Barcelona: Spanish Cooking Class with a Social Enterprise

Trying a cooking class in Barcelona that combines culinary delights with social impact? That’s exactly what this Spanish Cooking Class with a Social Enterprise offers. Set in the heart of Catalonia, this experience promises more than just a meal — it’s a chance to learn traditional dishes, meet fellow travelers, and support a cause that empowers marginalized communities.

From the moment you step into Mescladís, a nonprofit restaurant focused on food as a connector, you’ll notice the warm, welcoming energy. The class is led by an expert local chef who guides you through classic Catalan recipes like gazpacho, paella, and crema catalana. What sets this experience apart is that your participation directly funds free job training for refugees and others in need. It’s a rare blend of culinary education and social good.

While the cost of $115 per person might seem steep for some, the inclusion of a hands-on cooking experience, authentic meal, drinks, recipes to take home, and the chance to support a meaningful cause makes it a very good value. One consideration: transportation to the venue isn’t included, so plan accordingly. This tour appeals most to curious food lovers who enjoy meaningful experiences and want to explore Barcelona beyond typical sightseeing.

Contents show

Key Points

Authentic Catalan dishes: Learn to prepare gazpacho, paella, and crema catalana directly from a local chef.
Social enterprise focus: Your participation supports free training for refugees and marginalized communities.
Family-friendly: Suitable for children from age 6 and up, with vegetarian options available.
Sustainable, seasonal ingredients: The kitchen emphasizes slow-food principles, making dishes fresh and flavorful.
Inclusive and accessible: Wheelchair and stroller friendly, with options for gluten-free and dairy-free diets.
Comprehensive package: Includes recipes, a family-style meal, and a drink of your choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Feeling inspired to cook? Check out these other hands-on experiences in Barcelona

The Starting Point: Mescladís Restaurant

You’ll begin your journey inside the vibrant walls of Mescladís, located at Carrer del Comte Borrell 122. It’s more than a restaurant — it’s a community hub committed to social change through food. The space is warm, with an inviting atmosphere that sets the tone for an engaging hands-on session. Expect to arrive 15 minutes early so you can settle in, meet your fellow participants, and get ready for an authentic experience. The class starts promptly, so punctuality is advised.

The Guided Cooking Session

Led by an expert local chef, the class is highly interactive. Reviewers have described the instructor as knowledgeable and personable, often sharing helpful tips and stories that deepen your understanding of Catalan cuisine. You’ll prepare three dishes:

Gazpacho: Made from fresh seasonal vegetables, this cold soup is a perfect introduction to Catalan flavors and a nice refresher in hot weather.
Paella: Whether you choose the meat or vegetarian option, the chef emphasizes using sustainable ingredients and traditional techniques. Expect to learn tips on achieving the perfect rice texture and flavor foundation.
Crema Catalana: The silky custard dessert topped with caramelized sugar offers a sweet ending. It’s a fun dish to master, especially with the chef’s insider tips on caramelization.

The environment is relaxed, but the pace is lively enough to keep things engaging. The emphasis on slow-food principles means ingredients are carefully selected, and the process is unhurried, allowing you to savor each step.

Supporting a Noble Cause

One of the most meaningful aspects of this class is how it supports Mescladís’ mission. The restaurant functions as a social enterprise that provides free hands-on career training for refugees and marginalized groups. As one reviewer noted, “Knowing that our meal was helping someone find a job gave the experience an extra layer of importance.” The money you spend helps fund their programs, making your culinary adventure an act of community support.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Meal and Drinks

Once your dishes are ready, you’ll sit down with your group for a family-style lunch. The meal is authentic and plentiful, giving everyone a chance to taste the fruits of their labor. You can enjoy your choice of wine, beer, or non-alcoholic beverages like soda, juice, or sparkling water. The convivial atmosphere encourages chatting and sharing stories — whether it’s about the dishes you cooked or your travels.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Barcelona

Practical Details & Tips

Price and value: At $115, the class includes the cooking session, a meal, drinks, recipes, and the social impact. For those interested in hands-on cultural experiences with a purpose, this is a solid investment.
Duration: Expect around 3 hours, which allows ample time for preparation, tasting, and socializing.
Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Dietary restrictions like vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free are accommodated, but vegans are not, so check ahead if needed.
Family friendliness: Kids as young as 6 are welcome, provided they’re with an adult — making it an engaging activity for families.
Transportation: Not included, so plan to arrive on your own. The meeting point is easy to find inside the restaurant.

What Reviewers Say

Participants have praised the friendly, engaging atmosphere and the quality of the dishes. One reviewer said, “The chef was fantastic, sharing tips and stories that made the experience more memorable.” Another appreciated the support for refugees, noting, “It’s rare to find a fun activity that also helps others.” Some found the class a bit fast-paced, so arriving early and paying attention helps get the most out of it.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cooking class is perfect for foodies seeking authentic Catalan cuisine with a conscience. It’s well-suited for families, couples, or small groups who enjoy participatory activities and value social impact. Travelers who prefer a relaxed pace and want to learn practical skills they can replicate at home will find this especially rewarding. If you’re looking for a meaningful, fun, and delicious way to spend part of your Barcelona trip, this is a great choice.

The Sum Up

This Spanish cooking class in Barcelona offers more than just a culinary lesson — it’s an opportunity to connect with the local culture while supporting important social initiatives. The blend of hands-on learning, authentic dishes, and community impact makes it a standout experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, you’ll leave with new skills, new friends, and a deeper appreciation for Catalan cuisine.

Designed for those who enjoy meaningful travel experiences, this class offers a unique window into Barcelona’s vibrant food scene and its spirit of social change. The inclusive setting, the quality of dishes prepared, and the chance to make a difference with your participation make it a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.

FAQs

What dishes will I learn to cook?
You’ll prepare gazpacho, paella (with meat or vegetarian options), and crema catalana, all staples of Catalan cuisine.

Is the class suitable for families?
Yes, it’s family-friendly and welcomes children aged 6 and up, as long as they’re accompanied by an adult.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options are available, but vegans are not supported.

How long does the class last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including cooking, eating, and socializing.

Does the price include drinks?
Yes, your ticket covers one drink of your choice — alcoholic or non-alcoholic — along with the meal and recipes.

Is transportation to the venue included?
No, you’ll need to reach Mescladís yourself, but the location is easy to find inside the restaurant.

Can I cancel or reschedule the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

This Barcelona cooking class stands out as a meaningful, fun, and tasty way to explore the city’s culinary roots while supporting a noble cause. Perfect for those eager to connect through food, learn new skills, and give back to the community.