Funny cooking class with chef Antonino

Key Points

• Authentic Bologna Pasta Making: Learn to craft tortelloni and tagliatelle using traditional methods without machines.
• Lively and Entertaining Guide: Chef Antonino is known for his friendly, humorous, and patient instruction, making the experience both fun and educational.
• Includes Food and Drink: The class features ragù preparation, pasta cooking, and a generous bottle of wine to sip during the activity.
• Family Friendly and Small Group: Designed for private groups with a maximum of 4 people, suitable for those seeking a personalized experience.
• Receipts and Recipes: After the class, participants receive digital slides of recipes to recreate dishes at home.
• Convenient Location: The class starts at Via Antonio di Vincenzo, 50, close to Bologna’s railway station and city center.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Bologna’s Culinary Traditions

This 3-hour cooking experience in Bologna is led by Chef Antonino, a retired Italian chef passionate about sharing his skills. The tour offers a hands-on journey into Bologna’s famous pasta and the region’s beloved ragù sauce. The class begins in a centrally located flat just near Via Franco Bolognese, making it accessible and easy to find with clear instructions. You’ll find everything you need on-site, including aprons, so no prep is required on your part.

Antonino’s approach combines entertainment and expert guidance, creating a lively atmosphere where making pasta becomes both a learning process and a source of joy. The experience is family friendly, though it has some physical requirements, as there is no elevator in the building. This activity suits those interested in traditional Italian cuisine and eager to learn authentic recipes firsthand.

Creating Handmade Pasta with Antonino

One of the standout features is the focus on handmade pasta, made entirely without machinery—only a rolling pin is used. Under Antonino’s careful instruction, participants learn how to make tortelloni with ricotta and parsley filling and fresh tagliatelle. The process involves preparing ragù, which is simmered while pasta is made, allowing for a perfect pairing at the end.

Antonino’s teaching style is detailed yet entertaining, ensuring that even beginners gain confidence in dough preparation and pasta shaping. The class emphasizes step-by-step assistance, so no one feels lost during the process. Guests enjoy a delicious bottle of wine as they work, adding to the relaxed, fun atmosphere.

The Authentic Bologna Ragù Experience

After preparing the ragù, the class moves on to simmering the sauce, a key element in Bologna’s culinary identity. Antonino explains the secrets behind a perfect ragù, sharing tips that help recreate the rich, flavorful sauce typical of Bologna. Participants actively help cook and season the sauce, gaining practical skills and understanding.

The combination of ragù and handmade pasta results in a full meal that celebrates Bologna’s tradition. The final dishes are enjoyed together, with the pasta cooked on-site, ensuring freshness and authenticity.

Wine and Atmosphere During the Class

A good glass of wine accompanies the cooking process, helping to create a convivial environment. This addition is highly praised, as it enhances the relaxed and enjoyable experience. Antonino’s friendly and humorous personality shines through, making the class lively and memorable.

Guests appreciate how Antonino shares stories and tips throughout, making the activity both educational and entertaining. The small group size ensures personalized attention, allowing everyone to ask questions and get involved in the cooking.

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Practical Details and Logistics

The cooking class starts and ends in the same location at Via Antonio di Vincenzo, 50. The venue is close to Bologna’s railway station, making it easy to reach from the city center or other parts of Bologna. Participants are provided with everything needed, including aprons and recipe slides sent via email afterward.

For those concerned about physical requirements, it’s worth noting that there is no elevator in the building, so some walking or stair-climbing may be necessary. The activity is private and family friendly, although it is not suitable for children under 9 years, pregnant women, or those with certain food allergies or dietary restrictions listed in the information.

The Experience of Antonino’s Teaching Style

Antonino’s personality as a guide is often highlighted as a major strength. His friendly, humorous, and patient manner helps demystify pasta making and turns the class into a fun social event. Guests leave not only with new culinary skills but also with stories and tips that make their home cooking more authentic.

He is especially praised for explaining every step in detail and sharing useful tricks for perfect pasta and sauce. The recipes provided afterward serve as a handy reminder of the techniques learned, encouraging guests to try making pasta at home.

Value and Overall Impression

At 3 hours, the class offers a genuine and fulfilling experience of Bologna’s culinary tradition. The price includes all ingredients, the meal, and a bottle of wine, making it an attractive option for food lovers. The high rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 25 reviews reflects consistent satisfaction, especially regarding the guidance, fun atmosphere, and delicious results.

While the class is intimate and well-paced, it’s best suited for small groups of 2-4 people. The activity provides hands-on learning combined with a relaxed social setting, perfect for those wanting an enjoyable, authentic taste of Bologna’s food culture.

The Sum Up: An Engaging and Authentic Bologna Cooking Class

This funny cooking class with Chef Antonino offers a lively, practical introduction to Bologna’s most iconic dishes. Guests learn to make pasta by hand using traditional techniques, prepare a classic ragù, and enjoy their creations paired with quality local wine. Antonino’s humorous and knowledgeable style makes the experience memorable and accessible.

Ideal for small groups or families, this class suits anyone interested in cooking, Italian food, and cultural authenticity. The location’s convenience and the inclusion of recipes and a meal add to the overall value. While physically demanding due to stairs, the class’s engaging atmosphere and practical skills make it a highlight for culinary enthusiasts visiting Bologna.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cooking class?
The activity lasts about three hours, covering ragù preparation, pasta making, cooking, and eating.

Where does the class take place?
The class begins and ends at Via Antonio di Vincenzo, 50, near Bologna’s railway station and city center.

What is included in the price?
All ingredients, pasta and ragù preparation, a meal, a bottle of wine, aprons, and recipe slides are included.

Is the class suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 9 years, pregnant women, or those with certain dietary restrictions.

Can I reschedule or cancel?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. You can reserve now and pay later.

Is the activity family friendly?
Yes, it is designed for private groups and families, offering a relaxed, engaging experience.

What makes this class special?
The personalized guidance of Antonino, his humor and patience, and the chance to learn authentic Bologna pasta and ragù recipes.

Are there physical considerations?
Yes, the building has no elevator, so some walking or stairs may be required.

Is the class suitable for dietary restrictions?
It is not suitable for vegans, gluten intolerant individuals, or people with specific food allergies.

How do I get the recipes afterward?
Antonino sends digital slides of the recipes via email, so participants can recreate the dishes at home.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby