Tapas & Paella Cooking Class in Madrid with a Professional Chef

Learning the secrets of Spanish cuisine in Madrid becomes an enjoyable and flavorful experience with the Tapas & Paella Cooking Class in Madrid with a Professional Chef. Priced at $103.50 per person, this small-group experience offers a hands-on journey into traditional dishes, guided by a genuine professional chef. With a total duration of approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for those eager to cook, eat, and learn about Spain’s culinary culture in an intimate setting.

This tour departs from C. de Valderribas, 30, Retiro, and is suited for anyone enthusiastic about cooking and Spanish food. The class includes unlimited drinks—white and red wine, beer, soft drinks, and water—making it a lively, social way to spend an afternoon. While the group size is limited to 10 participants, allowing for plenty of personalized attention, it’s recommended to book about 35 days in advance due to high demand and the tour’s popularity.

Key Points

• Hands-on cooking experience with a professional chef in Madrid
• Create authentic Spanish dishes like ham croquettes, black rice paella, and “ajoarriero” cod
• Learn cooking techniques and tips you can replicate at home
• Enjoy tasting your own creations with unlimited wine and drinks
• Small-group setting ensures personalized guidance and interaction
• Visit a private eatery in Madrid that emphasizes local ingredients and a cozy atmosphere

Meet the Chef at a Private Madrid Eatery

This 3.5-hour class starts at a private culinary space in Madrid’s Retiro area, where a professional chef leads the session. The kitchen is modern, open, and spacious, designed to ensure everyone has room to participate actively. The chef’s passion for Spanish cuisine shines through as they teach you to prepare a variety of dishes, ranging from ham croquettes and black rice paella to Russian salad and “ajoarriero” style cod.

The class’s participatory style allows each person to get involved, from preparing ingredients to cooking. The relaxed, friendly atmosphere attracts small groups of up to 10 people, making it easy to ask questions and share the experience with others. The focus on local ingredients and authentic techniques helps you understand the depth behind traditional Spanish flavors.

Creating Tapas and Paella: What You’ll Make

Participants learn to prepare two tapas and two entrees, with a focus on cooking skills and culinary secrets. The menu includes ham croquettes, black rice paella made with squid, steamed cod, and the “ajoarriero” cod dish. The black rice dish is particularly praised for its flavor and technique, with some reviews noting that the home-made version surpasses restaurant offerings.

Every dish is designed to be easy to replicate at home, with the chef sharing shortcuts and tips. For example, one review mentions how Lola, the chef, quickly adapted the menu for allergies, demonstrating her flexibility and expertise. The dishes are chosen to showcase a variety of cooking methods and regional flavors, providing a well-rounded culinary overview.

Learning from a Passionate and Knowledgeable Guide

Lola, the chef behind this experience, is described as welcoming, considerate, and highly skilled. She provides valuable tips on buying ingredients and pairing wine with different dishes. Her storytelling style makes the class both educational and engaging; she shares cultural insights, including Spanish culinary history and regional specialties.

Guests highlight her ability to explain techniques clearly, whether it’s cleaning squid or cooking paella. The small class size allows Lola to offer personalized guidance, ensuring every participant gains confidence in preparing Spanish cuisine.

The Wine and Drinks: Unlimited and Well-Chosen

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the unlimited drinks. Participants enjoy white and red wines, alongside beer, soft drinks, and water. The wine selection complements the dishes well and contributes to a relaxed, convivial atmosphere. Multiple reviews emphasize that the bottomless wine and friendly environment make the experience more enjoyable and social.

The pacing of the class is praised for being not too fast, allowing everyone to follow along comfortably while still finishing with a satisfying meal. The drinks are available throughout the session, encouraging conversation and a lively vibe.

The Location and Meeting Point Details

The class begins at C. de Valderribas, 30, Retiro in Madrid, an area that is conveniently near public transportation. The activity concludes back at the same location, making logistics simple for attendees. The small group size of up to 10 travelers ensures a more personalized experience and ample interaction with the chef.

Participants are advised to book approximately 35 days in advance due to the tour’s popularity. The experience is perfect for those who want to learn authentic recipes in a cozy, private environment that feels more like a culinary gathering than a large class.

The Value of This Cooking Class in Madrid

At $103.50 per person, the tour offers excellent value for an interactive, professional-led cooking experience. The all-inclusive drinks and personalized guidance contribute to its appeal. Many reviews mention that the quality of food, instruction, and ambiance surpasses expectations, especially considering the small-group format.

This class is especially suitable for travelers who enjoy cooking, want to deepen their knowledge of Spanish cuisine, or prefer a more intimate, authentic experience. The flexibility demonstrated by Lola, including accommodating allergies, adds to its appeal for diverse participants.

The Sum Up: A Flavorful Madrid Experience

The Tapas & Paella Cooking Class in Madrid stands out as a fun, educational, and delicious activity that reveals the heart of Spanish culinary traditions. The expert guidance, authentic recipes, and friendly environment make it a memorable way to spend an afternoon in Madrid.

While the group is small, the personal attention from Lola and the quality of ingredients ensure a rewarding experience for all. This class is an excellent choice for food lovers, cultural explorers, and those wanting to bring a taste of Spain home through their own cooking.

The only consideration might be the booking lead time, as the class is in high demand. But for those who secure a spot, it promises a delicious journey into Madrid’s culinary soul.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is prior cooking experience necessary for this class?
No, no prior cooking knowledge is required. The class is designed to be accessible for all levels, with guidance provided throughout.

What dishes will I learn to prepare?
Participants make ham croquettes, black rice paella, Russian salad, and “ajoarriero” style cod, gaining practical skills for home cooking.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, unlimited white and red wine, beer, soft drinks, and water are all included, creating a relaxed and sociable atmosphere.

Where does the class take place?
The class starts and ends at C. de Valderribas, 30, Retiro in Madrid, a location near public transportation.

How far in advance should I book?
It is recommended to book approximately 35 days in advance due to high demand and limited spots.

Can the chef accommodate allergies or dietary restrictions?
Yes, the chef has demonstrated flexibility, including adjusting recipes for allergies such as seafood, nuts, and onions.