Madrid: Tapas & Paella Cooking Class with Expert Chef

Key Points

• Learn to cook traditional Spanish tapas and paella with professional Chef Lola in Madrid’s private kitchen.
• Participate actively in preparing ham croquettes, black rice paella, Russian salad, and “ajoarriero” cod.
• Enjoy unlimited drinks including beer, sodas, and local wines while tasting your creations.
• Small-group setting limited to 10 participants ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Take home recipes to recreate these dishes at home, plus insider tips on tapas and Spanish cuisine.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Intimate Cooking Experience in the Heart of Madrid

This Tapas & Paella Cooking Class offers a 3.5-hour hands-on experience led by Chef Lola in a cozy, private eatery located at Calle Valderribas 30, just a two-minute walk from the Pacifico Metro Station. The tour is priced at $101 per person, providing excellent value for an authentic culinary adventure that combines learning, tasting, and socializing. This experience is perfect for those eager to deepen their understanding of Spanish gastronomy without needing prior cooking skills—enthusiasm and appetite are the main requirements.

The class takes place on the 2nd floor, accessible via stairs, with no elevator available. The small-group limit of 10 participants guarantees a personalized environment, where everyone can ask questions, participate actively, and enjoy the process at a relaxed pace.

Hands-On Cooking with a Spanish Chef in a Modern Kitchen

The main setting of this experience is a large, open, modern kitchen designed to host all participants comfortably. Under Chef Lola’s guidance, you’ll learn how to prepare delicious ham croquettes, flavorful black rice paella, a classic Spanish dish, as well as Russian salad and the distinctive “ajoarriero” style cod. Each dish reflects traditional recipes, with tips from Lola on ingredient selection and cooking techniques to help you replicate these dishes at home.

Throughout the class, you are encouraged to participate actively, with each person making their own tapas and paella. The interactive format fosters a lively atmosphere, where sharing tips and stories is part of the fun. The unlimited drinks—including beer, sodas, and local wines—are available throughout, allowing you to relax and savor your creations without restrictions.

Wine Pairings and Tasting Your Creations

After the cooking, it’s time to sit down and taste the dishes you have crafted. Chef Lola recommends pairing your food with local red and white wines, which are included in the price. The generous drink options mean you can pour yourself as many glasses as you like while chatting about Spanish culture, cooking tips, and favorite places in Madrid.

This portion of the experience emphasizes not just the cooking but also the pleasure of socializing and enjoying the flavors of Spain. The friendly environment encourages conversation, making it ideal for both solo travelers and groups seeking a fun, communal activity.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Accessibility

The experience begins at Calle Valderribas 30, second floor, marked by a sign that reads Lóleo. Guests should note that access is via stairs, with no elevator available. The activity starts at various times, so checking availability for your preferred slot is recommended.

The activity ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics simple for participants. The tour includes all ingredients and drinks; there are no exclusions listed, so dietary restrictions are not specified.

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Expert Guidance and Personalized Tips from Lola

Chef Lola shines as the instructor, sharing culinary secrets and fun stories throughout the class. Reviews praise her as knowledgeable, passionate, and engaging, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. She offers tips on creating memorable tapas and explains the nuances of Spanish ingredients, including olive oils and wines, enhancing your understanding of the cuisine.

The small group size ensures each participant receives personal attention and can easily ask questions or request clarification. Lola’s friendly approach helps put everyone at ease, whether it’s your first time cooking or you’re already familiar with Spanish dishes.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out in Madrid

Unlike larger, more generic cooking classes, this experience emphasizes participation and personalized instruction. The private eatery setting adds intimacy and comfort, and the comprehensive recipes provided at the end allow you to recreate the dishes back home.

The focus on paella and tapas—the most iconic parts of Spanish cuisine—makes this an ideal choice for those wanting an authentic taste of Madrid’s culinary traditions. The unlimited drinks and lively atmosphere elevate the experience from a simple cooking lesson to a fun social event.

Considerations and Limitations

While the experience offers great value and expert guidance, it’s worth noting that access is via stairs, which may not suit individuals with mobility impairments. The class does not specify any food restrictions, and since some dishes include fish, guests with dietary preferences should inquire beforehand.

The duration of 3.5 hours ensures an in-depth experience, but those with limited time may want to plan accordingly. The tour is also best suited for enthusiasts who enjoy cooking or want to learn more about Spanish cuisine; it’s less ideal for those uninterested in culinary activities.

Why This Cooking Class Is a Top Choice in Madrid

The Madrid Tapas & Paella Cooking Class with Chef Lola offers a comprehensive, engaging, and delightful way to experience Spanish culture through food. With hands-on cooking, unlimited drinks, and the chance to take home authentic recipes, it combines fun and learning in a cozy setting.

Chef Lola’s expert instruction and the small-group atmosphere leave a lasting impression, making it a highly recommended activity for food lovers, adventurous cooks, and curious travelers. Whether you’re visiting Madrid for the first time or looking to deepen your culinary knowledge, this class provides a relaxed, social, and educational experience that captures the essence of local gastronomy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is prior cooking experience necessary?
No, this class requires no prior cooking knowledge; enthusiasm and an appetite are enough.

Are drinks included?
Yes, beer, sodas, and local wines are unlimited and part of the experience.

Where exactly does the class take place?
At Calle Valderribas 30, 2nd floor, marked by a sign reading Lóleo. Access is via stairs, with no elevator.

What dishes will I learn to prepare?
You will learn to make ham croquettes, black rice paella, Russian salad, and “ajoarriero” style cod.

Can I get the recipes after the class?
Yes, a set of Lola’s recipes is provided as a gift to take home.

How large are the groups?
The class is limited to 10 participants for a more personalized experience.

Is this experience suitable for children or mobility-impaired guests?
It is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments due to stairs, and age restrictions aren’t specified.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

What is the duration of the tour?
The class lasts approximately 3.5 hours, with starting times subject to availability.

Is there any dietary restriction accommodated?
The data does not specify dietary restrictions; it’s advisable to inquire if needed.

This Madrid Tapas & Paella Cooking Class provides a warm, participative environment to discover authentic Spanish dishes under the guidance of a passionate chef, making it an excellent choice for foodies eager to learn and enjoy the flavors of Madrid.

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