Tips for Choosing a Sushi Class That Suits Your Cooking Level

Not every sushi class is built the same, and that’s actually a good thing. Whether you're brand new to rolling or you've tried it before, picking the right class can make the whole experience much more enjoyable. For anyone looking into sushi making classes in London this winter, thinking about your own cooking style and comfort level is the best place to begin.

Colder months tend to bring people indoors, and hands-on food activities are perfect this time of year. It’s quieter, slower, and people naturally look for simple ways to learn something new without feeling rushed. A sushi class that suits how you learn can help you relax, enjoy the process, and walk away with a skill that’s as fun as it is tasty.

Start with What You Already Know

Before booking anything, it helps to ask yourself what feels easy in the kitchen, and what doesn’t. For example, are you comfortable using a kitchen knife, or do you prefer things that don’t need sharp tools? Can you cook sticky rice without stress, or is that something you’d like to be shown?

Some people might have made sushi rolls before but never used raw fish. Others may know how to make rice but not how to shape anything. That’s why it makes sense to choose a class that fits with what already feels familiar. When the material matches your confidence level, the whole thing runs more smoothly. You spend less time feeling nervous and more time getting involved.

If you jump into a class that moves too fast, it’s easy to feel lost. But if it’s too simple, you might get bored or wish you’d picked something just a bit more advanced. Picking the right starting point makes the whole experience more fun.

Check What the Class Will Cover

Once you’ve thought about your comfort level, the next step is to look closely at the class information. Sushi classes can focus on different parts of the process, and knowing what’s included makes it easier to match your cooking level to the class.

Look for things like:

• Whether the class teaches simple rolls, shaped sushi, or more advanced techniques

• Whether there’s time for hands-on practice or if most of it is taught by watching

• How long the session lasts and if there’s a chance to ask questions or go at your own pace

For instance, our public sushi making workshops in places like High Wycombe and Marlow are 90-minute, hands-on classes where you learn how to make four different kinds of authentic sushi in a relaxed and fun environment. 

Some classes are all about the fun of making shapes. Others lean more into tradition, like how to prepare certain kinds of fish, present the plate, or use tools properly. Whichever type you choose, setting your expectations ahead of time can help you enjoy it fully and not feel rushed or left behind.

Pick a Group That Matches Your Style

Different settings suit different people. Some like quiet, focused learning where they can really pay attention. Others prefer lighthearted group energy, like at birthday parties, team socials, or hen gatherings where the focus is more on fun than perfect rolls.

Choosing the class vibe that suits you makes a big difference. We’ve noticed that:

• Smaller, quieter classes often give more space to ask questions and go slower

• Group classes built around events feel relaxed and energetic but less technique-focused

• Family or kids-friendly sessions tend to be simpler and more about enjoying the time together

If you want to focus on getting better at sushi-making, smaller groups might be the better fit. But if you’re looking for a shared memory with people you enjoy, choosing a fun group setting can be just right. The key is knowing what you’re hoping to get out of the day.

Look at Who’s Teaching the Class

The teacher can change everything. A calm, patient guide who knows how to explain steps clearly (without rushing or glossing over details) makes learning much easier.

It also helps when the instructor has real experience with Japanese cooking. They might share small tips you wouldn’t find in a book or describe why certain things are done a certain way. Those extra stories and bits of background can make the experience feel much more personal and meaningful. At Tomono Sushi Party, our classes are led by founder Tomono Davies, who is originally from Kochi in Japan and brings around 26 years of Japanese culinary experience to each event. 

Some classes even offer cultural extras, like kimono dress-up or a bit of Japan’s history shown through the food. Whether or not that’s important to you, having someone who’s genuinely excited to share what they know often makes the whole session more enjoyable.

Check If It’s Easy to Join In

One last thing to think about is how easy the class is to join. Many local sushi making classes in London can come to you, whether at home or work. That can take away some of the pressure and make the whole thing feel more relaxed.

When you don’t have to travel far or worry about using unfamiliar equipment, it feels easier to let go and enjoy the moment. Ask if the class provides everything, or if you need to bring anything yourself. Most of the time, you won’t need a special kitchen or tools, just some clear table space and a couple of hours.

Trying something new doesn’t have to feel like a big step. When the class meets you where you are, both in skills and location, it becomes easy to just show up and enjoy.

Build Skills Without the Stress

We’ve always believed that the best kind of learning comes when people feel at ease. Picking a sushi class that matches your skill level helps remove all the little worries that can build up before something new, like whether you’ll do it “right” or make mistakes.

It becomes less about perfect results and more about building real confidence at your own pace. Once you’re comfortable with basics like rolling rice or using the seaweed sheets, you’ll probably want to try more. That slow build creates lasting skills you’ll actually use again.

Winter is a good time for projects like this. The days are shorter, the weather keeps us in, and there’s something about quiet, hands-on tasks that hits just right during this time of year. Whether you’re starting from zero or already on your way, taking a class that fits helps keep learning simple and fun.

Learning at Your Own Pace Makes All the Difference

Choosing the right sushi class isn’t about finding the fanciest option or the biggest group. It’s about matching your pace and style with a setting where you’ll feel comfortable trying something new. When the plan fits your level, the whole thing runs smoothly.

You’re more likely to have a good time, learn new skills, and walk away feeling proud of what you made. And when that happens, you start to look forward to the next chance you get to do it again.

Whether you’re looking to start your sushi journey or want a class that matches your current skills, we offer a range of options designed to keep things straightforward, enjoyable, and light-hearted. At Tomono Sushi Party, our relaxed, hands-on sushi making classes in London are flexible and accessible for individuals or groups, making it simple to join at your own pace. Reach out to us today and discover a class that fits you perfectly.