Reggio Emilia: Local Cheese Tasting & Tortelli Cooking Class

Exploring Italy’s culinary heart in Reggio Emilia with a cheese tasting and tortelli cooking class sounds like a dream for food lovers. This 5-hour tour promises a delightful mix of tradition, hands-on learning, and genuine hospitality. From tasting world-famous Parmigiano Reggiano at a dairy farm to creating classic Italian pasta in a cozy home setting, it’s a well-rounded experience for anyone eager to connect with authentic local flavors.

What makes this tour especially attractive? We love the guided tasting at the Parmigiano Reggiano dairy, the chance to shop for fresh ingredients straight from the farm, and the warm, homey cooking environment. Plus, it includes a traditional aperitivo with Lambrusco and Erbazzone, giving you a true taste of local culture. On the flip side, travelers should keep in mind that the tour is limited to small groups, which is great for intimacy but means spaces fill up quickly. If you enjoy engaging, authentic food experiences with a dash of local charm, this tour is a fantastic choice.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: Combines cheese tasting, shopping, cooking, and local hospitality.
• Hands-on learning: Prepare tortelli di ricotta e erbette from scratch with traditional techniques.
• Local insights: Guided visits provide genuine context about Parmigiano Reggiano and regional ingredients.
• Small-group intimacy: Limited to 6 participants, fostering a friendly, personalized atmosphere.
• Value for money: Includes transportation, tastings, ingredients, and cooking—delivering a comprehensive taste of Emilia-Romagna.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Look at the Reggio Emilia Cheese & Tortelli Experience

Introduction to the Day’s Flow

This tour starts bright and early at 8:30 AM at Reggio Emilia’s train station, a convenient meeting point accessible from major cities like Bologna, Modena, or Milan. From there, you’re whisked away on a journey that seamlessly blends food education with local culture. It’s designed for those who want more than just a quick taste—they’re after a hands-on, engaging immersion into Emilia-Romagna’s foodie traditions.

Visiting the Parmigiano Reggiano Dairy Farm

The first highlight? Visiting a traditional Parmigiano Reggiano dairy farm, where you’ll witness the meticulous process that turns milk into one of Italy’s most iconic cheeses. A guided tasting offers more than just a sample; you get a behind-the-scenes look at the craftsmanship involved. One reviewer described it as “fascinating to see how the cheese is made,” appreciating the clear explanations from the farm guide.

You’ll also have the opportunity to shop for fresh ingredients directly at the farm—perfect if you’re keen on sourcing genuine, farm-fresh produce for your cooking. The farm’s ambiance adds to the authenticity, and many mention how the hosts are welcoming and eager to share their knowledge.

Groceries and Local Flavors

After the cheese tasting, you’ll head back to Reggio Emilia where the group shops for ingredients needed for the cooking class. This grocery stop isn’t just about buying pasta flour—it’s about feeling part of the local food chain. The ingredients chosen are fresh and high-quality, setting the stage for a delicious homemade meal.

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The Aperitivo in a Local Home

Next up is a traditional aperitivo at a local apartment, where Lambrusco wine and Erbazzone— a savory pie—are served. This moment offers a relaxed, authentic taste of Emilia-Romagna’s convivial spirit. One guest mentioned, “It felt like visiting a friend’s home, not just a tour,” emphasizing the warm atmosphere.

Hands-On Tortelli Making

The highlight for many is the pasta-making session. In a cozy, homey setting, you’ll learn how to craft tortelli di ricotta e erbette, filled with ricotta, spinach, and Swiss chard—just like nonne used to make. The instructor, often described as friendly and patient, guides you through traditional techniques such as rolling and filling pasta with care.

Participants often comment on how satisfying it is to create something from scratch, and many appreciate the chance to learn recipes passed down through generations. The relaxed environment encourages questions, making it a perfect escape for amateur cooks or those wanting to deepen their culinary skills.

Lunch and Reflection

After the cooking session, everyone sits down to enjoy the fruits of their labor. The meal is typically served with the ingredients prepared during the class, complemented by local wines. The shared experience fosters connections, and guests often mention how authentic and flavorful the food is.

Practical Details & Value

This tour lasts about 5 hours, including transportation, tastings, shopping, and cooking. The small group size (limited to 6) ensures personalized attention, and the inclusive price covers most elements—making it good value for a comprehensive, authentic experience.

Transportation from and back to Reggio Emilia’s station ensures convenience, and the tour operates in English and Spanish, catering to diverse travelers. The flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance and reserve without immediate payment adds to the ease of planning.

What We Really Appreciate

Many reviews highlight the authenticity of the hosts—they’re genuinely passionate and eager to share their traditions. The small-group format fosters a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, making it easy to ask questions and get involved. Plus, the combination of cheese tasting, shopping, and cooking makes this experience well-rounded.

Possible Drawbacks

One thing to consider is that the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or vegans, due to the nature of the activities and ingredients involved. Also, the 5-hour duration might feel a bit full for those wanting a more leisurely pace, but it’s perfect if you’re eager to pack in a lot in a short time.

Final Thoughts

This experience offers a genuine taste of Emilia-Romagna’s culinary roots, wrapped in a friendly, engaging package. It’s ideal for food lovers, culinary enthusiasts, or anyone looking for an authentic cultural experience with a personal touch.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re craving a hands-on culinary adventure that combines expert cheese tasting, local shopping, and homemade pasta in a warm, welcoming environment, this is a perfect pick. It suits travelers who appreciate small-group experiences, authentic local hospitality, and learning traditional recipes from passionate hosts. Keep in mind the physical nature of the activities and the limited group size—those seeking a relaxed, intimate taste of Italy’s food culture will find this tour especially rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Reggio Emilia’s train station is part of the tour, making it easy to join without arranging your own transfer.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at 8:30 AM at Piazzale Guglielmo Marconi, right in front of Reggio Emilia’s train station.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 5 hours, covering cheese tasting, shopping, cooking, and lunch.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
The tour is focused on traditional ingredients like ricotta, spinach, and Swiss chard, but it’s not suitable for vegans or those with dietary restrictions regarding dairy and gluten.

Do I need to know how to cook?
Not at all. The environment is relaxed and welcoming, perfect for beginners or those with some cooking experience wanting to learn new traditional techniques.

What language is spoken during the tour?
Guides speak English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Are gratuities included?
No, gratuities are not included, so tipping is at your discretion based on the service and experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

Is there anything I should bring?
Comfortable clothes suitable for cooking and some enthusiasm for learning and tasting. Aprons are usually provided, but bring a sense of adventure!

This tour offers a fantastic way to connect with Emilia-Romagna’s culinary traditions in a genuine, interactive setting. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or just love authentic experiences, it’s a delightful way to spend a few hours in Italy’s gastronomic heart.

You can check availability for your dates here: