Oxfordshire · Online & In Person
Japanese home
cooking, taught
from my kitchen.
I'm Takako McLoughlin. I teach the food I grew up with — rice, dashi, and the small techniques that make a Japanese kitchen feel like home — to students online and in person at my house in Oxfordshire.
About Takako
A little about me
I've been cooking Japanese food since I was a child in my mother's kitchen, and teaching it for years since — first to friends, then to anyone curious enough to ask how dashi actually gets its flavour.
My classes are small, hands-on, and unhurried. Whether you join me online from your own kitchen or come to mine in Oxfordshire, I'll walk you through each dish the way it was taught to me: by doing it, tasting it, and doing it again.
- Location
- Home kitchen, Oxfordshire
- Formats
- In person & live online
- Class size
- Small groups, by arrangement
Class types
Choose a dish, not a difficulty
Sushi & Rice
Beginner friendly
- FormatOnline / In person
- Duration~2 hours
- CoversSushi rice, rolls, nigiri
Dashi & Broths
The foundations
- FormatOnline / In person
- Duration~1.5 hours
- CoversKombu, miso, clear soups
Seasonal Home Cooking
A full menu
- FormatIn person only
- Duration~3 hours
- CoversA seasonal, multi-dish menu
Bento Basics
For everyday cooking
- FormatOnline / In person
- Duration~1.5 hours
- CoversPlanning, packing, balance
How a class works
Online
- Live over video call, taught in real time
- Ingredient list sent ahead so you can prep your kitchen
- Cook alongside me, ask questions as you go
In Person
- Hosted at my home kitchen in Oxfordshire
- All ingredients and equipment provided
- Eat what you cook together at the end
Gallery
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What students say
Replace with real reviews
I finally understand how to make dashi properly — Takako explains the why, not just the how.— Placeholder review
The online class felt just as hands-on as being there in person.— Placeholder review
A warm, unhurried way to spend an afternoon learning to cook.— Placeholder review
Frequently asked
Do I need any cooking experience?
No — classes are designed for all levels, and I adjust the pace depending on who's in the room (or on the call).
What do I need for an online class?
Just a video-call app and the ingredients from the list I'll send ahead of time. I'll let you know what equipment helps most.
Where are in-person classes held?
At my home kitchen in Oxfordshire. I'll send the address once a class is booked.
Can I book a private or group class?
Yes — get in touch with what you have in mind and I'll help put together something that suits.
Get in touch
Let's find a class that suits you
Send me a note with what you'd like to learn and whether you'd prefer to join online or in person — I'll get back to you with dates.