Traditional Taco Making Class with Chef Carrizosa

Authentic Taco Making Experience with Chef Carrizosa in Oaxaca City

Trying to find a culinary activity that combines learning, local culture, and delicious food? This Traditional Taco Making Class with Chef Carrizosa promises exactly that. While we haven’t personally taken this class, the detailed descriptions, reviews, and itinerary suggest it’s a worthwhile experience for those eager to understand Mexican cuisine beyond just eating tacos.

What we love about this class is its focus on hands-on participation, the opportunity to learn about traditional recipes and ingredients, and the chance to pair your dishes with authentic Mexican beverages like mezcal or beer. The experience’s intimate size—maximum 12 travelers—means you’ll get personalized attention, which is often a big plus in cooking classes. One potential consideration is the non-refundable policy, so plan accordingly if your schedule might change.

This experience is perfect for food lovers, curious travelers, or anyone wanting to add a tasty, educational twist to their Oaxaca trip. If you’re interested in authentic Mexican gastronomy and enjoy crafting your own dishes, this class might be just the right fit.

• Authentic recipes: Learn to make five traditional tacos, including Tacos al Pastor and Cochinita Pibil.
• Hands-on experience: Prepare your own tacos, tortillas, and salsa, gaining practical skills.
• Local pairing: Enjoy your meal with authentic Mexican drinks like mezcal, beer, or wine.
• Cultural insight: Get explanations about the history and significance of each taco and ingredient.
• Small group size: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.
• Convenient location: Meeting point at Casa Crespo in central Oaxaca.

What Is Included and What To Expect

The tour begins at Casa Crespo, a well-known culinary hub in Oaxaca, where you’ll be welcomed with a refreshing agua fresca. This initial moment sets the tone for a relaxed, friendly class where you’ll learn about the tradition of eating tacos while sipping on your drink. It’s a great way to start, especially if you’ve just arrived or are easing into the local culture.

After the welcome, Chef Carrizosa or the host will introduce the recipes and ingredients, giving you a clear sense of what you’ll be creating. Expect to get your hands dirty (in a good way) as you prepare five different types of tacos: Tacos al Pastor, Cochinita Pibil, Tinga, Rajas con Crema, and Chorizo con Papa. Each taco highlights different regional flavors and cooking techniques, from marinating pork for al pastor to slow-cooking cochinita pibil with banana leaves.

Preparation involves making tortillas by hand—a skill that often surprises first-timers—and creating three different salsas. These salsas are integral, providing the perfect flavor punch and demonstrating the importance of balancing heat, acidity, and freshness in Mexican cuisine. The experience is as much about learning the stories behind each dish as it is about tasting them later.

Once finished, you’ll sit down to enjoy the tacos you’ve made, paired with your choice of mezcal, beer, or wine. This communal eating turns the experience into a social, flavorful celebration of Mexican gastronomy.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Start with a warm welcome and agua fresca: The class kicks off at 5:30 pm in a friendly setting. The agua fresca—possibly made from tropical fruits—serves as a refreshing introduction and sparks conversation about local food traditions.

Learn and prepare: The chef explains the ingredients and techniques, setting a clear foundation. This part is especially valuable for travelers wanting to take some cooking skills home. You get to assemble your own tacos, which means you’ll get a feel for the process and ingredients used in authentic Mexican street food.

Cooking and tasting: The main focus is on five iconic tacos, each with unique preparation methods:

• Tacos al Pastor: Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, with pineapple and traditional spices.
• Cochinita Pibil: Slow-roasted pork wrapped in banana leaves, flavored with achiote paste.
• Tinga: Shredded chicken with tomatoes and chipotle peppers.
• Rajas con Crema: Roasted poblano peppers with cream—less meat, more veggie flavor.
• Chorizo con Papa: Spicy pork chorizo with potatoes.

Throughout, you’ll also learn how to craft three different salsas, highlighting the importance of balancing flavors in Mexican cuisine.

Enjoy your meal with drinks: After cooking, the class transitions into a relaxed eat-and-drink session. Pairing your tacos with mezcal, beer, or wine adds a layer of authenticity and local flavor to the experience.

The Value of This Experience

At $80 per person, this class offers solid value for those interested in food, culture, and hands-on activity. You’re not just watching a demonstration—you’re actively creating a variety of traditional tacos, gaining skills, and enjoying a meal in a convivial atmosphere. The inclusion of alcoholic beverages adds to the overall experience, making it feel like a proper celebration of Mexican food.

The small group size—up to 12 people—ensures you get personalized attention and the chance to ask questions or clarify techniques. Plus, the location at Casa Crespo is central, making it easy to combine with other city activities.

One thing to keep in mind is the non-refundable policy. If your plans are flexible, consider booking closer to your trip date, but if you’re certain, this straightforward policy shouldn’t be a concern.

Who Will Benefit Most?

This class suits travelers who:

• Want a tangible, practical understanding of Mexican tacos.
• Enjoy hands-on cooking and trying new techniques.
• Are interested in cultural stories behind each dish.
• Appreciate small-group settings for better interaction.
• Seek a relaxed, social dining experience with drinks included.
• Are visiting Oaxaca and want a fun, educational activity that complements sightseeing.

It’s less suited for those looking for a quick snack or who prefer self-guided tours, as the focus is on guided learning and social eating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The experience begins at Casa Crespo, located at Reforma 808, in the central area of Oaxaca, close to public transportation.

How long does the class last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, starting at 5:30 pm.

What types of tacos will I learn to make?
You will prepare Tacos al Pastor, Cochinita Pibil, Tinga, Rajas con Crema, and Chorizo con Papa.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the price includes alcoholic beverages such as mezcal, beer, or wine.

Is the class suitable for vegetarians?
Since the class focuses on pork and chicken tacos, it’s best suited for meat-eaters. Vegetarians might find limited options unless specifically requested.

Can I cancel or change the booking?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be altered once booked.

How many people will be in the class?
A maximum of 12 travelers ensures a more personalized experience.

What is the difficulty level?
The class is designed for all skill levels, from beginners to more experienced cooks.

Do I get to take home any recipes?
While not explicitly stated, the hands-on nature suggests you’ll likely receive some guidance or recipes to recreate at home.

Is there any age restriction?
Not specified, but given the alcohol, it’s probably intended for adults.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a traditional taco cooking class in Oaxaca offers more than just a meal—it’s a chance to connect with local culture, learn authentic techniques, and enjoy delicious food in a friendly setting. The inclusion of local drinks and a small group size makes this a memorable, engaging activity that adds depth to your Oaxaca visit.

Whether you’re a food lover, a curious traveler, or someone eager to pick up new skills, this experience provides real value without feeling rushed or superficial. Plus, it’s an ideal way to gain a deeper appreciation of Mexico’s culinary traditions—one taco at a time.

In summary, this class is best for those who want an interactive, culturally rich cooking experience combined with good company and authentic flavors. It’s an affordable, engaging addition to your Oaxaca itinerary that offers lasting memories and new skills—plus, it’s just plain fun.