Do I need prior cooking experience?

No, this class is suitable for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

Are ingredients included?

Yes, all ingredients are provided as part of the class fee.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

Please inform us in advance to discuss possible substitutions.

Is alcohol available during the class?

Local beverages are offered for tasting, but alcohol consumption is optional.

How many people per class?

Classes typically have small groups for a more personalized experience.

Can I purchase the dumplings to take home?

Dumplings are for tasting during the class; however, recipes are shared for you to make more at home.

Culinary Class & Dumpling Making at Maine Tasting Center | Food Tour | Workshop

Located in the heart of Maine, the Maine Tasting Center offers more than just a taste of local flavors — it delivers an immersive culinary adventure highlighting Chinese dumpling artistry with a Maine flair. Situated amidst the rolling landscapes and charming towns of Maine, this hands-on class is perfect for food enthusiasts seeking a unique cultural experience blended with regional ingredients. Participants will learn to craft and fold three different types of dumpling dough and fillings, all under the guidance of chef Jeff Mao, a master of blending culinary traditions. The class not only deepens cooking skills but also provides insights into traditional Chinese techniques, adapted with locally sourced Maine ingredients that add a fresh, regional twist.

What makes this experience stand out is its interactive nature, allowing guests to participate actively in every step — from kneading the dough to sealing each dumpling — culminating in a tasting session paired with local beverages. The cozy Tasting Room offers a warm setting to savor your creations while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of a Maine foodie destination. Beyond the skills learned, attendees gain an appreciation for the artistry involved and the cultural stories behind every bite. The Maine Tasting Center is a premier spot for culinary curiosity, and its focus on local ingredients sets it apart from traditional cooking classes.

Perfect for curious travelers and food lovers alike, this class is a fantastic way to spend a few hours in Maine, creating delicious memories and mastering a craft that’s both fun and rewarding. Whether you're a novice or an experienced cook, you’ll leave with new skills, a belly full of tasty dumplings, and stories to share over future gatherings. Visiting the Maine Tasting Center guarantees more than a meal — it’s a flavorful journey into Chinese cuisine infused with Maine's regional charm.

About Maine Tasting Center

Maine Tasting Center is a tasting room and culinary classroom located in Wiscasset, Maine. The center showcases Maine products through guided tastings, hands-on workshops, and specialty classes led by recognized local experts. Offerings include short guided sessions like Flavors of Maine 101; focused tasting classes such as Ciders of Maine and Meads of Maine led by WSET Level 3 certified instructor Lynda Gaines; and immersive cultural classes with cookbook author and instructor Jeff Mao, including Chinese hot pot, dumplings, and mooncakes.

Hands-on workshops explore local ingredients and preservation techniques, including a garlic jelly and preservation class, and seasonal sessions like Eat the Invasive: A Green Crab Supper that pairs education on ecology with culinary practice led by John Painter. Collaborations with local producers such as Waldoberry Farm bring regional specialties like aronia berry tastings into the program.

Sessions vary in length and format, from 45–60 minute guided tastings to multi-hour classes and communal feasts. Participants taste Maine-made products—wild blueberries, artisanal cheese, craft ciders, meads, and more—while learning preparation methods, tasting techniques, and the stories behind local producers. After many tasting classes, attendees can enjoy complimentary pours or full pours as described in specific experiences.

Maine Tasting Center focuses on education, local sourcing, and expert-led experiences to introduce visitors to the flavors of Maine. The center operates in Wiscasset and offers public classes and special events that highlight regional foodways and craft beverages. Reservations are available for individuals and small groups; advance booking is recommended for specific seasonal classes and dates.