Authentic Pasta & Tiramisu Cooking Class in Bologna at a Local's Home

Alongside a small group, uncover the secrets of Italian cooking at a local Cesarina host’s house

Travel Flexibly · 3.00h · Bologna, Italy

Bologna is renowned for its decadent cuisine, but did you know the best way to uncover its secrets is by cooking alongside a local? That's why we've teamed up with welcoming hosts, who look forward to introducing you to time-tested recipes. Learn the intricacies of creating pasta shapes, discover the art of layering tiramisu, and appreciate the appetite-opening ways of an aperitivo. In addition, sip regional wines, savor your creations, and enjoy an insightful introduction to Bolognese culture.

  • Meet your Cesarina host
  • Local home
  • Italian aperitivo
  • Pasta making​
  • Two pasta shapes
  • Tiramisu preparing​
  • Traditional meal
  • Finish at your host home

Your culinary adventure in Bologna kicks off as you step into a local’s Cesarina home. Depending on your accommodation location, we will match you with the closest-by Cesarina home, where you will be greeted with the warmth of an aperitivo featuring sparkling prosecco and delectable appetizers. While mingling and enjoying the flavors, you'll have the opportunity to connect with your host and fellow culinary enthusiasts, diving into stories behind the generations-old recipes you're about to bring to life.

Throughout the cooking class, create two iconic pasta shapes, learn the art of layering tiramisu, and discover how even the simplest ingredients, when combined right, can create rich and decadent flavors. Then, once the food is ready, sit down together and enjoy a feast of your creations, paired perfectly with regional wines and thoughtful conversations.

Pasta & Tiramisu Cooking Class in Bologna Description

Your 3-hour tour includes:

  • Beverages, including water, wines, and coffee

  • Italian aperitivo paired with prosecco wine

  • Learn to cook two pasta shapes and tiramisu

  • Lunch or dinner with your Cesarina

  • Small group size of 12 to ensure a personalized experience

  • Immersive cultural experience

Meet your Bologna Cesarina Host

Depending on your address location and on the Cesarine available on the day of your experience, you will be assigned to a specific address in Bologna's city centre. The exact address of your experience will be communicated in advance, so you can plan your day accordingly!

Food isn’t just enjoyed in Bologna; it’s celebrated, perfected, and held to high standards—-whether in a loved one's house or at a local restaurant. From rich sauces and hearty tortellini, tagliatelle, and ragù to decadent desserts, it’s nearly impossible to find a dish that won’t leave a permanent smile on your face. This love affair with food is also the exact reason Bologna is an excellent destination to attend a cooking class, and it’s here you’ll step into a local’s home to learn the secrets of Italian cuisine.

In addition to mastering the art of crafting delicious pasta and tiramisu, your culinary journey in Bologna will be guided by a passionate local known as a Cesarina.

Cesarine are revered figures in Italian culinary tradition, embodying the essence of home cooking and hospitality. As guardians of regional recipes and techniques, a Cesarina will not only teach you how to cook but will also impart invaluable knowledge about the cultural significance of each dish. They are the embodiment of Italian culinary heritage, preserving traditions that have been passed down through generations. Through their guidance, you'll gain a deeper understanding of who they are, what they do, and the profound connection between food and Italian culture.

Gathered around the kitchen table, your first taste of Italy begins with an aperitivo, featuring prosecco and nibbles. As you enjoy this pre-meal tradition, your host will unveil the recipes and traditions behind the dishes you're about to create, offering a personal touch to your cooking adventure ahead.

Discover the Secrets of Handmade Pasta & Tiramisu

Now that you’re settled in, it’s time to master the art of two iconic pasta shapes. From rolling and cutting dough to understanding the balance of flour and eggs, every step is infused with tradition. Your hands will learn the age-old techniques of pasta-making, from kneading the perfect dough to crafting shapes that hold sauces beautifully.

Then, after mastering pasta, it’s time to turn your attention to tiramisu. This delightful portion of the class teaches you the art of layering mascarpone, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and cocoa. When done right, which your host will ensure, a tiramisu is created that’s equal parts airy and rich. Alongside perfecting your dishes, enjoy insightful conversations about Italian culinary traditions and culture with your host, sprinkled with laughter and shared discoveries among fellow culinary enthusiasts.

Taste Your Creations

Last but certainly not least, it’s time to enjoy the efforts of your hard work. Sit down with your host and fellow foodies and savor the pasta and tiramisu you've prepared, which will be perfectly complemented by local wines and beverages. While you enjoy, dive deeper into Bologna culture and, thanks to your local host’s wisdom, pick up insider knowledge about the city and its hidden gems. Then, once everyone has declared themselves happily full, it’s time to bid farewell. But you won’t be leaving empty-handed. Carry with you secrets of Italian cuisine that have been passed down for generations and memories of a shared experience that will last a lifetime!

What you get with this tour
Group size of 12
Passionate, English-speaking local host
Welcome aperitivo
Cooking demonstration
Local meal
Two pastas and tiramisu
Tour guide gratuities
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Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

A healthy appetite and an excitement to learn new skills!

Meeting and ending point

You will meet your group and host at their home in Bologna. After the booking, our local partner will pair you with the closest Cesarina and communicate the exact meeting point. The experience will end at the home.

What to bring?

A healthy appetite and an excitement to learn new skills!

Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?

This tour is operated by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Bologna.

What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?

If you have any doubts about your mobility, please let us know beforehand, and we will do our best to pair you up with a host who has an accessible entrance and dining area.

What happens if it rains?

We run our Italy culinary experiences rain or shine. If the weather is extremely bad and your host has to cancel or delay, we will let you know as soon as possible.

Is there any chance my tour might be canceled?

On the rare occasions the tour is canceled, we'll inform you as soon as possible.

Is there a dress code to join this Italy culinary experience?

While there is not a specific dress code, you will be expected to be wearing casual or nice clothing to enter your host’s home.

Do hosts ever have to cancel the culinary experience?

During adverse weather events or due to unforeseen circumstances, hosts may have to cancel unexpectedly and without much notice. If your host has to cancel, we will do our best to let you know as soon as possible and arrange a new host for your experience.

Is lunch or dinner included in the price of the tour?

Yes. Throughout the Italy culinary experience, you’ll get to enjoy everything you’ve prepared along with an Italian aperitivo. Our guests find this more than enough food to replace a full meal.

What if I have food allergies, intolerances, or other dietary requirements?

Please contact us in advance so we can do our best to accommodate your needs. We will work with our hosts to provide you with a fitting menu.

Can I bring my kids, and do I have to pay for them?

Yes, everyone is welcome on our Italy culinary experiences. Infants (0 to 3 years old) are free, and we offer a reduced price for children 8 and under. Please note that the food served may be diverse and sophisticated, which may not appeal to some younger children.

Why do I have to pay for my child who's under 6 years old?

While children 3 and under are free, we do charge a discounted rate for children aged 4 to 8. This is because similar-sized dishes will be served to everyone during the experience.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

No, hotel pickup is not included on this tour. You'll meet your host at the designated meeting point.

Where does this tour end?

This tour finishes at you host home. Your host will be happy to offer recommendations if you'd like to continue exploring Bologna afterwards.

Start From: $147.15

available days discounted days

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance!

Reserve Now $147.15 / per person
$147.15 / per person
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