Rome: Cooking Class – Pizza & Gelato with Free Flowing Wine

If you’re searching for a way to enjoy Rome that goes beyond sightseeing and dives into the heart of Italian culture, this cooking class offers a tasty route. Set in the historic city, this experience promises more than just recipes — it’s about creating genuine memories of Italy’s culinary soul. Whether you’re a food lover or simply curious, this hands-on class offers an engaging, flavorful journey.

We particularly love the expert guidance from skilled Italian chefs, who make the complex seem simple and fun. The session’s focus on authentic techniques — from kneading dough to crafting creamy gelato — gives you skills you can take home. Plus, the free-flowing Italian wine keeps conversations lively and enhances the convivial atmosphere.

One possible downside? The tour doesn’t include hotel pickup and drop-off, so you’ll need to plan your transportation to the meeting point. This class is best suited for those eager to get their hands dirty, learn genuine Italian cooking, and enjoy a relaxed, social environment. Perfect for couples, families, or groups of friends, it’s a way to connect with Italy’s culinary traditions in a lively, interactive setting.

Key Points

• Hands-on experience in making authentic pizza and gelato
• Led by knowledgeable Italian chefs offering expert tips
• Includes Roman supplì — crispy risotto balls filled with cheese
• Tastings paired with free-flowing Italian wine
• No hotel pickup, so transportation planning is needed
• Suitable for those with dietary restrictions, but gluten-free options may be limited

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Slice of Rome’s Culinary Culture

This cooking class provides a genuine taste of Italy’s beloved food traditions, all within a three-hour window. It’s a wonderful alternative to traditional sightseeing, especially if you want to deepen your connection to Rome’s vibrant food scene. The experience is situated at Via della Polveriera, close to the Colosseum, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing plans.

What makes this experience stand out is its focus on learning practical skills. You won’t just watch a chef prepare dishes; you’ll actively participate. You’ll start by mastering the art of kneading pizza dough, feeling how the texture changes under your hands. The chef’s guidance ensures you learn the secret to tossing and stretching the pizza like a true Italian, which is as much about technique as it is about fun.

Next, the gelato portion offers a chance to understand the delicate balance of ingredients that creates that irresistible creamy texture. From choosing flavors to learning how to churn the perfect batch, you’ll gain knowledge that can elevate your homemade desserts. The class also introduces you to Roman supplì — a classic snack, crispy on the outside, gooey with cheese on the inside, and a must-try for any food enthusiast.

Savor your creations as you enjoy the fruits of your labor — and anticipate plenty of lively conversation and laughter, especially with the added bonus of unlimited Italian wine. This relaxed, social atmosphere turns what might be a simple cooking lesson into an enjoyable, memorable event.

What to Expect Step-by-Step

1. Meeting and Introduction:
You’ll gather at the meeting point on Via della Polveriera, about a 4-minute walk from the Colosseum, with clear instructions and the purple flags marking the location. The group size is manageable, typically small enough for personal attention from the guides.

2. Pizza Dough Preparation:
Your journey begins with learning how to make traditional Neapolitan-style pizza dough from scratch. Expect to learn kneading techniques, the importance of resting time, and how to toss the dough for an ideal thin crust. The guides are praised for their patience and clarity, making this accessible even for beginners.

3. Topping and Baking:
Once your dough is ready, it’s time to get creative with toppings. From classic margherita to more inventive options, you’ll explore flavor combinations. This hands-on step not only teaches technique but also allows for personal expression.

4. Gelato Masterclass:
Moving from savory to sweet, you’ll discover how to craft Italian gelato. Expect to learn about ingredient proportions, temperature control, and flavoring. Recipes are provided, so you can recreate these at home, bringing a piece of Italy back with you.

5. Roman Supplì:
No Roman food experience is complete without trying supplì. You’ll learn how to make these risotto balls, fried to perfection and filled with gooey mozzarella. A true street food icon, this snack will be a highlight of the session.

6. Tasting & Socializing:
While you enjoy your homemade pizza, gelato, and supplì, you’ll also sip on well-chosen Italian wines. The relaxed environment encourages chatting and sharing culinary tips, making it more than just a cooking class — it’s a social experience.

7. End of Class & Return:
The class concludes back at the meeting point, leaving you with new skills and a satisfied palate. The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, with ample time to ask questions or take photos.

The Value of This Experience

At $112.15 per person, this class offers a lot of value. You’re getting more than just a meal; you’re gaining hands-on skills, recipes to take home, and the chance to enjoy authentic Italian wines freely flowing. The small group size ensures personal attention, and the expertise of the guides makes a difference — reviews highlight how knowledgeable and friendly they are.

Compared to other food experiences, this class provides a thorough, interactive approach. For example, some tours only offer demonstrations, but here you get to knead, toss, and flavor yourself — which greatly enhances the learning experience. Plus, the focus on both pizza and gelato covers Italy’s most iconic foods, giving you a well-rounded culinary snapshot.

While it doesn’t include hotel pickup, the easy-to-reach meeting point near major landmarks makes it straightforward to join. The session’s flexibility allows for reservations up to 24 hours in advance, with options to cancel for a full refund if your plans change.

Who Will Love This?

This experience is perfect for foodies eager to learn authentic cooking techniques. It’s also ideal for families and groups of friends wanting a fun, engaging activity that ends with shared food and wine. If you enjoy interactive, hands-on experiences and want to walk away with new skills and recipes, this class ticks all the boxes.

People with gluten sensitivities should note that gluten-free options are not explicitly mentioned, which may require some consideration. The focus is on traditional ingredients, so dietary restrictions might limit participation.

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Final Thoughts

This cooking class in Rome offers an authentic, approachable way to dive into Italian culinary traditions. It’s a chance to learn, laugh, and taste in a relaxed setting filled with expert guidance and good company. The combination of pizza, gelato, and supplì—paired with generous glasses of wine—makes for a memorable experience that appeals to travelers wanting more than just sightseeing.

If you’re looking to bring a taste of Italy home—literally—you’ll find this class to be a worthwhile investment in both skill and memory. It’s especially suited for those eager to get hands-on and enjoy a lively, authentic atmosphere in Rome’s historic heart.

FAQ

Is transportation provided to the meeting point?
No, this experience does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. Travelers should plan their own transportation to Via della Polveriera, about 4 minutes from the Colosseum.

How long does the class last?
The session lasts approximately 3 hours, during which you will learn to make pizza, gelato, and supplì, with plenty of tasting and conversation.

Can I participate if I have dietary restrictions?
While the experience strives to accommodate dietary needs, gluten-free options are not explicitly available. It’s best to inform the provider right after booking if you have allergies or restrictions.

Is the wine included?
Yes, the price includes free-flowing, well-selected Italian wine, which complements the food and creates a convivial atmosphere.

What language is the class conducted in?
The class is led in English, making it accessible for most travelers.

Do I get to take home the recipes?
Absolutely. Recipes for both gelato and pizza are provided, so you can try making these Italian classics at home.

This culinary adventure offers a lively, hands-on dive into Italy’s most beloved foods, guided by experts and paired with excellent wine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, it makes for a fun and flavorful addition to any Rome itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: