only in ITALIAN – International aperitif + cooking class in Italian

Review of the “Only in ITALIAN” International Aperitif + Cooking Class

If you’re searching for an experience that combines culture, culinary fun, and lively conversation, then the “Only in ITALIAN” cooking class is worth considering. Set in Milan, this 2.5-hour adventure promises to teach you international recipes, pair them with good wine, and let you enjoy the company of fellow food lovers—all conducted entirely in Italian.

What excites us about this experience is how it balances learning and socializing without feeling overly formal. We especially appreciate that it’s perfect even if you’re not a seasoned chef—no need to worry about having “cooking skills,” because everyone cooks together under the guidance of a friendly and knowledgeable chef. The second highlight? The chance to taste your own creations in a cozy and welcoming setting, often paired with excellent wine.

A potential consideration is that only Italian is spoken, so if your Italian is limited, it might be a bit of a challenge to catch all the nuances. Also, the experience is geared toward adults aged 18 and over, which makes it less suitable for families with young children or those with mobility issues, as wheelchair access isn’t available.

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to practice their Italian, enjoy genuine food, and meet new people in a relaxed environment. If you’re looking for a fun, interactive way to deepen your appreciation for Milanese culture and cuisine, this class could be just the ticket.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Italian language experience paired with international culinary delights
• Hands-on cooking of dishes from around the world, guided by a professional chef
• Relaxed social atmosphere ideal for meeting like-minded travelers and locals
• Tasting session with wines and drinks that make the flavors even better
• No prior cooking skills needed—everyone cooks together and learns in a friendly setting
• Convenient location with a cozy, bright workshop in central Milan

What to Expect from the Experience

Location and Setting
The class takes place at Chef and the City, a professional cooking workshop located on Via Laura Ciceri Visconti. You’ll recognize it easily thanks to three large windows and vibrant red signs. When you arrive, just ring the central bell—don’t enter the building without alerting staff. Inside, you’ll find a warm, inviting environment that combines a small dining room with a professional kitchen setup.

Language and Interaction
Remember, only Italian is spoken, which makes the experience more authentic but also means you’ll want at least some basic Italian skills or a willingness to learn through context. Don’t worry about your cooking background—this isn’t a professional culinary school; it’s a friendly environment where everyone pitches in.

The Welcome and Cooking Process
After arriving and ringing the bell, you’ll be greeted with a small welcome buffet featuring sweet and savory snacks, drinks, tea, and coffee. This is a great opportunity to relax, chat, and get to know your fellow participants.

Next, the real fun begins: you’ll cook three delicious, internationally-inspired appetizers or a dessert. The dishes are carefully chosen to be accessible yet impressive, offering a chance to learn new recipes from different parts of the world. The chef and her team will guide you through each step, so no worries if you’ve never weighed flour or chopped herbs before.

Timing and Structure
The cooking is divided into manageable chunks—about 30 minutes each—allowing time to prepare, cook, and then take a breather. During this pause, the kitchen is prepared for the next set of recipes, which helps keep the experience flowing smoothly.

Tasting and Drinks
The best part? The last hour is dedicated to tasting everything you’ve made, paired with a good glass of wine or a special cocktail. According to reviews, the wine selections are quite good, with about one bottle per four guests, and include sparkling wine and water for all. Many appreciate the chance to enjoy their creations in a friendly, convivial setting, making this more than just a cooking class—it’s a social event.

Atmosphere and Social Vibe
Guests frequently note the relaxed and friendly environment fostered by Chef Ilaria, who is praised for her warmth, expertise, and ability to create a welcoming space. Conversation flows easily, especially as everyone is encouraged to talk about their travels and food experiences, often sharing stories that add depth to the convivial atmosphere.

The Menu: Dishes from Around the World

While the specific dishes vary, you’ll be cooking three appetizers or a dessert from different countries. This diversity is a highlight for many, offering a break from traditional Italian fare and a chance to explore global flavors. For example, you might learn how to prepare a Middle Eastern dip, an Asian-inspired snack, or a Latin American treat.

One thing that travelers consistently mention is how approachable these recipes are. Many reviews express surprise at how easy and quick they are to prepare, yet how impressive they turn out to be. This makes the experience perfect if you’re looking to bring home new ideas for your own cooking repertoire.

Authentic and Fun
As one reviewer puts it, “Chef Ilaria created a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, teaching us how to prepare dishes that are easy to make yet delicious.” The focus on sharing simple, tasty recipes makes this experience accessible for all skill levels.

The Wine and Drinks

The wine pairing is a notable aspect of the experience. Many reviewers highlight the quality of the wines, describing them as good and well-chosen to complement the dishes. The inclusion of sparkling wine, soft drinks, and water ensures everyone can sip and savor without worry. For those who enjoy a little extra, there’s an option to purchase additional wine glasses or bottles, though these aren’t included in the base price.

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Cost and Value

At $50 per person, the class offers solid value considering the ingredients, the guided instruction, and the inclusive drinks. You’re getting a hands-on cooking experience, plenty of tasting, and the chance to practice your Italian—all in a bright, well-organized setting. Many guests remark on the friendliness of the staff and the high quality of the food and wine, which supports the idea that this experience is worth the price.

Practical Details

• Duration: 2.5 hours, making it a manageable evening activity without feeling rushed
• Location: Central Milan, easy to reach, with clear instructions to ring the bell at the shop entrance
• Group size: Typically small, fostering a personalized experience
• Age restriction: Minimum age of 18; not suitable for children or wheelchair users
• What to bring: A hair tie if you have long hair—no other special preparations needed
• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible; pets, strollers, and luggage are not allowed

Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some peace of mind if your plans change last minute.

What the Guests Say

The reviews paint a picture of a consistently positive experience. Guests mention “a fun, friendly environment” and “learning new recipes while having fun” as key highlights. One person even describes it as a “genuine environment where you feel welcomed,” emphasizing the social vibe.

Several reviews praise Chef Ilaria’s ability to transmit her passion and expertise with clarity, simplicity, and warmth. Many mention the quality of the wine and the overall value for money—a good sign that this is a well-organized, enjoyable activity.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This cooking class is ideal for adults who love food and want to practice their Italian in a relaxed, social setting. It’s perfect for those curious about global recipes, looking to add easy yet impressive dishes to their cooking skills, or simply wanting a different way to enjoy an evening in Milan.

It’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues or those in wheelchairs, as accessibility isn’t provided, and children under 18 aren’t allowed.

Final Thoughts

The “Only in ITALIAN” international aperitif and cooking class offers a delightful blend of culinary education, social camaraderie, and culture. Its focus on speaking Italian, trying new recipes, and sharing good wine makes it stand out among typical cooking classes.

You’ll leave with new skills, new friends, and a deeper appreciation for Milan’s lively, welcoming food scene—all in a cozy, well-organized setting. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to practice Italian, taste authentic and international dishes, and enjoy an authentic, fun experience.

If you’re after a memorable evening that balances learning and leisure, this class could be just the right choice for you.

FAQ

Is the experience suitable for people with no cooking experience?
Absolutely. No prior skills are required because everyone cooks together, guided by the chef and her team. It’s designed to be approachable and fun for all levels.

Are dietary restrictions or allergies accommodated?
Guests are asked to declare any food intolerances, allergies, or restrictions in advance. The staff will do their best to accommodate specific needs within the menu.

How many dishes do I cook?
You will prepare three appetizers or a dessert from different parts of the world, with the exact menu varying. The focus is on simple, delicious recipes.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers all the kitchen tools, aprons, gloves, snacks, drinks, coffee, tea, water, soft drinks, and a glass of sparkling wine. One bottle of wine is provided for every four guests.

Can I bring extra alcohol?
Additional bottles or wine glasses can be purchased, but they are not included in the base price.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, reviews suggest it’s a small, intimate group that promotes interaction and personalized attention.

What should I wear?
Just wear something comfortable, and consider tying up long hair with a hair tie. Aprons are provided.

Can I participate if I have limited Italian language skills?
While only Italian is spoken, basic knowledge or enthusiasm to learn through gestures and illustrations will go a long way. The environment is friendly and supportive.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for a genuine, engaging way to enjoy Italian culture through food and conversation, this class ticks all the boxes. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn, taste, and socialize—especially if you value good wine and a welcoming vibe.

You can check availability for your dates here: