9 Incredible Culinary Hotel Experiences That I’ll Never Forget

I am a foodie. I love to cook interesting dishes. I love to eat amazing food. And I particularly love it when a chef creates a memorable experience combining local cuisine with an immersive ambiance. Whether it involves a hands-on cooking session exploring a local staple like pastechi in Aruba or a magnificent multi-course spread like La Reserve on Oceania Cruises, great food is the gateway into a region’s culture and history. The following incredible culinary experiences from hotels far and near are listed in no particular order.

Note: Some information in this piece was obtained during a sponsored press trip, but all recommendations are my own.

1. Pastechi Cooking Class

Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, Noord, Aruba

Pastechi, a crescent-shaped, empanada-like savory pastry is one of Aruba’s traditional dishes. These fried, hand-held pies are made with a variety of fillings. Across the island, you will find roadside shacks selling fried cheese, chicken, beef, and vegetable pastechi. The base of the pie is a mixture of onions, peppers, celery, and warm spices like cumin and nutmeg. All are served with a variety of dipping sauce options.

At the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, you can sign up for a private cooking class and explore the intricacies of this delectable Arubian street food. It is a wonderful immersive experience of the…