A Taste of Rome: Gelato and Fettuccine Pasta Cooking Class in Piazza Navona
Imagine standing in the heart of Rome, overlooking the vibrant Piazza Navona, as you learn to craft fettuccine and artisanal gelato from experienced chefs. This experience, run by Eatalian Cooks, costs around $69.66 per person and lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. It’s designed for small groups—no more than 10 people—to ensure a warm, personalized atmosphere.
What we love most about this tour is how it combines hands-on culinary skills with the chance to sit down and enjoy your creations in a historic setting. First, you’ll be welcomed with a glass of Prosecco, setting a relaxed tone. Then, you’ll learn how to make gelato using a recipe sourced from a local Roman artisan. Afterward, you’ll roll out and shape your own fettuccine, which the restaurant’s chef will cook to order. To round out the experience, there’s a delicious appetizer of bruschetta, and you get to pair your meal with wine or beer of your choice.
One consideration: this experience is not suitable for children under 6 or anyone with mobility issues. Also, vegans might want to look elsewhere, as eggs and dairy are involved. But for those seeking an authentic, fun, and educational food experience in Rome’s lively Piazza Navona, this class hits the spot, especially if you enjoy interactive learning and tasting your own handiwork.
Who will love this?
If you’re a foodie eager to learn classic Italian recipes in a lively setting, this class is perfect. Families with kids over 6 who enjoy hands-on activities will also find it engaging. And if you appreciate a small group environment and local flavors, you’ll leave with skills you can recreate back home.
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Key Points
- Authentic Roman recipes: Learn to make simple, traditional fettuccine and artisan gelato.
- Small group experience: Limited to only 10 travelers for a more personal, engaging class.
- Includes drinks and appetizers: Enjoy Prosecco upon arrival, wine or beer with your meal, and bruschetta.
- Hands-on learning: Prepare your own pasta and gelato, then sit down to eat your creations.
- Expert guidance: Chefs are praised as friendly, knowledgeable, and patient.
- Incredible setting: Overlook Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most picturesque squares.
A Closer Look: What the Experience Offers
Meeting in the Heart of Rome
Your adventure begins at Ristorante Tucci, located at Piazza Navona, 94. From there, the setting is immediately inviting—imagine preparing Italian classics with views of the fountains and baroque architecture that make this piazza so iconic. Because the tour is small, you’ll feel like a guest in a friend’s kitchen rather than just another tourist.
The Gelato Making: From Kitchen to Cone
One of the most memorable parts of this tour is the gelato workshop. The chefs use a recipe from a local Roman gelato shop, ensuring authentic flavors that reflect true Roman craftsmanship. As you work with the professional gelato machine, you’ll learn the techniques that make Italian gelato so smooth and flavorful. Several reviews mention how much fun this part is, with one saying, “The gelato was outstanding,” and appreciating the skill involved.
Enjoy hands-on learning? Here are other cooking experiences we've covered in Rome
- Enjoy Spritz and Pasta Making in Piazza Navona
- Tiramisu & Pasta Cooking Master Class
- Eating Rome: Trastevere Pasta Making Class with Eating Europe
- Super Fun Pasta & Gelato Cooking Class & Oil tasting by Vatican
- Cooking Class in Rome: Make Fettucine & Tiramisù with Chef Paolo
- Rome Pasta Making Class with Italian Sauces and Wine Included
Pasta Preparation: Rolling, Shaping, and Cooking
Next, you’ll move on to fettuccine. Under the guidance of your chef, you’ll learn how to roll out the dough and cut it into perfect strips. The fresh pasta is then taken to the restaurant’s kitchen, where it’s cooked to order. This part is a true highlight, as you’ll see your efforts turn into delicious pasta with your chosen sauce. One reviewer noted, “Our chef was a joy to work with,” and many appreciated the opportunity to actually prepare their own food.
The Meal: Sitting Down in Rome
While your pasta and gelato are being prepared, you’ll relax at your table, enjoying a bruschetta appetizer and a glass of wine or beer. Once the dishes are ready, servers deliver your handmade pasta with sauce, followed by your self-made gelato. This is an excellent way to savor the fruits of your labor and truly connect with authentic Roman flavors.
The Value and Atmosphere
The price of about $70 for this experience might seem modest considering what’s included—the hands-on workshops, drinks, and a sit-down meal of your own making. Many reviews emphasize the good value, especially compared to typical guided tours or tastings. The small group size ensures you get personalized attention and plenty of opportunities to ask questions.
Why It Works for Travelers
This class isn’t just about cooking; it’s about connecting with Roman culture through food. The friendly guides and knowledgeable chefs make it approachable, even if you’ve never cooked pasta or gelato before. It’s especially suited for those who want to go beyond sightseeing and bring home practical skills. The mix of learning, eating, and socializing creates a memorable, authentic experience.
Possible Drawbacks
While many rave about this experience, some mention that the class can start late—over 30 minutes in one case—without explanation. This might be frustrating if you’re on a tight schedule. Plus, the food waste concern due to the gelato machine producing quite a bit of ice cream for small groups is worth noting, especially if you’re sensitive to food waste.
In The Sum Up
The Gelato and Fettuccine Pasta Cooking Class in Piazza Navona offers much more than a typical cooking demo. It combines authentic Italian recipes, friendly instruction, and the charm of Rome’s iconic square. For foodies, families, or couples seeking a memorable activity, this experience delivers genuine value. You leave not just with a full belly, but with new skills and lasting memories of your Roman adventure.
If you’re eager to learn how to make pasta and gelato the right way, enjoy local wines and a lively atmosphere, and want a small-group experience, this class is an excellent choice. It’s a step deeper into Roman life—delicious, educational, and fun.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children need to be over 6 years old. Kids over 6 can enjoy the hands-on activity and the experience of making their own pasta and gelato.
How long does the class last?
Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, giving enough time to learn, cook, and enjoy your meal in a relaxed setting.
What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the gelato and pasta making, a glass of Prosecco, wine or beer, bruschetta, and your self-prepared meal.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Same-day cancellations are not refunded.
Is this experience accessible for people with mobility issues?
It is not recommended for those with mobility issues, as the experience involves standing and moving around in the kitchen.
Do I need prior cooking experience?
Not at all. The class is designed to be friendly for beginners and those with some cooking knowledge alike. The guides are praised for being patient and informative.
This small-group pasta and gelato class offers a genuine taste of Roman life—flavorful, friendly, and fun. Whether you’re a serious foodie or just curious to try your hand at Italian cooking, this experience is bound to leave you with a full belly and a smile.
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