Artisan Italian Pasta Class in Chicago (Includes 3-Course Meal)

A cozy kitchen in Chicago becomes your personal Italian trattoria during this artisan pasta class. For just $125 per person, you spend about two and a half hours with a passionate chef, learning to craft traditional dishes like gnocchi and tiramisù. It’s a small-group experience, capped at eight participants, which helps ensure plenty of personalized guidance and a relaxed atmosphere. The class begins at 6:30 pm at a charming location on South Leavitt Street, making it convenient for an after-work culinary escape or a fun evening out.

What we love most are the hands-on nature of the class, where you’re not just watching but actively shaping your own pasta, and the delicious, authentic flavors that come together on the plate. The inclusion of a 3-course meal—bruschetta, homemade gnocchi, and tiramisù—is a real highlight, transforming the class into a full Italian dining experience. Plus, the opportunity to bring your own wine or beer adds a relaxed, convivial vibe.

One potential consideration is that seating is limited to eight, so booking well in advance is a smart move, especially since the class tends to be booked about 48 days ahead on average. Also, if you’re not a fan of gluten or have specific dietary needs, the class is designed to accommodate various restrictions—just be sure to communicate them beforehand.

This experience suits food lovers eager to learn authentic Italian cooking in a friendly setting. Whether you’re a beginner or a pasta enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the approachable techniques taught by Chef Coco. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or anyone who enjoys good company and great food.

Key Points

• Authentic Italian recipes made from scratch with expert guidance.
• Hands-on experience creating bruschetta, gnocchi, and tiramisù.
• Relaxed, small-group setting for personalized attention.
• BYOB policy to enhance your dining experience.
• Comfortable duration of 2.5 hours fits easily into an evening.
• Ideal for beginners and culinary explorers wanting to master pasta-making.

An In-Depth Look at the Artisan Pasta Class in Chicago

Setting and Location

The class takes place at a welcoming kitchen space on South Leavitt Street. The cozy environment isn’t a fancy restaurant, but rather a friendly, home-like setting that encourages learning and conversation. This is not a large commercial kitchen but a place where you feel at ease, which can be especially reassuring for first-timers in the kitchen. The small size of the group (up to 8 people) ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, and the attention from the chef feels more personalized.

The Structure of the Class

The experience kicks off at 6:30 pm, perfect for a relaxed evening activity. Once you arrive, the chef—who has received positive reviews for her helpfulness and encouragement—guides you through each step of the process. The class is about 2 hours and 30 minutes, a perfect length to keep everyone engaged without feeling rushed. All ingredients and equipment are provided, so you just need to bring yourself and maybe a bottle of wine or beer if you choose to BYOB.

What You’ll Learn

The process begins with bruschetta, a simple but essential Italian appetizer. You’ll be shown how to pick ripe tomatoes and fresh basil, then assemble this classic topping on crisp artisan bread. It’s a straightforward dish, yet a great way to get comfortable with handling fresh ingredients.

Next comes the fun part—making gnocchi from scratch. This soft, pillowy pasta dumpling is often considered a challenge, but Chef Coco breaks down the technique into easy steps. You’ll learn how to shape the dough into small, delicate dumplings and cook them perfectly. The accompanying tomato-basil sauce is simple but flavorful, highlighting Italy’s emphasis on fresh, quality ingredients.

Finally, the class culminates in tiramisu, where you’ll layer mascarpone with espresso-soaked ladyfingers. If you’re familiar with Italian desserts, you’ll appreciate the rich, creamy texture and balanced sweetness. Many find this a satisfying way to end the meal—it’s indulgent without feeling heavy.

Authentic Italian Flavors and Techniques

The recipes focus on approachable techniques that you can replicate at home. This isn’t about complicated culinary tricks, but rather about understanding the core principles of Italian cooking—fresh ingredients, balanced flavors, and simple preparation.

The Meal and the Atmosphere

Once the dishes are prepared, everyone sits down together to enjoy the fruits of their labor. The three-course meal, including the bruschetta, gnocchi, and tiramisù, offers a complete culinary experience. The relaxed setting encourages conversation and enjoyment, especially with the option to bring your own wine or beer. Several reviews mention how much participants appreciated the welcoming environment and helpful guidance from Chef Coco, making the experience feel more like a gathering of friends than a formal class.

Value and Price Point

At $125, this class offers good value considering the personalized instruction, all ingredients, and the meal included. Compared to dining out, you’re learning new skills and taking home recipes you can use forever, which adds long-term value. Plus, the small group size enhances the quality of interaction and learning.

Who Will Love This?

This experience is perfect for beginners eager to dip their toes into Italian cooking, as well as more experienced cooks looking to refine their pasta skills. It’s especially suited for couples or small groups of friends wanting a memorable, hands-on activity that combines learning, good food, and fun.

Final Thoughts

This artisan Italian pasta class in Chicago offers an authentic and engaging way to spend an evening. You’ll learn real techniques, enjoy delicious food, and bring home recipes to recreate Italian classics anytime. The small-group setting and the chef’s friendly guidance create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that encourages participation and enjoyment.

If you’re a food lover who appreciates authenticity and hands-on experiences, this class will satisfy your culinary curiosity. It’s a great choice for travelers seeking a local, engaging activity that combines learning, eating, and a bit of wine—what more could you want?

FAQs

How long is the class?
The class lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, providing enough time to learn and enjoy your meal without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
All necessary ingredients and equipment are provided by the chef. The price includes the three-course meal—bruschetta, gnocchi, and tiramisù—and the instruction.

Can I bring my own wine or beer?
Yes, this is a BYOB experience, so you’re encouraged to bring your favorite wine or beer to enhance the meal.

Is the class suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The recipes and techniques are presented in an approachable way, making it ideal for those new to pasta-making or Italian cooking.

Where does the class take place?
The class is held at a cozy kitchen located at 2316 S Leavitt St apt 3, Chicago. The setting is intimate and designed for interactive learning.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
The class is designed to accommodate various dietary needs. It’s best to inform the organizer in advance so they can tailor the experience accordingly.

In essence, this artisan pasta class is a wonderful way to connect over great food, learn new skills, and enjoy a taste of Italy right in Chicago. Whether you’re planning a special night out or a fun activity with friends, it’s a memorable experience rooted in genuine culinary tradition.