Asia Scenic Thai Cooking School

Asia Scenic Thai Cooking School has been hosted by Gayle and her family since 2007, and it offers a choice that many cooking schools do not: you can learn either in a garden in the Old City or on an organic farm in the countryside. The Old City school is on Ratchadamnoen Soi 5, within walking distance of Tha Phae Gate, which makes it one of the easiest classes to reach on foot from central hotels.

The Old City classes take place in what the school calls a secret garden, with herbs grown in its own kitchen garden. Students harvest herbs before cooking, and sessions run both in the morning and in the evening, so it is easy to fit a class around sightseeing. The farm option, surrounded by rice fields, is offered in the morning only and gives a more rural, immersive experience for those who want to see the countryside.

Classes begin with a walk through a local market to learn about Thai ingredients. Rather than following a fixed menu, students choose dishes they want to cook, so you can focus on favourites or try something new. The school describes itself as vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free friendly, which is useful if you have dietary restrictions. Unlimited coffee, herbal teas and water are provided, each student goes home with a printed cookbook, and photos of the day can be downloaded free afterwards.

The school also runs fruit and vegetable carving classes in full and half-course formats, which make an unusual alternative for anyone interested in Thai decorative craft.

Asia Scenic suits beginners, families, couples and travellers with dietary needs who want flexibility. Book a day or two ahead in the busy season, and choose the evening Old City class if you want your day free for temples. The Old City location also puts you close to the Sunday Walking Street, so a Sunday evening class can be followed by a stroll through the market.

Before you book, decide whether you would prefer the convenience of the Old City or the quieter farm setting, as the two feel very different.