I don’t know about you, but dinner dates can start to feel a little same-y after a while. How many times can we say, “Should we just do sushi again?” 😅
That’s why I’ve been loving the idea of turning dinner into the date. Learning how to cook something new together, hands-on, in some of Vancouver’s most fun and creative kitchens seems like such a nice time.
Whether you’re with your partner, a friend, or flying solo, these workshops are a great way to mix things up, learn a few new tricks, and actually have something to show for it (besides the bill). Bonus: some of these workshops are part of our Hobby Hop Passport, which gets you exclusive discounts and perks across the city 🎟️
Here are five upcoming cultural cooking classes to try this month 👇
🥟 1. Dumpling Making with @chinatownjudy
BYOB and make dumplings with a side of stories. This one includes a walking tour through Chinatown, so you’ll pick up some history and culture before folding your first wrapper.
📍 Historical Chinatown Tours - 209 E Pender Street, Vancouver, BC
📆 Multiple dates (5pm start)
💸 Regular: $150 | Hobby Hop: $129
🎟️ Passport Perk: $21 off
🇪🇸 2. Paella Making with @nwcav_chefs
Trade dinner out for dinner you make together. Learn how to build a traditional Spanish paella, from saffron rice to mouthwatering shrimp (can be made vegan), with a complimentary drink to toast your masterpiece.
📍 Northwest Culinary Academy - 2725 Main St, Vancouver, BC
📆 Oct 30 (6:15pm)
💸 Regular: $89 | Hobby Hop: $79
🎟️ Passport Perk: $10 off
🍖 3. Braise + Roast with @dirty_apron
For couples who like a little friendly competition 🔥 You’ll learn to braise, roast, and plate three juicy dishes (the kind that make your next dinner party feel pro-level).
📍 Dirty Apron - 540 Beatty St, Vancouver, BC
📆 Oct 29 (5:30pm)
💸 $199
🇮🇹 4. Roast Porchetta with @pastaboypeter
Date night, but make it Italian. Roll, tie, and roast your own porchetta and leave with your own incredible tasting, crispy takeaway. There's only two spots left, so jump on this one for your next date night.
📍 Kitsilano Community Center - 2690 Larch St, Vancouver, BC
📆 Nov 2 (2:45pm)
💸 $105
🍦 5. Gelato + Sorbetto with @unogelatoyvr
Trick or treat yourself to something sweeter 🎃 Learn to make Black Sesame Raspberry Swirl gelato and Spiced Pumpkin with Candied Pecans sorbetto. The perfect Halloween night idea (and yes, you get to take your creations home).
📍 Uno Gelato - 2579 W Broadway, Vancouver, BC
📆 Oct 31 (6pm)
💸 $80
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a date night that’s more hands-on than handheld, these workshops hit the sweet (and savory) spot. You’ll learn something new, share a few laughs, and maybe even find your next shared hobby.
Our Hobby Hop Passport unlocks exclusive discounts and perks across Vancouver’s most creative studios and workshops, including some of the workshops outlined here as well! 🎟️
