International aperitif + cooking class in Italian

Our review explores a distinctive culinary experience in Lombardy that combines learning international appetizers with an authentic Italian aperitif. Although we haven’t personally taken the class, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a warm, engaging activity perfect for those wanting to sample Italy’s social side and improve their cooking skills.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the relaxed, social atmosphere that encourages chatting and sharing stories over good wine and delicious snacks. Second, the chance to learn recipes from around the world—not just traditional Italian fare—making it a great choice for curious food lovers. On the downside, travelers who need wheelchair access or are traveling with children should look elsewhere—this experience is designed for adults with a minimum age of 18.

This class suits first-time cooks, solo travelers keen on meeting people, or anyone interested in a laid-back, multi-cultural culinary session. It’s ideal if you want a memorable, fun activity that combines food, wine, and conversation in a cozy studio setting.

Key Points

• Inclusive, no experience necessary – perfect for beginners or casual cooks
• International recipes offer a global taste, not just Italian classics
• Relaxed social vibe encourages chatting, making new friends
• Quality wine pairing enhances the tasting experience
• Professional but friendly environment with a clean, well-organized kitchen
• Focus on healthy and vegan options appreciated by many guests

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Cooking Class

This experience takes place at Chef and the City, a bright and welcoming professional cooking workshop located at 4 Laura Ciceri Visconti Street in Milan. As soon as you arrive, you’ll find the shop with its large windows and bright red signage—ring the bell at the center window for entry, but don’t worry, it’s not in an apartment building.

The session begins with a warm welcome in the cozy dining area, where you’re offered a small buffet of sweet and savory snacks, coffee, tea, and a glass of sparkling wine to settle in. The overall vibe is casual—no need for any culinary experience, as you’ll be cooking under the guidance of Chef Ilaria and her trained staff.

You’ll be preparing three or four appetizers and a sweet treat from different parts of the world, not just Italian classics like lasagna or pasta—more adventurous fare that broadens your palate. Expect recipes that are unique, tasty, and often healthy or vegan, according to guest reviews. The cooking spans about 30 minutes at a time, with a short break in between to reset the space and prepare for the next set of dishes.

After the cooking, you’ll spend the last hour tasting the results, complemented by one bottle of wine for every four participants. This is a highlight, as the wine pairing doesn’t just serve as a beverage; it enhances the flavors and encourages convivial conversation.

Throughout, the atmosphere encourages chatting about your travels and food experiences, making it more than just a cooking lesson—it’s a social event. The entire experience lasts 2.5 hours, with the ending back at the same meeting point.

The Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Initial Gathering and Welcome

The class begins in the bright, cheerful space of the cooking studio. While waiting for others, you’ll enjoy sweet and savory snacks—a small but thoughtful gesture that sets a friendly tone. The inclusion of coffee, tea, soft drinks, and sparkling wine ensures everyone feels comfortable and ready to start.

The Cooking Sessions

You’ll be cooking three to four appetizers and a dessert from around the globe. The menu is carefully curated to incorporate varieties of flavors and textures—not just Italian staples, but dishes that showcase global influences. This makes the class stand out from traditional Italian cookery classes, offering a cross-cultural culinary journey.

The instruction is cooperative rather than hierarchical—no experience required. Guests have said the chef is friendly, answering questions well, and the environment is spotlessly clean. One guest remarked how the chef strictly adheres to Italian cooking rules, which appeals to those wanting to learn authentic techniques.

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The Break and Setup

After the first 30-minute cooking session, there’s a short break. This allows everyone to reset, chat, and get ready for the next round, which keeps the energy lively. It also gives the chef time to prepare the workspace for the subsequent recipes.

The Tasting and Socializing

The final hour is dedicated solely to tasting. The dishes are described by guests as delicious and well-balanced, with one reviewer noting they finished a whole plate of pasta even though they don’t usually like pasta. The wine included complements each dish beautifully, and many reviewers appreciated that the wine was more than just a token—it genuinely enhanced the flavors.

Guests find it’s not just about the food but also about sharing stories, making new friends, and enjoying a relaxed, convivial environment. It’s common for people to leave the class feeling more connected and inspired.

The Setting

Located on a lively street with big windows and noticeable signage, the studio offers a bright, modern ambiance. The emphasis on professional tools and cleanliness reassures participants that safety and hygiene are prioritized. The location’s centrality in Milan makes it relatively easy to reach, but remember to ring the bell to enter the studio, avoiding the apartment complex.

Evaluating the Value and Practicalities

At about 2.5 hours and inclusive of all ingredients, wine, snacks, and tools, the class offers excellent value for those looking to indulge in a wine-and-food pairing activity with a cultural twist. The small group size and professional environment ensure personalized attention, making it worthwhile for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

The price includes one bottle of wine for every four guests, which many reviewers found generous. Additional drinks, extra wine, or glasses are not included, so if you’re planning to indulge, budget accordingly.

Considerations

• This experience is not suitable for those in wheelchairs or under 18.
• It’s not designed for children or pets.
• The focus on healthy and vegan options is appreciated, but if you’re allergic or have dietary restrictions, you should inform the organizers in advance.
• Transportation and luggage storage are not provided, so plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This class is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who want a relaxed, friendly environment. Food and wine lovers who enjoy meeting new people will find it especially enjoyable. If you’re curious about global flavors and want to learn how appetizers are made in different cultures, this is a fun and informative way to spend a couple of hours.

It’s also ideal for those who prefer interactive, hands-on experiences over passive tours, and who appreciate a well-organized, clean, and friendly setting.

FAQs

Is prior cooking experience necessary?
No, this class is designed for all levels—beginners and experienced cooks alike. The chef provides guidance and support throughout.

What should I bring?
Just a hair tie if needed. All tools and ingredients are provided, along with aprons and gloves.

Can I participate if I have allergies or dietary restrictions?
Guests should declare any food intolerances or allergies beforehand. The chef is attentive, and options like vegan dishes are available.

Is alcohol included in the price?
Yes, the price covers one bottle of wine for every four guests, along with soft drinks, sparkling water, and a glass of sparkling wine at the start.

What’s the location like?
The studio is bright and modern, located at 4 Laura Ciceri Visconti Street, with big windows and clear signage.

Is the experience suitable for children?
No, the minimum age is 18, and it’s not designed for children or guests with mobility issues.

Final Thoughts

For anyone in Milan looking to combine culinary learning with social fun, this international aperitif and cooking class offers a refreshing alternative to traditional tours. You’ll learn new recipes from around the world, enjoy quality wines, and share good times with like-minded travelers—all in a friendly, professional environment that values cleanliness and genuine hospitality.

This experience is especially well-suited for those eager to explore diverse flavors, meet new people, and spend a relaxed evening in a cozy setting. Whether you’re a solo visitor wanting to make friends or a couple seeking a memorable activity, this class delivers a balanced dose of education and entertainment.

In summary, this Milan-based cooking class combines cultural curiosity, culinary skill-building, and social enjoyment into a well-organized, approachable experience. Its focus on healthy, global recipes and quality wine makes it a standout choice for travelers eager to enjoy authentic, flavorful moments in Italy’s fashion and food capital.

You can check availability for your dates here: