Award-Winning Paella & Market in Small Group with Chef Jordi

Getting a true taste of Valencia often means more than just tasting its dishes — it’s about understanding where they come from, how they’re made, and who makes them. The Award-Winning Paella & Market in Small Group with Chef Jordi offers an intimate and lively peek into Valencian gastronomy, blending a guided market tour, hands-on cooking, and plenty of local flavor. What makes this experience particularly engaging is its small group size — capped at just eight guests — which ensures personal attention, relaxed conversation, and a genuine connection with Chef Jordi himself.

Two aspects I really appreciate are the way Jordi combines his deep roots in Valencian cuisine with a humorous, approachable style that makes learning fun. Plus, the visit to Russafa Market is a highlight, offering travelers a chance to interact directly with local vendors and see the ingredients that go into traditional paella. On the flip side, if you’re pressed for time or prefer a more passive experience, this tour’s hands-on approach and market exploration might feel a bit intensive — but for those craving authenticity, it’s well worth it.

Key Points / Takeaways

Personalized Experience: Limited to only 8 guests, ensuring a relaxed, friendly atmosphere and plenty of interaction with Chef Jordi.
Market Visit and Ingredient Insight: Shopping at Russafa Market offers a genuine taste of local produce and traditions directly from vendors.
Authentic Recipes: You’ll learn to make contested-winning paella step-by-step, guided by Jordi’s expert tips, ensuring you can recreate it at home.
Inclusive and Family-Friendly: The menu accommodates lactose and gluten-free diets, making it accessible for all, even children.
Cultural Connection: Jordi shares personal stories and insights about Valencian cuisine and his childhood, adding depth to the experience.
Value for Money: At around $64, the tour includes food, drinks, and a heartfelt farewell gift — a lot packed into three and a half hours.

A Deep Dive into the Valencia Paella Experience

Starting at Russafa Market: The Heartbeat of Valencian Food Culture

Your adventure begins in the vibrant Russafa Market. Here, Jordi, born and raised in Valencia, guides you through a maze of stalls overflowing with fresh vegetables, seafood, spices, and local delicacies. You’ll get to ask vendors about their products and learn how these ingredients are integral to Valencian cooking. One reviewer describes this part as “visiting with friends,” emphasizing how Jordi’s familiarity and humor set a welcoming tone.

The market visit isn’t just about shopping; it’s about understanding why ingredients matter — from the saffron to the fresh fish. Jordi’s stories about his childhood and local traditions breathe life into the ingredients, making each one more than just a component of a dish. Expect to gain insights into the origins and significance of what you’re buying, which enhances the cooking later on.

Exploring the Russafa Neighborhood: A Cultural Stroll

After gathering your ingredients, Jordi leads you on a walk through the charming Russafa neighborhood, an area famed for its artistic vibe and historic roots. These short walks give you context about the community, its history, and how food has played a part in its development. This part adds a layer of authenticity, making the entire experience feel like a visit with friends rather than a scripted tour.

Cooking in a Cozy Kitchen: The Heart of the Experience

The kitchen where you’ll cook is relaxed and homey, creating a sense of comfort that encourages learning and fun. Jordi, trained at a Michelin-starred school and with over 500 workshops for top companies, brings a professional yet approachable style. You’ll participate in preparing sangria and tapas as starters, which Jordi demonstrates with humor and clarity — making sure everyone feels included, regardless of language or experience.

What’s special here is the step-by-step process for making the paella, using Jordi’s award-winning recipe. He shares insider tips, like the importance of the right rice and the perfect heat, which are the secrets to a successful paella. Several reviews mention how Jordi’s techniques and tricks will help you make authentic Valencian paella back home, a feat many travelers struggle with.

Enjoying Tapas, Sangria, and a Creative Dessert

While the paella simmers, you’ll get to try homemade tapas and creative sangria in a lively, informal setting. These small plates complement the main dish and showcase Jordi’s talent for flavorful, fresh bites. The experience is family-friendly, with healthy and sustainable practices, and even lactose and gluten-free options.

A sweet note caps the meal with a creative dessert, a Mistela shot, and a thoughtful farewell gift, making the day even more memorable. As one reviewer put it, the entire experience is like “a gathering at a friend’s house,” emphasizing the intimacy and warmth Jordi creates.

The Final Photo and Celebratory Atmosphere

Once your paella is ready, everyone gathers around to snap photos of their culinary masterpiece — a fun way to remember the day. You’ll then savor the dish, enjoying the company, music, and the shared pride of creating something truly special.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect if you enjoy hands-on learning, authentic flavors, and small-group intimacy. It’s suited for food lovers, families, and anyone eager to understand Valencian culture through its most iconic dish. Those who appreciate personal stories and tips from a local with real credentials — Jordi’s experience with top companies and contest awards — will find this especially rewarding.

However, if you prefer a more passive or quick culinary experience, this might feel a bit lengthy or detailed. But for those with a genuine interest in cuisine as a cultural connector, the value is undeniable.

Price and Logistics: Good Value for a Full Day of Food and Fun

At approximately $64 per person, this experience packs a lot of value. You receive not just the meal but also the market tour, tapas, sangria, dessert, drinks, and a farewell gift. The three-and-a-half hours fly by because it’s engaging and well-structured, with Jordi’s personable style making it feel more like a gathering than a class.

The tour starts at 11:30 am from Carrer de Francesc Sempere and concludes back at the same spot. With only 8 travelers, you won’t be part of a noisy crowd — instead, you get personal attention and a chance to ask all your questions. Booking on average 28 days in advance indicates this is a popular experience, and the flexible cancellation policy adds peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a curious traveler eager to learn authentic cooking techniques, this tour offers far more than a quick demo. It’s tailored for those who want to connect with local culture through food, enjoy small group settings, and walk away with skills to impress friends at home. Families and gluten- or lactose-sensitive travelers will appreciate the accommodating menu and friendly environment.

The Sum Up: A Truly Valencian Cooking Journey

This small-group paella experience with Chef Jordi offers a genuine window into Valencian culinary traditions. It’s less about just eating and more about understanding the ingredients, the stories, and the techniques that make paella special. Jordi’s warmth and expertise shine through, making each guest feel like part of the family.

For food lovers who want an immersive, hands-on experience that’s both fun and educational, this tour provides excellent value. You’ll walk away not only with a delicious dish but also with new skills, local insights, and stories to tell.

If your goal is to get to know Valencia through its food and enjoy a lively, authentic day with a talented chef, this experience is hard to beat. Just remember to book in advance — it’s popular for good reason.

FAQ

How early should I book this tour?
Most people reserve about 28 days in advance, so plan ahead to secure a spot, especially during peak travel seasons.

What is included in the price?
You get a market tour, tapas, sangria, the step-by-step paella cooking, dessert, drinks, and a farewell gift.

Is the menu suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes, the menu is lactose and gluten-free friendly, and Jordi offers healthy and sustainable options.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 11:30 am and ending back at the initial meeting point.

What’s the group size?
A maximum of 8 guests, which means plenty of personal attention and relaxed conversation.

Do I need any cooking experience?
Not at all. Jordi’s style is approachable, and everyone is encouraged to participate at their comfort level.

Can I recreate the paella at home?
Absolutely. Jordi’s professional tips and detailed recipe are designed to help you make authentic Valencian paella later on.

Is there parking nearby?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is near public transportation, making it accessible without a car.

This experience is tailor-made for those eager to truly connect with Valencia’s food culture through hands-on cooking, stories, and shared laughter. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or friends, you’re in for a memorable day that blends tradition with personal warmth.