Authentic Premium Paella and Sangria Cooking Class

Travelers craving a true taste of Spain’s culinary soul often find themselves wandering through tourist traps, where overcooked rice and bland flavors tarnish the reputation of paella. This Authentic Premium Paella and Sangria Cooking Class offers a refreshing alternative—an engaging, hands-on journey into the heart of Catalan cuisine led by experienced local chefs. With a stellar rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 37 reviews, it’s clear that many guests leave with happy bellies and new skills.

What makes this experience special? First, the expert guidance from chef Tommy and his team, who are celebrated here for their innovative techniques like the “Vulcano” method that adds a smoky aroma to the rice. Second, the interactive nature of the class, which ensures you’re involved at every step—from preparing sangria to cooking the perfect seafood paella. Third, the stunning outdoor setting atop a rooftop in Barcelona, offering lovely views even on cooler days. The one possible drawback? The meeting point is in an industrial building, which might take some travelers by surprise. Still, the overall value makes it ideal for food lovers, curious travelers, and anyone wanting a memorable, authentic experience.

Key Points

• Authentic Catalan flavors delivered by seasoned local chefs using special techniques
• Hands-on participation ensures you learn and cook alongside others
• Beautiful rooftop setting with city views enhances the dining experience
• Includes traditional dishes like seafood paella, Catalan cream, and homemade sangria
• Flexible booking options with pay later and cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Great reviews emphasize friendly guides, tasty food, and a fun, relaxed atmosphere

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

How the Tour Begins: Meeting Your Hosts

Your journey starts at the door of a discreet industrial building, located at C/ BADAJOZ 115 in Barcelona. While this might seem unusual, the hosts stress punctuality with instructions to arrive five minutes early. The experience is hosted by Foodies Xp, a team known for culinary adventures, and they cater to multiple languages including English, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese.

Guests are welcomed with a drink, often cava or soft drinks, setting a friendly tone. The small group size—usually just a handful of participants—ensures plenty of personalized attention, which reviewers highlight as a major plus. As Chef Tommy and his team introduce themselves, you’ll get a quick overview of what’s to come, including tips about sourcing ingredients and cooking techniques.

The Menu: What’s on the Table?

Expect a lineup of authentic dishes designed to showcase Catalan flavors. The experience includes Spanish Pan Tomaquet, a simple yet delicious toast topped with ripe tomato and olive oil, serving as a perfect starter. Then, the Mediterranean Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Balsamic Vinaigrette offers a fresh, crisp contrast before the main event.

The star of the class is the Seafood Paella—a vibrant dish brimming with prawns, mussels, and squid simmered in a seafood broth. The chef’s technique, especially his signature “Vulcano” method (covering the rice with a custom-made aluminum hat and torching rosemary), imparts a smoky aroma that elevates the dish far beyond the bland, yellow rice often served to travelers. One reviewer, LaDonna, mentions how watching the chef’s technique made the experience fun and educational.

Learning the Art of Sangria

Sangria is often a crowd favorite, and here, you’ll learn how to craft it like a pro. Chef Tommy shares tips on key ingredients and proportions, and you even get to help prepare your own glass. The welcome drink and two additional wine glasses or soft drinks are included, giving you plenty of opportunity to enjoy your creations.

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The Cooking Process: Hands-On and Fun

Throughout the class, you’ll participate in every step, from chopping and seasoning to cooking the rice to perfection. Some ingredients, like the rice bombs with prawns and squid, require specific techniques—reviewers mention the importance of the crispy rice texture, which Chef Tommy explains is achieved through a particular cooking style. It’s a lively, engaging process that demystifies traditional paella-making.

The Atmosphere: Rooftop Dining with a View

After cooking, everyone gathers to enjoy the meal together, often on the rooftop terrace. Even on overcast days, the setting offers a charming backdrop with views of Barcelona’s skyline. Maria notes how the beautiful outdoor space added to the overall experience, making her feel like she was dining in a local’s secret spot.

The Final Course and Authentic Desserts

Dessert features Catalan Cream—a silky custard topped with caramelized sugar—and the famous Spanish bombs rice with prawns and seafood. The entire meal showcases authentic flavors, prepared with fresh ingredients and careful attention. One guest, Taylor, emphasizes how the food was “exquisite” and that the class offered a perfect balance of learning and relaxing.

Duration, Price, and Value

The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, giving ample time for learning, eating, and socializing. At $82 per person, this class offers excellent value, especially considering the high-quality ingredients, expert instruction, and the chance to take home new recipes. Many reviews highlight how the experience feels like a culinary gift—affordable yet thoroughly enriching.

Why This Tour Works

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the informative, friendly teaching style of Chef Tommy. Several mention that they left not only with a delicious meal but also with practical skills and tips to replicate the dishes at home. The mix of hands-on involvement and relaxed atmosphere makes it accessible even for beginners.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cooking class is perfect for foodies eager to learn authentic recipes in a fun, interactive setting. It caters to travelers who appreciate beautiful outdoor spaces and are willing to venture slightly outside typical tourist areas. It’s also ideal for small groups or couples looking for a personalized, memorable activity.

If you’re after a culinary adventure that combines learning, local culture, and delicious food, this class hits the mark. It’s less about quick tourist experiences and more about truly understanding what makes Catalan cuisine special—plus, you get to eat your own creations at the end.

Practical Details

• The meeting point is at C/ BADAJOZ 115 in Barcelona, in an industrial building. Arriving five minutes early helps avoid any stress.
• The experience is offered in multiple languages, so language barriers aren’t a concern.
• You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for your travel plans.
• Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.
• The class ends back at the starting point, so no need to worry about transportation afterward.
• The experience is suitable for a wide range of travelers, whether you’re a solo foodie, a couple, or part of a small group.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the meeting point difficult to find?
The meeting point is in an industrial building at C/ BADAJOZ 115. Arrive five minutes early for a smooth start; the hosts provide clear instructions to help locate it easily.

Can I participate if I don’t speak Spanish?
Yes, the experience is offered in multiple languages including English, so language won’t be a barrier to learning or participating actively.

Are beverages included?
Yes, a welcome drink is provided, along with two glasses of wine, sangria, or soft drinks, giving you plenty of opportunities to enjoy your homemade drinks.

How long does the class last?
The experience takes around 3 hours, which includes preparation, cooking, dining, and socializing.

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Reviewers mention that even those with little cooking experience feel comfortable participating and leave with new skills and recipes.

What makes the paella in this class different from touristy versions?
The chef’s signature “Vulcano” method and focus on authentic, smoky flavors produce a dish that’s far more genuine and flavorful than the overcooked, bland versions often served in tourist spots.

Final Thoughts

This Authentic Premium Paella and Sangria Cooking Class offers a genuine slice of Catalan culinary culture in a lively, friendly setting. You’ll learn the secrets behind traditional dishes, enjoy stunning views, and leave with a newfound confidence in your cooking skills and a belly full of delicious food.

Ideal for those who want an interactive, educational, and flavorful experience, this class transforms a simple meal into a memorable cultural activity. Whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple, or with friends, it’s a worthwhile way to deepen your understanding of Spanish cuisine while having a lot of fun.

If you’re eager to master the art of paella, enjoy fantastic wine and sangria, and experience local hospitality in a relaxed atmosphere, this class is a strong choice. It combines authenticity, value, and a touch of Barcelona’s vibrant spirit—all in one flavorful package.

You can check availability for your dates here: