Florence: Pasta & Tiramisu Class with Unlimited Wine

Introducing the Florence Pasta & Tiramisu Class

If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine, this pasta and tiramisù class in Florence promises an experience packed with hands-on fun, authentic ingredients, and plenty of local charm. Hosted by Ciaoflorence Tours & Travel, this 3.5 to 4.5-hour session combines a lively cooking lesson with a visit to the bustling SantAmbrogio food market—an authentic local hub that makes you feel like a Tuscan in the know. The class is limited to small groups, which means you get personalized attention and plenty of chances to ask questions.

What I find most appealing is the chance to learn classic Italian recipes from scratch—think fresh tagliatelle with Bolognese, homemade ravioli filled with ricotta, and the universally loved tiramisù. Plus, you get to indulge in what you’ve made alongside unlimited house wine and local appetizers. The experience offers both a culinary lesson and a glimpse into Florence’s everyday food culture, making it much more than just a cooking class.

Two things I really like about this experience are its small-group setting, which fosters a relaxed, friendly vibe, and the opportunity to visit SantAmbrogio market—a favorite among locals for its high-quality, affordable produce. However, a point to consider is that if you’re taking an afternoon shift, the market visit isn’t included, which might be a slight disappointment if you’re eager to explore Florence’s food scene from the ground up.

This class offers fantastic value for anyone wanting to dive into Italian cooking with expert guidance, enjoy good wine, and leave with recipes they can recreate back home. It’s particularly well-suited for food lovers, beginners, and those interested in authentic local experiences.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic Market Visit: The 9 am tour includes a visit to SantAmbrogio food market, where you shop for fresh, local ingredients directly from producers.
• Hands-On Cooking: You’ll knead pasta, shape tagliatelle and ravioli, and learn secret tips from a knowledgeable chef—making it a truly interactive experience.
• Tasting & Enjoyment: The class culminates in a shared meal of your creations, paired with unlimited house wine, making the entire experience delicious and social.
• Expert Guides: Chefs like Stefano, Bibi, Matteo, or Alan are praised for their friendliness, humor, and ability to explain cooking techniques clearly.
• Quality & Value: Reviews highlight the excellent quality of the dishes, from the best tiramisù to rich ragù, often described as the highlight of their trip.
• Flexible Options: The experience is offered at different times; just note that the market visit only occurs during the 9 am shift on non-holiday weekdays.

Authentic Florence Cooking at Its Best

When you step into this class, you’re stepping into a true culinary adventure that combines local market shopping, hands-on cooking, and a shared meal—an experience that reaches beyond just following recipes. I love how the class begins with a visit to SantAmbrogio market, a beloved spot for locals seeking top-quality produce at affordable prices. This visit is more than shopping; it’s about understanding where Florence’s food comes from, seeing the vibrant stalls, and picking the freshest ingredients.

The guide or chef will take you through the market stalls, explaining their favorites and giving tips like how to choose the best tomatoes or cheeses. Several reviewers mention guides like Stefano and Matteo as being particularly friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging, making the learning process both fun and informative. If you’re interested in Italian food, this behind-the-scenes access makes the experience memorable.

Back in the kitchen, the real magic begins. You’ll start by making sauces—ragù and tomato—which are foundational to many Italian dishes. The chef emphasizes simple ingredients—eggs, flour, fresh vegetables—and explains the importance of patience and technique. This is where I find many learners gain confidence, because the chef shares insider tips and tricks, like how to get the perfect pasta dough or the best way to shape ravioli. Reviewers often mention how beginner-friendly the class is, even for those with little cooking experience.

While the sauces simmer, it’s time for the fun part: preparing fresh pasta dough. Kneading and resting the dough might seem simple, but it’s the secret to achieving that perfect texture for pasta. You’ll learn how to cut and shape your pasta, turning out tagliatelle—thick, wide noodles—and stuffed ravioli filled with ricotta cheese. The chefs are praised for their patience and clear instructions, making it easy to follow along.

The dessert portion is equally engaging. You’ll learn to make tiramisù, a dish loved worldwide for its creamy mascarpone and coffee-soaked ladyfingers. The chef teaches you tricks to get that silky mascarpone and perfect layering. As it chills, you’ll enjoy some Tuscan appetizers—simple but flavorful—while listening to stories about Florence’s culinary traditions. Several reviewers mention how much they enjoyed the relaxed, friendly atmosphere, often citing the chef’s storytelling as a highlight.

Once everything is ready, it’s time to sit down and eat your creations. The table is filled with your pasta, sauce, and tiramisù, and the experience is made even better by unlimited house wine. Many reviews note that the quality of the wine is surprisingly good and that the portions are generous. It’s a chance to relax, savor your efforts, and connect with fellow food lovers.

The Format & Logistics

The experience typically lasts between 3.5 and 4.5 hours, and the timing can matter depending on your schedule. The session starts at the Ciaofoodies Hub, located at La Cucineria on Via della Mattonaia—an easy-to-find spot in Florence’s charming center. If you opt for the 9 am tour, you’ll get the bonus of visiting SantAmbrogio market—a lively spot where locals shop for fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and more.

Pricing is reasonable considering what’s included: a comprehensive cooking lesson, ingredients, use of utensils, apron, market visit (if applicable), food tastings, and a graduation certificate. Many reviewers feel the class offers excellent value—they not only learn new skills but also gain a deeper appreciation of Florence’s food culture. The unlimited wine, in particular, is often praised as a generous touch, making the meal feel festive and relaxed.

For those with dietary restrictions like celiac disease or children under six, this experience might be less suitable. The class is designed with gluten-based pasta and rich desserts in mind, and safety considerations prevent very young children from participating.

Who Will Love This Experience?

Foodies eager to learn authentic Italian recipes will find this class rewarding. Beginners will appreciate the straightforward instructions and supportive guides; experienced cooks might pick up useful tips and new tricks. If you’re interested in exploring Florence’s local markets, this is a fantastic way to do so in a small, manageable group.

It’s also perfect for travelers who want a deeper connection to Florence beyond the usual sightseeing. Sharing a meal you’ve prepared yourself, paired with local wine and stories, makes for a memorable and satisfying experience. Families and couples alike have praised the convivial atmosphere and the chance to genuinely enjoy Italy’s culinary traditions.

Price & Overall Value

While the cost might seem modest for a full cooking experience, it’s important to view it as an investment in both skills and memories. The class’s small-group format ensures personalized attention, and the market visit (when included) offers an authentic glimpse into Florence’s food scene. Several reviews highlight that this experience surpasses other classes in both quality and friendliness, making it an excellent value for the money.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour For?

This pasta and tiramisù experience in Florence is ideal for those who love Italian food, value authentic experiences, and want to learn practical cooking skills in a friendly setting. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy small-group activities, as it encourages interaction and personalized teaching. If you want to leave with not only recipes but also new friends and a deeper understanding of Florence’s food culture, this class delivers.

The combination of market shopping, expert guidance, and a shared meal makes it a fulfilling way to spend part of your trip. Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned home cook, you’ll appreciate the approachable yet professional approach of the instructors and the quality ingredients used.

FAQ About the Florence Pasta & Tiramisu Class

Is the market visit included in all tours?
No, the visit to SantAmbrogio market is only included in the 9:00 AM session, unless it’s a special holiday or Sunday when the market is closed.

Can I join if I have food allergies or intolerances?
Yes, you should inform the organizers ahead of time, and they will try to accommodate your dietary needs. However, the menu may vary based on seasonality and ingredient availability.

Is this experience suitable for children?
The experience is not recommended for children under six years old, mainly due to safety reasons and the nature of the activities.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be moving between market stalls and the kitchen. An apron and utensils are provided, but be prepared for some mess while kneading dough!

Does the class include wine?
Yes, unlimited house wine is included, along with water. Many reviewers praise the quality of the wine and find it enhances the convivial atmosphere.

How long does the class last?
The session lasts approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on the starting time and group size.

This Florence pasta and tiramisù class offers a lively, authentic taste of Italy—perfect for food lovers eager to roll up their sleeves, learn from passionate guides, and enjoy a delicious meal with good company. It’s a great way to deepen your culinary appreciation of Florence and take home more than just souvenirs—recipes and memories that will last.