Playa del Carmen: Mexican Cooking Class & Tequila Tasting

Summary

Mexican flavors hands-on cooking class with chef coty in playa del carmen

You’ll cook side by side with Chef Coty in her Playa del Carmen home—chopping, laughing, learning secrets behind ceviche and mole. Taste tequila and mezcal after lunch, swap stories with new friends, and leave smelling faintly of roasted chiles (in a good way). This isn’t just a class—it’s a memory you’ll carry home.

What’s the experience like?

I walked into Chef Coty’s kitchen still a bit sandy from the beach, not really sure what to expect. She greeted us like we were old friends—hug, big smile, that kind of warmth you don’t fake. The smell hit first: roasted peppers and something citrusy I couldn’t place. There were six of us around the counter, all a little awkward at first, but Coty had us chopping and laughing within minutes. She told stories about her grandmother’s mole recipes while we tried (and mostly failed) to slice mango like pros. I’m still not sure my ceviche looked right, but it tasted sharp and fresh—lime, sweet potato, fish that almost melted.

It’s funny how quickly you forget you’re technically “on a tour.” We learned about dried chiles—she passed them around so we could feel the leathery skins—and then the sizzle when someone dropped onions in the pan made everyone go quiet for a second. Coty kept an eye on everyone but never hovered; she just knew when to nudge or crack a joke (she teased me for my tortilla folding skills). Lunch was noisy and casual—homemade totopos with chipotle sauce, achiote fish wrapped in banana leaves, and caramelized bananas with ice cream that I still think about sometimes.

The tequila and mezcal tasting at the end was honestly more fun than educational—I mean, I learned things (like how mezcal should taste smoky but not burnt), but mostly we just toasted each other and swapped travel stories. One guy tried saying “salud” with his best accent; Coty laughed so hard she nearly spilled her glass. It felt like being invited to someone’s family table instead of just another day trip in Playa del Carmen. If you’re even half interested in Mexican food or want something real between beach days, this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Mexican cooking and tasting class

• Arrive at Co.Cos cooking school
• Learn to prepare 1 or 3 course meal
• Cook your own meal at cooking station
• Enjoy food with wine and beer
• Learn about fresh and dried peppers
• Taste tequila and mezcal

Top questions

How long does the Mexican cooking class last?

The 1-course class lasts about 3 hours; the 3-course class takes around 5 hours.

Are vegetarian or vegan options available?

Yes, vegetarians and vegans are welcome—just let them know your dietary needs in advance.

Is tequila and mezcal tasting included?

Yes, every class ends with a guided tequila and mezcal tasting session.

Where is the cooking class held?

The class takes place at Chef Coty's home kitchen and school in Playa del Carmen.

Is lunch or dinner provided during the experience?

Your meal is included—either lunch or dinner depending on your chosen day and time slot.

Can solo travelers join the cooking class?

Solo travelers can join if there are at least two people booked; check availability before booking.

Are children or infants allowed?

Infants and small children can attend—the space is stroller-friendly.

Is the venue wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Chef Coty's kitchen is wheelchair accessible.

What’s included

Your experience includes all ingredients for your chosen menu (with vegetarian/vegan options if needed), use of personal cooking stations in Chef Coty’s Playa del Carmen kitchen school, full lunch or dinner paired with wine or beer, plus tequila and mezcal tastings to finish off—with recipes to take home too.