Curaçao Cooking Class: Caribbean Flavors, Sharp Knives & Lots of Laughs

At some point, our friend group decided it was time to level up. Sure, we all knew how to inhale a lomito special at 2 AM from a truk’i pan, but what about actually learning to cook something Curaçaos? You know, with flavor. With fire. With funchi.

So we signed up for the Curaçao Cooking Class in Willemstad—me, a bunch of girlfriends, and one brave guy who handled all the estrogen and chili peppers like a champ.

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Is the Curaçao Cooking Class beginner-friendly?

Yes, it’s perfect for beginners and foodies alike. Chef Helmi guides you through each step, and the atmosphere is relaxed, fun, and hands-on.

We didn’t get the exact menu from the website (spoiler: no papaya cake for us), but honestly? That didn’t matter. What we did make was amazing—and we actually managed not to burn anything, which in our group is basically Michelin-star level.

Helmi started the session with a deep dive into Caribbean ingredients. Think tamarind, papaya, green bananas, and some lionfish! They’re an invasive species and totally edible—once you know how to handle those spines. Luckily, Helmi does.

Cooking, laughing, and eating in the Curaçao sun

We teamed up in pairs, chopped like pros (well, semi pros), and stirred our way through jerk chicken, green papaya salad, sweet potato magic, and homemade corn tortillas. Somewhere along the way there were funchi fries, which I could eat every day and never get bored of.

We cooked indoors, but once the food was done, we took our plates outside—under the Curaçao sky, wine glass in one hand, fork in the other. It still felt like we were starring in our own island food show. The guy in our group may have started a little skeptical, but by the time dessert rolled around, he was all in (and asking for seconds).

And when we all gathered at the long table outside to enjoy what we had just made? Pure happiness. Or maybe that was the wine talking.

Final thoughts

If you're looking for a different kind of island experience—one where you chop, laugh, taste, and walk away with actual cooking skills—this class is a total gem. Whether you're a tourist, a new local, or just trying to impress someone back home with lionfish ceviche, it delivers.

We had a blast—if you’re up for a flavorful and fun foodie day, I’d definitely recommend booking this cooking class through the link below.

FAQ

Do I need any cooking experience to join this class? 

Not at all! The class is beginner-friendly, and Helmi and her team help you every step of the way.

Is the food we cook included in the price? 

Yes! Everything you prepare is served as a full lunch, complete with drinks like wine, coffee, or soda.