6 Best Interactive Food Experiences for Families

Let’s be real: the best part of visiting any new place is sampling the local food. There’s nothing like sinking your teeth into that first bite of deep-dish pizza in Chicago, or trying your first slice of huckleberry pie in Montana.

But if you want to truly experience the local food scene, the best thing you can do is book an interactive experience—think cooking classes with experienced chefs and lively dinner shows. These are some of our favorite interactive food tours for families.

1. Learn How to Make French Macaroons in Paris – Paris

During this three-hour class, you’ll learn how to make macaroons with a French chef. The experienced chef will teach you the secret techniques needed to make these precious pastries. Of course, there will be samples, and you’ll be able to take the recipe home so you can whip up a batch of macaroons anytime you want to remember your trip. French macaroon tours are limited to eight people and are perfect for families, especially those with teens.

2. Technical Chocolate Making Workshop – Paris

Another must in Paris? Chocolate! Join in on a chocolate making workshop with a local chocolatier. During this 1.5-hour class, you’ll learn the fine details needed to concoct the creamiest chocolate imaginable. And yes, you’ll get to take some chocolates home (if you don’t eat them all before you leave Paris, that is).

3. Mister Gregory’s Famous Shrimp Boil and Show – New Orleans

There’s no shrimp boil like Mister Gregory’s! At Mister Gregory’s Famous Shrimp Boil and Show, you’ll nosh on local blue crab and alligator tail before moving on to the main course and dessert. Alcoholic beverages are included. The superb entertainment and balcony views round out this classic experience in NOLA.

4. Make Your Own Pastel de Nata in Portugal – Lisbon 

If you know anything about Portugal, you know about the Pastel de Nata, a delicacy that dates back to the 19th century. Learn how to make this iconic pastry, in addition to a second local treat, in this two-hour experience. Coffee and tea are included in the cost.

5. Tommy Guns Garage Dinner and Show – Chicago 

If you haven’t been to Tommy Guns Garage and Dinner Show, have you even been to Chicago? This experience transports visitors back to the roaring 20s as flappers and gangsters interact with crowds in a hilarious spectacle. The food—served by cast members—is just as good as the entertainment. 

6. Heart of Rome Pizza Master Class – Rome

Everyone wants to eat their weight in pizza in Italy. But why not make it AND eat it, too? In the Heart of Rome Pizza Master Class, families are taught how to make an authentic pizza. Of course, you get to eat the pizza when it’s ready. Complete your meal with a glass of red wine.