Paella Private Cooking Class in Sitges

If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to make real Spanish paella, this private cooking class in Sitges offers a fantastic way to dive into Catalan cuisine. For $139.63 per person, you get roughly three hours of instruction from passionate chefs Alec and Michal, in a beautifully transformed rooftop studio overlooking Sitges. This experience combines cooking, tasting, and cultural stories, all wrapped into a relaxed, friendly atmosphere that makes you feel more like a guest in someone’s home than a tourist in a class.

Two aspects stand out immediately. First, the hands-on approach means you won’t just watch someone cook—you’ll be actively involved, learning the secrets of choosing ingredients, balancing flavors, and cooking the perfect rice. Second, the stunning rooftop setting with sweeping views creates a unique backdrop for the meal, making the entire experience feel special and memorable.

One possible consideration is weather dependency—since the class takes place in open air, rain or bad weather could disrupt plans, though the hosts are flexible with rescheduling or refunds. Also, since the class is tailored to specific types of paella (Meat, Valenciana, Seafood, or Paella Mixta), it’s best to confirm your preference well in advance.

This experience is ideal for food lovers eager to learn, travelers who appreciate authentic local flavors, and groups seeking a relaxed, culturally rich activity. If you’re interested in not just tasting but understanding Spanish cuisine, this class ticks all those boxes.

Key Points

• Hands-on cooking delivers a genuine learning experience about authentic Spanish paella.
• Stunning rooftop location enhances the ambiance and makes the class memorable.
• Expert guidance from Chef Alec and Michal simplifies complex techniques, making it accessible.
• Includes tapas tasting and drinks, adding variety and value.
• Weather considerations are important; open-air setting may require rescheduling.
• Participants receive recipes, photos, and a special olive oil as keepsakes.

A Deep Dive into the Paella Private Cooking Class in Sitges

Location and Setting

This class is based in Sitges, just outside Barcelona, at a spacious 100 sqm rooftop. It’s a bright, welcoming space with a large family-style table, cozy sofa area, and even a BBQ setup, perfectly suited for a relaxed culinary class. From here, you’ll get a beautiful view of Sitges, making it a delightful backdrop for your culinary adventure. The outdoor setting provides fresh air and a lively ambiance, which is especially nice in good weather.

The Chefs and Their Approach

Chef Alec, who leads the class, is described as a warm and welcoming host. His approach is to show that cooking traditional Spanish food is simple and fun, and his enthusiasm is contagious. During the class, he promises to reveal secrets of selecting ingredients and making the right proportions, which is often where home cooks struggle. Chef Michal, his partner, shares the same passion, ensuring personalized attention. Their goal is to make you feel comfortable, guiding you through each step with patience and humor.

The Curriculum: What You’ll Learn

The core of this experience is learning how to cook paella from scratch. You’ll discuss the dish’s history and cultural significance, adding context that elevates the cooking beyond just recipes. You’ll learn how to select ingredients, whether seafood, meat, or a mix, and how to balance flavors with the right seasoning and rice.

The class includes an explanation of how to make Sangria and Crema Catalana, two iconic Spanish drinks and desserts, adding even more flavor to your culinary journey. The hosts emphasize that cooking authentic Spanish food is accessible, breaking down barriers that might intimidate home cooks.

The Cooking Process

Expect to be hands-on—you’ll chop, stir, and season—guided by the chefs. The actual cooking takes place in open air, adding a lively, engaging element. Throughout, you’ll sip on local wines and Sangria, which enhances the experience and helps you appreciate the pairing of food and drink.

The Meal and Tasting

Once the paella is ready, you’ll gather around the big family table, enjoy the tapas tasting included with the class, and savor the dish you’ve just prepared. The chefs believe in eating together with good wine and a hearty appetite, which creates a convivial atmosphere. You’ll also get to take home a small gift—a bottle of local olive oil—and all the recipes and photos captured during the class.

Practical Details and Logistics

The meeting point is located at Carrer Lluís Companys, 8 in Sitges. The class runs twice a week: Tuesday to Saturday from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM during the spring and summer months, and from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM in late fall and early winter. It’s a private tour, so only your group participates, allowing for personalized attention.

Booking tends to be made well in advance—about 46 days on average—and it’s wise to contact the host ahead of time to specify your preferred paella type and inform about any allergies or dietary restrictions.

Authenticity and Reviews

Although direct reviews are limited, one reviewer describes the experience as “more than just a masterclass”, highlighting the warm hospitality and stunning rooftop venue. They appreciated the cultural insights and the fun, approachable style of Chef Alec. The fact that the class includes tapas tasting and drinks adds to the value, making it more than just cooking—it’s a full cultural experience.

Price and Value

At $139.63 per person, this class offers a comprehensive hands-on experience with expert guidance in a beautiful setting. When you consider the included food, drinks, recipes, photos, and souvenir olive oil, the value becomes clear. It’s a great investment for anyone wanting to go beyond sightseeing and learn a tangible skill rooted in local tradition.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

Since the class takes place outdoors, bad weather can impact the experience. However, the hosts are flexible and will reschedule or provide a full refund if necessary. Cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This class is perfect for foodies eager to learn authentic Spanish cooking, especially those who enjoy interactive, social activities. It’s well-suited for couples, small groups, or families who want a relaxed, meaningful cultural activity that ends with a delicious meal. If you’re curious about Catalan cuisine or simply want a fun, memorable way to spend an evening in Sitges, this class hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

The Paella Private Cooking Class in Sitges offers a unique blend of hands-on cooking, cultural storytelling, and scenic views. It’s more than just a lesson; it’s an immersion into a beloved Spanish tradition led by passionate chefs who want you to succeed and enjoy. The setting, the company, and the tasty results make this experience stand out from typical tourist activities.

Whether you’re a culinary novice or an experienced home cook, you’ll come away with new skills, a deeper appreciation for Spanish cuisine, and a delightful evening of good food and good company. It’s a wonderful way to connect with local culture in an authentic and enjoyable manner.

FAQ

Is this a private class?
Yes, this is a private experience, so only your group will participate, allowing for personalized attention.

How long does the class last?
The class lasts approximately 3 hours, from late afternoon or evening, depending on the schedule.

What do I need to do to confirm my preferred paella type?
You should contact the host at least 24 hours before the class to specify whether you want Meat, Valenciana, Seafood, or Paella Mixta.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the class includes a glass of local wine and Sangria, enhancing the tasting experience.

What do I get at the end of the class?
You’ll enjoy your homemade paella, receive recipes, photos taken during the class, and a small bottle of local olive oil as a gift.

Is the outdoor setting affected by weather?
Yes, since the class is held outdoors, poor weather might lead to rescheduling or refund, but the host is flexible.

Can children join?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed, family-friendly vibe suggests it could be suitable for older children or teenagers, especially if they enjoy cooking.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the class, with full refunds offered in the case of bad weather or schedule conflicts.

How do I get there?
The meeting point is accessible via public transportation in Sitges, making it convenient for most travelers.

Embark on this flavorful journey and learn how to craft authentic Spanish paella, all while enjoying stunning views and warm hospitality—an experience you’ll cherish long after the last bite.