This is a fun activity in Archway, London
Discover a delicious and lesser-known Chinese street food in this Shanghai cooking class in London. In this hands-on workshop, you'll learn how to make Shanghai rice cakes (Nian Gao) and crispy pork chop — a classic comfort food combination loved by locals.
Rice cakes are one of the oldest staple foods in China. In the UK, many people recognise a sweet version like mochi, but in Shanghai we often enjoy rice cakes as a savoury dish. These rice cakes are chewy, satisfying and perfect for absorbing rich sauces.
In this friendly cooking class, your teachers will guide you step-by-step through the techniques needed to prepare authentic rice cakes and cook them into a delicious street food dish. Classes take place in a spacious, air-conditioned London studio with small groups, so you’ll receive plenty of personal guidance. On quieter weekdays, you may even enjoy a private class experience.
If you're looking for unique things to do in London, a memorable food experience, or a cooking class beyond the usual dumplings and noodles, this Shanghai street food workshop is a fantastic choice.
What you will learn in this class
During this hands-on workshop, you will learn how to:
- Make Shanghai rice cakes (Nian Gao) from scratch
- Cook rice cakes to achieve the perfect chewy texture
- Prepare an authentic savoury sauce
- Cook crispy pork chop, the classic partner to rice cakes in Shanghai
By the end of the class, you’ll enjoy the delicious dish you created and gain the confidence to recreate this authentic Shanghai recipe at home.
Why Guests Love This Class
• Learn an authentic Shanghai street food dish rarely taught in London
• Small classes with plenty of personal guidance
• Discover the history and culture behind Chinese rice cakes
• Beginner-friendly and suitable for home cooks
• A fun activity for dates, gifts, or food-loving friends
By the end of the class, you'll be sitting down to enjoy your freshly cooked dish — crispy pork chop served with chewy rice cakes — and leaving with a unique recipe to recreate at home.
Add-on Classes
All add-ons take place within the same class session, saving travel time and making the experience even more enjoyable. Please allow 30 minutes to 1 hour extra depending on your selections.
Popular add-ons include:
- Smashed Cucumber Salad – a refreshing and very popular vegan dish
- Crispy Chilli Sauce – learn to make this flavourful condiment to serve with your rice cakes
- Drinks Add-On – add cocktails, bubble tea or other drinks to make the class even more fun
- Knife Sharpening Session – bring a knife if safe to do so and learn how to sharpen it properly
Feel free to contact us before booking if you would like more details about the available add-ons.
Allergy Information
Please let us know about any dietary requirements via ClassBento message after booking and we will do our best to accommodate.
- Gluten is used in sauces and some ingredients
- Soy is essential in the sauce
- Pork is the traditional ingredient for this dish.
- Alternative options available on request:
- Halal chicken can replace pork.
- Tempura tofu can be used for a vegan version
Please mention any requests in the booking notes.
Come along and enjoy a relaxed cooking experience in London, discover a beloved Shanghai street food, and leave with new Chinese cooking skills and a delicious meal you created yourself.
Important Booking Information
- Price is per person. Each attendee must hold a valid ticket.
- This is an adult-only class (18+).
- Outside food and drinks are not permitted.
- Class duration is an estimate and may vary depending on group size.
No Refund Policy
- All bookings are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, you are welcome to transfer your ticket to another adult (18+). Please notify us in advance with the new attendee’s name.
Rescheduling
- If you need to reschedule your booking, a £50 fee per person applies. Requests must be made at least 7 days before your scheduled class date.
Arrival & Punctuality
- Classes begin promptly. A 15-minute grace period is provided. If you arrive more than 15 minutes late, your booking may be forfeited.
Health & Safety Policy
- For the safety of all guests and in line with UK food hygiene guidance, anyone experiencing vomiting, diarrhoea, or similar symptoms must be symptom-free for at least 48 hours before attending the class
- Guests may be asked to confirm this upon arrival
- We reserve the right to refuse entry if this requirement is not met
We appreciate your understanding as our small-group classes require preparation and precise timing.
