients needed, and do some shopping.
Once at the Playa del Carmen cooking school, it’s time to get your hands dirty. Put on an apron, and follow your friendly chef’s instructions to become a kitchen whiz.
You’ll prepare everything from tortillas to guacamole, salsas, and tamales. At the end of the class, sit down with your host and fellow chefs to enjoy your delicacies with a Margarita. You’ll also take a recipe book home with you!
➤ Why is this the best tour? This cooking experience is a great introduction to Mexican cuisine, and it’s very comprehensive. You’ll visit a local food market, a trip that’s not included in most tours, and learn about the ingredients you’ll be using.
Besides, you’ll be preparing several traditional dishes, and have the chance to make them vegan or vegetarian.
Read what the reviews say:
“We had an excellent time with Alma and her aunt. She shared about this history of Playa, and her culinary experiences. We loved learning to make tamales, salsas, and tortillas, and the margaritas were an extra perk! Would strongly recommend this experience to anyone looking to connect with the local community, and learn about local cuisine. Truly a unique experience with wonderful people.”
Andrew_W – Read more reviews
This class includes: A class with a master chef, a market tour, lunch, bottled water, and recipes. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Other Great Playa del Carmen Cooking Classes
▶️ The Authentic Mexican Cooking Class in Playa del Carmen is a half-day experience. It takes place in your host’s kitchen, where you’ll discuss the dishes on the menu. Then, set off to a local market for spices and produce shopping…you’ll need ingredients after all!
Back at the kitchen, you’ll follow Isa’s directions to create salsas, guacamole, and a main dish. Choose between cochinita pibil, tostadas, ceviche, and mole. The class accommodates up to 8 participants, ensuring everyone has a good time.
This class includes: A cooking class in Playa del Carmen, a market visit, all ingredients, bottled water, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ A very interesting experience is this Mexican 1 or 3 Course Culinary Experience & Tequila vs Mezcal Lesson & Tasting. You’ll choose the number of courses of your meal, which you’ll prepare yourself, and get a hands-on experience.
Your professional guide will teach you fantastic cooking techniques that you’ll continue to use in your culinary journey. Prepare to become a whizz in Mexican cuisine! The main dishes can be anything from ceviche to tacos and mole. Vegan and vegetarian menus are available.
After the class, indulge in a tequila and mezcal tasting. You’ll learn about Mexico’s most popular drinks and discover their differences.
This cooking class Playa del Carmen includes: A cooking class, all ingredients, lunch, and tastings of mezcal and tequila. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
A Cocktails and Appetizers Class in Playa del Carmen
Check out this Drinking School: Mexican Cocktail and Appetizer Class for the ultimate cocktail experience. You’ll meet with other travelers and together craft your own margaritas and signature cocktails. You’ll be guided by a friendly and very knowledgeable instructor every step of the process.
This Playa del Carmen cooking class starts with cocktail making. As you sip on your drink you’ll prepare a delicious appetizer, such as ceviche, salsas, or skewers. Then again and again, until you’ve had three delicious cocktails and snacks made by yourself.
This class includes: All ingredients, a guided class, food, drinks, and recipes. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Playa del Carmen Cooking Class With Cenotes
Cenotes and food, all in one? Yes, please! You can do that with this Cenotes by Bike and Mayan Cooking Class Half-Day Guided Tour.
This unique culinary tour starts with a visit to your guide’s home. Meet the family and be introduced to Cochinita Pibil, one of the most traditional local dishes. You’ll help your host prepare the meal, from seasoning the meat to learning about the ingredients and cooking techniques.
As the pork cooks, you’ll take your bikes and visit four beautiful cenotes. Swim and snorkel in them before returning for a scrumptious lunch.
This tour includes: A local guide, a visit to a Mayan family, a bike, cenotes, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
