Five-Course Italian Cooking Masterclass with Unlimited Wine

Experience authentic Tuscan flavors with a hands-on five-course cooking class in Florence. From market visits to preparing classic Italian dishes, this tour offers a genuine taste of Italy’s culinary soul.

We love this experience for its combination of local market exploration, expert guidance, and a relaxed, convivial atmosphere. It’s perfect for foodies eager to learn traditional recipes and enjoy a hearty meal with wine. The only real consideration is the variable schedule—the morning tour includes a market visit, while afternoon sessions skip this, which might matter if you’re keen on seeing Florence’s vibrant food scene firsthand. This experience is best suited for those who enjoy cooking, cultural insights, and savoring good wine, especially if you want a deeper connection to Tuscan cuisine beyond just tasting.

Key Points

• Authentic experience combining market shopping and cooking from scratch
• Expert local chef guiding you step-by-step through four traditional dishes
• Unlimited wine served throughout the meal, enhancing the convivial atmosphere
• Small group size (max 8) for personalized attention and interaction
• Includes a digital recipe booklet and a graduation diploma as souvenirs
• Varies by schedule: morning includes market visit, afternoon skips it

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tuscany Cooking Masterclass

This tour offers a well-rounded immersion into Tuscan culinary traditions, starting with a lively visit to the Sant’Ambrogio Market. The market is Florence’s most beloved food hub, and as many reviewers mention, it’s a vibrant place full of fresh, seasonal produce, cheeses, cured meats, and local specialties. You’ll stroll through the stalls, selecting ingredients with the guidance of your chef, gaining insights into choosing quality products that will elevate your cooking.

A typical morning session begins with a walkthrough of Sant’Ambrogio Market, where your guide will share stories about local ingredients and traditions. Many guests appreciate the authenticity of the market experience, noting that it’s a chance to see Florentine food culture beyond tourist spots. One reviewer mentioned how the chef’s insider tips on selecting the best cheese or cured meats added a real value to their shopping experience.

After gathering ingredients, you’ll transition to a welcoming kitchen space. Here, the real fun begins as your chef guides you through preparing four classic Italian dishes from scratch:

• Agnolotti stuffed with creamy potatoes and crispy pancetta
• Cannelloni filled with ricotta and spinach, topped with a luscious tomato and béchamel sauce
• Eggplant Parmigiana, a comforting layered dish
• Panna Cotta, the elegant Italian dessert served with a choice of jam, chocolate, or pistachio sauce

Throughout the cooking, your chef will share stories, culinary tips, and tricks, making you feel like a true Italian cook. Many reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of the chef, which significantly enhances the learning experience. Guests often comment that the step-by-step guidance makes even complex dishes accessible.

The Cooking Experience: From Kneading to Plating

The process is very hands-on. You’ll knead dough, mix fillings, and carefully assemble each dish, all under the chef’s watchful eye. This is what makes the class genuinely valuable—you’re not just watching a demonstration but actively creating each element.

Expect to spend around 2-3 hours cooking. The class is designed to be relaxed, with plenty of time for questions and interaction. Many guests find it rewarding to see their dishes come together, feeling confident to recreate them at home later. The chef often shares insider tips on ingredient substitutions and presentation, helping you elevate your cooking skills.

Savoring the Fruits of Your Labor

Once your dishes are ready, you’ll sit down to enjoy the fruits of your labor in a warm, friendly setting. The meal is complemented by limitless Tuscan wine, which many reviewers say adds a celebratory, convivial touch. The wine selection is praised for its quality; one guest remarked, “The wine really made the meal special, and the relaxed atmosphere made it feel like dining with friends.”

Guests often say that the combination of good food, wine, and lively conversation creates a truly authentic Italian dining experience. The meal is more than just a chance to eat; it’s an opportunity to connect with fellow travelers and learn about local culinary culture.

Extras and Takeaways

Guests receive a digital recipe booklet to help recreate the dishes at home, and a graduation diploma as a fun keepsake. Many also appreciate the small group setting (limited to 8), which ensures personalized attention and plenty of opportunities to ask questions.

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Schedule and Practical Details

The tour lasts between 4 to 5 hours, depending on the session. The morning tour includes a visit to Sant’Ambrogio Market—ideal if you want to experience Florence’s lively food scene firsthand. Afternoon options skip the market visit, focusing solely on the cooking and dining experience, which might suit those with tight schedules or specific preferences.

The meeting point is at Ciaofoodies Hub at La Cucineria, Via della Mattonaia 19r, Florence. It’s easy to reach, and the activity ends back at the same location, making logistics straightforward.

Group size is limited to ensure an intimate experience, and guests are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes as the market visit involves walking on uneven surfaces.

Price and Value

While the tour’s price includes ingredients, the cooking lesson, unlimited wine, and take-home recipes, it’s worth considering the value of the experience. You’re getting not just a meal but a comprehensive insight into Tuscan cuisine, guided by an expert chef. The small group setting, personalized attention, and authentic environment make it a worthwhile investment for anyone interested in Italian food culture.

Who Should Try This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food lovers, aspiring cooks, or travelers wanting a genuine taste of Tuscany. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy hands-on activities and friendly social atmospheres. However, those with gluten intolerance or children under six should note that the experience isn’t recommended for them, and dietary preferences may require advance notice.

Final Thoughts

This cooking class in Florence offers a rare chance to learn authentic Tuscan recipes from a local chef in a relaxed setting. The combination of market shopping, hands-on cooking, and unlimited wine creates a memorable, engaging experience that goes beyond just tasting food.

For anyone who values culinary authenticity, culture, and conviviality, this experience delivers. It’s a tasteful way to spend a few hours in Florence, leaving you with new skills, delicious food, and a deeper appreciation of Italy’s culinary traditions.

FAQ

Is the market visit included in all sessions?
No, the market visit is only included in the morning departure (except on Sundays and bank holidays). Afternoon sessions focus solely on cooking and dining.

What dishes will I learn to prepare?
You will make four dishes: Agnolotti, Cannelloni, Eggplant Parmigiana, and Panna Cotta.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
The tour mentions that they will do their best to accommodate food allergies or intolerances if informed in advance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll visit the market and be active in the kitchen.

How long does the tour last?
The experience takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on the session.

Is alcohol included?
Yes, unlimited Tuscan wine is served throughout the meal, enhancing the experience.

Can I get a recipe to cook at home?
Absolutely, all participants receive a digital recipe booklet to try making these dishes later.

This culinary adventure offers a delightful blend of local shopping, expert cooking, and shared enjoyment, perfect for anyone eager to bring a piece of Tuscany back home in their own kitchen.

You can check availability for your dates here: