No need to travel across the pond for a lesson in Italian cooking; there are dozens of classes scattered across Boston where you can hone your pizza-making techniques and scrub up on your dessert repertoire.
Learn how to make pasta like a pro in the heart of North End, Boston (Photo: Unsplash)
Italy might be the best place to learn how to cook like an Italian, but Boston can’t be far behind. The city has a rich Italian-American heritage, particularly in the North End – Boston’s “Little Italy” – where there are countless Italian restaurants, cafes, and bakeries. There are now dozens of fun Italian cooking classes dotted across the city offering an expert insight into how to introduce a little Dolce Vita into your cooking repertoire. We’ve selected five of the best, based on customer reviews and feedback, value for money, and special inclusions, such as free drink and dinner at the end of the session.
Fresh Pasta Making Class
This cheap and cheerful master class does exactly what it says on the tin. Under the expert gaze of professional chefs, participants learn how to make the perfect pasta dough, use a pasta machine, and roll fresh tagliatelle ribbons like a Nonna. You’ll also learn how to make a delicious Carbonara sauce and sample your efforts at the end. No experience is required and guests are invited to bring their own booze. From $65 per person
Trattoria Italian – Date Night
Can’t take another cocktail bar? For a date with a difference, try this 2.5-hour culinary masterclass. The chef-led session teaches couples how to prepare fettuccine by hand, grill succulent steaks with rocket and fried capers, and then dip into a frozen dessert inspired by a popular Italian cocktail. And, if that’s not enough, you can tuck into your three-course dinner at the end of it. Classes are suitable for ages 18+ and are limited to 16 guests per lesson. From $99 per person
Bold Tuscan Flavours
If you know your regional cuisine and looking for something a little less generic, this Tuscan cooking class is perfect. The 2.5-hour workshop focuses on traditional dishes from Tuscany, with options to cook dishes like strip steak in Chianti Pan sauce, potato gnocchi with basil pesto, and mint chocolate gelato. Classes are limited to 16 people per class and are run by a resident chef. Hot drinks are provided and guests are welcome to bring their own alcohol. From $99 per person.
Pizza Making Class
For the quintessential pizza-making experience, this two-hour workshop is ideal. Conveniently located in Kingston Street and designed for groups – from team-building excursions to Bachelorette parties – guests learn how to craft authentic pizzas from scratch, starting with handcrafted dough and finishing with the freshest toppings. An expert chef guides participants through various culinary techniques too, with tips on how to master the perfect knead. From $120 per person.
Italian Dinner and Tiramisu Class
Led by Chef John Peredina, this three-hour class teaches participants how to master a fresh mozzarella and traditional salad, craft homemade pasta – with tips on how to shape ravioli and fettucini – and create a decadent tiramisu infused with espresso and mascarpone. Lessons are located in Boston’s North End and are limited to 20 people at a time. Beginners are welcome too. From $144 per person.