Honest Review: Secret Seoul Cooking Class By Secret Food Tours

Alright, so you’re thinking of visiting Seoul and maybe want to actually do more than just see the sites? That’s cool! Maybe a cooking class crosses your mind? I gave Secret Seoul Cooking Class by Secret Food Tours a shot. Here’s what it’s actually like, the good stuff, and, maybe, the stuff you really should consider. I will try to provide enough to allow you to make a well-informed decision.

First Impressions and Setting

The class is held in a regular neighborhood, and is, arguably, not in one of those super-touristy spots which gives things a slightly more authentic feeling, if that is, arguably, what you are wanting. You won’t just be crammed into some sort of cooking factory, which is nice. The space itself is rather inviting and well-kept, just really equipped for cooking activities. Very importantly, it feels kinda homey, so it helps a person, you know, loosen up and, like, maybe get into the cooking mood. I guess that really depends on what a person thinks ‘homey’ looks and feels like, right?

The Cooking Experience

Okay, so the heart of the matter, the class. I cooked maybe three dishes; classics such as kimchi and bibimbap. The instructor gave us just super clear directions, showing you how to make each dish. What I liked is that it wasn’t just following directions; the teacher also spent some time teaching you some really important stuff, the ‘why’ behind what ingredients do. This approach helps, and it’s cool if you really like to tweak recipes on your own time. It all felt, perhaps, hands-on and I didn’t ever feel like I was just, say, watching, which, you know, is super important.

Taste and Authenticity

Of course, we ate what we made, as you can reasonably expect. Everything was rather delicious, but maybe the biggest plus was just experiencing, very personally, how fresh, and you know, well-sourced the food items were. Arguably, it did kinda give me some appreciation for Korean cuisine beyond just eating at restaurants. The tastes and aromas will, it seems, stick with me.

What Sets It Apart From Similar Activities?

There might be a ton of cooking classes in Seoul, alright? I think what made this one kinda better was the general attention to just details. Small class sizes make a lot of sense because it meant a more personal, direct form of teaching and interaction. The people really went out of their way to just talk about the culture behind the foods, really giving a context, so you don’t feel like you are just in another class. Arguably, it’s more about an immersion, really. This, I feel, is what other experiences often seem to miss.

Things to Consider Before You Book

Okay, so a couple things. Price can be slightly higher compared to other, arguably more basic, cooking classes, so weigh that in your mind. You’re actually spending a bit more for a well done, maybe slightly intimate experience. Also, while I kinda liked the slightly non-touristy spot, it’s not as easy to just get to compared to some venues which may be near, say, subway stations. Give yourself enough travel time, I guess.

Final Thoughts

So, if you really are looking to just learn about Korean cooking and the class is rather well managed, I would say go for Secret Seoul Cooking Class. A very personable environment makes this slightly worthwhile and also really gets to deliver pretty well, especially, arguably, if you appreciate some background detail on food items and Korean culture. The experience, potentially, can easily extend well beyond your time in Seoul. Make sure to figure out how easy it can be for you to get to.

Key Takeaways:

• Alright, small group sessions allow kinda personalized training.
• Pretty insightful lessons on the traditions of the meals prepared.
• Arguably, the food preparation provides you with greater confidence in home cooking.

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