Frequently Asked Questions

The safety of visitors and staff is our highest priority. Otao Kitchen works within the Victorian State Government’s Hospitality Industry Guidelines with Covid19 to keep our guests, staff and community safe.

You're no longer required to provide proof of vaccination to come to our cooking school. Our guests and staff are vaccinated, and they practice Covid19 safety measures. We continue to have a number of COVID-safe measures in place to help team and customers stay safe, including:
(1) Increased cleaning particularly for counters, toilets and sinks
(2) Providing team and customers with hand washing
(3) Providing masks for team members

Our new 200m2 Abbotsford Otao Kitchen Cooking School was built in late 2021. We included the latest Covid19 Safe Features so our guests and staff can practice covid safe meeting and cooking:
(1) commercial graded aircon system,
(2) advance exhausted system,
(3) new filtration air system,
(4) hand free basins,
(5) a 3.6 m high ceiling.

You can only check-in no earlier than 10 minutes before your session, as we might be busy setting up your class.
You are welcome to wear masks and visit the bathroom (if needed) and wash your hands before putting on an apron to get started.

If you tested positive for Covid19 or told to be isolated, please let us know by email with a doctor certificate. You can enjoy fee-free date changes for travel until 15 March 2023 or a last minute cancellation fee $49pp will apply.

Please do not call us before your class is due to start, as we are likely to be preparing for a class or serving customers. Contact Team Otaokitchen email hello@otaokitchen.com.au

Sources: Workplace Otaokitchen / Policy & Guides / Code:2.1/ Covid19 Safe Policy - Customers?

How do I get to Otao Kitchen and is there parking?

The best way to get to Otao Kitchen at 393 Victoria Street, Abbotsford, 3067 VIC, is via train or tram, with plenty of route choices.
You can get to North Richmond’s train station from Flinders Street Station in the CBD, with a travel time of about 10 minutes. Tram numbers 109 will also get you from the city into Victoria Street, Abbotsford. Tram 78 travels along Chapel Street and Church Street.
There’s limited street parking in North Richmond & Abbotsford and our street parking is timed with some spaces reserved for local permit holders. Your best bet is to look on side streets away such as William, Lithgow, Albert, Murray, Princess… from Victoria Street but always pay attention to the signage.
Please plan ahead to travel to North Richmond and Abbotsford, especially in peak times or when there are events, to avoid arriving late for the class.
More parking in Richmond and Abbotsford information read here
Planning to stay in Richmond here

Otao kitchen how to get to us map

I’m attending a face-to-face or in person cooking class?

BEFORE BOOKING THE EVENT

Otao kitchen cooking school was launched in Richmond, Melbourne, Australia in July 2014, with the goal of celebrating the rich and varied cooking experiences of Melbourne’s immigrant multicultural communities read more. We offer a range of cooking classes from India to Spain, team experiences and challenges with a dozen of menu to cater to everyone tastes.

You will be joining in a group cooking class from 8-24 people. We host your class at Otaokitchen's purposely build cooking school at 393 Victoria Street, Abbotsford, 3067.

We can cater for most dietaries to make sure that everyone feels included. Many of our recipes can be easily amended to suit dietary requirements, and we also have a collection of additional dietary recipes for those have a special diet. We have 30+ restaurants on the street if we need to order something in.

The best thing about our classes is no one ever leaves hungry! You won’t need to organise going out for dinner, our classes include team cooking activity, lunch or dinner and drinks. We start the class at 10am for lunch, 2pm for early dinner and 6.30pm for dinner.

Our kitchen studio is a licensed venue - offer beverage on consumption or party packages. You pick the drinks you like, and we’ll have everything on ice when your team arrives. Read more

Don’t need to bring anything, we’ve got it covered. Otao kitchen is fully equipped with cooking stations and all the equipment required to cook your delicious dishes. Ingredients will be ready for each team, and we also provide aprons for all guests. All you have to do is turn up ready to cook!

You should dress comfortably, but ensure that clothing is not over-sized as to get in the way or become a potential safety hazard during class or in use of the kitchen equipment (e.g. baggy sleeves). We recommend that long hair is tied back, and that jewellery is kept to a minimum. Shoes should be non-slip and MUST be closed-in for safety reasons. Ladies, we recommend you wear flat-soles.

Otao kitchen has the right to refuse entry to participants if they are not wearing appropriate footwear or clothing, and no refund or change of class.

We promise you love at our cooking class is what you will cook at home. We send the recipes to your event planner, or we can easily organise to email you copies of the recipes to you directly.

BEFORE THE EVENT

All our cooking experiences without ”online” in the title refer to in-person cooking classes at our venue at 393 Victoria Street, Abbotsford 3067.

We'll send you a recipe link prior to the event, so you can download them from our website anytime. If you have asked for a dietary requirement, please take notes, as the recipe will be a standard one.

We recommend you arrive 10 minutes prior to the scheduled class start time. Doors will be locked promptly at commencement of the class to ensure no interruptions and an enjoyable experience for everyone. Please plan your travel to Otao kitchen well so that you are not late.

ON THE DAY

For the first time at Otao kitchen, cooking with us will be a fun experience. Our expert chefs are there to assist your cooking journey as enjoyable as possible. We offer hands on cooking classes (2-3 hours) for all levels. Our classes are suitable for beginners and experienced cooks. During our classes, we’ll help you discover your inner budding chef. Our instructors will guide you step-by-step through the featured menu and will ensure you stay on track to completing your very own culinary masterpiece. You will enjoy your creation with a glass of complimentary wine and a beer.

Otao kitchen provides you with everything you need to conduct the class: apron, online recipes, cooking utensils and equipment. Simply bring yourself, a smile and a willingness to learn and have a great time! Limited storage is available for personal effects such as bags, coats, etc.

Our guests work solo or in teams of 2, 4 or more to create their culinary masterpiece. If you’re coming solo or with a plus one, get ready to meet some great new friends. If you’ve registered together with friends, we suggest arriving a few minutes early (no more than 10 minutes) if you’d like to be at the same table.

The safety of visitors and staff is our highest priority. Our 200m2 Abbotsford Otao Kitchen Cooking School was built in late 2021. We included the latest Covid-19 Safe Features so our guests and staff can practice covid safe meeting and cooking: (1) commercial graded aircon system, (2) advanced exhausted system, (3) new filtration air system, (4) hand free basins, (5) a 3.6 m high ceiling.

The best way to get to Otao Kitchen at 393 Victoria Street, Abbotsford, 3067 VIC is via train or tram, with many route choices. You can get to North Richmond’s train station from Flinders Street Station in the CBD, with a travel time of about 10 minutes, then walk 7 minutes to our venue. Tram numbers 109 and 48 will also get you from the city into Victoria Street, Abbotsford. Tram 78 travels along Chapel Street and Church street.

There’s limited street parking in North Richmond & Abbotsford and Yarra's street parking is timed with some spaces reserved for local permit holders. Your best bet is to look on side streets away from Victoria Street, but always pay attention to the signage. Paid parking is at the Hive shopping centre at 313 Victoria St, Abbotsford, VIC 3067.

Please plan ahead to travel to North Richmond and Abbotsford in peak times or where there are events during the weekend, so you aren’t late for the class. You can always meet at the National Bar, Vic Bar or visit our grocers or cafés along Victoria Street for the course.

Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who will be responsible for their safety and conduct. Children over 12+ years old who attend the premises must be participating in an experience, as Otao kitchen does not have child-minding facilities. We encourage you to book a private family cooking class for 6 people or more.

For children cooking classes, kids can be from 10+ years old and need to be taller than the standard kitchen benches by 900 mm unless we state otherwise. Parents are welcome to join in for the same fee.

There are wheelchair accessible bathroom facilities plus 2 hybrid ambulant toilets inside the cooking school. There is also an accessible automatic toilet available on Victoria Street, close to the entrance.

You are welcome to bring a camera or smartphone, however, video is not permitted. We request that you use discretion and consider other participants' privacy if taking photographs. We reserve the right to revoke this permission during a class, without notice and at its sole discretion. Likewise, we welcome you tagging #otaokitchen posting to social media.

Our liquor license is from 10am-10pm. Otao kitchen offers complimentary 2 drinks from our beverage list with red wine, white wine, beers, sparkling wines, soft drinks and our homemade refresher in your package. For safety reason with fire and knife, no wine will be served in the first hour.

Otao kitchen staff will take all precautions necessary to show you safe and correct cooking techniques throughout the class. In the unlikely event you sustain an injury, our chefs and staff are first aid qualified and trained to respond to an emergency. Due diligence is of course required on your behalf whilst undertaking the class and in use of the cooking utensils and equipment.

Otao kitchen is dedicated to safety and inclusivity. Feeling safe and immerse yourself in Otao kitchen's experience should be the norm. We expect 100% consideration of all genders, cultures, sub-cultures, and sexual orientations. If you see something that isn’t right, let an Otao kitchen staff member know. If we have to cancel the class on the day because of certain behaviour of a person, we have the right to pass to the person(s) all expenses of the for the time.

Please see the class details below. Often your booking with an agent might have a different class name but essentially they are from our master classes below:

I book or join in a private & corporate event at Otao kitchen?

BEFORE BOOKING THE EVENT

Otao kitchen cooking school was launched in Richmond, Melbourne, Australia in July 2014, with the goal of celebrating the rich and varied cooking experiences of Melbourne’s immigrant multicultural communities read more. We offer a range of cooking classes from India to Spain, team experiences and challenges with a menu around-the-world to cater to everyone tastes.
Here are our ways of class operations: (1) Small groups from 10 to 40 people are hosted at Otaokitchen's purposely build cooking school at 393 Victoria Street, Abbotsford, 3067. (2) Medium groups 40-150 can be hosted in smaller team classes. Each team can join in different sessions of the day. Alternatively, we co-host your group with other venue partners nearby. (3) Large groups from 150-1000 people will be using food activation with foods, wine, cooking and entertainment through our venue partner in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane or Adelaide.
You can ask us for 1-2 hour meeting on the top of your cooking event, You can also ask us for espresso coffees, catering and equipment for conferencing needs.
We can cater for most dietaries to make sure that everyone feels included. Many of our recipes can be easily amended to suit dietary requirements, and we also have a collection of additional dietary recipes for those have a special diet. We have 30+ restaurants on the street if we need to order something in.
The best thing about our classes is no one ever leaves hungry! You won’t need to organise going out for dinner, our classes include team cooking activity, lunch or dinner and drinks. We start the class at 10am for lunch, 2pm for early dinner and 6.30pm for dinner. We can organise grazing boards or canapés for your arrival, so there’s no rumbling tummies during your cooking class, then the whole team gets to enjoy the restaurant quality food you’ve cooked together.
Our kitchen studio is a licensed venue - offer beverage on consumption or party packages. You pick the drinks you like, and we’ll have everything on ice when your team arrives. Read more
Don’t need to bring anything, we’ve got it covered. Otao kitchen is fully equipped with cooking stations and all the equipment required to cook your delicious dishes. Ingredients will be ready for each team, and we also provide aprons for all guests. All you have to do is turn up ready to cook!
You should dress comfortably, but ensure that clothing is not over-sized as to get in the way or become a potential safety hazard during class or in use of the kitchen equipment (e.g. baggy sleeves). We recommend that long hair is tied back, and that jewellery is kept to a minimum. Shoes should be non-slip and MUST be closed-in for safety reasons. Ladies, we recommend you wear flat-soles. Otao kitchen has the right to refuse entry to participants if they are not wearing appropriate footwear or clothing, and no refund or change of class.
We promise you love at our cooking class is what you will cook at home. We send the recipes to your event planner, or we can easily organise to email you copies of the recipes to you directly.

BEFORE THE EVENT

All our cooking experiences without ”online” in the title refer to in-person cooking classes at our venue at 393 Victoria Street, Abbotsford 3067.
We'll send you a recipe link prior to the event, so you can download them from our website anytime. If you have asked for a dietary requirement, please take notes, as the recipe will be a standard one.
We recommend you arrive 10 minutes prior to the scheduled class start time. Doors will be locked promptly at commencement of the class to ensure no interruptions and an enjoyable experience for everyone. Please plan your travel to Otao kitchen well so that you are not late.

ON THE DAY

For the first time at Otao kitchen, cooking with us will be a fun experience. Our expert chefs are there to assist your cooking journey as enjoyable as possible. We offer hands on cooking classes (2-3 hours) for all levels. Our classes are suitable for beginners and experienced cooks. During our classes, we’ll help you discover your inner budding chef. Our instructors will guide you step-by-step through the featured menu and will ensure you stay on track to completing your very own culinary masterpiece. You will enjoy your creation with a glass of complimentary wine and a beer.
Otao kitchen provides you with everything you need to conduct the class: apron, online recipes, cooking utensils and equipment. Simply bring yourself, a smile and a willingness to learn and have a great time! Limited storage is available for personal effects such as bags, coats, etc.
Our guests work solo or in teams of 2, 4 or more to create their culinary masterpiece. If you’re coming solo or with a plus one, get ready to meet some great new friends. If you’ve registered together with friends, we suggest arriving a few minutes early (no more than 10 minutes) if you’d like to be at the same table.
The safety of visitors and staff is our highest priority. Our 200m2 Abbotsford Otao Kitchen Cooking School was built in late 2021. We included the latest Covid-19 Safe Features so our guests and staff can practice covid safe meeting and cooking: (1) commercial graded aircon system, (2) advanced exhausted system, (3) new filtration air system, (4) hand free basins, (5) a 3.6 m high ceiling.
The best way to get to Otao Kitchen at 393 Victoria Street, Abbotsford, 3067 VIC is via train or tram, with many route choices. You can get to North Richmond’s train station from Flinders Street Station in the CBD, with a travel time of about 10 minutes, then walk 7 minutes to our venue. Tram numbers 109 and 48 will also get you from the city into Victoria Street, Abbotsford. Tram 78 travels along Chapel Street and Church street.
There’s limited street parking in North Richmond & Abbotsford and Yarra's street parking is timed with some spaces reserved for local permit holders. Your best bet is to look on side streets away from Victoria Street, but always pay attention to the signage. Paid parking is at the Hive shopping centre at 313 Victoria St, Abbotsford, VIC 3067.
Please plan ahead to travel to North Richmond and Abbotsford in peak times or where there are events during the weekend, so you aren’t late for the class. You can always meet at the National Bar, Vic Bar or visit our grocers or cafés along Victoria Street for the course.
Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who will be responsible for their safety and conduct. Children over 16+ years old who attend the premises must be participating in an experience, as Otao kitchen does not have child-minding facilities. We encourage you to book a private family cooking class for 6 people or more.
For children cooking classes, kids can be from 10 years old and need to be taller than the standard kitchen benches by 900 mm unless we state otherwise. Parents are welcome to join in for the same fee.
There are wheelchair accessible bathroom facilities plus 2 hybrid ambulant toilets inside the cooking school. There is also an accessible automatic toilet available on Victoria Street, close to the entrance.
You are welcome to bring a camera or smartphone, however, video is not permitted. We request that you use discretion and consider other participants' privacy if taking photographs. We reserve the right to revoke this permission during a class, without notice and at its sole discretion. Likewise, we welcome you tagging #otaokitchen posting to social media.
Our liquor license is from 10am-10pm. Otao kitchen offers complimentary 2 drinks from our beverage list with red wine, white wine, beers, sparkling wines, soft drinks and our homemade refresher in your package. For safety reason with fire and knife, no wine will be served in the first hour.
Otao kitchen staff will take all precautions necessary to show you safe and correct cooking techniques throughout the class. In the unlikely event you sustain an injury, our chefs and staff are first aid qualified and trained to respond to an emergency. Due diligence is of course required on your behalf whilst undertaking the class and in use of the cooking utensils and equipment.
Otao kitchen is dedicated to safety and inclusivity. Feeling safe and immerse yourself in Otao kitchen's experience should be the norm. We expect 100% consideration of all genders, cultures, sub-cultures, and sexual orientations. If you see something that isn’t right, let an Otao kitchen staff member know. If we have to cancel the class on the day because of certain behaviour of a person, we have the right to pass to the person(s) all expenses of the for the time.

Private and Corporate Group and Venue Booking Terms

A minimum charge of $1,650 is applied to all group and venue bookings.
If your group number falls below the minimum spend the minimum spend is applied.
Full payment is required at the time of booking for events within 14-day of the event date.
A deposit of 50% whatever greater is required to confirm your booking. The balance is due 14 days before the event, upon confirmation of the guest number and their dietary requirements.
If cancellation is made of more than 14-day notice, we will refund 1/2 deposit or you can reschedule your booking later.
If a cancellation is made between 7-14 days prior to the event, we will issue no refund of your deposit, however, you can reschedule your booking later.
For a cancellation is made within 7 days, no refund will take effect and you will have to pay for the minimum charge $1,650.
If your group voluntarily leave or not show up to the event on the day, no refund will take effect.
Payment may be made via credit or debit card, cash or by invoice.
Final numbers and dietary requirements for your session must be confirmed no later than 7-day prior to the start time of the cookery session in order to give us enough time to pre-order the necessary ingredients and staff.
If you would like to increase the number of participants after this time, please email us hello@otaokitchen.com.au to discuss and we will do the best to accommodate you.

I book or join in a NDIS package at Otao kitchen?

Social inclusive fun for NDIS participants

Otaokitchen has a wide range of fun cooking classes, that are perfect for social and community participation.

Creative cooking classes are a proven way to reduce stress, improve mental wellbeing and creativity.

You can easily use your NDIS funding to book these classes in. We offer both in-person in Melbourne and online classes Australia Wide.

Meet our friendly teachers, and enjoy a relaxing experience, in a casual environment. Almost all our classes are beginner-friendly, with materials provided.

If you're self-managed, you can just book in classes directly - we'll automatically send you invoices upon receiving your bookings, which you can then claim with NDIS. Please let usk now if you need an Tax invoice.

If you use a plan manager, just follow the easy process below. We work with My Plan Manager, Moira, Plan Partners, Leap In, Instacare, Integra, Bright Plan Management, Your Choice DPM, and much more.

We've already had 100+ NDIS participants attend classes with us, with great reviews. We can't wait to welcome you too!

Master classes

Most our "master" classes are hands on classes. Each guest cook in pair to make the meal from the start to finish. You will enjoy all the dishes we prepare.

These classes can work with someone can handle day-to-day social setting and can follow up the instructions with minimal supports.

You will need to book and pay for your support worker as they will cook with you. Otherwise we expect you can work with another guest.

You can join our Master Classes scheduled every week - check our calendar here https://otaokitchen.com.au/about/calendar.html

Or you can see the class catalogue here https://otaokitchen.com.au/cooking-classes/

NDIS specific class?

If you love all things food, you can learn about safety in the kitchen, food preparation techniques, experience different food cultures and cuisines and prepare quick and easy meals with support from Otao Kitchen.

You can also experience cuisines from around the world and find out where to buy ingredients in Melbourne.

Learning to prepare simple meals can improve independence and nutrition.

Acquiring cooking skills may have an increased ability for employment and may save money.

These classes are design with you can bring your support worker.

Check the menu and date here https://otaokitchen.com.au/c226pdthgp

If you need extra help then you might want to book for a private class with a chef.

Special requests?

Where a special request is an important factor in your choice of class, you must advise us when your booking is made.

We will pass your request onto our staff or other supplier but cannot guarantee that it will be accommodated.

Unless and until specifically confirmed, all special requests are subject to availability.

Need to bring anything?

Otao kitchen provides you with everything you need to conduct the class: apron, online recipes, cooking utensils and equipment.

Simply bring yourself, a smile and a willingness to learn and have a great time! Limited storage is available for personal effects such as bags, coats, etc.

Book your experience?

Book an experience with this this steps: (1) click on cooking classes (2) select number of participant (3) select the date/time (4) click book now or buy a gift card voucher (5) fill in your detail and payment or promo/voucher code.

You can book the class and use the "pay by invoice" function when checking out. Please email hello@otaokitchen.com.au your NDIS number, names, your contact details. Please email us the email and contact number of the person who will pay for the invoice. We will send an invoice to your service planner and will follow up with the payment. Let us know if you have any dietary requirement. We look forward to meeting you on the day.

How to pay?

We included a booking fee for all the bookings. There is a credit card fees for customers who wish to use this facility. Alternatively you can pay by EFT with our bank transfer details: Otao kitchen BSB 193879 ACC 432538672.

NDIS plan managers will take sometime to process your invoice so please book as soon as you can. You can book for any class online. Once a booking has been made, we will forward a confirmation of the booking. Scheduled classes bookings and gift vouchers are not confirmed until a full payment has been received.

All pricing is in Australian dollars and quoted on a per person basis. Payment may be made by direct deposit, or credit card with small fees.

What’s include?

Pricing includes all food, the use of aprons and equipment and expert cooking instructors. We offer complimentary wine with dinner. No price reduction is available for guests who choose not to help themselves of a glass of wine. The price does not include your support worker. They will need to use the support worker ticket.

Change of dates?

We understand things may come up, and you can't join the class or experience. You can give it to your friends and family at no charge. Our classes are small, meaning we need to count everyone in - we can't send our chef home. You can reschedule your class up to one week before the event date.

If you need to cancel the experience?

We understand things may come up, and you can't join the class or experience. We have no refund policy however you can cancel the class and rebook later. However, you will need to cancel the class/course seven days before the experience.

No cancellation policy?

We have no cancellation policy meaning your booking is final. We endeavour to provide you with all the services confirmed to you at the time of your booking: venue, chef(s), host(s), food and beverage allowance, 3rd party commission and marketing costs and others.

On occasions changes do have to be made, and we reserve the right to cancel or amend classes and events accordingly. Otao kitchen submits refunds to your customer’s bank or credit card. Depending on the bank's processing time, it can take anywhere from 5-10 business days to show up on your bank account.

In some cases, the refund might be processed as a reversal, meaning the original payment will disappear from the account statement entirely and the balance will reflect as though the charge never occurred.

If a refund is submitted not long after the original charge occurred, the refund may be processed as a reversal. This means that the original charge will drop off the bank statement altogether, as if it never occurred, and the bank account balance will adjust to credit that money back without a specific line item on the statement.

If you do not see the refund after ten business days and you are still seeing the original charge on their bank statement, you should reach out to their bank for more information and let us know.

We cancel the class?

In some situations, we may have to cancel a class due to operational issues or the class/course has less than five bookings. Otao kitchen will offer you to make an alternate booking (date/time/class) or fully refund you.

How to rebook a class?

We love our customer to join for their cooking experience. To rebook your class, please visit https://otaokitchen.com.au/about/calendar.html and let us know a couple of options with date/time/order reference.

The first choice of date-time…………………….. Second choice of date and time…………………….. Name……………………. Voucher number…………………….Or order number……………………..

How to get to us?

Otao Kitchen is located at 360 Victoria Street, Richmond, 3121 Victoria, Australia

Public Transport. We encourage you to travel on public transport. Please check with Public Transport Victoria (www.ptv.vic.gov.au or 1800 800 007) for train and tram timetables. Otao kitchen is accessible via train to North Richmond Station and/or tram; route 109 (Box Hill to Port Melbourne) and route 12 (St Kilda to Victoria Gardens) go along Victoria Street – you should disembark at stop 22. Route 78 (Prahran to Richmond) stops at the corner of Church and Victoria Streets and is only one block from Otao kitchen.

Car Parking. There is plenty of street parking available during the day on Victoria and surrounding streets, but most have a 1-2 hour parking limit. Sunday is free from 12pm. Please check the sign. Parking can also be limited depending on the day and time, so plan carefully. Alternatively, you can park your vehicle in Victoria Gardens Shopping Centre where 2 hours and more parking is available at reasonable rates. Otao Kitchen is just a short 5 minute walk from the Shopping Centre.

Bicycle. Bicycles can be stored and locked securely at the front of Otao kitchen’s property. If you need to park the bike in the back, please enter via the Victoria Street main entrance and arrive at least 10 minutes prior to your class so the bicycle can be stored without interruption to the class.

Working with NDIS planners or agencies

We have been working with different organisations with cooking and catering. Speak to our Cooking Specialist 0405720470 for more.

Check that your NDIS plan covers our classes. The support categories that participants typically use on our classes are Social & community participation, and Capacity building. If you're unsure, please ask your plan manager.

What is the NDIS support categories?

Our NDIS cooking class service will help participants to:\

Category 4 - Assistance with Social & Community Participation - Covers the support you need to participate, but generally does not cover the cost of the actual activity (the actual activity may be funded in the category 'Increased Social & Community Participation (Category 9)

Category 9 - Increased Social and Community Participation - Helps you participate in community activities that build your skills and independence.Funds all kinds of activities, such as study, life skills training or sports coaching. Can also fund the cost of a mentor to help you build your independence. Does not fund someone to support you participating in an activity. This is funded in the category 'Assistance with Social & Community Participation' (Category 4).

Category 15 - Improved Daily Living - Helps you develop the basic cooking skills you need to get more from your day-to-day life.

For more information please visit the NDIS website

I’m attending an online class?

Please note all our online classes 1-2 hours run on Melbourne, Australia time. All classes with “online” in the title are taught via Zoom. Please use this link: https://us06web.zoom.us/s/8697696969 to access the class on the day.
Your booking confirmation should include the Zoom link as well as the menu and recipe notes. Please email us hello@otaokitchen.com.au if this isn’t the case.
The zoom link for a private and corporate class may be different because some organisers use a company Zoom, Microsoft or other livestream corporate account.
At your scheduled class time, you will enter a virtual classroom via the Zoom link provided. Our expert chef will guide you step-by-step through a recipe, answering questions along the way.
We use the ingredients from major Australian supermarkets, however we know it might be still not easy to find ingredients in some Australia areas, please visit our classes before you book. Please measure and put all the ingredients on a dish/tray so you will be ready to cook and enjoy yourself while connecting to others.
If you book an online cooking class with ingredient kits, you may still require to purchase few fresh ingredients. Everything else should be provided.
Please email us hello@otaokitchen.com.au your dietary requirement, we can suggest some substitute ideas. We will do our best to help you to cook the dishes on the menu.
Feel free to include your family and children in your household in any one of our classes, especially the classes geared for families. Children should always be supervised by an adult while cooking.
In this online cooking class, you are welcome to BYO your wine and beer. However, for safety, please enjoy your beverages at the end of class.
Otao Kitchen may record all virtual cooking classes for training and improvement, and it will automatically delete after 2 weeks. For privacy requirements, we can't share these records.
Please check the online classes and its calendar.

Cooking with kids and teen?

In person cooking class for kids and teens

We have 3 programs for kids and teens and they are

(1) Join with a parents to our fun 2 hour kids and parents cooking classes with different menu each month. Children must be 10+ years old and taller than the standard kitchen benches (900mm) when joining.
(2) Let the child to join in 1-4 days or school holiday workshop - the program runs through school holiday and Parents are welcomed to join in with the same fees. Children must be 10 years old and taller than the standard kitchen benches (900mm) when joining.
(3) Let the child to join in our 2-3 hour master classes with you. Children 12 years old or older, must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to any of our master classes who will be responsible for their safety and conduct at all times. Children from 12-18 will pay the same fee as an adult unless we state in the description.

Other options

We encourage you to book a private cooking class of any menus for your family from 6-10 adults and childrens from $1,650, so the children can enjoy your company while cooking. Otao Kitchen does not have child-minding facilities so everyone will be cooking together.

You can ask the school to book a class using our school program with Asian foods.

Online cooking class

Feel free to include your family and children in your household in any one of our classes, especially the classes geared for families. Children should always be supervised by an adult while cooking.

Do you do Gift Vouchers?

Our gift vouchers are valid for 3 years from the date they’re issued.

They can be exchanged for cooking classes free of charge. You get instant confirmation when purchasing an electronic gift card.

Better yet, you can print the gift voucher or email it to your loved ones, so they just click and book their preferred class on our website.

Opening Hours?

If you want to book for a scheduled class?

Our classes are 2.5 - 3 hours
Thu & Fri: 2 pm and 6.30 pm
Sat & Sun: 10 am, 2 pm and 6.30 pm

If you want to book for a private & corporate event?

Mon-Thu by private booking only
Thu & Fri: 2 pm and 6.30 pm - small groups join in with scheduled class
Sat & Sun 10 am, 2 pm and 6.30 pm small groups join in with scheduled class

If you want to drop off and pick up items?

Drop off or pick up items including lost and found item.
As per request or during the scheduled class days

If you want to be catered

by private booking only with requested time from clients

If you want to book a food tour?

by private booking only with requested time from clients

If you want to Contact us

visit contact us

How do I book and pay for a class?

SCHEDULED PUBLIC CLASSES

It is easier to book online for most public scheduled classes. Once a booking has been made, we will forward a confirmation of the booking along. Scheduled classes bookings and gift vouchers are not confirmed until a full payment has been received.
Please make your payment directly to Otao Kitchen Ply Ltd BSB 193879 Acc 432538672 including your order number or your name on the booking as a reference.
Bank transfers may take 1-3 business days to clear. We will send you a payment receipt when the funds have been received.
All online bookings are charged with a 1.9% fee by Rezdy Booking Service. Plus the bank will charge for debit card (0.75%) and credit card (1.95%) unless you use bank transfer (0%) or cash (0%).
Pricing includes cooking activity, all food and drinks, the use of aprons and equipment and expert cooking instructors. No price reduction is available for guests who choose not to help themselves to a glass of wine.

TEAM BUILDING, PRIVATE AND CORPORATE EVENT

You can make an inquiry for our availability. We will respond to the date and time available. You then book a team building, private and corporate event and pay the deposit of 50% to secure the date and time.
We will be in touch with you 2 weeks before the event to confirm final number, guest dietary requests and any special arrangements. The balance will be due one week before the event.
All pricing is in Australian dollars and quoted on a per person basis. Payment may be made by direct deposit, or credit card with small fees. These fees are subject to change. We use Rezdy with charging fees (1.90%) for online booking. Plus the bank will charge for debit card (0.75%) and credit card (1.95%) unless you use bank transfer (0%) or cash (0%).
Pricing includes cooking activity, all food and drinks, the use of aprons and equipment and expert cooking instructors. No price reduction is available for guests who choose not to help themselves to a glass of wine or beer.

I need to cancel, change or ask for a refund?

Our classes are small, meaning we require counting all the resources and everyone in to make it work. We understand, however, things come up and may prevent you from joining the class. There are a few options, please note they’re all time-dependant:

If your class is more than 2 weeks away, you can reschedule once free of charge. Any consecutive reschedule, will incur in a 30% admin fee every time.
If your class is within two week before the event, there is a charge of 30% of the current value of the ticket to cover expenses incurred and admin fees.
Unfortunately, a no-show can’t be rescheduled without full payment for a new ticket.
If you tested COVID positive or were asked to isolate because of a closed contact, please email us hello@otaokitchen.com.au immediately, and we’ll amend your booking.
Provided you submit relevant evidence, there will be no charge for re-scheduling if you have covid 19.
In the unlikely event we need to cancel a class due to operational issues or a class/course having less than 8 bookings, we can: a) reschedule to an alternative date of your choice free of charge or, b) refund you – whichever you prefer.
To rebook your class, please visit our calendar or the cooking class you booked in. Please email us at hello@otaokitchen.com.au with your preferred class/date/time and order number.
We will update your existing order in our system and email back with a new confirmation. Please do not call as we may be teaching or serving guests, thus your call may not get through.
Only if we cancel a class or in unusual circumstances, we’re able to process refunds.

Melbourne Market Tour?

Our food tours are small group visiting different venues or market on any given day. We don’t cancel the tour unless major things happen. Please bring appropriate shoes, clothing and an umbrella or a jacket in case it rains. Foods are limit to tastings with option to buy a meal unless we state meals included.

We offer few tours

Queen Victoria Market
Victoria Street Walking Tour

How much food & beverage serving within cooking classes?

COMPLIMENTARY PACKAGE

Our liquor license is from 10am-10pm.

For every customers, Otao kitchen offer complimentary 2 drinks

from our beverage list with red wine, white wine, beers, sparkling wines, soft drinks and our homemade refresher in your package.

For safety reason with fire and knife, no wine will be served in the first hour.

PREMIUM PACKAGE

You can order extra package from $38pp after the complimentary beverage above.

PRE ORDER PACKAGE

If you like to do BYO or pre-oder package, we will charge $20pp for the group.

FOOD IN COOKING CLASSES

There would be plenty of foods so you won't go hungry.

You will be eating with your fellow guests. You can bring home if there are more foods.

We work with you event planner to have the class fit with meal time so no one stay hungry before the class.

Please stick to recommended time 10 am, 2 pm and 6.30 pm starts.

SELF CATERING

Our clients can bring food for parties if you already booked an event with us.

We may have to charge if we’ll take care of the set-up and maintenance. We have catering services if you require one.

Request a special needs?

We aim to be the cooking school of choice for customers with specific needs, by providing a cooking experience that is comfortable and hassle-free, whilst ensuring the safety of guests and our staff. Otao kitchen provide assistances for guests with reduced mobility and other specific needs.

Contact us about specific needs

Where a special request is an important factor in your choice of class, please advise us when your booking is made. We will pass your request onto our staff or other supplier. Unless and until specifically confirmed, all special requests are subject to availability.

Dietary requests

We can cater to most food requirements. When making your booking, please provide details of any food allergies or dietary requirements you have.
We take every precaution to cater for dietary requirements and/or food allergies, it is not feasible to test every ingredient and utensil used by different people in preparing food to the level of being able to guarantee there will be no traces of an allergen substance present.
We therefore recommend that you have suitable medication with you in the event of a reaction as OTAO Kitchen will not be held responsible or liable for any consequence as a result of your exposure to any food type or allergen.

Blind or vision or Deaf or hearing impaired

Please contact us for assistance with your specific needs immediately after you’ve made your booking to advise of any specific requirements.
It’s useful for us to know, for example, whether you lip read or would like staff to use a pen and paper or to speak louder, as we would like to provide you with the best service possible.
You are not required to notify us if you wish to bring to the cooking school hearing aids, special headsets, audio receivers or other battery operated assistive listening devices.
In addition to an individual safety briefing provided by our staff, we will also offer Braille signage for guests blind or have a visual impairment.

Mobility assistance

You’re not required to cook with a carer unless you have specific requirements.
If you need to cook with your carer, you must book a ticket for two because we may not have space for you and your carer.
If you’d like to travel with your accredited service dog, please contact for assistance.
Please let us know if you need help to go around the kitchen.
Our staff may not provide support going into or out of the disable washroom. If you need assistance in the washroom, you may need to be accompanied by your carer.

Collaborations?

For more than 6 years, Otao kitchen has partnered with industry, suppliers and clients to build on our cooking classes and food event offering.

We are passionate about the food experiences and recognise the importance of building and maintaining strong partnerships that create mutually beneficial outcomes.

A tailored partnership with Otao kitchen can enable your organisation to engage with new audiences and realise valuable opportunities.

Partnerships can be designed at a range of levels, from major, long-term sponsorships to short-term associations which help achieve a specific goal.

How about partner with us to cook for a charity, video project, recipe cook book or branding?

Contact Otao kitchen to discuss your objectives and ways we can work together.

Phone 0408 217 899 or email hello@otaokitchen.com.au

Work For Us?

We want to work with the best, so if that’s you and you want to get involved in an exciting and growing learning to cook industry. Please note - only candidates with relevant experiences and qualifications will be contacted. Email us your one-page resume and a letter to state why you want to work for us? Thank you, and we look forward to speaking to you soon.

Team Otaokitchen

COOKING INSTRUCTOR

The Chef Instructor will be responsible for hosting classes and events, explaining recipes and demonstrating essential techniques before and during the cooking process. You will have experience in a cooking school environment and be comfortable teaching adults and children. You should know some or most of the menu: Dumpling and finger foods, Mexican, Spanish, Italian, Vegan, Indian, Indonesian, Korean, Thai, Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese and Greek. Great if you are experienced in corporate events and children classes. You will also deliver online classes from time to time. Our classes are small and you will have autonomy in the role which will give you the freedom to own the role and build this business.

Application Form

KITCHEN ASSISTANT

You are responsible for supporting the instructor with the execution of the event. You are upbeat assistants with great personalities who like to get their hands dirty. Furthermore, you must be able to work in a fast-paced environment and communicate with all ages. The ability to follow directions and be a team player is a must in helping with class activities, preparing the recipe, keeping everything running smoothly, keeping the kitchen clean and organised and prep food as needed.

Application Form

SALES AND DIGITAL MARKETING

You will require experience in sales and business development and digital marketing. You will be able to create and develop relationships with clients, teams of event staff and exude a professional, well-polished attitude. Likewise, you are experienced in how to get customers or leads and maintain existing customers to get better yield. There is a lot of autonomy in the role, which will give you the freedom to own the role and build this business.

Application Form

WORK EXPERIENCE

Want to have the summer of your life? Apply to work for us. Candidates must be able to commit 2 days per week, including one Saturday or Sunday. Great for students studying food, nutrition, education, hospitality and for those looking for a fresh and unique kitchen experience.

Application Form

GUEST CHEF

The Otao kitchen cooking school teaches inspirational, educational and entertaining food experiences; covering cuisines, skills and techniques from around the world.
Located at the heart of Victoria Street, Richmond/ Abbotsford our impressive facilities help create a warm, welcome and informal atmosphere - perfect for learning, dining, and relaxing. Our school runs over two platforms; in-person, and online, allowing us to reach a broad audience from around the globe.
You’ll also be part of a dynamic and diverse business that supports and delivers best cooking classes in Melbourne.

Application Form

Comment, feedback, review?

If you want to read our review please visit our TripAdvisor page here https://www.tripadvisor.com.au/Attraction_Review-g635736-d6980193-Reviews-Otao_Kitchen-Richmond_Yarra_Greater_Melbourne_Victoria.html
For feedback please click here https://otaokitchen.com.au/survey/
If you have any comments and suggestions please email chef Ha Nguyen - Otao kitchen's Director hello@otaokitchen.com.au

Fund raising donations and philanthropy?

Otao kitchen is committed to giving back to our communities. Our philanthropy program supports schools, associations and non profit organisations and invests in the quality of life in Melbourne where we do business. We are dedicated to the same causes our customers and employees support. Our philanthropy supports organisations in their efforts to:

Provide food and assistance to individuals and families
Educate the public about healthy eating habits, nutrition and overall traditions
Advocate for sustainable agriculture and the preservation of culinary traditions
Educate and promote positive youth advancement
Protect and defend human rights
Empower and support women in the food
Encourage art application

The kitchen is committed to philanthropy, but as a small business, we are simply not able to support every worthy cause. All donation requests should be submitted via our online form below in order to be considered by our Marketing Manager. We no longer accept donation requests submitted via mail, email or other forms on our website. Please use the form below. Please note that due to the high volume of donations we receive each day, we must have certain guidelines in place in order to review your request:

All requests must be received at least 30 days prior to the date of the donation deadline.
All requests must be made on behalf of a charitable organisation rather than individuals or for-profit businesses.
All requests will be reviewed the month prior to the fundraising date and not before. Causes that are granted donations will be notified by our Marketing Manager via email. Please note that if you do not receive a notification that your donation has been approved, we were unfortunately unable to donate to your cause at this time.

We ask that you refrain from sending follow up emails inquiring about the status of your request or submitting multiple requests.
Contact hello@otaokitchen.com.au if you have question.

Our Story

ABOUT US

Otao kitchen is a cooking school and event space with a mission for people to come together to cook, connect, celebrate. We believe cooking and eating should be an experience, not just a meal. We created Otao kitchen as an extension of our passions to cook, share and inspire.

EXPERT IN COOKING CLASSES

Otao kitchen was launched in Melbourne, Australia in July 2014, with the goal of celebrating the rich and varied cooking experiences of Melbourne’s immigrant multicultural communities.

WHAT WE DO BEST?

Today our guests can get inspired by cooking with our local and international chefs, listen to their cooking and travel experiences in Asia and around the world and bring some cooking and cultural tips and tricks home. With the nods at the diversity of communities within Melbourne, Otao kitchen features an array of global food experiences from Indian to Japan to Mexico and more.

In 2020 with the challenge of global Covid 19 pandemic, we set out to capture the curriculum of our hands-cooking classes and deliver it online to home cooks in Australia and across the world to guide you to cooking success and better health.

Products and services: cooking master classes, private and corporate events, catering and event services, kid and school programs, and gift vouchers.

WHAT'S "OTAO" MEAN?

Otao kitchen is named after Ông Táo, the Vietnamese Kitchen God. Ông Táo is regarded as the advocate of Vietnamese families to the gods and a messenger between Heaven and Earth. In preparation of a prosperous year, Vietnamese families clean their homes and polish their silver. During the New Year celebrations, Ông Táo comes to serve as the Kitchen God to Vietnamese families. As the old year ends, he flys back to Heaven on a magic-carp reporting on each family’s life and experiences over the past year to the Jade Emperor, the King of Heaven. Ông Táo is regarded as a family member and various prayers and offerings are brought to him at the family altar.