Step into a bright cooking studio in Shinjuku for a hands-on lesson in one of Japan's most beloved comfort dishes. Okonomiyaki, literally "grilled as you like it", is a savory pancake born in postwar Osaka and now enjoyed across the country. Under the guidance of an English-speaking instructor, you learn the traditions and techniques behind this Kansai classic, then build your own from scratch.

The class unfolds around a teppan griddle, where you cook a complete Japanese teishoku set together with the group. Alongside the okonomiyaki you prepare yakisoba stir-fried noodles, delicate rolled tamagoyaki, seasonal side dishes, and a bowl of miso soup, finishing with a cup of freshly brewed Japanese green tea. The pace is unhurried and conversational.

Every menu is adaptable. Vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, and gluten-free guests are warmly welcomed with tailored ingredient swaps, provided the studio is notified ahead of booking. Small groups and private classes ensure the instructor can attend to your preferences and questions.

You leave with more than a full stomach: a printed take-home recipe for the dishes you cooked, the confidence to recreate them, and, if your visit falls within a week of your birthday, a small surprise from the studio. The class runs for two and a half hours, available at midday or in the evening, seven days a week.