In recent years, cooking classes have become a popular hobby for many Australians. Whether it’s learning how to make the perfect pavlova or mastering international dishes, people are discovering the joy of cooking. 

Imagine Cooking with Celebrity Chefs

Imagine stepping into your kitchen and being guided by the warm, inviting presence of your favourite celebrity chef, ready to elevate your home cooking experience. At Otao Kitchen, this dream becomes a reality through our exclusive Cooking with Stars series. As fascination with culinary celebrities continues to grow, so does the desire for meaningful experiences that connect us to the artistry and stories behind the dishes.

From mastering exquisite choux pastry with Emelia Jackson, to exploring Torres Strait Island flavours with Nornie Bero, and discovering Nyonya comfort food with Diana Chan, our immersive chef-led classes bring food lovers closer to the stars of Australia’s culinary scene. These chefs share more than recipes—they reveal heartfelt stories and cultural legacies, infusing every bite with meaning.

The Rise of Star Chefs

The rise of celebrity chefs has redefined our cultural food landscape, blending fame with food artistry. What began with television appearances has evolved into live events, branded products, and fan-fueled experiences. Today’s culinary stars are using their heritage and platforms to introduce diverse flavours, storytelling, and innovation to the masses. As we look to the future, expect to see celebrity chefs blend personal heritage, sustainability, and cutting-edge food tech into their cooking. The journey is just beginning—and the kitchen is their stage.

Choux Pastry with Emelia Jackson

Join Emelia Jackson, MasterChef Australia finalist and beloved patissier, at Otao Kitchen for a one-evening-only choux pastry masterclass. Emelia’s hands-on class is a celebration of indulgent desserts and refined techniques.

What You'll Learn:

• Master the fundamentals of crisp, cloud-light choux pastry.
• Learn piping, baking, and filling for éclairs and craquelins.
• Elevate desserts with glazes, creams, and textures.
• Discover Emelia's tips for balancing sweet flavours with finesse.

Menu Highlights:

• Chocolate Éclairs with silky filling and glossy glaze
• Craquelin Choux with crunchy tops
• Chantilly Cream Buns with fresh berries

Take home Emelia's signed cookbook and recipe cards to continue your pastry journey with confidence.

Discovering Torres Strait Island Flavours with Nornie Bero

In a rare opportunity, join Nornie Bero, the acclaimed First Nations chef behind Mabu Mabu, for a deep dive into Indigenous Australian cuisine. Her class at Otao Kitchen reveals bold island flavours and cooking techniques passed down through generations.

Menu Includes:

• Warrigal Greens Salsa Verde with Yam Chips
• Native-Spiced Fish Balls
• Macadamia Labneh
• Crocodile Schnitzel with Native Slaw
• Coconut Keens Curry Chicken

Nornie shares the history and culture behind each dish, offering a soulful, hands-on journey through Torres Strait Island traditions. Expect a delicious blend of story, skill, and sustainability.

Nyonya Cooking with Diana Chan: Comfort Food with a Twist

Step into the world of Diana Chan, winner of MasterChef Australia 2017, and discover the magic of Nyonya cuisine at Otao Kitchen. Diana brings the heart of Southeast Asia to life with her fusion of Chinese and Malay culinary heritage.

What You’ll Make:

• Nasi Ulam: Herbaceous rice with toasted coconut
• Hu Pao: White fish steamed in banana leaves
• Jemput-Jemput: Crispy banana fritters

Enjoy Diana’s insights into culture, childhood, and her MasterChef journey. Walk away with autographed recipes and new skills to recreate these soulful dishes at home.

Connecting Stories and Recipes

Every dish tells a story, and these chefs are master storytellers. Whether it’s Diana’s childhood memories, Nornie’s deep-rooted traditions, or Emelia’s journey through pastry mastery, their classes go beyond ingredients and technique.

The legacy of their Master Chef competition has helped shape the way audiences connect with chefs—not only through their food but through the personal narratives that make each meal memorable. Today, we see that same blend of inspiration and intimacy in cooking shows and live classes alike.

Elevating Dishes with Fresh Ingredients

Great chefs know that freshness is key. From seasonal herbs to ripe fruits, the best dishes start with premium ingredients. The chefs featured in Otao Kitchen's series focus on high-quality produce, native ingredients, and ethical sourcing. It’s this dedication to freshness that transforms everyday cooking into exceptional culinary experiences.

This philosophy echoes across celebrity kitchens globally—from Master Chef stars to My Kitchen Rules champions—all prioritising ingredients that elevate flavour and celebrate simplicity.

The Blend of Culinary Excitement and Stories

Television shows like Master Chef Australia have redefined food entertainment. They merge drama, culture, and storytelling into compelling culinary narratives. These formats reveal chefs not just as experts, but as artists and humans with unique journeys. The culinary world continues to inspire by pairing human stories with mouth-watering visuals, making food a powerful storytelling medium.

Conclusion: Embrace the Culinary Journey

The Cooking with Stars series at Otao Kitchen celebrates not just food, but the people, culture, and creativity behind it. From the delicate beauty of Emelia Jackson’s desserts to the ancestral richness of Nornie Bero’s cuisine and the soul-warming comfort of Diana Chan’s Nyonya flavors, these classes are more than workshops—they are experiences.

Key Takeaways:

• Cook alongside Australia’s top celebrity chefs.
• Discover authentic recipes rooted in tradition and innovation.
• Connect through meaningful stories and cultural insights.
• Elevate your skills and confidence in the kitchen.

Whether you’re a passionate foodie, a MasterChef fan, or simply curious about global cuisines, join us for a unique opportunity to learn, create, and celebrate the joy of cooking.

Ever dreamt of enjoying a restaurant-quality meal without stepping out of your home? With a private chef experience, that dream becomes reality—and it’s more accessible than you think. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something special, hiring a chef to cook in your own kitchen brings the luxury of fine dining to your doorstep.

Picture this: a gourmet dinner prepared by a professional chef in the comfort of your own home. No need to grocery shop, cook, or even do the dishes. Just sit back, sip your wine, and enjoy a beautifully crafted meal served at your own table.

Ever found yourself binge-watching cooking shows and thinking, “I could totally make that”? Cooking shows and food videos have exploded in popularity—they're entertaining, visually delicious, and sometimes even educational. But when it comes to actually improving your skills in the kitchen, is watching enough?

Looking for the perfect gift for a food lover in your life? Melbourne is brimming with exciting culinary experiences that make for unforgettable presents. Whether it's Mexican cooking, Spanish flavors, Italian classics, or vibrant Latin American dishes, there's something here to delight every palate. These interactive workshops are not just cooking classes—they’re opportunities to create memories, learn new skills, and savor incredible flavors. Here's a guide to some top experiences your friends, family, or colleagues will love.

Mexican Cooking Class

Get ready for a flavorful fiesta! Perfect for those who love bold and vibrant dishes, this hands-on class will guide you through the essentials of Mexican cooking.

What’s included?

• Learn about authentic Mexican ingredients and techniques.
• Create iconic dishes like tacos, tortillas, salsas, ceviche, and tortilla soup.
• A relaxed, social atmosphere perfect for friends, family, or team bonding.
• Celebrate your creations with drinks, including sparkling wine and beers.

The Menu Includes:

• Tacos de Guisado (Stewed Beef Tacos)
• Tortillas (Corn Flatbread)
• Salsa Rojo + Salsa Verde (Roasted Tomato and Tomatillo Sauces)
• Ceviche con Tostadas (Lightly Cured Seasonal Fish)
• Sopa De Tortilla (Tortilla Soup)

Spanish Cooking Class

Transport your taste buds to Spain with an immersive culinary experience. Perfect for those who adore Spanish culture, this class lets you explore rich flavors and traditional techniques.

• Learn to craft authentic Spanish dishes with fresh ingredients.
• A hands-on class designed for all skill levels.
• Create tapas and meals that will excite any foodie.

Italian Cooking & Pizza Making Classes

Dive into the heart of Italian cuisine with these enriching, hands-on experiences. From fresh pasta to authentic pizzas, this class is ideal for Italian food enthusiasts.

What makes it special?

• Master the art of fresh pasta-making, using traditional techniques from scratch.
• Learn to prepare a variety of dishes including sauces and hearty mains.
• Perfect for solo cooks, couples, or groups who enjoy delicious, rustic cooking.

The Menu Includes:

• Melanzane Alla Parmigiana (Eggplant and Ricotta in Tomato Sauce)
• Pappardelle (Fresh Egg Pasta)
• Ragu Al Genovese (Stewed Beef Chuck Ragu)
• Cotoletta Milanese (Veal or Pork Cutlets with Rocket Salad)

Get your hands dirty and turn dough into heavenly pizzas with family or friends! A delicious way to spend time together while mastering a few Italian staples.

Latin American Cooking Class

For those who love variety, the Flavors of Latin America Master Class offers a culinary exploration across multiple regions—from Venezuela to Chile, Puerto Rico to Argentina.

Why it’s a standout experience:

• Discover the diverse cultural flavors of Latin America.
• Hands-on instruction to recreate these dishes at home.
• Indulge in sweet and savory favorites.

The Menu Includes:

• Leche de Tigre Ceviche (Peruvian Lime-Cured Fish with Sweet Potato)
• Arepas (Venezuelan Corn Breads)
• Carne Mechada y Caraotas Negras (Venezuelan Shredded Beef with Black Beans)
• Pasteles (Puerto Rican Steamed Plantain and Chicken Dumplings)
• Tres Leches (Sponge Cake in Caramelized Goat’s Milk and Cream)

Why Choose a Cooking Class as a Gift?

• It’s memorable and unique—more than a simple physical gift.
• Perfect for food lovers and those looking to elevate their kitchen skills.
• Great for fostering connections and shared experiences.

This holiday season, skip the standard presents and surprise your loved ones with a culinary adventure they'll never forget. Book or Gift a cooking experience in Melbourne today—whether it’s Mexican, Italian, Spanish, or Latin American goodness, you’re in for excellent flavors and even better memories!

Give the Gift of Flavor

Explore all Melbourne experiences and book your spot now. Perfect for Christmas, birthdays, or just because!