Q: What is the typical class size at Los Dos?
A: Classes usually have no more than 8-10 students. However, please contact us if you have a larger group.

Q: What if there aren't enough students on the day I'm hoping to take a class?
A: In most cases we can happily arrange a private class for you. These are held for one to five people, depending on the class. The advantages of a private class are, of course, that you can enjoy one-on-one interaction with the chef. You can also help plan the menu - if, for example, you wish to focus on chiles or other specific foods. Private classes are also wonderful options for families or small groups traveling together.

Q: What can I do if I don't see a class listed on your schedule when I’m going to be in Mérida?
A: We suggest considering a private class. We can even occasionally arrange these on weekends but in all cases we try to accommodate your schedule. A private class can be a very convenient option for those with a tight itinerary. Or consider signing up for the Yucatán Express, which can be scheduled on any day when there are no public classes.

Q: Is this a class in which I will just watch? Or will I actually get to cook?
A: The classes at Los Dos are very “hands-on”! We will have you chopping, slicing, dicing and frying all day long, so be sure to get a good night’s rest the evening before!

Q: Should I bring anything?
A: Everything at Los Dos is provided - all ingredients, a recipe/workbook, towel, utensils and a Los Dos apron (yours to keep!) However, if you are particularly fastidious about knives you may want to bring your own. We have a very difficult time keeping our knives sharp here, with literally thousands of hands using (and occasionally abusing!) our fine Henckels!

Q: I’m not that skilled in Spanish. How will I understand the class?
A: Not to worry. All classes at Los Dos are taught in English.

Q: How long does the class last, and when should I arrive?
A: All classes at Los Dos begin promptly at 9:00 am. To make sure you arrive on time, you are invited to join us for coffee and pastries at 8:30 am. Because class ending times occasionally vary, we suggest that you do not make any other significant plans for the day you spend at Los Dos.

Q: Can I keep my cell phone with me?
A: As they do at theaters, we ask that you shut off your phone during class so as not to disturb other students. But you are welcome to use your phone during our breaks.

Q: My companion hates to cook. But he loves to eat! Is there a way he can join us for the meal?
A: Certainly! Spouses, significant others or friends who don't wish to take the cooking class may also join us for cocktail hour and dinner, depending on space at the table. Please inquire as to availability.

Q: What if I'm a vegetarian or have other food restrictions?
A: Our philosophy is "When in Rome do as the Romans do." What's the point of trying to learn about a region's cuisine if you are finicky about its food? But beyond philosophy, there are practical considerations that restrain us: so many diverse food allergies, food phobias and food restrictions have reached a fever-pitch of popularity north of the border that we simply cannot make special plates for everyone. This is not a restaurant with extensive menus but a school in which a small variety of dishes is prepared for all. Furthermore, most of México isn't as caught up on food trends as is much of the industrialized world so finding special ingredients can be challenging. Finally, beware: if you have an aversion or are allergic to pork, lard, corn, crispy pork skin, tomatoes, beans, beef and more succulent pork, you are going to starve to death in Yucatán. That said, we do offer a vegetarian Mayan Menu exclusively in private classes in which the entire group agrees to that menu.

Q: What should I wear?
A: The only important thing is for you to be comfortable. We are on our feet most of the day, walking to the market and then cooking in the kitchen. A comfortable pair of shoes is a must! Whether you wear shorts or not is up to you: tourists in shorts here are a common sight, but shorts definitely peg you as a tourist! It is rare (although not impossible) to see mature adult Meridanos wearing shorts. As a special gift, you will receive a Los Dos apron, which will protect whatever you decide to wear during the class.

Q: What about tipping?
A: No tipping is necessary. Consider yourself at a party among friends, where tipping would be unnecessary. On the other hand, if you are particularly appreciative of the treatment you received from our staff, you may certainly give them a small gratuity.