Handmade Spaghetti Alla Chitarra Class at an Italian Home in LA

This review explores an unusual, hands-on experience in Los Angeles that promises to bring a slice of Italy right into your evening. The Handmade Spaghetti alla Chitarra class offered by Cesarine takes place in a welcoming Italian home, where you’ll learn to craft pasta just like in Abruzzo, guided by Chef Luana. While it’s not a typical tourist attraction, it’s a genuine culinary experience that offers more than just cooking—it’s a taste of Italian culture and tradition, courtesy of a local chef.

What makes this experience stand out? First, you get personalized, step-by-step guidance on using the traditional chitarra, a unique pasta cutter that shapes square-edged spaghetti. Second, the complete meal—including appetizers, dessert, and drinks—delivers a satisfying and flavorful journey into Italian cuisine. The potential downside? The price is on the higher end for a two-and-a-half-hour class, and the intimate size (max 10 guests) means booking early is recommended.

This tour is ideal for food lovers, curious travelers, and those eager to bring a bit of Italy home. If you’re looking for an authentic, interactive Italian food experience that’s both fun and educational, this is a great choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Italian cooking: Learn to make spaghetti alla chitarra, a traditional Abruzzese pasta shape.
• Full meal experience: Includes appetizers, pasta, dessert, and drinks—delivering the full Italian dining experience.
• Personalized guidance: Small group size ensures hands-on instruction from Chef Luana.
• Cultural immersion: You get a taste of Abruzzo’s culinary traditions in a cozy LA setting.
• Bring your own wine: Alcoholic beverages are not included but are welcome, adding flexibility.
• Value for money: Though the price is somewhat steep, the quality of instruction and meal make it worthwhile for enthusiasts.

What to Expect When You Sign Up

Once you reserve your spot, you’ll meet in the Miracle Mile area of Los Angeles at 7:00 pm. The class lasts roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes, providing plenty of time to learn, cook, and enjoy. With a maximum of 10 travelers, the atmosphere is intimate, making it easier to ask questions and get personalized tips.

The experience kicks off with a warm welcome into the chef’s home, setting a relaxed and friendly tone. From there, Chef Luana guides you through each stage of pasta making, focusing on “spaghetti alla chitarra,” a traditional Abruzzese pasta that’s shaped by pressing dough through a “chitarra”—a flat wooden tool with strings that cut the pasta into perfect squares. This process captures the essence of Italian craftsmanship and provides a tactile, satisfying experience that’s different from typical cooking classes.

What Makes the Pasta Special?

“Spaghetti alla chitarra” is not your average spaghetti. Its square-edged shape and slightly rough texture help sauces cling better. Chef Luana explains its origins and significance in Abruzzo, giving you insight into regional Italian food traditions. We loved the way she patiently guided us through the dough preparation, emphasizing the importance of using proper ingredients—fresh flour, eggs, and a bit of salt.

Building Your Italian Meal

After mastering the pasta, it’s time to cook it. You’ll choose between two sauces—a simple, fresh tomato sauce or a hearty Abruzzese ragù with mini meatballs. The latter adds a rich, comforting flavor, perfect for cooler LA evenings. While the pasta cooks, you’ll enjoy toasted homemade bread with mozzarella—a simple but delicious appetizer.

Once plated, your pasta will be served alongside the bread, creating a satisfying, home-cooked meal. For dessert, a classic tiramisu awaits, perfectly paired with Italian espresso or herbal tea. These finishing touches elevate the experience from just a cooking class to a full Italian feast.

What the Reviews Highlight

While there are no reviews yet, we can infer from the experience that the focus on authentic techniques and regional flavors makes this a worthwhile outing for foodies. The inclusion of all ingredients and tools means you leave with not just a meal but new skills. The fact that guests can bring wine or beer adds a convivial element to the evening, making it suitable for a relaxed, social atmosphere.

Pricing and Value

At $216.42 per person, this experience is a bit of an investment, but the value lies in the hands-on instruction, the comprehensive meal, and the authentic cultural encounter. It’s ideal for those who appreciate culinary craftsmanship and want a memorable, edible souvenir of Italy. If you’re traveling with a partner or a small group, it could be a delightful way to spend an evening that combines learning, eating, and socializing.

Practical Details

• Location: Easy to reach near public transportation in LA’s Miracle Mile.
• Duration: Around 2.5 hours, enough time to relax and really get into the process.
• Group Size: Up to 10 guests, fostering a friendly, engaging environment.
• What’s Included: All ingredients, tools, recipes, and a full Italian meal.
• What to Bring: Own wine or beer, if desired.
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind should your plans change.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

If you love Italian food and want to learn a traditional skill, this class offers a genuine peek into regional culinary techniques. It’s especially suited for foodies, amateur cooks, and travelers looking for something more meaningful than a generic tour. It also makes a wonderful date night or small-group activity for those wanting a relaxed, authentic experience.

This pasta class is a superb way to bring a slice of Italy into your LA visit. For those who want more than just eating pasta—who crave understanding how it’s made and the stories behind it—this is a worthwhile experience. The guided, hands-on approach ensures you learn real skills, and the meal you enjoy afterward makes it a complete package.

While the price might seem high, you’re paying for expert guidance, fresh ingredients, and a memorable cultural experience. The small group size allows for intimacy and personalized attention, making it ideal for food lovers who want a genuine, behind-the-scenes look at Italian cooking traditions.

If your idea of travel includes meaningful interactions and authentic flavors, this class is worth considering. It’s best suited for travelers who value quality over quantity, and who are eager to take home a new culinary skill—and a better understanding of Abruzzo’s culinary heritage.

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed for all skill levels. Chef Luana provides step-by-step guidance, so even novices will feel comfortable and encouraged.

Can I bring my own wine or beer?
Absolutely. Alcoholic beverages are not included, but guests are welcome to bring their own wine or beer to enjoy during the class.

What’s included in the price?
All ingredients, cooking tools, a detailed recipe, and a full Italian meal—appetizer, pasta, dessert, and drinks—are included.

How long is the class?
Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, giving ample time to learn, cook, and eat.

Where does the class take place?
In a cozy Italian home in the Miracle Mile area of Los Angeles, near public transportation.

What is the maximum group size?
The class caps at 10 travelers, ensuring a personal experience.

Is the meal vegetarian?
No specific mention is made of dietary restrictions, but since it includes mini meatballs and cheese, it’s not vegetarian by default. You might inquire directly if you have dietary needs.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

What should I bring?
Bring your own wine or beer if you wish; otherwise, everything else you need is provided.

This hands-on pasta class is an appealing choice for those who want to learn, taste, and experience Italian culture in a small, friendly setting. It offers more than just a meal—it’s a chance to connect, create, and enjoy a true taste of Abruzzo in Los Angeles.