Private Turkish Cuisine Cooking Class with Local Moms
50 reviews
Experience hosted at home by
Nuran
3.5 Hours
English, Turkish
If you're searching for things to do in Istanbul that truly connect you with local culture, nothing compares to a cooking class in Istanbul inside a real home. Step into a warm and welcoming Turkish household, where a local mom will invite you into her kitchen to share the secrets of authentic home-cooked recipes passed down through generations. Whether it's rolling dolma, kneading dough for börek, or preparing a table full of mezes, every dish has a story—one that speaks of tradition, family, and the little details that make Turkish cuisine so special.
Before your visit, we’ll chat about your dietary preferences so we can tailor the menu just for you. When you arrive, you won’t just be learning how to cook—you’ll be immersed in Turkish home hospitality, where cooking is an experience shared with laughter, storytelling, and warmth. You'll discover how food differs across regions, the meaning behind traditional dishes, and the love that goes into every meal.
More than just a class, this is a chance to experience Turkish home life firsthand. As you cook together, you’ll feel like part of the family—learning, chatting, and soaking in the warmth of a real home. And when everything is ready, we’ll gather around the table to enjoy the homemade feast, sharing stories, flavors, and unforgettable moments.
You may arrive as a guest, but by the time we share a meal, you’ll be part of the family. In our home, food is more than just nourishment—it’s a way to connect, build friendships, and create memories that will stay with you long after you leave. 🧡
What do our guests say?
First class from start to finish. Instantly made to feel like part of the family. Prepared an amazing lunch including a stuffed aubergine dish, grated carrots with garlic and yoghurt and delicious spicy beans. Both went over and beyond to help with anything to do with our stay as well. Highly recommend 👌.
20.09.23
Angela W
SO FUN! A culinary delight! Spent 5 days in Istanbul and this was definitely a highlight! The moment I stepped into the home I felt I was among family. I loved learning to cook a few traditioinal delicious dishes and hear about turkish traditions as well. Aysu is the sweetest and an excellent cook! We sat down family style and both food and company was more than I hoped for. By the time I left is was dark and since I didnt know the way, Ibrahim even offered to walk me to the bus. I look forward to sharing these new turkish dishes with my family and friends. I highly recommend this experience!
12.10.23
kristinagustaf
This was the highlight of my stay in Istanbul. Baver is an excellent host and Aysu a brilliant cook. I was fortunate to attend both the breakfast and the dinner classes. In addition to the delicious dishes I learnt to cook, I met their friends and family whom they invited for dinner and they shared stories about their culture and customs. The evening ended with Baver singing a traditional song accompanied by a traditional guitarlike instrument. One of the friends who joined us for dinner kindly walked me back to the tram station after the most enjoyable and fun evening I had in a long time.
13.10.23
Lossie33