Tour operator
Plan-it Fez
A Fes-based company, trading as Plan-it Morocco, that runs food tours, cooking classes, medina and craft tours and day trips to Volubilis and the Middle Atlas.
Fez Cooking School at Palais Amani
The cooking school of Palais Amani, running hands-on Moroccan cooking workshops with a chef-led tasting tour of the souks and a meal in the riad.
At a glance
- Type
- Cooking school and food tours
- Area
- Oued Zhoune, Fes el-Bali, Fes, Morocco
- Official site
- palaisamani.com
Good to know
- Souk tasting tour
- Hands-on workshop
- Lunch included
- Vegetarian option
Why we recommend it
The Fez Cooking School is based at Palais Amani, a family-run riad in a former mansion in the Oued Zhoune area of the medina, and it offers one of the most polished cooking experiences in the city. Classes take place in the restored palace, so as well as learning to cook you spend several hours in one of the finest houses of the old city, with its courtyard and zellij tilework.
The main class is a hands-on workshop of around four hours. It begins with a guided tasting tour of the local souks, led by the chef, which introduces the ingredients that define Fassi cooking. Back at the riad, participants cook a menu that typically includes a starter such as zaalouk, the Moroccan aubergine salad, and a main course such as chicken tagine. The class ends with a meal of the dishes you have prepared, and you take home the full set of recipes.
Groups are small, with up to around ten participants, and classes are taught in English, French and Arabic, which makes them suitable for international travellers. A vegetarian option is available, and other dietary needs can be handled if noted when booking. Children are welcome when accompanied by an adult. Palais Amani also offers baking workshops, a foodie tour of the medina, a tea ceremony, calligraphy and henna sessions, so it is easy to build a full day of experiences around the class.
The cooking school suits couples, families, friends travelling together and solo travellers looking for a sociable activity. It is particularly good on a first or second day in Fes, as the souk tour helps you understand the medina before exploring on your own. If you are staying at Palais Amani, booking is simple through reception; if not, contact the hotel in advance or book through its website, as classes can fill in high season.
The class starts and ends at Palais Amani, 12 Derb El Miter. Because the riad is inside the car-free medina, ask for directions or arrange to be met, and allow extra time to find it the first time. Wear comfortable shoes for the souk walk. The hotel's restaurant, Eden, and bar are on site if you want to stay on after the class.
Fez Cooking School at Palais Amani FAQs
Where is the cooking school?
At Palais Amani, 12 Derb El Miter, Oued Zhoune, in the medina of Fes.
How long is a class?
The main cooking workshop lasts around four hours.
Does it include a market visit?
Yes, a chef-led tasting tour of the local souks is part of the four-hour workshop.
What will I cook?
A typical menu includes zaalouk, a Moroccan aubergine salad, and chicken tagine.
How many people are in a class?
Classes are small, with up to around ten guests.
Which languages are used?
English, French and Arabic.
Is there a vegetarian option?
Yes, and other dietary needs can be noted when booking.
Can children take part?
Yes, when accompanied by an adult.