Bologna on the plate, Cooking Class with Alessia

If you’re headed to Bologna and want a taste of its culinary soul, this cooking class with Alessia might just be your best move. Priced at around $98.84 per person, it offers a three-hour, intimate experience right in her charming Bologna home. You’ll learn to make regional pasta varieties and tiramisu, all while sharing stories, laughter, and a few good wines.

What immediately captures us about this tour is Alessia’s personal touch — she’s a warm host, eager to pass down her grandmother’s pasta-making secrets. The class is small, capped at eight participants, which means plenty of hands-on cooking and personal attention. Two things truly stand out: the authenticity of the recipes and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere created by Alessia, her welcoming home, and her adorable cat, Pol, who joins in as a gentle kitchen assistant.

One thing to consider: if you’re allergic to cats or prefer a completely quiet environment, the presence of Pol might be a minor concern. Also, finding the exact address could be tricky if you’re not familiar with Bologna, so a good GPS is your friend here.

This experience is ideal for food lovers, curious travelers eager to learn authentic recipes, or anyone who enjoys a personal, cultural connection through cuisine. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, part of a couple, or traveling with family, Alessia’s class promises a memorable, tasty evening you won’t forget.

Key Points

• Authentic regional recipes: Learn to craft two or three types of typical Bologna pasta and desserts.
• Personalized experience: Small group size ensures individual attention and a warm, friendly setting.
• Includes wine: Enjoy local wines perfect for pairing with your dishes.
• Hands-on participation: Get your hands dirty, making pasta and tiramisu yourself.
• Vegetarian options available: Alessia adapts recipes to suit vegetarian guests.
• Family-friendly: The class is welcoming to all, including those who love a personal, home-style environment.

An In-Depth Look at the Bologna Cooking Class with Alessia

Starting Point: A Home-Style Cooking Adventure

From the moment you arrive at Via Sabotino, 27, you’re stepping into a cozy, welcoming kitchen that feels like a home away from home. Alessia’s warm personality shines through as she greets each guest — she’s not just a chef, but a storyteller eager to share her family’s recipes. The tour runs Monday to Friday, from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM, making it a perfect post-afternoon activity after a day of sightseeing.

The Focus on Authenticity and Technique

What makes this class special is Alessia’s dedication to traditional Italian cooking. She emphasizes working with fresh pasta dough, imparting lessons handed down from her grandmother. As she remarks, her goal is to help you “appreciate the dishes of typical Bolognese cuisine” through interactive, hands-on work.

Participants get to make different types of pasta — likely including classic tortellini and tagliatelle, given the regional focus. Alessia’s tips on technique are highly praised in reviews, with many describing her as a knowledgeable and effective instructor who makes complex pasta shapes seem approachable.

The Culinary Highlights: Pasta and Tiramisu

The curriculum centers on two to three recipes. We loved the way Alessia ensures everyone participates actively, rather than simply observing. One reviewer mentioned, “she taught us to make two types of pasta that are local to Bologna,” highlighting her focus on regional specialties.

The dessert of choice is tiramisu, which Alessia makes with a “final cuddle” of goodness that leaves everyone dazzled. Reviewers rave about her version, with one noting it was “by far our favorite” among all the tiramisus sampled in Italy. Alessia’s careful attention to technique and ingredient quality clearly pays off.

Pairings and Drinks

Wine plays a complementary role in this experience. Alessia selects local wines that pair perfectly with each dish, enhancing the flavors and making the meal feel like a true Italian wine and dine experience. Guests mention that the wines “went perfectly with the food”, adding a relaxed, convivial vibe to the evening.

The Atmosphere and Additional Details

You’ll love the intimate group setting, which fosters friendly conversation and camaraderie — many reviews mention meeting fellow travelers from around the world. Alessia’s warm hospitality creates an environment where everyone feels comfortable, even if they’re new to pasta-making.

Pol, her cat, is a delightful presence in the kitchen, often sleeping on the sofa while everyone works. If you have allergies, Alessia advises planning accordingly, but most find Pol’s presence charming rather than disruptive.

Price and Value

At just under $100, the cost is quite reasonable considering the personalized instruction, regional recipes, and included wine. When you factor in the opportunity to learn authentic techniques directly from a local, the value becomes clear. Many reviewers comment on how they appreciated Alessia’s tips and recipes they can replicate at home, turning a fun evening into lasting culinary knowledge.

Group Size and Logistics

The small group of up to 8 people ensures you’ll get plenty of individual attention. The class is held indoors at Alessia’s home, which provides a cozy, authentic feel. The duration of about 3 hours strikes a good balance — long enough to learn, cook, and enjoy the meal without feeling rushed.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The meeting point is near public transportation, making it convenient even if you aren’t staying right in the city center. Cancellation is simple — free if done more than 24 hours in advance — and weather isn’t a concern since the class occurs indoors.

What Guests Say

Reviews consistently praise Alessia’s warmth, expertise, and the deliciousness of the food. One reviewer shared, “The food was amazing, and Alessia is a great host,” while others appreciated the personal touch: “She gave great tips on making pasta,” and “the recipes to try at home.”

A few negative notes mention difficulties finding the address or being bothered by the cat, but these are minor compared to the overwhelmingly positive feedback.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This Bologna cooking class is perfect if you’re a foodie eager to learn regional recipes in a relaxed, home-based environment. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy hands-on experiences, engaging conversations, and authentic flavors. Travelers who appreciate small groups and personalized instruction will find this a real gem.

If you’re after a fun, engaging, and educational way to spend an evening in Bologna — and come away with the skills to impress friends back home — this class offers genuine value. It’s also a wonderful choice for families or couples looking for an intimate cultural connection through cooking.

FAQ – Your Practical Questions Answered

Is transportation included? No, private transportation is not included, but the meeting point is near public transit.

What is the maximum group size? Up to 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Are vegetarian options available? Yes, Alessia prepares sauces and pastas suitable for vegetarians.

How long does the class last? Approximately 3 hours, from late afternoon to early evening.

What is included in the price? The class, all necessary ingredients, and alcoholic beverages (wine). Recipes are provided for home cooking.

Can I cancel? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is this experience suitable for children or pets? The class is welcoming, but beware that Alessia has a cat, Pol, who usually sleeps during the class. Service animals are allowed.

What should I wear or bring? Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for cooking. No special equipment needed — just a willingness to get hands-on.

Is this experience suitable for solo travelers? Absolutely. Many reviews mention meeting interesting people from all over the world, making it great for solo adventurers.

The Sum Up

For anyone craving an authentic taste of Bologna’s culinary traditions, Alessia’s cooking class offers an unbeatable combination of hands-on learning, regional flavors, and warm hospitality. You’ll leave with new skills, a full belly, and stories to tell. It’s a wonderful way to connect with Italian culture in a personal setting, ideal for food lovers, curious travelers, and anyone eager to create their own Italian feast.

If you’re looking for a memorable, genuine experience that goes beyond the typical tour, this class is well worth considering. Just be prepared to get a little flour on your hands and maybe a few compliments on your pasta!