The Fig Tree

This grand two-floor pastry school and café offers informal and fun classes where you can learn to make a supremely indulgent chocolate cake, delectable rum truffles or a savory quiche. RMB 350 gets you a two-and-a-half hour baking lesson from classically trained chef Lin Zhong, who uses proper old-fashioned “full-fat” ingredients. And of course you get to take the fruits of your labor home with you. The bright and airy café that overlooks the school kitchens is a pleasant spot to enjoy a cup of coffee and carrot cake or a light lunch. Cakes can be ordered bespoke for all occasions, at prices ranging from RMB 150-1,000 depending on the ingredients, intricacy and size.