Pasta cooking class with Naples pasta chef

Discover the art of authentic Italian pasta in London with a 3-hour hands-on cooking class led by a Naples-born pasta chef. Priced at $156.90 per person, this intimate experience is limited to only 5 participants, ensuring personalized instruction. The tour departs from Windmill Rd, Brentford, at 4:30 pm, and features a mobile ticket for easy access.

This class offers much more than just recipes—it introduces special techniques passed down through generations, enabling you to craft traditional pasta shapes and styles that aren’t found in cookbooks. After the making session, you get to feast on your freshly prepared pasta, making it a fulfilling and delicious experience. You’re also welcome to bring your own soft and alcoholic drinks, adding a personal touch to the evening.

While the price reflects a premium experience and includes expert guidance, it’s worth noting this class needs to be booked 42 days in advance on average, and the group size is limited to ensure quality instruction. Suitable for those eager to learn real Italian pasta techniques or improve their cooking skills, this experience offers a genuine taste of Naples’ culinary heritage right in London.

Key Points

• Hands-on pasta-making led by a fourth-generation artisan from Naples
• Learn traditional family recipes not found in standard cookbooks
• Make pasta from scratch, including perfect dough techniques
• Enjoy your own pasta at the end of the class, freshly cooked
• BYOB policy allows bringing soft or alcoholic drinks
• Hosted in Silvana’s kitchen or in a nearby pizzeria, both separate from the main house

Meet Silvana: The Naples Pasta Expert in London

The tour is hosted by Silvana, a pasta expert featured on BBC2’s “Inside the Factory”. She brings authentic Neapolitan pasta techniques directly to London, offering an inside look at her family recipes and special methods. Guests learn how to make authentic pasta dough and discover shapes and styles that might have been forgotten over time.

Silvana’s warm approach and expertise ensure that even beginners feel comfortable mastering handmade pasta. The experience takes place either in Silvana’s full-floor basement kitchen or in the pizzeria next door, both separated from the rest of the house for an intimate atmosphere.

Starting Point and Meeting Details

The class begins at Windmill Rd, Brentford TW8 0QQ, with the activity starting promptly at 4:30 pm. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics simple for participants. The full address is included on your confirmation voucher under the “Before You Go” section.

Because the class is limited to 5 participants, it promises a cozy environment with plenty of personalized guidance. Guests are asked to inform the provider of any food restrictions or allergies before the class starts.

What You Will Learn: Traditional Pasta Techniques

During the class, Silvana guides you through making dough by hand, emphasizing special techniques to achieve the perfect consistency. You will revisit shapes and styles of pasta that might have been forgotten or overlooked in modern cooking. These include shapes that require specific craft skills, giving you a deeper appreciation for traditional pasta styles.

You will receive clear instructions on dough preparation, shaping, and cooking. The focus remains on practical skills, empowering you to reproduce authentic pasta at home after the class.

The Pasta Feast: Enjoy Your Handmade Creations

After the pasta is crafted, it is cooked and served fresh at the end of the session. This is a real highlight—savor the fruits of your labor in a relaxed atmosphere. The experience provides a delicious reward for your efforts, with the opportunity to taste authentic, homemade pasta that reflects Naples’ culinary traditions.

Guests can also bring their own drinks, whether soft beverages or alcohol, to enhance the experience and create a convivial atmosphere.

The Location: Silvana’s Kitchen and Nearby Pizzeria

The experience takes place either inside Silvana’s basement kitchen or in the pizzeria next door. Both settings are separate from the main house, ensuring a quiet, focused environment for learning and cooking. This setting offers an authentic, cozy feel that complements the traditional nature of the class.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

The class typically needs to be booked around 42 days in advance, reflecting high demand. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before, making it flexible for changing plans. Last-minute cancellations or changes are not accepted within 24 hours of the start time, so advance planning is recommended.

The maximum group size of 5 travelers guarantees a personalized experience, with ample opportunity for one-on-one guidance from Silvana.

Comparing to Other London Experiences

While this pasta class is more specialized than general food tours, it offers a deep dive into Italian culinary traditions. No other experiences listed include hands-on pasta making with a Naples-trained chef in London. It’s an ideal choice for foodies wanting an authentic, skill-based cooking session, distinct from more general sightseeing tours or hop-on-hop-off options.

The Experience Provider: eatwith

The experience is organized by eatwith, a provider known for curated culinary experiences. Their focus on small groups and authentic local chefs ensures a warm and engaging environment for food lovers. The mobile ticket system simplifies access, and the experience’s intimate size maximizes learning and interaction.

Final Thoughts on the Naples Pasta Cooking Class

This 3-hour pasta-making experience in London combines traditional techniques with personalized instruction from a Naples-born expert. The limited group size and authentic setting make it a memorable way to improve culinary skills while enjoying delicious, homemade pasta.

Suitable for beginners and experienced cooks alike, the class offers unique recipes and shapes that deepen your appreciation of Italian cuisine. The option to bring your own drinks adds to the relaxed, convivial atmosphere. While the price is higher than typical cooking classes, the quality of instruction and authenticity justify the expense.

If you’re passionate about learning real pasta techniques and want a hands-on, enjoyable experience in London, this class stands out as a worthwhile option for culinary enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this pasta class suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to teach hands-on pasta-making techniques suitable for all skill levels, including beginners.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Absolutely, guests are welcome to BYOB, including soft and alcoholic beverages.

Where exactly does the class take place?
The class is hosted either in Silvana’s basement kitchen or in the nearby pizzeria next door.

How long is the experience?
The class lasts approximately 3 hours, starting at 4:30 pm.

What is included in the price?
You receive expert instruction from Silvana, the chance to make and eat your own pasta, and the opportunity to bring your drinks.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book about 42 days in advance due to high demand.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience; later cancellations are non-refundable.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the class is limited to 5 travelers for an intimate, personalized experience.

Are there any food restrictions to consider?
Guests need to inform the provider of any food allergies or special diets before the class begins.

What makes this experience different from other cooking classes?
This class offers authentic techniques from a Naples-born chef, focusing on traditional recipes and shapes rarely taught in standard classes, in a small and friendly setting.

Can I expect any special pasta shapes or styles?
Yes, you will rediscover shapes and styles of pasta that may have been forgotten, adding authenticity and variety to your cooking repertoire.