Florence Cooking Class: Fresh Pasta & Tiramisù

Discovering Florence’s Culinary Charm with a Pasta & Tiramisù Class

Walking through Florence, it’s impossible not to feel the pull of Italian food—its aroma, tradition, and the sheer joy of eating well. This particular cooking class, offered by My Tour in Italy, promises a hands-on experience of making fresh pasta and classic tiramisù — two staples that define Italy’s culinary identity. Sitting in a well-equipped kitchen in the heart of Florence, you’ll learn from a local chef, gaining skills that go beyond the basic recipes and into the heart of authentic Italian cooking.

What I find particularly appealing about this experience is its straightforward approach: you get to prepare and enjoy your own meal, not just watch a demonstration. Plus, the inclusion of a certificate adds a nice touch for those who want a souvenir of their culinary adventure. On the flip side, if you’re gluten intolerant, this might not be the activity for you, as gluten is a fundamental ingredient here. Also, keep in mind that the class duration is 3 hours, which is plenty of time to learn, cook, and taste, but might be tight if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

Two things I especially love are the use of high-quality ingredients—including fresh tomatoes and herbs—and the fact that the class emphasizes traditional techniques. The guides and chefs are noted for their friendly, expert approach, making even novice cooks feel comfortable. An interesting detail from reviews points out that the instructors are “passionate about sharing Italian culinary secrets,” which adds a genuine touch. One consideration: you’ll want to check availability as the schedule varies, but with a bit of planning, it’s a worthwhile addition to any Florence itinerary.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic experience: Hands-on cooking with a local chef who shares authentic Italian techniques.
• Learn to cook: Master the art of making fresh egg pasta like tagliatelle and the famous tiramisù dessert.
• All-inclusive: The price covers all ingredients, a certificate, and a lunch with drinks, adding value for the cost.
• Culinary souvenir: Receive a Food & Wine Cooking School Certificate that celebrates your new skills.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reserving now allows you to pay later.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for those eager to get hands-on, but not recommended for gluten-intolerant travelers.

Why This Cooking Class is a Real Gem for Food Lovers

From the moment you step into the modern, well-equipped kitchen at Via Venezia 18, you’re greeted with a friendly atmosphere that encourages participation. The class is designed for those who genuinely want to learn and enjoy, not just watch. The fact that it’s been specializing in fresh pasta since 1995 lends credibility—these folks know their stuff.

The session begins with a concise but thorough introduction to pasta-making. You’ll learn how to handle the dough, knead it properly, and roll it out—skills that demystify what might seem like a daunting task at home. The chef guides you through the process of creating tagliatelle, a traditional pasta shape loved across Italy, especially in Tuscany. Using eggs, flour, fresh tomatoes, and herbs, you’ll see why pasta al pomodoro is such an emblematic main course.

Once your pasta is ready, you’ll move on to the dessert, tiramisù, which is surprisingly simple but requires attention to detail. The chef will show you how to layer mascarpone, coffee, and cocoa powder to create the rich, creamy treat. Most reviews highlight how satisfying it is to sit down and enjoy your own culinary creation—a true highlight of the experience.

The inclusion of lunch with drinks is a wonderful touch. It’s a generous meal, letting you savor your handmade pasta and tiramisù along with a glass of wine or soft drink, which heightens the authentic atmosphere. The certificate you receive at the end adds a sense of achievement—perfect for sharing or keeping as a memento of your Italian culinary skills.

The Itinerary: From Ingredients to Your Plate

The class begins at the centrally located Via Venezia 18. After a warm welcome, the instructor introduces the ingredients—fresh eggs, flour, tomatoes, herbs, mascarpone, espresso, and cocoa—highlighting why each is key to authentic Italian cooking. The well-organized kitchen has all the tools you need, making the process smooth and approachable.

Next, you’ll learn to make pasta dough from scratch. The chef emphasizes proper kneading and rolling techniques, which are often the most challenging parts for beginners. One review notes, “I loved how the chef explained why you need to knead in a certain way—it made the process much easier.” This is a true hands-on experience—you will be doing most of the work, with guidance and tips handed out along the way.

While the pasta rests, the class transitions seamlessly into tiramisù preparation. You’ll see how layering mascarpone, coffee, and cocoa creates the dessert’s signature texture and flavor. The chef shares tips on mixing and assembling, ensuring your final result has the perfect balance of sweetness and coffee bitterness.

Toward the end, everyone sits down to enjoy the meal they’ve prepared. It’s quite rewarding to taste your own pasta topped with fresh tomato sauce and follow it with the tiramisù. The relaxed atmosphere encourages conversation, making it more than just a cooking lesson—it’s a social experience.

What You Get and Why It Matters

The all-inclusive pricing means no hidden costs—ingredients, instruction, lunch, drinks, and a certificate are all covered. This makes it a good value, especially considering the quality of the experience and the opportunity to learn skills that you can replicate at home in your own kitchen.

The class is run in English, making it accessible to most travelers. The small group size (not specified but generally intimate) ensures plenty of hands-on time and personalized attention. The flexible cancellation policy is also a plus, especially if your travel plans are subject to change.

Who Should Consider This Experience

Food lovers who want to take home practical skills will find this class rewarding. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy interactive experiences, want a break from sightseeing, and appreciate authentic culinary traditions. Families or couples can share the experience, but those with gluten intolerance should look elsewhere, as gluten is a core ingredient.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Florence cooking class offers a solid value for those eager to learn hands-on Italian cooking. The focus on fresh pasta and tiramisù hits two of Italy’s most beloved dishes, making it a memorable addition to any trip. The combination of expert guidance, quality ingredients, and the opportunity to enjoy your own creation makes it stand out from more passive food tours.

If you’re looking for an authentic, engaging, and educational experience—without breaking the bank—this class checks all the boxes. It’s especially suitable for those who want a tangible souvenir of their Florence visit: a new skill, a delicious meal, and a story to tell back home.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the class last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, giving enough time for instruction, cooking, and dining without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
All ingredients, the lesson, a Food & Wine Cooking School Certificate, and lunch with drinks are included.

Is the class suitable for children or beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to be accessible for beginners and offers a hands-on approach, making it suitable for most adults and families.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reservations can be made with the option to pay later.

Is this activity suitable for gluten-intolerant guests?
No, it’s not suitable for gluten intolerant individuals since wheat flour and related gluten-containing ingredients are essential.

Where does the class meet?
The meeting point is at the cooking school in Via Venezia 18, Florence.

Do I need to bring anything?
All necessary ingredients and tools are provided, so you just need to bring your enthusiasm and appetite.

What language is the class taught in?
The class is conducted in English, making it accessible for most travelers.

Will I get a certificate?
Yes, you’ll receive a Food & Wine Cooking School Certificate upon completion, a nice keepsake of your culinary achievement.

Is the experience family-friendly?
Yes, it’s suitable for those who enjoy interactive cooking experiences, but not recommended for gluten-sensitive travelers.

This Florence cooking class is a fantastic way to bring a piece of Italy home—through skills, flavors, and memories. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or just looking for a fun, authentic activity, it’s a practical choice that offers true value in your Florence adventure.