Discover the Flavors of Italy with a Gourmet Ice Cream Class and Aperitif in Rome

For those seeking a unique culinary experience in Rome, the Gourmet Ice Cream Class with Aperitif offers a delightful combination of hands-on ice cream making and tasting local delicacies. This 1.5-hour session takes place at Criollo. The ice cream bistro on Via Giuseppe Bagnera 59, guided by an international ice cream expert, Simona Papagno. You’ll get the chance to craft your own savory ice cream flavor, then enjoy it alongside a rich aperitif featuring cold cuts, cheeses, and other local products. With flexibility in timing, small groups limited to 8 participants, and options for gluten-free and lactose-free diets, this tour appeals to foodies and curious travelers alike.

While the experience emphasizes interactive fun and authentic flavors, it’s important to note that children under 10 are not suited for this class, and the activity requires prior agreement on the flavor to be made, ensuring a smooth, personalized experience.

Key Points

Hands-on ice cream workshop led by an experienced international ice cream maker
Create your own savory flavor with guidance through every production step
Enjoy a gourmet aperitif of cold cuts, cheeses, and local products, with gluten-free and lactose-free options available
Duration of 1.5 hours at Criollo in Rome for small groups of up to 8 participants
Includes drinks — soft drinks provided, with the option for wine or other beverages
Flexible scheduling by arrangement, based on venue availability

You can check availability for your dates here:

Creating Your Savory Ice Cream in Rome

The core of this experience is the interactive ice cream workshop, where participants collaborate with Simona Papagno to craft a savory ice cream flavor. The choice of flavor must be agreed upon in advance, allowing for a customized touch. Throughout the session, all production phases are explained step-by-step, making it suitable for those with or without prior culinary experience.

The class is held at Criollo. The ice cream bistro, a cozy venue in Rome that specializes in gelato. The setting provides a friendly, relaxed environment, ideal for learning and tasting. The class lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, which strikes a balance between engaging activity and ample tasting time.

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What Participants Learn About the Ice Cream Making Process

Participants gain insights into the world of ice cream, with fun facts and anecdotes shared by the guide. The instructor’s expertise in international ice cream making ensures a professional yet approachable environment. This is not just about cooking; it’s about appreciating the craft behind savory gelato and exploring flavor combinations that go beyond sweet.

The class emphasizes step-by-step production, so you’ll understand each phase, from mixing ingredients to final presentation. This knowledge might inspire future experiments at home or deepen your appreciation for Italian gelato artistry.

The Gourmet Aperitif and Local Product Platter

After creating your flavor, it’s time to sit back and enjoy. The ice cream is served alongside a gourmet aperitif consisting of cold cuts, cheeses, and bruschetta, showcasing some of Rome’s best local products. The platter complements the ice cream perfectly, balancing savory tastes with creamy textures.

All of this is paired with a drink or a good wine, making the experience feel more like a culinary celebration. For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free and lactose-free options are available, ensuring everyone can fully enjoy the tasting.

Meeting Point and Accessibility

The activity begins at Criollo, located at the specified coordinates 41.86377716064453, 12.46677017211914. The venue is wheelchair accessible, and the experience is designed for adults or kids over 10 years old. Soft drinks are provided, and the tour offers the convenience of skip-the-line booking and flexible cancellation — cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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Logistics and Group Size

This tour is structured as a small group experience, limited to 8 participants to ensure personalized attention. The instructor is bilingual, speaking English and Italian, making it accessible to international visitors. The activity’s timing is flexible—participants agree on a start time based on venue availability.

The reserve now and pay later option helps keep your plans flexible, especially if your schedule may change. It’s also a family-friendly activity for children over 10, but it’s not suitable for younger kids or those unable to participate in the flavor creation.

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Why This Experience Stands Out

What makes this tour special is its focus on savory ice cream, a less common take on Italy’s famous gelato scene. Participants are not just passive tasters but active creators, guided by an expert who shares insights into the craft of ice cream making. The pairing with local quality products and wine or drinks elevates the experience from a simple workshop to a relaxed, gourmet tasting session.

On top of that, the availability of gluten-free and lactose-free options makes this accessible to a wider audience. The small group size fosters a more intimate environment, ideal for learning and enjoying the flavors in a friendly setting.

Limitations to Consider

While the class offers a fun, interactive experience, it’s important to agree on the flavor beforehand. The activity may be less suitable for those looking for a longer or more comprehensive culinary tour. The activity’s duration of 1.5 hours is ideal for a quick yet meaningful taste of Italian gelato artistry, but not for a full-day experience.

The Perfect Choice for Food-Loving Travelers in Rome

This Gourmet Ice Cream Class with Aperitif delivers a unique blend of hands-on fun, gourmet tasting, and cultural insight into Italy’s culinary traditions. It’s especially well-suited for adults and older kids who enjoy cooking, tasting, and exploring new flavor combinations.

Visitors who appreciate local products, quality drinks, and interactive experiences will find this tour both enjoyable and educational. The small group setting ensures personalized attention, while the flexible timing adapts to your schedule.

For those wanting a delicious, memorable activity that combines culinary skills with local flavors, this ice cream workshop offers a compelling option in Rome.

Ready to Book?

Rome: Gourmet Ice Cream Class with Aperitif

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but only for kids over 10 years old. This ensures participants have the coordination and interest necessary to engage in the flavor creation process.

Can I customize my ice cream flavor?
Yes, the flavor to be made must be agreed upon in advance, allowing you to choose a savory flavor that suits your taste.

Are there any dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, gluten-free and lactose-free options are available for the aperitif platters, making it accessible to those with dietary needs.

What is included in the tasting?
The experience includes your self-made savory ice cream, a gourmet platter of cold cuts, cheeses, and bruschetta, and a drink or wine.

How long does the class last?
The activity lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, providing enough time for both making and tasting.

How do I book this experience?
You can reserve now and pay later, with the possibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, ensuring flexibility.

This Gourmet Ice Cream Class with Aperitif in Rome offers a creative, tasty, and educational way to enjoy Italy’s culinary culture. Whether you’re a gelato lover or a curious foodie, this activity promises a fun and flavorful experience in the heart of the city.