My girlfriend and I signed up for the Chollo coco (red snapper) class; as we wanted to take a class that would be something we wouldn't normally eat/prepare.
Javier (our cooking instructor) was extremely knowledgable, personal, loves what he does, and his excitement for the tradition is infectious.
Anthony (our mixologist) did not speak any English and he was still able to easily convey the concepts, steps, and passion for his craft.
These two gentlemen made the entire experience my favorite night that we spent in Punta Cana.
We started the night off with Javier giving us a history lesson on coffee and chocolate, and their roots in Dominican tradition.
We then went to a stand up station where Anthony walked us through how to make a Mamajuana mojito. The entire time Javier was taking photos so we could concentrate and just have a fun personal experience. I'm not much of a rum drinker but it was the freshest, tastiest, and most refreshing drink I've had. Anthony then reminded us that he did nothing, and we made the drink ourselves. (I have since been searching online to get that brand of mamajuana delivered to our house.
We moved onto a cooking station where all the meat and vegetables that we were using that night were prepared for us (a hidden gem in the experience). Javier then graciously walked us through, step by step, on how to make red snapper in two methods. First we made ceviche, then red snapper fillets cooked in coconut milk. He was so kind, patient, funny, and his excitement was infectious. I was worried that it would feel like a Home Ec class, but it felt like just a couple of friends making dinner together.
Even though we have already been, when we visit Punta Cana again we are adamant that we are doing one of the other two classes they offer. We're very excited to get the chance to hang out with these gentlemen again.