Hands-on culinary workshops led by Michelin-starred chef Jp McMahon
Step inside the kitchen of Aniar and experience a full day of immersive cooking with chef Jp McMahon, one of Ireland’s most celebrated culinary voices. Designed for curious beginners and confident home cooks alike, the Aniar Cookery School offers intimate, small-group workshops that ignite creativity, build confidence, and celebrate the best of Irish and international cooking.
Whether you’re exploring Basque tapas, discovering nose-to-tail techniques, or reimagining modern Irish classics, each workshop brings you closer to the craft of cooking through hands-on practice, expert guidance, and a deep appreciation of food provenance.
Testimonials-
“This was the best cooking experience I’ve ever had. Jp makes everything feel achievable and inspiring.”
— Participant, 2024
“I learnt more in one day than I’ve learnt in years of home cooking.”
— Workshop Guest
“The atmosphere was warm, fun, and creative — and the food was absolutely stunning.”
— Visitor from the UK
Taking part in the Vegetarian and Vegan cooking course was such a great experience. I didn't know what to expect when I signed up for the day, but it exceeded my expectations. I learned a range of skills, from the basics of prep work and pairing ingredients to clever kitchen hacks for solving common cooking issues. JP was always nearby to answer our questions, offering useful tips we could take home and explaining techniques along the way, like why we sweat mushrooms and cabbage before wrapping them in gyozas to prevent excess moisture. I really enjoyed discovering new ingredients such as sake, mirin, and gochujang, which I've started using in my cooking at home. It was also fun meeting the other students on the course, sharing a common interest and learning together, then chatting over lunch and dinner as we sampled all the dishes we had collectively made with a glass of wine. I wish I could do it every Sunday, and I’ll definitely be asking for another class for my next birthday!
— Sinead - Vegetarian Cooking Course
One of the best gifts I've ever been given! A highlight of my day at the Mexican food cooking course was working with dishes and ingredients I had never used before (including a whole octopus!). With a teacher like Jp guiding us, you feel confident to dive in and experiment, knowing he'll step in and course correct if needed. After enjoying two delicious meals with my classmates made from the fruits of our labour, I still had plenty of leftovers to bring home (which the family was delighted about). For my fellow foodies, I can't think of a better way to spend a Sunday!
— Arden - An Intro to Mexican Cooking
Your workshop begins with a warm welcome and an introduction to the professional kitchen—its layout, essential tools, and techniques—paired with stories and insights from Jp’s Michelin-starred experience. Each guest receives an Aniar apron to wear during the class and take home as a memento.
During the morning session, participants cook alongside Jp, learning new skills through hands-on practice. At lunchtime, the group gathers around the table to enjoy the dishes prepared together, accompanied by a glass of wine.
The afternoon brings a second cooking session, before the day concludes once again around the table—sharing, tasting, and savouring the food created together in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
● Complete beginners eager to build foundational kitchen confidence
● Home cooks looking to deepen skills and creativity
● Food enthusiasts with an interest in seafood, Irish cuisine, or world flavours
● Anyone seeking a memorable culinary experience in Galway
All classes are tailored to the experience level of the group.
Select a class that piques your interest and you will leave with a good grounding in the subject.
● Basque tapas & Spanish regional dishes
● Italian & Mediterranean cooking
● Modern Irish seafood
● The foundations of fermentation
● Seasonal Irish ingredients & wild foods
● Nose-to-tail techniques
Aniar also offers private group cookery workshops for up to 6 people, available on Sundays and Mondays, subject to availability.
For enquiries, please contact: abigail@eatgalway.ie