When you step into our Midtown Manhattan kitchen, you’re stepping into a world tour, no boarding pass required. The aromas of sizzling garlic, fresh herbs, and simmering sauces tell stories that span generations and continents. At Coqui the Chef, we believe food is more than just a meal, it’s a cultural bridge. Our cooking classes are designed to transport you through Puerto Rico, Spain, Mexico, and Italy, one dish at a time.
"Every dish we make carries a piece of its homeland...the smells, the stories, the laughter around the table. Cooking isn’t just about food, it’s about connection."
We start our journey in Puerto Rico, where every recipe has a story and every meal feels like a family reunion. Guests learn to make staples like arroz con gandules or mofongo, using a blend of herbs, peppers, onions, and garlic, that is the heartbeat of Puerto Rican cuisine. Alongside the cooking, we share stories of island life, traditions, and the role of food in celebrations.
From the golden crust of a paella to the refreshing sparkle of sangria, Spanish cuisine is all about coming together. Our paella classes invite guests to toss in rice with a cheer, much like the festivals in Valencia where the dish was born. Tapas, cured meats, and cheeses set the tone for a communal dining experience filled with laughter and connection.
Italy offers comfort and elegance in equal measure. Whether we’re rolling fresh pasta, simmering marinara, or drizzling lemon olive oil over vanilla ice cream, our Italian classes celebrate the joy of la cucina, the kitchen, as the heart of the home. Guests leave with not just recipes, but the rhythm of Italian hospitality.
Mexican cuisine is vibrant, colorful, and steeped in tradition. In our Mexican cooking classes, guests might make hand pressed tortillas, smoky salsas, or gorditas layered with flavor. Along the way, we explore the cultural significance and stories about the cuisine.
What makes Coqui the Chef unique isn’t just the food, it’s the storytelling. Each class is infused with history, anecdotes, and traditions that make every bite meaningful. One guest wrote in a review, “We came for the cooking but left with memories and stories we’ll share forever.”
Cooking is the most delicious way to travel. At Coqui the Chef, we invite you to taste the world without leaving NYC. Whether you’re booking a private event, joining a public class, or connecting with us virtually, we promise an experience that’s rich in flavor, culture, and connection.
Hispanic Heritage Month was created to spread awareness and promote Spanish history and culture in effort to help keep it alive! It is a time to learn, create, and appreciate the rich histories of our ancestors and celebrate the diverse cultures throughout the Spanish community!
Citrus fruit is essential behind the bar. Limes and lemons are critical in making exciting libations, such as the margarita, daiquiri, whiskey sour and many others. Here are some tips to make the most out of your citrus fruit when drink-mixing.
Puerto Rico is a lovely Caribbean island with lots to see and do. The blue shores and beautiful weather are enough to visit this corner of Paradise. This is our Quick Traveler Guide to Puerto Rico.
How does the Caribbean celebrate the holidays? The holiday season is memorable for all of us, but we all celebrate it differently.
Coquito is much more than eggnog, this is the heart and soul of Puerto Rico, and you can make it your own holiday tradition!
