Exclusive Bologna Cooking Class – Pasta Tagliatelle Ragu & Spritz

This exclusive Bologna cooking class offers a hands-on opportunity to learn traditional pasta making and regional cocktails for $85.73 per person. Lasting approximately 3 hours, the experience takes place in a cozy, traditional Bologna kitchen with a small group limit of 10 participants. Guided by passionate local instructors, the class focuses on crafting tagliatelle pasta from scratch and pairing it with a house-made ragù, served alongside local wines and digestifs.

A highlight of this experience is the self-made Casoni spritz, a regional cocktail made with herbs and recipes specific to Emilia-Romagna. Starting with a welcome aperitivo of mortadella, crescenta focaccia, and Pignoletto wine, this class is ideal for those eager to explore authentic Bolognese flavors beyond touristy spots. However, it’s worth noting that children and those with special dietary needs are not suited for this experience.

This class garners glowing reviews, with a perfect rating of 5.0 based on 358 reviews. Past participants praise the knowledgeable guides, lively atmosphere, and delicious results, making it a top choice for food lovers visiting Bologna. The class is booked on average 26 days in advance, indicating strong popularity among culinary travelers.

Key Points

• Authentic Bologna cuisine: Focuses on traditional pasta and ragù, avoiding tourist traps.
• Hands-on pasta-making: You shape and cook your own tagliatelle from locally sourced ingredients.
• Regional cocktails: Learn to prepare a Casoni spritz, unique to Emilia-Romagna.
• Small-group experience: Limited to 10 participants, providing personalized guidance.
• Expert local guides: Guides are praised for their passion, energy, and hospitality.
• Includes local tastings: Mortadella, crescenta focaccia, local red wine, coffee, and amaro.

Bologna’s Culinary Heart: The Meeting Point at Piazza Galileo Galilei

This cooking class departs from Piazza Galileo Galilei, a central Bologna location near public transportation. The meeting point makes it easy to arrive and sets the tone for a relaxed, authentic experience. The activity concludes back at the same spot, offering convenience for travelers with limited time.

The location provides an intimate setting where you’ll start with a welcome aperitivo of mortadella and crescenta focaccia, paired with Pignoletto wine. This opening acts as a friendly introduction, easing everyone into the lively, warm atmosphere of the class.

Creating Tagliatelle: From Dough to Delicious Pasta

The core of this experience is making fresh tagliatelle by hand—no machines involved. Participants work with locally sourced eggs and flour, shaping and rolling out their pasta with guidance from experienced instructors. The techniques learned here can be recreated at home, empowering you to cook authentic Bologna cuisine whenever you like.

Once the pasta is dry, it’s cooked in boiling water and combined with the house-made ragù, creating a dish that exemplifies Bolognese culinary tradition. The aged Parmigiano-Reggiano (24 months), served alongside, adds a final flavorful touch, complemented by local red wines.

Learning to Make a Regional Spritz

A standout feature is the self-made Casoni spritz, a regional cocktail crafted with local herbs and recipes. Participants mix their own spritz using ingredients provided. The guides explain the regional differences and techniques, elevating the experience beyond typical cocktail classes.

This regional spritz adds a personalized and regional flavor to the evening, making the experience more memorable. It’s a great way to bring a piece of Emilia-Romagna home after the class.

Insight into the Ragu: Homemade but Not Made by Participants

While the class excels at teaching pasta, ragù is prepared separately by the instructor due to time constraints. It’s 100% homemade, but participants do not cook it from scratch during the session. This allows the class to focus on perfecting fresh pasta techniques while still enjoying a house-made sauce.

Participants receive recipes via email after the class, enabling them to recreate both the pasta and the sauce at home. This thoughtful inclusion enhances the value, ensuring culinary skills extend beyond the class.

Guided by Passionate Instructors: Stefania and Valentina

Multiple reviews highlight Stefania and Valentina as passionate, energetic, and kind guides. They expertly lead the group through each step, offering personalized support whether shaping pasta or preparing cocktails. Their hospitality makes the atmosphere welcoming and engaging.

Guests rave about their enthusiasm and patience, noting that the instructors make the experience enjoyable and educational. The small group setting fosters interaction, making it easy to ask questions and learn at your own pace.

The Delicious Finale: A Full Bologna Meal

At the end of the class, everyone sits down to enjoy their freshly made pasta paired with ragù, Parmigiano-Reggiano, and local wines. The meal is complemented by local coffee and amaro, rounding out a true Italian dining experience.

Past reviews consistently mention the deliciousness of the pasta and ragù, often calling it one of the best meals of their trip. The convivial, relaxed environment encourages conversation and sharing, turning the class into more than just a cooking lesson—it becomes a memorable social event.

Practical Details: Group Size, Booking, and Accessibility

The class is limited to 10 people, promoting intimacy and personalized guidance. It is booked on average 26 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended. The activity includes a mobile ticket for easy access.

Important to note: the class is not suitable for children, or guests with special dietary needs, including vegans, vegetarians, or gluten-free diets. The activity is designed for those willing to participate in traditional Italian cuisine without modifications.

What Past Participants Say: Praises and Tips

Guests frequently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, describing the experience as fun, engaging, and delicious. Many comment that they acquired new skills they plan to recreate at home, especially in pasta shaping techniques.

Some mention the informal, lively atmosphere and enjoy the opportunity to meet fellow food lovers. The local tastings and regional focus add authenticity, making it a worthwhile addition to any Bologna visit.

There was one less favorable review, citing disappointment over ragù preparation being outside the participants’ hands. However, the overall feedback remains highly positive, emphasizing the value of hands-on pasta making and expert guidance.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Bologna Cooking Class

This class offers a great balance of hands-on activity and regional tradition, perfect for foodies who want to learn authentic Bologna recipes in a friendly environment. The small group size ensures personal attention, and the local guides bring enthusiasm and expertise.

While not suited for special diets or children, this experience shines for adults eager to improve their pasta skills and experience regional cocktails. The memorable meal, friendly atmosphere, and practical recipes make this a valuable addition to any Bologna itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this class suitable for children?
No, the class is not suitable for children or guests with special dietary needs.

How long does the experience last?
The class lasts approximately 3 hours.

What is included in the price?
Participants enjoy hands-on pasta making, a regional spritz, tastings of mortadella, crescenta focaccia, local red wine, coffee, and amaro. Recipes are sent via email afterward.

Are we cooking the ragù ourselves?
No, the ragù is prepared separately by the instructor due to time restrictions, but it is 100% homemade.

What is the group size?
The class is limited to 10 participants for a more personalized experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for kitchen activities is recommended. No specific attire is required.

Can I book this experience for a specific date?
Yes, but it is recommended to book at least 26 days in advance due to popularity.

Is this experience accessible for those with dietary restrictions?
No, it is not suitable for vegans, vegetarians, gluten-free diets, or those with specific dietary needs.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the class for a full refund.

How do I receive my recipes?
Recipes are delivered via email PDF after the class.

Can I recreate the dishes at home?
Absolutely! The techniques and recipes learned here are designed to be easily replicated in your own kitchen.

Is transportation included?
Transportation is not included; you meet at Piazza Galileo Galilei near public transit for the start of the class.