Belfast Cookery School
Belfast Cookery School
5
About
we are the first purpose built cookery school in Belfast.We are situated in the centre of belfast close to hotels and public transport links.we offer a wide range of cookery classes featuring our chefs from the Mourne seafood Bar but we also offer a number of ethnic cooking classes featuring guest chefs.
Suggested duration
2-3 hours
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5.0
250 reviews
Excellent
220
Very good
17
Average
7
Poor
3
Terrible
3
Sean O
London, UK29 contributions
Oct 2021 • Couples
Great fun making Irish breads in a professional kitchen with friendly and helpful chef Ian Hunter and his team. The atmosphere was laid back and encouraging. We had a real laugh and look forward to joining some of the other classes. Highly recommended activity in Belfast.
Written 24 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Johnnyutah66
Carrickfergus, UK150 contributions
Jun 2019 • Solo
I've had an interest in cooking for a long time.We both work full time 9 to 5 and in addition my wife works away from home at weekends running a seal rescue centre a three hour drive away. So I tend to make the majority of the food at home. I like to experiment and try new things. I find cooking a great stress reliever and love to cook for other people.
I'd gone to a Mexican restaurant in called La Taqueria with a couple of friends after finding it by accident as a result of the Primark fire in Belfast. A diversion led me down a street I really wouldn't have went to otherwise. On the way in I noticed it shared a building with Belfast Cookery School. I hadn't heard of anything similar locally before I was immediately intrigued as to what they might have to offer.
I started to check the Belfast Cookery School website regularly to see the types of classes they had on offer. What I noticed almost straight off is that classes fill up really quickly. A few months went by and I still wasn't able to find a class with a theme I wanted to try on a night I could make it.
Then this week I noticed that there was space on the "Midnight Munchies" class. ( affectionately referred to as the "stoner class.")
I was hot and cold on going to the class because I knew at short notice I'd have to go on my own. It's intimidating enough to try something new, without the added pressure having to do it solo. The desire to get the class when I had the chance won out.
The class started at 7pm so I made my way to Castle Street and nervously took the stairs up to the 2nd floor to the school.
Immediately on entry staff offered me the warmest of welcomes. My nerves settled almost immediately. They led me to a seated area at the back of the class room, offered me seat and a glass of water and asked if I wanted a complimentary drink of something stronger. I decided to go with a caffeine kick. With a great cup of Coffee in hand I read through the disclaimer form and waited for the rest of the class to arrive.
The classes usually run with sixteen students, but I was lucky enough to be in a class that had just 7 participants.
This meant that from the off the staff couldn't have been more attentive, but I have zero doubt that even with a full class the ratio of staff to student would have offered the same great service.
Head chef and proprietor Ian Hunter Introduced himself and explained the format the class would take. He would demonstrate each dish and then it was our turn move off to our individual work stations to make our two starters, main course and desert.
Prior to this while noseying at at the work stations I noticed a problem for me. I have an unusual allergy. I'm allergic to mushrooms. If I touch them, my skin reacts badly it reddens and swells dramatically. If I eat them or eat food that has been cooked using the same equipment, that swelling happens to my throat and tongue. Sometimes even if someone else has been eating or cooking with them I can have a mild reaction where my eyes stream and my breathing becomes laboured. People tend, especially in restaurants to outright disbelieve me or more generously believe that I don't like them and I'm exaggerating by saying I'm allergic. I didn't raise the issue when I booked because the menu online never mentioned mushrooms but while checking out the work stations I saw that the vegetable portions for the Philly Cheesesteak where all sitting on top the dreaded funghi.
I was really loathe to bring it up as it's a weird thing to have to explain, but when I did, quietly dying a little inside Ian couldn't have been more helpful. Even if he thought I was full of it he tried very hard not to show it which I appreciated and the offending fungus was spirited away and fresh ingredients replaced them. The way this issue, that is exceptionally specific to me was handled couldn't have been better.
So with my world record breaking time attempt at the most awkward student ever over with Ian got down to business demonstrating the first two courses.
Nacho Popcorn with Crispy Maple Bacon
Parmesan and Black Pepper Chicken Wings.
Ian demonstrated each step of the recipes in easily digestible chunks. As good a Chef as he is, he's as equally as good a teacher. Doling out tips like never chopping garlic but instead grating it ( the difference in flavour this causes you would not believe ) showing us how to make Chicken Wing "lollipops" you really feel like you are gaining some insider knowledge. In what seemed like no time he had created two visually stunning and beautifully tasting dishes. Now it was our turn to make our way to our workstations and it kinda felt like like a street busker being asked to go on stage after Jimi Hendrix has just played All Along The Watch Tower on a flaming guitar. Ian makes cooking seem like Rock N' Roll.
The Workstations are laid out with military precision. The kitchen staff have all ingredients and all equipment laid out "mise en place" or "everything in its place" meaning it was all to hand when needed. The recipe sheets where concise and easy to follow. My fellow students were working in pairs and Norman-No-Mates over here had the disadvantage of having to do all the work himself. This actually focused me all the more on the tasks at hand knowing full well if I made a pigs ear of it I had no one to blame but myself. I'd like to tell you I fought the good fight and single-handedly produced two restaurant standard dishes all by myself but Ian moved between all the work stations with almost superhuman foresight and managed to be just in the right place at the right time to stop me making too bad a botch of anything. Make no mistake though, I was super proud of what I produced.
Three hours had flown by and I'd produced four visually stunning and great tasting dishes made with ingredients that are easily available and with equipment most people will have at home.
I honestly can't heap enough praise on Belfast Cookery School and their staff. This experience was 10/10 and one of the best things I think I've ever done.
If you have any interest in cooking there is no better place to spend an evening in Belfast. Learning skills and taking home recipes I have no doubt you'll use for the rest of your life.
I'd gone to a Mexican restaurant in called La Taqueria with a couple of friends after finding it by accident as a result of the Primark fire in Belfast. A diversion led me down a street I really wouldn't have went to otherwise. On the way in I noticed it shared a building with Belfast Cookery School. I hadn't heard of anything similar locally before I was immediately intrigued as to what they might have to offer.
I started to check the Belfast Cookery School website regularly to see the types of classes they had on offer. What I noticed almost straight off is that classes fill up really quickly. A few months went by and I still wasn't able to find a class with a theme I wanted to try on a night I could make it.
Then this week I noticed that there was space on the "Midnight Munchies" class. ( affectionately referred to as the "stoner class.")
I was hot and cold on going to the class because I knew at short notice I'd have to go on my own. It's intimidating enough to try something new, without the added pressure having to do it solo. The desire to get the class when I had the chance won out.
The class started at 7pm so I made my way to Castle Street and nervously took the stairs up to the 2nd floor to the school.
Immediately on entry staff offered me the warmest of welcomes. My nerves settled almost immediately. They led me to a seated area at the back of the class room, offered me seat and a glass of water and asked if I wanted a complimentary drink of something stronger. I decided to go with a caffeine kick. With a great cup of Coffee in hand I read through the disclaimer form and waited for the rest of the class to arrive.
The classes usually run with sixteen students, but I was lucky enough to be in a class that had just 7 participants.
This meant that from the off the staff couldn't have been more attentive, but I have zero doubt that even with a full class the ratio of staff to student would have offered the same great service.
Head chef and proprietor Ian Hunter Introduced himself and explained the format the class would take. He would demonstrate each dish and then it was our turn move off to our individual work stations to make our two starters, main course and desert.
Prior to this while noseying at at the work stations I noticed a problem for me. I have an unusual allergy. I'm allergic to mushrooms. If I touch them, my skin reacts badly it reddens and swells dramatically. If I eat them or eat food that has been cooked using the same equipment, that swelling happens to my throat and tongue. Sometimes even if someone else has been eating or cooking with them I can have a mild reaction where my eyes stream and my breathing becomes laboured. People tend, especially in restaurants to outright disbelieve me or more generously believe that I don't like them and I'm exaggerating by saying I'm allergic. I didn't raise the issue when I booked because the menu online never mentioned mushrooms but while checking out the work stations I saw that the vegetable portions for the Philly Cheesesteak where all sitting on top the dreaded funghi.
I was really loathe to bring it up as it's a weird thing to have to explain, but when I did, quietly dying a little inside Ian couldn't have been more helpful. Even if he thought I was full of it he tried very hard not to show it which I appreciated and the offending fungus was spirited away and fresh ingredients replaced them. The way this issue, that is exceptionally specific to me was handled couldn't have been better.
So with my world record breaking time attempt at the most awkward student ever over with Ian got down to business demonstrating the first two courses.
Nacho Popcorn with Crispy Maple Bacon
Parmesan and Black Pepper Chicken Wings.
Ian demonstrated each step of the recipes in easily digestible chunks. As good a Chef as he is, he's as equally as good a teacher. Doling out tips like never chopping garlic but instead grating it ( the difference in flavour this causes you would not believe ) showing us how to make Chicken Wing "lollipops" you really feel like you are gaining some insider knowledge. In what seemed like no time he had created two visually stunning and beautifully tasting dishes. Now it was our turn to make our way to our workstations and it kinda felt like like a street busker being asked to go on stage after Jimi Hendrix has just played All Along The Watch Tower on a flaming guitar. Ian makes cooking seem like Rock N' Roll.
The Workstations are laid out with military precision. The kitchen staff have all ingredients and all equipment laid out "mise en place" or "everything in its place" meaning it was all to hand when needed. The recipe sheets where concise and easy to follow. My fellow students were working in pairs and Norman-No-Mates over here had the disadvantage of having to do all the work himself. This actually focused me all the more on the tasks at hand knowing full well if I made a pigs ear of it I had no one to blame but myself. I'd like to tell you I fought the good fight and single-handedly produced two restaurant standard dishes all by myself but Ian moved between all the work stations with almost superhuman foresight and managed to be just in the right place at the right time to stop me making too bad a botch of anything. Make no mistake though, I was super proud of what I produced.
Three hours had flown by and I'd produced four visually stunning and great tasting dishes made with ingredients that are easily available and with equipment most people will have at home.
I honestly can't heap enough praise on Belfast Cookery School and their staff. This experience was 10/10 and one of the best things I think I've ever done.
If you have any interest in cooking there is no better place to spend an evening in Belfast. Learning skills and taking home recipes I have no doubt you'll use for the rest of your life.
Written 29 June 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Brenda D
Belfast, UK21 contributions
May 2019 • Couples
My first time at the Belfast Cookery School. I bought the experience as a birthday gift for my other half and we both loved it. Great cookery skills shown during the demonstrations then we got a chance to make the seafood chowder, and then the Duck a la orange. Great fun and a lift lesson. I would highly recommend this different type of cookery experience
Written 2 May 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Naomi F
Lisburn, UK21 contributions
Feb 2019
Fantastic night! The menu was of a high quality and delicious, the demonstrations where informative and engaging, the staff where knowledgeable, helpful and friendly and the overall atmosphere was fun and light hearted! Excellent value for money!
Would 100% recommend to families, couples or tourists in Belfast and would most definitely return!
Thank you to everyone at Belfast Cookery School!
Would 100% recommend to families, couples or tourists in Belfast and would most definitely return!
Thank you to everyone at Belfast Cookery School!
Written 7 February 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
958barbara
Ballymena, UK61 contributions
Jan 2019 • Family
I went to the family cookery school on Sunday 6th January 2019 and I have to say it was the most wonderful experience. Ian head chef was an absolute gem, he was so patient and knowledgeable, I brought my daughter who is doing GCSE food prep and I thought this would be a good experience for her and give her a great confidence boost and I was right, the experience was great for us both and I cannot recommend this place highly enough. The whole team were excellent and we cannot wait to go again. Such a fantastic day we had thank you all
Written 9 January 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Barbara McM M
Belfast, UK10 contributions
Aug 2018 • Friends
A brilliant evening with family and friends! Ian ( our chef) and his team were fabulous... very professional, very knowledgeable, very patient and great fun. We learned so much cooking our food... lots of wee tips. The GOT banquet was a great idea... the food was amazing. The lamb ( which I don’t normally like ) was delicious and we were shown great ways to keep chicken moist whilst cooking. Reasonably priced for dinner and a learning experience and the team kindly did all the washing up! This is a great fun way to go out for dinner with friends.
Written 4 August 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cutsir
15 contributions
May 2018 • Couples
My wife had bought me a steak night as a gift and we went last Saturday night.
The atmosphere is great, Sandra and staff were very friendly and helpful. Ian the chef was really engaging and culinary knowledge amazing.
We were there with 14 other revellers and thoroughly enjoyed the food, food demos and regular intervention and advice of our chef. We felt totally involved and engaged throughout the evening.
Overall an amazing night and we will definitely be back to sample one of the other types of cuisine they offer.
The atmosphere is great, Sandra and staff were very friendly and helpful. Ian the chef was really engaging and culinary knowledge amazing.
We were there with 14 other revellers and thoroughly enjoyed the food, food demos and regular intervention and advice of our chef. We felt totally involved and engaged throughout the evening.
Overall an amazing night and we will definitely be back to sample one of the other types of cuisine they offer.
Written 23 May 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
smudgertrip
belfast210 contributions
Nov 2017 • Couples
Been here a few times and always have a good night out. Choose what type of food you want to cook before you book. We always find a good interesting mix of people and the chef Stephen helpful, friendly and knowledgable. You normally cook your own three course meal, under tuition and get to enjoy what you cook along with some wine and the chef and other guests. Lasting about three hours we have always enjoyed the company and the meal. An interesting and enjoyable evening for not much more than you would pay for a meal out.
Written 16 May 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
David M
Newtownabbey, UK140 contributions
Apr 2018 • Friends
Brunch at the Belfast Cookery School was a Christmas present from my wife. I went with my son and can honestly say we both had a terrific experience. I'm ashamed to say that this was when I first made soda bread but it won't be the last. The demonstration and guidance given was first class. As it was for the hollandaise sauce, poached duck egg and pork belly with spinach. To say we were proud of what we produced is an understatement. Pleasant staff, pleasant company and an experience I would be happy to repeat.
Written 15 May 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jennylarne91
Larne, UK3 contributions
Mar 2018 • Couples
After previously attending with the girls for 2 super classes thought it was time i took my partner john, he is a massive Game of thrones fan having read all the books and loving the show, so was excited to see this class on the website!
Apon arrival WOW! The school was decorated with Dragons, swords, shields and the table was beautifully layed out with medieval tapestry..really set the scene, was excited to see Ian the head chef and Stuart taking the class as we had such fun with them before.
To begin Ian explained that this was slightly diffrent from a normal class as the dishes took a long time to prepare and cook but he did talk us through every dish and showed the group how everything was prepared and where all the ingredients came from and got to try everything first..all within 30 miles of the cookery school..i must admit was a bit wary of trying the purple potatoes and yellow carrots but they were amazing.
All the food was served to us banquet style and we helped ourselves..ive never been a fan of lamb but this was like nothing ive tasted before.superb and the chicken with honey and raisins.so moist!
Then we got to make our sweets..apple roses with custard and lemon cakes..each couple got to make one of each which was a great idea as we got to taste both desserts! All in all a great experience getting to cook and taste food from the show with great local produce..Bravo!!
Apon arrival WOW! The school was decorated with Dragons, swords, shields and the table was beautifully layed out with medieval tapestry..really set the scene, was excited to see Ian the head chef and Stuart taking the class as we had such fun with them before.
To begin Ian explained that this was slightly diffrent from a normal class as the dishes took a long time to prepare and cook but he did talk us through every dish and showed the group how everything was prepared and where all the ingredients came from and got to try everything first..all within 30 miles of the cookery school..i must admit was a bit wary of trying the purple potatoes and yellow carrots but they were amazing.
All the food was served to us banquet style and we helped ourselves..ive never been a fan of lamb but this was like nothing ive tasted before.superb and the chicken with honey and raisins.so moist!
Then we got to make our sweets..apple roses with custard and lemon cakes..each couple got to make one of each which was a great idea as we got to taste both desserts! All in all a great experience getting to cook and taste food from the show with great local produce..Bravo!!
Written 5 April 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Karen L
Lisburn, UK
Where is the best thing place to park for a Friday night class, please?
David M
Newtownabbey, UK140 contributions
I would normally use the land car parks at Smithfield. There is some street parking but I’m always a bit concerned about how many wheels my car will have when I come back..
Ian A
1 contribution
hi im very passionate about Indian food and would just love my curries to taste like what we eat when eating out would this class help me with this
mourneseafood
dundrum9 contributions
yes - that is the type of thing we teach at the cookery school
Hi,
In one of the reviews I read, they mentioned a move from the Castle Street location.
Is this the case? Everywhere I have looked has had the Castle Street address listed.
Thanks.
smudgertrip
belfast210 contributions
My daughter went a while ago and it was at a different location. Not sure but I think it was out of the city centre, Forestside is in my head somewhere. I suggest you clarify this by calling to make your booking
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Frequently Asked Questions about Belfast Cookery School
- Hotels near Belfast Cookery School:
- (0.02 mi) Dream Pods City Center
- (0.04 mi) Best Location 5* Luxury Living City Centre Parking
- (0.09 mi) Ibis Belfast City Centre
- (0.17 mi) Wilton House Luxury Suites and Residences
- (0.13 mi) Castle Buildings
- Restaurants near Belfast Cookery School:
- (0.00 mi) Happy Valley
- (0.01 mi) La Taqueria
- (0.01 mi) Maggie Mays Belfast Cafe, Castle Street
- (0.02 mi) Bankquet Grill
- (0.02 mi) Mourne Seafood Oyster Bar