Pasta Making Class in Modena with Francesca, a Michelin-Star Chef

Authentic Italian Pasta-Making with a Michelin-Star Chef in Modena

Imagine spending a relaxed afternoon in the charming town of Rubiera, just outside Modena, learning how to craft Italy’s beloved pasta from a chef with a Michelin star. For $240 per person, you’ll spend about four and a half hours with Francesca, a passionate chef who opens her family home to share her culinary secrets. This private class focuses on creating traditional Emilia-Romagna pasta favorites like tortellini, tortelli, and tagliatelle al ragu—each step an authentic experience you won’t forget.

Two things we especially love about this experience are the personalized attention you’ll get—since it’s a private session—and the chance to learn in a warm, home setting that truly reflects local culture. Francesca’s enthusiasm for her craft is contagious, and her family’s longstanding Michelin-starred restaurant adds a special layer of culinary credibility. A possible consideration is that this tour requires booking well in advance—on average, 67 days ahead—so it’s smart to plan early.

This tour suits travelers who crave a hands-on culinary experience that goes beyond simply tasting pasta. If you enjoy authentic home-cooked food and want to understand the art of pasta making from someone who has dedicated her life to it, this class will resonate deeply. It’s particularly ideal for those interested in regional Italian traditions, good company, and a meaningful, intimate look into Emilia-Romagna’s food heritage.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private, hands-on pasta-making with a Michelin-star chef in her family home.
• Authentic Recipes: Learn to make staple Emilia-Romagna pastas like tortellini, tortelli, and tagliatelle al ragu.
• Cultural Insight: Discover regional cooking techniques, ingredient choices, and traditional plating.
• Meal Included: Sit down to enjoy your handmade pasta paired with local wine, finished with Modenese dessert and walnut liquor.
• Booking Tip: Reserve early, as the experience is popular and typically booked 67 days in advance.
• Value for Money: Combines expert instruction, authentic home cooking, and an intimate setting, making the price worthwhile for culinary enthusiasts.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Setting and Atmosphere

Your journey begins at Piazza Antonio Gramsci in Rubiera, where Francesca welcomes you into her cozy kitchen. Unlike a busy cooking school, this is a private visit to a genuine family home, offering a rare peek into everyday life in Emilia-Romagna. The environment is warm and inviting, perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks eager to refine their pasta skills.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The class runs for approximately four and a half hours, starting at 4:00 pm. It’s divided into several phases:

• Dough Preparation: Francesca demonstrates how to select quality ingredients and knead the perfect pasta dough, emphasizing the importance of fresh eggs and balanced flour. We loved her tips on avoiding overworking the dough to keep it tender.

• Shape Making: You’ll learn to craft three types of pasta—tortellini, tortelli, and tagliatelle. Francesca patiently guides you through shaping the delicate tortellini, noting their traditional ring shape, and how to stuff tortelli with spinach or meat fillings. The process may seem tricky at first, but Francesca’s encouragement makes it surprisingly manageable.

• Cooking and Serving: Once shaped, you’ll cook your pasta in boiling water, then prepare classic sauces right in the kitchen. The highlight is savoring your creations paired with regional wines.

• Dessert and Liquor: After the meal, Francesca introduces you to bensone, a traditional Modenese cake, complemented by walnut liquor—an ideal way to round off your culinary journey.

Authenticity and Personal Touch

We loved the way Francesca shares her family’s history—her grandfather’s restaurant has been run since 1936, adding depth to her storytelling. Her genuine passion for preserving regional traditions makes the entire experience more than just a cooking class; it’s a cultural exchange.

The Food and Drink

The pasta dishes are the heart of this experience. The tortellini, stuffed with meat and shaped into the iconic ring, exemplify Emilia-Romagna’s culinary artistry. The tortelli, filled with spinach, show regional vegetable preferences, and the rich, slow-cooked ragu with tagliatelle highlights the area’s love for hearty sauces. The wines served elevate the meal without overshadowing the flavors. The finale—bensone and walnut liquor—are local treats that invite you to savor the essence of Modena.

Value and Booking

Given the intimacy, expert instruction, and authentic setting, $240 is a fair price. It includes all ingredients, instruction, and your meal, making it a comprehensive culinary immersion. Remember, bookings tend to fill up quickly—on average, 67 days in advance—so plan accordingly.

What Past Guests Say

One reviewer described this as “Meraviglioso!” and called it an “amazing experience” where they not only learned pasta making but also created a traditional Modenese cake and explored Lambrusco wine. The warmth of Francesca and her family shines through, making it more than just a cooking lesson; it’s a memorable cultural moment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best for those who:

• Appreciate authentic, home-cooked food and regional traditions.
• Want a personalized, hands-on cooking lesson rather than a large group class.
• Are eager to understand the craftsmanship behind traditional pasta.
• Seek a unique cultural experience in Emilia-Romagna that combines food, history, and community.
• Are comfortable with a relaxed, informal setting that encourages questions and interaction.

The Sum Up

If you value genuine culinary experiences rooted in tradition, this pasta-making class with Francesca offers a rare opportunity to connect with Emilia-Romagna’s food culture on a personal level. You’ll not only learn to make pasta from scratch but also enjoy a warm, family-style meal that reflects generations of regional expertise. It’s perfect for food lovers who want to go beyond the typical tourist fare and dive into Italy’s authentic kitchen, creating memories—and pasta—that will last long after your trip ends.

While it requires some planning ahead, the experience’s intimacy and authenticity make it well worth the effort. From shaping tortellini to sipping regional wines, you’ll come away with new skills, delicious memories, and a deeper appreciation for Italy’s culinary heartland.

FAQ

Is this a group or private experience?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention from Francesca and a more comfortable learning environment.

How long does the class last?
The entire experience takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 4:00 pm and concluding back at the meeting point.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers all ingredients, hands-on instruction, and your meal—pasta, sauces, dessert, and wine—plus the experience of cooking in a family home.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, as this popular class is usually booked about 67 days ahead. Early reservation is recommended to secure a spot.

Is transportation provided?
No, but the meeting point at Piazza Antonio Gramsci is near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the booking offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the class, allowing flexibility if your travel plans shift.

This pasta-making class delivers not just a skill but a taste of local life and tradition, making it a highlight for anyone seeking an authentic Italian culinary experience.