When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
Hipcooks
Why Hipcooks is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Hipcooks is a unique cooking school that has established itself as a top destination for home cooks who want to learn how to cook with confidence and creativity. Founded in 2004 by Monika Reti, Hipcooks started as intimate hands-on classes in the founder's loft-style apartment in Los Angeles and has since expanded to multiple locations from San Diego to Seattle. The school is beloved for its communal and recipe-free cooking approach, emphasizing learning to 'cook from the hip' by trusting instincts rather than relying on precise measurements or rigid recipes. Each class typically ends with a relaxed communal dinner party, giving attendees the opportunity to enjoy the food they've prepared alongside new friends in a welcoming and comfortable environment. The classes cater to a broad range of culinary interests, featuring fun and themed sessions such as "My Big Fat Greek Cooking Class," "Dim Sum & Then Sum," and "Cocktails & Apps." Hipcooks offers over 50 different classes and provides private class options for corporate team-building events. Their instructors are highly trained to ensure a fun, engaging, and educational experience for participants. The vibrant, colorful, and friendly atmosphere of their locations further enhances the social and experiential aspect of cooking together. Overall, Hipcooks makes cooking an accessible, enjoyable, and social activity, encouraging participants to delight in the process, experiment freely, and leave feeling inspired and confident to cook at home.
Here's what people think of Hipcooks
As of recent, Hipcooks holds a 4.3-star rating based on 13 reviews.
User reviews generally reflect a positive experience with Hipcooks, highlighting the welcoming atmosphere and the unique, hands-on approach to cooking without recipes or measurements. Many customers appreciate the emphasis on learning through intuition and creativity, which allows even novice cooks to feel comfortable and empowered in the kitchen. Positive reviews often mention the friendly and knowledgeable instructors, the variety and creativity of classes offered, and the fun communal dining experience at the end of sessions as standout features. Additionally, the ambiance of Hipcooks locations—described as warm, colorful, and inviting—contributes to the overall appeal and enjoyment of the classes. On the other hand, some less favorable reviews do note occasional issues such as class size limitations, which might reduce the individual attention some participants desire, and scheduling constraints due to the popularity of classes. A few customers have mentioned that the recipe-free approach could feel challenging for those who prefer more structured guidance. However, these critiques are generally balanced by the overall enthusiasm for Hipcooks' innovative teaching style and social atmosphere. In conclusion, Hipcooks enjoys strong customer satisfaction for providing an engaging, supportive, and fun culinary learning environment that stands out from traditional cooking schools, making it a go-to choice for home cooks looking to expand their cooking skills and enjoy quality time with friends or colleagues.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Danielle Isbell
We had a wonderful experience at the Greek cooking class! We not only learned to prepare some delicious dishes, but we also learned some fundamentals in cooking that we still use today. Learning how to properly balance a dish and how to tell what ingredients are missing toake you food really pop. I would highly recommend a Hip Cooks class and can't wait to take another one!
Kristie Tevebaugh
Ripped off. They don’t offer in person cooking classes anymore but yet they won’t refund a gift card that was sold when they offered in person cooking! It’s been so long since covid now that they should be offering in person classes again, especially when their other locations out of state do, or at least provide a refund instead of just keeping the money for something bought and not provided and is no longer offered. Meanwhile, there’s other establishments that offer in person cooking classes. This is the only company that did not refund or reschedule something that was cancelled during covid. Feels a bit like we were taken advantage of.
Jacob M
Took the Argentinian Cuisine Class. I was looking forward to this so much. Went on Valentines day so it was supposed to be a memorable night. It was quite the opposite. Not sure if it was the instructors first time, but it was not the best showing. She was nice and considerate and polite, so nothing against her at all. My biggest qualm was there was NO direction or information shared. I thought I would learn how to combine ingredients better and cut/chop better. I thought I would walk away with a better knowledge of food and cooking. For the first 20 minutes we just watched our instructor chop onions and stood idly by. We did a lot of standing around. Not hands on like I was hoping. The whole time I really didn't know what to do or how to do it. People on the other side of the room were making and cooking things and I had no idea what they were doing or what ingredients were going into the course. The instructor brought up how Wüstoff knife company invested in Hip Cooks and then continued to try and sell them during the class. I think she brought up twice how good of knifes they were and why they were good and that you could buy them in the shop. I came to learn how to cook better, and I understand knives are an integral part, but it felt like they were pushed on us. The food we made was good, not great. We chopped a lot and cut a lot but I couldn't really tell you what each ingredient was for and why it went well with the other ingredients we were adding it to. I heard the pasta one was better because you are actually doing something the whole time. I would say we were actually hands on about a third of the time of cooking. The instructor just seemed a little confused and lost at times. It got better as time went on but for the whole first half we were kind of just standing around, wondering when we were going to participate and learn something. I'm sure other classes/instructors are great, I'm just sharing my experience. I gave it 3 stars and not less because I love the idea of these classes and believe it can be great.
Adam Pearson
It all depends on your expectations. I wouldn't do another class here. Pros: Very professional, knowledgeable staff. High quality ingredients. Fun atmosphere. Cons: Class started at 6, didn't eat anything until 8. Appetizers were put on the table and tempted our hungry class for 2 hours. We cooked, but didn't really cook. Each group was responsible for part of a dish. All the prep work was done by the instructor, which meant no one got to handle a knife. It was more being instructed to mix things than it was actually learning techniques. I would have preferred a more hands on approach, where everybody was cooking the same thing and the instructor came around to answer questions, show technique, give tips, etc. This didn't really happen. I also think they tried to cram too many dishes into the evening. They served wine with the meal, but didn't sell/provide any alcohol during the 3 hours spent cooking. I would have enjoyed drinking a beer while spending that much time in the kitchen.
Claire Giardina
We had an incredible class with Bonny. We made cocktails accompanied with beautiful hors d'oeuvres. Bonny brings huge energy to her classes and she is a delightful hostess. Try a class with Bonny. You won't be disappointed. And if you double lucky, Christine will be showing you the Art of Cocktails in the same class. That's a double play, Hipcooks style. Claire & Rich
How to reach Hipcooks
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Why Hipcooks may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Hipcooks with your friends?
Gathering at Hipcooks offers an exciting and immersive experience that goes beyond just sharing a meal—it is about creating, learning, and bonding through the joy of cooking. This unique hands-on cooking school embraces the spirit of collaboration and playfulness, which makes it an ideal destination for friends or family meetups who want to engage collectively in something fun and rewarding. Unlike traditional cooking classes led by intimidating chefs, Hipcooks fosters an approachable and supportive environment where everyone cooks together—without dividing into separate groups—and everyone shares the delicious results. This creates not only a sense of accomplishment but also lasting camaraderie. The focus on fresh, local, and organic ingredients ensures a healthy and vibrant menu that encourages confidence in cooking from instinct rather than strict recipes. Hipcooks is particularly special as it demystifies cooking techniques with expert guidance that is accessible to all skill levels, which means beginners and seasoned cooks alike have a fantastic time. Whether you want to celebrate a special occasion, enjoy a casual get-together, or just try a new experience with your group, Hipcooks makes sure your meetup is memorable, flavorful, and full of laughter.
What activities are offered at Hipcooks that make it a perfect group meetup spot?
Hipcooks offers a series of hands-on cooking classes designed for all skill levels, which is perfect for a group seeking interactive and social activities. The experience begins with participants learning useful kitchen skills, such as proper knife handling and sauté techniques, all taught in a relaxed, informal manner that encourages experimentation instead of rigid rules. Each class emphasizes cooking with fresh, organic, and local ingredients to produce delicious meals from various global cuisines, making the classes both educational and exciting. Importantly, the classes are designed to be collaborative: everyone cooks side-by-side, shares stories, and enjoys the food together at the end of the session, strengthening bonds within the group. Hipcooks avoids formalities like measuring cups during class—instead, it inspires participants to cook by intuition and creativity, which enhances enthusiasm and self-confidence. Beyond the traditional in-person classes at their East Los Angeles location inside the vibrant Brewery Artist Lofts, Hipcooks also offers virtual classes so groups can participate from home, adding flexibility for gatherings. These interactive classes can be booked as private group events, where the entire experience is tailored for your party’s enjoyment, making Hipcooks an ideal venue for friends and family meetups, team-building, or casual celebrations.
Why is Hipcooks’ approach to cooking classes unique and inviting?
Hipcooks transforms the conventional cooking class experience by stripping away the intimidation factor often associated with culinary instruction. Instead of formal chefs dictating precise recipes and techniques, the instructors at Hipcooks serve as approachable guides who prioritize fun and learning over perfection. There are no strict recipes or measuring cups during class; students explore cooking based on instinct and an understanding of flavors and processes. This innovative approach, emphasizing why and how instead of just what, helps attendees build real confidence in the kitchen and piques curiosity about ingredients and cultural backgrounds behind recipes. The welcoming atmosphere makes Hipcooks accessible for everyone—from novices to those who already love cooking but want to sharpen their skills or try new dishes. The format encourages group interaction, sharing anecdotes, and creating a warm social environment, which is especially appealing when visiting with friends or family. The philosophy behind Hipcooks celebrates the idea that "Anyone can cook," and the classes are crafted to make that true for every participant, ensuring that your meetup is not only educational but also memorable, inspiring, and downright fun.
Where is Hipcooks located and why is its venue suitable for hosting groups?
Hipcooks East Los Angeles is situated at the Brewery Artist Lofts complex at 642 Moulton Ave, Unit E21, Los Angeles, CA 90031. This location is ideal for group events because it is easily accessible, minutes away from major freeways such as the 5, 10, and 101, making it convenient for attendees coming from different parts of the city. Parking is readily available within the complex, simplifying logistics and giving groups the flexibility they may need. The venue itself is set in a vibrant artistic community, adding a creative and inspiring atmosphere to your meetup. The bright, open kitchen space is designed to accommodate groups cooking together without feeling cramped. Its layout encourages social interaction and inclusivity, allowing everyone to engage fully in the hands-on cooking experience. Whether for a casual gathering or a more organized occasion, Hipcooks' venue supports a smooth, enjoyable group dynamic and creates a comfortable space for everyone to connect over food and fun.
How does Hipcooks cater to different tastes and dietary preferences in group settings?
Hipcooks understands that every group has diverse tastes and dietary needs, and their classes reflect a flexible, inclusive approach to accommodate these variations. The menus are crafted with health-consciousness in mind, emphasizing fresh, organic, and local ingredients, which naturally appeal to a wide range of preferences. Many classes focus on balanced meals that offer flavorful, wholesome options, whether a group prefers vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or omnivorous dishes. The instructors encourage dialogue and adaptation, often discussing alternatives or substitutions within the class to ensure everyone feels comfortable and satisfied. Because the cooking experience is interactive and tailored to the group's dynamic, participants can learn how to modify recipes and cooking techniques to their liking, empowering them to replicate these adjustments at home. This approach makes Hipcooks an excellent choice for groups where members have different dietary requirements or culinary curiosities, fostering inclusiveness and emphasizing the joy of cooking together regardless of restrictions.
What makes booking a private group class at Hipcooks an excellent choice for celebrations and team-building?
Private group classes at Hipcooks provide a personalized and engaging environment perfectly suited for celebrations, corporate outings, or any special gathering with friends and family. When booking a group class, you gain exclusive access to the hands-on experience where the entire event is focused on your group’s fun and culinary discovery. The instructors adapt the class dynamic to suit the energy and preferences of your party, ensuring a lively, inclusive atmosphere where everyone participates equally. Sharing the cooking process side-by-side builds teamwork and communication, making these events not only enjoyable but also excellent for strengthening relationships and morale. After the cooking, groups sit down together to savor the dishes they created, turning the meal into a shared achievement that deepens connections. Hipcooks also offers flexibility in class themes or cuisines, which gives you the chance to create a unique experience based on your occasion's spirit or your group's interests. All these features combine to make Hipcooks a standout venue for meaningful, fun-filled group meetups and celebrations.
How do Hipcooks’ virtual classes expand options for friend and family meetups?
In addition to their physical location, Hipcooks offers virtual cooking classes that bring the same step-by-step, interactive experience into your living room. These virtual sessions allow groups spread across locations to rally together through technology, cooking simultaneously under live guidance. This is especially valuable for friends and families who cannot easily meet in person but still want to share a fun, creative activity. The virtual classes maintain Hipcooks’ signature emphasis on hands-on learning, teamwork, and fresh flavors, creating a lively, social atmosphere online. Participants can ask questions, share reactions, and celebrate successes just like in person, making it a dynamic and inclusive experience regardless of physical distance. Booking a group virtual class is simple and customizable, offering an excellent alternative for busy schedules or distant gatherings while preserving the essence of a collective cooking adventure.
Why do Hipcooks’ students leave with confidence and enthusiasm to cook more at home?
One of Hipcooks’ core strengths is that it empowers participants with skills and confidence that extend well beyond the class itself. Rather than relying on rigid recipes, students learn fundamental techniques and an intuitive understanding of cooking that encourages creativity and self-reliance in the kitchen. This approach reduces fear and uncertainty about cooking, making it approachable and enjoyable. The atmosphere at Hipcooks, full of playful energy and mutual encouragement, builds enthusiasm for experimenting with food at home. After each class, students receive recipes to reinforce their new knowledge, but by that point, they already feel comfortable trusting their instincts in the kitchen. This transformative confidence means that the pleasure of cooking together at Hipcooks often translates into more frequent dinner parties, family meals, and enjoyable cooking experiences, making it a truly lasting social and educational event for any group.
What kind of group sizes and occasions work best at Hipcooks?
Hipcooks is flexible and well-equipped to host a wide range of group sizes, from intimate friend gatherings to larger family celebrations or corporate team-building events. The kitchen and dining area are designed to accommodate groups comfortably while maintaining an intimate and interactive experience. Whether you are organizing a birthday party, a casual meetup, a pre-wedding celebration, or a work outing, Hipcooks can adapt the class format and menu to suit the occasion and group energy. The collaborative nature of the classes encourages mixing and mingling, which is ideal for social groups wanting to strengthen existing connections or meet new people. Group bookings are encouraged and come with dedicated support to ensure seamless planning and a memorable outcome. Hipcooks’ versatility makes it a highly recommended destination for any occasion that calls for fun, food, and friendship.
These carefully crafted experiences at Hipcooks make it an excellent choice for hosting your next meetup with friends and family. From its welcoming philosophy and inclusive classes to its unique hands-on approach and accessibility, Hipcooks consistently delivers fun, learning, and connection, all wrapped in the joy of cooking together. Its rating of 4.3 stars from 13 reviews reflects positive guest experiences, reinforcing it as a standout spot in Los Angeles for memorable, tasty group gatherings.