Traditional lunch with pairing, private cooking class and show

Imagine spending a day in Mendoza, Argentina, where you’ll learn to make empanadas over an open flame, enjoy a five-course traditional lunch paired with local wines, and finish with a lively folklore dance show in an inviting home setting just 10 minutes from the city. For $150 per person, this approximately 6-hour experience offers a chance to connect deeply with Mendoza’s culinary and cultural roots, guided by hosts who are passionate and knowledgeable.

Two features we particularly love are the interactive nature of the cooking class—it’s not just watching but actually making your own empanadas—and the personalized approach that caters to dietary restrictions or special interests, such as more wine tasting or skipping certain parts of the program. These details make the experience feel intimate and tailored.

A possible consideration is the weather, as the outdoor fire-cooking component and folk show are weather-dependent. Planning for good weather days ensures you get the full experience without cancellations.

This tour suits travelers who want more than just tasting—they want to participate, learn, and absorb Mendoza’s essence through food, wine, and dance. It’s ideal for food lovers, cultural explorers, and those looking for a memorable, authentic experience in Mendoza.

Key Points

• Authentic Argentine Cuisine: Learn to make empanadas and enjoy a traditional, multi-course lunch with wine pairing.
• Cultural Connection: Experience a folk dance show that highlights local music, costumes, and dance steps.
• Personalized Experience: Adaptable for dietary restrictions or interests, with optional focus on wine or skipping parts.
• Transportation Included: The tour offers pickup and drop-off from Mendoza, making logistics smooth and hassle-free.
• Local Hosts: Franco and Virginia bring hospitality, expertise, and warmth to the experience.
• Value for Money: For $150, you get food, drinks, entertainment, and a hands-on class—good value for a full culture.

Introduction: A Taste of Mendoza’s Heart in Just One Day

When you think Mendoza, you probably picture vineyards and wine, but this experience offers a different lens—through Argentine cuisine, dance, and storytelling. For around six hours, you’ll step into the hosts’ home in Pedemonte, a peaceful area just 10 minutes from the city, where you’ll be welcomed as a guest rather than a tourist.

The price of $150 might seem steep at first glance, but it covers a lot—transport, a multi-course meal with wine pairing, a private cooking class, and an engaging folklore show. This isn’t a rushed tour but a leisurely immersion, which makes it worthwhile for those eager to go beyond the usual wine tastings.

What the Experience Offers: From the Kitchen to the Stage

Pickup and Arrival

The tour includes pickup, so you won’t need to worry about transportation logistics. It’s designed to be private and exclusive, allowing your group to relax and enjoy the day at your own pace.

The Welcome Aperitif

Once at the hosts’ home, you’re greeted with a local aperitif—a small gesture that sets the tone for an authentic experience. You’ll then move to an array of cold cuts, cheeses, sausages, and preserves served with homemade bread, giving you a taste of local flavors right away.

Hands-On Empanada Making

The highlight? The interactive cooking class led by Franco Baccarelli, who is passionate about sharing his culinary traditions. You’ll learn how to make empanadas from scratch—an Argentine staple—then cook them over a fire, which adds a smoky, rustic flavor. This part of the experience is especially praised; as one guest remarked, Virginia and Franco’s hospitality and expertise made the day memorable.

Franco explains traditional techniques and tips, making it accessible whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner. The great thing is that the class is adaptable—if you have dietary restrictions, they can be accommodated, ensuring everyone enjoys the experience.

The Main Course: Argentine Roasted Meat

Next, you’ll indulge in roast Argentine beef, featuring typical cuts accompanied by seasonal vegetables. Each step of the cooking process and the wine pairing is explained, helping you understand why Mendoza’s wines are renowned worldwide for their quality and versatility.

Tasting and Sweets

Following the hearty main, you’ll sample traditional cheeses and local sweets, including the famous Argentine vigilante—a delicious treat. The included wines are selected to complement each dish, making it a true food and wine pairing experience that enhances the flavors of each course.

Folklore Show and Pastry Tasting

No Argentine experience is complete without dance. After the meal, you’ll enjoy a folklore dance show featuring traditional costumes and dances. This is not just for entertainment; it’s a window into the country’s artistic expression. Expect to see lively performances and even get a chance to learn basic dance steps yourself.

You’ll finish the day tasting Argentine pastries with mate (the national tea) and coffee, rounding out your immersion into local customs.

The Value of This Tour

Compared to typical Mendoza wine tours, this experience offers a more holistic cultural encounter. For $150, you’re not just sampling wines but actively participating in cooking, dancing, and storytelling, all guided by hosts who are eager to share their love for their country.

The small group size makes the experience intimate and personal, ensuring you get attention and tailored interactions. The inclusion of transportation simplifies logistics, making your day stress-free.

Why This Tour Really Works

The reviews highlight the warmth of the hosts and the quality of the food and wine. William D. described it as “great setting, great people, great time,” emphasizing the convivial atmosphere. The chance to learn how to BBQ Argentine style and see a dance show makes this experience stand out from more commercialized offerings.

The flexibility—whether to skip parts or focus on wine—is another plus, allowing you to customize to your interests. This adaptability makes it ideal for couples, families, or friends wanting an authentic, personalized taste of Mendoza.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book well in advance: The experience is popular and typically booked 102 days ahead.
• Choose a good weather day: Outdoor grilling and dancing are weather-dependent.
• Arrive with an open mind: You’ll be encouraged to participate, so be ready to get involved.
• Dietary restrictions: Make sure to communicate them when booking so they can tailor the menu.
• Bring comfortable shoes: You’ll be standing, cooking, and possibly dancing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for foodies eager to learn Argentine cooking techniques, culture lovers wanting to see authentic music and dance, and those seeking a personal connection with locals. If you’re interested in wine, they offer options to focus on this aspect as well. It’s also suitable for travelers who prefer a private, intimate environment over larger group tours.

This tour offers a rare opportunity to connect with Mendoza’s culinary and cultural roots in a warm, welcoming setting. You’ll leave not only with a full belly of delicious food and wine but also with new skills—like making empanadas—that you can try at home. The hosts’ genuine hospitality and the interactive nature make it more than just a meal; it’s an authentic Argentine experience.

If you’re after a fun, engaging, and educational day outside the wineries, this tour is an excellent choice. Perfect for couples, families, or friends who want to learn, taste, and dance their way through Mendoza’s traditions, it promises a memorable glimpse into the heart of Argentina.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your accommodation or a designated meeting point, making it easy to relax and focus on the experience.

What is the tour duration?
The experience lasts roughly 6 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each part without feeling rushed.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
Absolutely. The tour includes wine pairings, but water and non-alcoholic options are available, and the host can accommodate dietary restrictions.

Is this experience suitable for children?
The minimum drinking age is 18, but children can enjoy the food preparation and dance portions if supervised.

Do I need to know how to cook?
Not at all. Franco’s instructions are beginner-friendly, and the focus is on fun and learning rather than perfection.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience is weather-dependent, especially the outdoor grilling and folk show. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Can I customize parts of the experience?
Yes, you can choose to skip the cooking or the show or emphasize wine tasting, depending on your interests.

Is the experience accessible for dietary restrictions?
Yes, they are happy to modify the menu according to your needs.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book at least three months ahead, as this experience is popular and typically booked 102 days in advance.

This Mendoza experience balances food, culture, and personal interaction—a true taste of Argentina that’s as enriching as it is delicious. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or simply seeking an authentic cultural moment, you’ll come away with more than just memories—you’ll take home stories and skills to share.