Award-Winning Paella & Market in Small Group with Chef Jordi

Discover Authentic Valencian Cuisine with Chef Jordi in Valencia

Imagine spending an afternoon in the lively Russafa neighborhood of Valencia, a city famed for its culinary traditions, especially paella. For about 3.5 hours, you’ll walk through Russafa Market, hand-pick fresh ingredients, and learn how to cook an award-winning paella alongside Chef Jordi, a passionate local with a remarkable culinary pedigree. This experience is priced at $63.60 per person and limits itself to a cozy group of no more than 8 guests, which guarantees personalized attention and a warm, friendly atmosphere.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the intimate size means you won’t be lost in a crowd—perfect for hands-on learning and asking all those burning questions about Valencian cuisine. Second, you’ll enjoy local vendor interactions and a market tour that brings the ingredients’ stories to life, giving you a real taste of Valencian culture.

One potential consideration: as this is a small-group experience, it requires booking at least 28 days in advance. If you’re looking for a quick, last-minute activity, this might not be the best fit.

This tour suits travelers who love food-focused experiences—whether you’re a home cook or a gastronomic enthusiast—especially those eager to understand local traditions and take home a personalized recipe. Also, families with children will find it family-friendly, thanks to the relaxed atmosphere and healthy, sustainable practices.

Key Points

• Intimate group size ensures personalized guidance and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Market shopping offers authentic insights into local ingredients and vendors.
• Hands-on cooking with Chef Jordi, using a contest-winning recipe.
• Includes tapas, sangria, and dessert, making the experience delicious and complete.
• Family-friendly with options for lactose and gluten-free diets.
• Professional guidance from a chef trained at a Michelin-starred school.

An In-Depth Look at the Valencian Paella Experience

The Itinerary: A Day in the Life of Valencian Cuisine

This tour begins at Carrer de Francesc Sempere, 11, the vibrant heart of Russafa, where you meet Chef Jordi and the other participants. The first part of your journey is a market stroll—a lively, colorful experience that brings you face-to-face with local vendors selling everything from fresh seafood to vegetables. Here, Jordi shares stories about the ingredients’ origins, connecting you to Valencia’s food culture in a way that’s both educational and fun.

A highlight for many guests is the opportunity to shop alongside Jordi, who’s genuinely passionate about sustainable practices and healthy ingredients. You’ll learn about what makes certain rice, seafood, and vegetables ideal for paella, and you can ask plenty of questions—whether about how to pick the best ingredients or the history behind Valencian dishes.

Next, the group moves to a cozy, welcoming kitchen. Here, the atmosphere feels more like a gathering at a friend’s home than a formal class, thanks to Jordi’s friendly manner and engaging teaching style. Before cooking, you’ll participate in a sangria workshop—a popular local tradition—and prepare creative tapas, which serve as perfect appetizers. These touches make the experience feel full and satisfying, both culturally and gastronomically.

Cooking the Paella: Step-by-Step, with a Master

The core of the experience is learning to make authentic Valencian paella. Jordi uses his award-winning recipe, which he refined after winning second place at a historic contest back in 2005. You’ll be guided step by step, from sautéing the ingredients to adding the rice and perfectly timing the cooking process.

Guests consistently praise Jordi’s patience and expert tips; as one review states, “Jordi is a talented young man who really knows paella from his roots, heart, and soul.” We loved how he made the process accessible, sharing professional tricks that you can replicate at home. The best part? You get to take photos of your masterpiece, making it a fun and memorable moment.

Enjoying Your Creations

Once the paella is ready, it’s time to sit down and savor your efforts. The ambiance is lively, with music and good company adding to the warmth of the experience. Many reviews highlight how spectacular the dishes taste—”Jordi made the best paella I ever tried,” says one guest.

Aside from the main dish, you’ll enjoy delicious tapas and a creative dessert, complemented by a Mistela shot and a farewell gift, which adds a thoughtful touch to the day. The reviews agree that Jordi’s friendly demeanor and professional guidance made everyone feel at ease and eager to learn.

The Whole Experience in Context

Compared to other cooking classes, this tour’s small size allows for more personal interaction, making it ideal for those who want a more authentic and relaxed experience. The market visit adds a valuable layer of cultural insight, beyond just following a recipe.

It’s also worth noting that Jordi’s experience working with top companies and training at a Michelin-starred school means you’re getting expert guidance, but in a way that’s very down-to-earth. Plus, the family-friendly approach ensures all ages can participate comfortably.

The Value of the Experience

At about $63 for 3.5 hours, this tour offers remarkable value, especially considering the personalized instruction, market shopping, and delicious food included. Guests consistently mention how much they learn, and how this experience transforms their understanding of Valencian cuisine.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This

If you’re someone who appreciates hands-on food experiences and values local authenticity, this tour suits you perfectly. It’s ideal for culinary travelers, families, or anyone eager to bring a piece of Valencia home through a personal recipe and new skills. The small group size makes it perfect for those seeking a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere, rather than a large, impersonal class.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly and welcoming to children, especially since it’s conducted in a relaxed, inclusive environment.

How many people are in each group?
A maximum of 8 guests ensures personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.

What dietary options are available?
The menu is healthy and sustainable, with options for lactose and gluten-free diets.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll get a market tour, ingredients shopping, hands-on cooking, tapas, sangria, dessert, and a farewell gift.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
The experience accommodates special diets, so inform Jordi beforehand if needed.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour starts at Granier, Carrer de Francesc Sempere, 11, which is near public transportation, making it easy to reach in Valencia.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Final Word

This award-winning paella and market experience with Chef Jordi offers more than just a cooking class. It’s a chance to connect with local culture, learn authentic techniques, and enjoy a delicious meal in an intimate setting. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or simply curious about Valencian flavors, this tour will leave you with new skills, a full belly, and a deeper appreciation for Valencia’s culinary soul. Perfect for those who want a genuine, interactive, and fun food adventure—this experience promises to be memorable and satisfying on every level.