Tamales Making Fiesta and Roof Top Meal

If you’re craving a taste of genuine Mexican culinary tradition, this Tamales Making Fiesta and Roof Top Meal offers a flavorful, interactive experience you won’t forget. Hosted by seasoned chef Arturo Sosa, this small-group activity promises a deep dive into the art of making tamales — one of Mexico’s most iconic dishes — paired with scenic rooftop dining. Though the experience is generally well-received, some travelers have experienced scheduling hiccups, so it’s worth planning ahead.

What we love about this experience is its hands-on approach, the local authenticity it brings through recipes and conversations, and the stunning rooftop setting where you can enjoy your creations. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with Mexican food culture in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. However, keep in mind that the tour’s longevity is about three and a half hours, so it’s a good fit for those willing to dedicate that time and excited to get a little messy in the kitchen.

This tour is best suited for food lovers, curious travelers eager to learn new cooking skills, and those who enjoy small, intimate groups. If you’re looking for a fun, educational experience that combines delicious food with scenic views, this will hit the mark. Just remember to confirm your booking and be prepared for a lively, engaging session with plenty of tasting opportunities.

Good To Know

• Authentic Cooking: Learn to make traditional Mexican tamales, including Oaxaqueños and Mexico City styles.
• Expert Guidance: Hosted by a knowledgeable chef, Arturo, who shares stories and tips that enrich the experience.
• Scenic Setting: Concludes with a rooftop feast, offering stunning city views and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Local Drinks: Enjoy Mexican wine or craft beer while you cook, making it a true taste of local culture.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 7 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly vibe.
• Flexible Timing: If the scheduled time doesn’t work, the host can often accommodate different requests.

Detailed Review of the Tamales Making Fiesta and Roof Top Meal

What the Experience Entails

This 3.5-hour adventure takes place in the home of Arturo Sosa, a professional chef who opens his apartment to share his culinary expertise. The atmosphere feels more like a lively dinner party than a formal cooking class, with a small group of up to 7 people. From the start, you’re encouraged to participate actively — chopping, mixing, and shaping the tamales — so you’ll leave with some practical skills and a good understanding of the process.

Learning How to Make Tamales

The core of this experience is the art of tamale making. Arturo guides you through the process of preparing different types of tamales, showcasing the Oaxaqueños style — wrapped in banana leaves for a distinct flavor — and the Mexico City style, which tends to use corn husks. You’ll learn about the history behind these dishes, giving some cultural context to what might otherwise feel like a straightforward cooking lesson.

Guests are encouraged to ask questions and experiment with flavors, which makes the class interactive and informative. Reviewers like Sarah_M mentioned that the host was fantastic and engaging, making the whole experience memorable. She also appreciated the rooftop setting, which added a special touch to tasting their freshly made tamales.

Tasting and Drinking

While the tamales are prepared, you can sip on Mexican wine or craft beer, depending on your preferences. Arturo provides the drinks, or you’re welcome to bring your own if you’d like to explore more options. One reviewer noted the great selection of wine, which complemented the food perfectly and made the experience feel more like a relaxed social gathering.

Once the tamales are ready, everyone sits down together on the rooftop, enjoying the fruits of their labor with stunning views of Mexico City’s skyline. It’s an ideal way to unwind, chat, and savor the flavors you’ve helped create.

The Rooftop Experience

The rooftop setting is a highlight, offering panoramic views of the city in the late afternoon or early evening. From there, you can appreciate the lively city below while nibbling on your homemade tamales and sipping drinks. The open-air atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for conversation and taking photos, especially if the weather is clear.

Group Size, Timing, and Logistics

Limited to 7 travelers, this experience ensures personalized attention from Arturo and a convivial vibe. The meeting point is conveniently located at Liverpool 61, Juárez, close to public transportation. The class begins at 1:00 pm, and Arturo is flexible if you need a different time — just ask in advance.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

A notable drawback, based on a review, involves unexpected cancellations — Liz_N mentioned that Arturo did not show up at the scheduled time and blamed the platform. While such instances seem to be exceptions, it highlights the importance of confirming your booking and possibly having a backup plan.

The tour’s price of $75.21 per person offers good value for a comprehensive, interactive cooking experience with drinks, a scenic backdrop, and cultural insights. However, if tight schedules or last-minute cancellations are a concern, it’s worth discussing with the host beforehand.

Authenticity and Cultural Value

The experience’s strength lies in its authenticity. Arturo’s guidance and the focus on traditional recipes provide a genuine taste of Mexican home cooking. You won’t find this kind of insider access in larger, more commercial tours, making it a meaningful way to deepen your understanding of local cuisine.

Why It’s Worth It

For those who love learning new cooking skills, exploring local flavors, and enjoying scenic views, this tour offers a memorable blend of education, socializing, and sightseeing. The small group size ensures everyone gets attention, and the convivial atmosphere makes it more like a dinner party than a classroom.

Who Should Book This Experience

This is ideal for foodies, small groups of friends, and travelers interested in culture. If you enjoy interactive experiences that involve hands-on participation and relaxed dining, you’ll likely find this tour fulfilling. It’s also a great choice if you’re looking to add a personal touch to your Mexico City visit, with the bonus of memorable rooftop vistas.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In summary, the Tamales Making Fiesta and Roof Top Meal combines culinary education, local culture, and breathtaking views for an experience that’s both fun and enriching. You’ll leave with new skills, great stories, and a full belly. While there’s a slight risk of scheduling issues, most travelers find the experience well worth the cost, especially given its intimate nature and authentic flavor.

If you’re eager to explore Mexican cuisine beyond tacos and street food, this class offers a deep dive into one of its most beloved dishes. It’s perfect for those who value genuine local interactions, beautiful cityscapes, and delicious food shared in a friendly setting.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, kids who enjoy cooking and sitting still for a while will have fun, especially since the host, Sarah_B, noted that her children loved the interactive nature of the class.

What types of drinks are available?
You can enjoy Mexican wine or craft beer during the cooking. Alcohol is only provided to guests 18 or older.

Can I request a different time or date?
Yes, Arturo is happy to accommodate different requests if you contact him in advance.

How many people will be in the group?
The class is limited to a maximum of 7 travelers, making it a cozy, personalized experience.

What do I need to bring?
You don’t need to bring anything unless you want to supplement the provided drinks or specific ingredients — most essentials are provided.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Last-minute cancellations will not be refunded.

Where does the activity start and end?
It begins at Liverpool 61, Juárez, and ends back at the same point, making it easy to plan your day around.

How long does the experience last?
Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including preparation, tasting, and the rooftop meal.

Is transportation provided?
No, but the meeting point is near public transportation, making it easy to access.

What if Arturo doesn’t show up?
This is a rare occurrence. If it happens, contact the platform or provider for assistance, but most reviews highlight Arturo’s engaging, knowledgeable presence.

This tamale-making experience offers a fantastic way to dive into Mexican cuisine, enjoy beautiful city views, and connect with local culture — ideal for foodies, curious travelers, and anyone wanting a memorable culinary adventure.