One Night. One Celebrity. One Unforgettable Class - Discover our Cooking with Stars Series!

Our Story

THE HEART AND SOUL BEHIND OTAO KITCHEN

Since 2014, Otao Kitchen has grown from a humble cooking school into one of Melbourne’s most exciting culinary experience providers. Rooted in multicultural values, we bring people together through food — celebrating diversity, learning new skills, and sharing stories around the table.

Whether you're joining a hands-on masterclass, attending a team-building event, or tasting dishes on one of our global food tours, you're becoming part of our flavourful journey.

 

OUR JOURNEY

2014 - Otao Kitchen is Born

  • Founded by Chef Ha Nguyen in the heart of Richmond’s Victoria Street, Otao Kitchen began with small, hands-on Vietnamese cooking classes inspired by his heritage.

 

2016 - Flavours of the World

  • Expanded with new menus to include Thai, Japanese, Indian, and Mediterranean cuisines - reflecting Melbourne’s cultural diversity.

 

2018 - Global Culinary Adventures

  • Launched immersive food tours in Vietnam and Japan, giving guests a true taste of local culture beyond the classroom.

 

2020 - Cooking Together, Apart

  • Adapted to COVID-19 by creating online cooking classes, bringing families and teams together virtually across Australia and the world.

 

2021 - Bigger & Better

  • Upgraded our kitchen studio, increasing capacity to welcome 24–32 guests per class for larger events and private functions.

 

2022 - Tourism Recognition

  • Joined the AIME business events expo and won the Victorian Tourism Award for Excellence in Tourism.

 

2023 - Winning Streak & Expansion

  • Won the Tourism Award again and opened a second venue to meet growing demand for cooking experiences.
  • New cooking studio with 24–32 guests per class for larger events and private functions.

 

2024 - MealFresh is Launched

  • Introduced MealFresh, a chef-prepared home meal delivery service that brings Otao Kitchen flavours to everyday life.

 

 

WHY CHOOSE OTAO KITCHEN COOKING CLASSES?

At Otao Kitchen, we believe cooking is more than just preparing food -  it's a way to connect, lear, and grow.

We're proud to offer:

  • Multicultural Cooking Classes led by expert chefs

  • Private & Corporate Events for teams, friends, and families

  • Catering Services for special events

  • Gift Vouchers for memorable experiences

  • Kids & Teens Cooking Programs for budding young chefs

  • NDIS Cooking Support for participants seeking culinary skills and connection

 

Whether you're here to learn, bond, celebrate, or grow your confidence in the kitchen -  we’ve got you covered!