Bologna: Tagliatella and Mortadella with chef Antonio

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of learning how to craft true Bologna-style pasta and savoring its iconic Mortadella and Ragù, this cooking class with Chef Antonio promises an authentic, intimate experience. Based on traveler reviews and the chef’s reputation, it’s a chance to go beyond typical tourist fare and get a real taste of local life in Bologna.

What we love about this experience is its personal touch—Chef Antonio’s passion and storytelling bring the dishes to life—and the small group setting ensures you’re not just another face in a big crowd. The opportunity to make pasta by hand and learn traditional techniques offers more than just a meal; it’s a chance to bring home valuable skills.

One thing to consider is that the class is held in Antonio’s personal space, which is not a professional commercial kitchen. If you’re looking for a fancy, high-tech setup, this might not be the experience for you. But if you’re eager for a warm, authentic, and interactive session with a local chef, this class fits the bill well. It’s ideal for food lovers, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a deeper connection to Bologna’s culinary roots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Learn traditional pasta and ragù recipes from a passionate local chef.
• Hands-on Learning: Make your own Tagliatelle and master the art of Italian pasta from scratch.
• Cultural Insight: Enjoy stories and insights about Bologna’s food culture throughout the session.
• Tastings Included: Savor Mortadella, Prosecco, and wine paired with your homemade dishes.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to four participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Value for Money: A three-hour, immersive experience that combines education, tasting, and fun.

Deep Dive into the Experience

Location and Setting

The class is conveniently located close to Bologna’s main train station, about a kilometer from Piazza Maggiore, making it easy to reach. The venue is Antonio’s own kitchen, a cozy space with a warm, personal feel—definitely not a commercial cooking school. It is situated on the third floor, which means no elevator, so travelers with mobility issues should be aware.

The intimate setup is partly what makes this experience stand out. You’re not in a sleek, professional kitchen but rather in a genuine Bologna home, which adds a layer of authenticity and charm. The small size—limited to four participants—means everyone gets hands-on attention, making this a highly personalized class.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start with an Aperitivo: Your journey begins with a classic Mortadella slice and a glass of Prosecco. This small but significant gesture sets the Italian tone — relaxed, tasty, and social. As one reviewer mentioned, “upon arriving we were greeted with fresh food, Prosecco, and laughter,” reminding us that food is as much about connection as it is about ingredients.

Making Pasta: Next, you’ll learn to make Tagliatelle by hand. Chef Antonio guides you through each step: mixing the dough, rolling, and cutting. You’ll get a feel for the technique that produces the perfect noodle—thin, tender, and flavorful—something you can replicate at home. One reviewer noted, “the pasta was so simple and easy but definitely requires some technique,” emphasizing that making pasta isn’t just about following a recipe but about mastering a craft.

Preparing the Ragù: The heart of Bologna cuisine is its ragù alla bolognese. Antonio shares tips rooted in tradition, teaching you how to create a sauce that’s hearty, flavorful, and rich in meat. The process involves simmering and layering flavors, resulting in a sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. As a former reviewer mentioned, “Antonio quickly moved into stories and explaining the meal we’d soon be making and enjoying, his energy was fantastic.” This makes the session both educational and entertaining.

Wine and Tasting: Throughout the class, you’re served water and a carefully selected red wine that pairs well with the dishes. This makes the experience not just instructional but also enjoyable, allowing you to appreciate the harmony of flavors in authentic Italian cuisine. At the end, you’ll receive the recipes, so you can recreate Bologna’s flavors at home.

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Authenticity and Education

What makes this class worthwhile is Antonio’s genuine passion. You’re not just following instructions; you’re absorbing stories, tips, and insights that give context to each dish. Kevin, a previous participant, highlighted, “this is an intimate lesson in Antonio’s own personal space with his own pots and pans. His energy was fantastic, and the stories made it memorable.”

The class emphasizes technique and tradition, with the added bonus of making something delicious from scratch. Kevin also appreciated the relaxed, laughter-filled atmosphere, which made the experience memorable.

Considerations and Value

The price of $88.36 per person for three hours of hands-on cooking, tastings, and stories is quite reasonable, especially considering the personalized attention and the takeaway recipes. However, some reviews mention that the class is more of a demonstration than a full, free-form cooking session. Juanita’s experience, for instance, points out that it felt a bit constrained and extended longer than expected due to late arrivals, but she still appreciated Antonio’s kindness.

It’s also worth noting that the experience is not a polished, commercial kitchen tour. Instead, it’s a genuine peek into a local home, which can be both charming and slightly rustic. If you’re after a luxury cooking class, this might feel more like a cozy family gathering, which many find more authentic and rewarding.

Who Will Love This?

This experience is perfect for food lovers eager to learn genuine Bologna recipes, those interested in cooking techniques, and travelers who want a personal connection with a local chef. It’s especially good for small groups or couples who enjoy sharing a meal and stories. If you’re looking for a fancy, high-end class, or if mobility is a concern, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

This Bologna cooking class offers a beautiful blend of authentic food, personal stories, and hands-on experience, all in a cozy setting. You’ll leave with more than just recipes—you’ll have a clearer understanding of Bologna’s culinary soul and the skills to recreate it at home.

It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate small, genuine experiences over polished commercial offerings. The class provides excellent value for its price, considering the personalized attention, local flavor, and memorable tastings.

If you’re eager to learn pasta and ragù from a passionate local chef, and enjoy sharing good food with new friends, this class won’t disappoint. For those looking for a warm, authentic taste of Bologna, it might become one of the most cherished memories of your trip.

FAQ

Is the class suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to be accessible, guiding you step-by-step through making pasta and ragù, regardless of your cooking experience.

How long does the class last?
It runs for approximately three hours, including tastings and conversation. Check specific availability for start times.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The class is limited to four participants, ensuring plenty of hands-on attention from Chef Antonio.

What should I know about accessibility?
The class is held on the third floor of Antonio’s home, which does not have an elevator. Travelers with mobility issues should consider this.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy water, Prosecco at the start, and a carefully selected red wine during the session.

Can I get the recipes afterward?
Absolutely. Antonio provides recipes for everything prepared, so you can try making Bologna’s famous pasta and ragù at home.

This cooking class in Bologna offers an intimate, authentic taste of the city’s culinary heritage—perfect for those eager to go beyond the tourist spots and truly connect with local flavors.

You can check availability for your dates here: