Private Florence Cooking Class with a Humorous Local Mirella

A genuine, down-to-earth look at the Florence private cooking class with Mirella

If you’re dreaming of truly experiencing Florence beyond its famous sights, this private cooking class in Antella might catch your eye. From what we’ve seen in reviews and descriptions, this experience offers a relaxed, authentic look at Tuscan cuisine led by a cheerful local couple. It’s a chance to roll up your sleeves and learn recipes that have been passed down through generations—yet it’s done in a friendly, intimate setting, rather than a crowded restaurant or tourist trap.

Two things that immediately stand out about this experience are its personalized approach and the friendly guidance of Mirella and Stefano. You’ll appreciate how they bring their passion for local food and culture into every step, making the lessons feel like a visit with friends rather than a formal class. And, if you enjoy wine and good conversation, you’ll love the pairing of delicious dishes with complimentary drinks like prosecco, wine, or limoncello.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that this experience is quite specific—it’s geared toward those who want an authentic, hands-on culinary adventure in a private setting. Expect a 3-hour slice of Tuscan life, which is fantastic if you’re after a meaningful connection to local traditions but may feel a bit quick if you’re craving a broader culinary tour.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love to cook or want a practical, memorable souvenir from Florence. It’s also suitable if you’re traveling with someone who appreciates good food, a bit of humor, and a relaxed environment. Families with children over 11 might also find it appealing, especially if they want a shared activity that’s both fun and educational.

Key Points

• Personalized, private experience in a charming Florentine home
• Hands-on cooking of 3-4 traditional Tuscan dishes
• Authentic guidance from a cheerful local couple, Mirella and Stefano
• Includes wine and liqueurs for pairing with your meal
• Flexible scheduling: choose lunchtime or dinner classes
• Ideal for food lovers wanting a genuine connection to Tuscan cuisine

What you can expect from this cooking class in Florence

An intimate, authentic setting

Unlike large-group classes or touristy dinners, this experience is all about fellowship and learning in a cozy, private home. The class takes place in Mirella’s lovely outdoor garden or her home kitchen, weather permitting, which adds a peaceful, scenic touch to your culinary journey. This setting makes the whole experience feel like a visit to a friend’s place rather than a commercial operation.

The instructors: Mirella and Stefano

Mirella is the star here—her passion for Tuscan food and her sense of humor instantly put everyone at ease. She’s rooted in Florentine and Renaissance traditions, ensuring that you’re not just cooking but also picking up stories and insights into local food heritage. Stefano’s role as a guide is more behind the scenes, but his presence adds warmth to the experience.

The dishes and ingredients

Expect a seasonal menu that leverages fresh ingredients, some straight from Mirella’s garden, which adds an extra layer of authenticity. The class involves preparing 3 to 4 courses, likely including antipasti, pasta, a main dish, and a seasonal sauce or side. It’s a focused yet rundown of Tuscan cuisine.

Hands-on cooking and storytelling

One of the joys here is the interactive element. You’ll be actively involved in making your dishes, rather than just watching. Mirella shares stories about Tuscan food history, giving context to each recipe—imagine learning that some dishes date back to Medici times while you knead fresh pasta.

Wine, prosecco, and limoncello

Throughout the class, you’ll enjoy complimentary beverages—the perfect accompaniment to your cooking. Multiple reviews highlight the excellent wine selection and how well they pair with the dishes. You’ll likely find this to be a relaxing, social aspect of the experience.

Flexibility and convenience

You can choose between a lunchtime or evening session, which makes it easier to fit into your Florence itinerary. Plus, no paper tickets are needed—everything is accessible via your mobile, streamlining the process.

The value of this experience

At $286 per person, this class might seem a bit steep at first glance, but in reality, you’re paying for an authentic, private experience that combines culinary skills, cultural stories, and local hospitality. The small group size (just your party plus Mirella and Stefano) ensures personalized attention, and the inclusion of local ingredients and wine makes it a well-rounded experience.

From reviews, we see that many find the experience very worthwhile. Judith_I, for example, called it “an absolutely lovely evening of conversation and learning from two chefs,” emphasizing how easy it was to make delicious food with just a few common ingredients—some sourced directly from Mirella’s garden. The fact that it’s a private session means no rushing or waiting, and you get to immerse yourself fully in the process.

The practical details

• Duration: About 3 hours, which is enough time to enjoy a full meal and learn plenty
• Group size: Private, only your party
• Inclusions: Pasta making, selected dishes, wine, prosecco, limoncello
• Exclusions: Hotel transfers (so plan transportation accordingly)
• Availability: Book around 102 days in advance on average, so plan ahead if you want a specific date
• Booking: Mobile tickets issued for convenience

Considerations for travelers

While the experience is very well-reviewed, keep in mind that it’s a cooking lesson, not a full sightseeing tour. You’ll spend most of your time in the kitchen or garden, so if you’re after a long cultural tour, you might want to combine this with other activities. Also, children over 11 are welcomed, but younger kids may find the pace or the concept less engaging.

Who this experience is perfect for

This private Florence cooking class is best suited for visitors who value authentic, personalized experiences and enjoy the idea of learning new skills while traveling. If you love good food, wine, and stories, Mirella’s warm guidance will make this memorable. It’s particularly ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or even families with older children wanting a shared, educational activity.

Travelers who want to take home more than just souvenirs—who want a tangible skill and a deeper appreciation of Tuscan cuisine—will find this class rewarding. Those seeking a relaxed, intimate atmosphere will also appreciate the peaceful garden setting and the personalized attention.

FAQ

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, giving you personalized attention from Mirella and Stefano.

Can I choose between a lunch or dinner class?
Yes, you can pick between a lunchtime or dinnertime session, which provides flexibility for your itinerary.

Are ingredients included?
Yes, fresh ingredients are provided, many of which are from Mirella’s garden, ensuring seasonal and authentic flavors.

Do I need a ticket or reservation in advance?
You need to book in advance, typically about 102 days ahead, and mobile tickets are provided so you can easily access your booking.

Is this suitable for children?
Children aged 11 and under can join at a discount, making it a good family activity if your kids are interested in cooking.

Are transportation arrangements included?
No, hotel transfers are not included, so plan your transportation to and from Antella accordingly.

To sum it up, this private Florence cooking class offers a lovely blend of hands-on learning, local culture, and delicious food, all led by a warm and humorous host. It’s perfect if you’re craving a more genuine taste of Tuscany, want to learn recipes you can recreate at home, or simply enjoy a relaxing, intimate culinary experience. While it may not suit those looking for a quick sightseeing fix or a large-group activity, it’s a true treasure for food lovers and those wanting a meaningful, personal connection to Florence’s culinary traditions.