Spritz and Spaghetti: Small Group Tipsy Cooking Class

If you’re thinking about adding a hands-on experience to your trip to Rome, this “Spritz and Spaghetti” class might just be the ticket. It’s not your typical guided tour; instead, it offers a chance to get your hands dirty (in a good way), learn some authentic Italian recipes, and enjoy a few well-crafted drinks along the way. With a perfect 5.0-star rating from over 1,100 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this experience genuinely enjoyable—and for good reason.

What we love about this class is how informal yet educational it feels. You’re not just watching a chef cook; you’re actively involved in making pasta from scratch and mixing three different spritz cocktails. Plus, the emphasis on small groups means you’ll get a more personalized experience, which is often rare in busy city tours. A potential downside? If you or your travel companions have gluten intolerances, vegan, or dairy-free diets, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re after a lively, tasty afternoon with a touch of Italy’s best drinks and food, read on.

This experience is especially suited for curious travelers who enjoy interactive foodie adventures. It’s also perfect if you’re keen to meet other visitors and want to take home a few recipes to impress friends back home. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just eager to try making pasta and cocktails in Rome, this class delivers.

Key Points

• Hands-on Cooking: You’ll learn to make fresh pasta and traditional sauces like cacio e pepe or carbonara.
• Drink Mastery: Mix three classic Italian spritzes—Aperol, Hugo, and Limoncello—while you cook.
• Small Group Atmosphere: With a maximum of 14 travelers, expect a more intimate and engaging experience.
• Expert Guidance: Local chefs guide you through each step, sharing tips and tricks.
• Delicious Ending: Enjoy your homemade pasta paired with your favorite spritz, making it a meal to remember.
• Take-home Recipes: Leave with printed recipes to recreate the magic at home.

What to Expect from the Experience

Joining this class is like stepping into a lively kitchen in the heart of Rome, where everyone’s ready to get their hands floury and their glasses filled. The experience kicks off at Via Cesare Balbo, close to public transportation, making it easy to find. You’ll start with a friendly introduction to your chef and your fellow classmates, setting the tone for a relaxed, fun atmosphere.

The first part of the class is dedicated to mastering the art of the spritz. You’ll learn how to craft three different cocktails—Aperol, Hugo, and Limoncello spritz—while chatting and getting to know your group. These drinks are iconic in Italy and perfect for setting a festive mood. The guides make sure everyone’s glasses are full, adding to the convivial vibe.

Once everyone’s had their share of spritz, it’s time to get serious about pasta. Using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, you’ll roll, cut, and cook your own homemade fettuccine. The chef will walk you through making a traditional sauce—either cacio e pepe or carbonara. Many reviews mention the lively, interactive nature of this segment, with “lots of helpful tips and clear instructions” from guides like Jovana and Jenny. You’ll be surprised how approachable making pasta can be when guided by someone who knows what they’re doing.

While cooking, you’re also enjoying a Hugo spritz, which is a nice touch to keep things light and fun. The class emphasizes enjoyment over perfection, so don’t worry if your pasta isn’t Instagram perfect. The goal is to learn, have fun, and enjoy a delicious meal at the end.

As the final step, you’ll sit down with your group, your chef, and your freshly made pasta, which many describe as “absolutely delicious”. The experience wraps up with a Limoncello spritz and plenty of good chatter. Many reviewers like Jeffrey and Samantha highlight the “informative, relaxing, and downright fun” nature of the event.

The Food and Drinks: Simple, Tasty, Authentic

The menu is intentionally straightforward—pasta done from scratch paired with a classic Italian sauce. Given that no gluten-free, vegan, or dairy-free options are available, it’s best suited for those without strict dietary restrictions. That said, the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the chefs make all the difference. Multiple reviews rave about how “the pasta was so yummy” and “the drinks were well-mixed and refreshing”.

You’ll get to mix your own three spritzes—Aperol, Hugo, and Limoncello—each offering a different taste of Italy’s cocktail culture. The soft drinks and unlimited water help keep everyone hydrated, especially after a few drinks and some vigorous pasta rolling.

The Cost and Value

At $95 per person, this class offers good value considering what’s included—hands-on cooking, multiple cocktails, recipes to take home, and a lively social atmosphere. Many reviews emphasize how much fun they had for the price, especially noting the quality of the food and the friendly guides. It’s a relaxed, entertaining way to spend an afternoon and get a taste of authentic Roman flavors without sitting in a crowded restaurant.

The Group Size and Atmosphere

Maximum 14 travelers keeps the atmosphere intimate enough for everyone to participate and ask questions. Guests consistently mention the “friendly, knowledgeable hosts” who keep things engaging and fun. The reviews describe the guides as energetic, helpful, and full of tips, which makes a big difference when you’re learning something new.

The Practicalities

The meeting point is easy to find, close to public transportation, which is convenient when navigating Rome’s busy streets. The class lasts about three hours—perfect for an afternoon activity. Since it ends back at the starting point, you’re free to continue exploring afterward or relax with your new pasta recipes.

It’s important to note that, due to the menu prepared, they cannot accommodate gluten-free, vegan, or dairy-free diets. If you have dietary restrictions, you might want to look elsewhere. Also, due to the Jubilee, some monuments might be under restoration, so it’s worth checking messages from the tour provider if you have specific sightseeing plans.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This class is ideal for travelers who enjoy interactive food experiences and social settings. If you love the idea of learning a new skill, making friends, and tasting your own creations, you’ll get a lot out of this. It’s particularly suitable for those who don’t mind a few drinks while they work, as the spritzes are a central part of the fun.

However, if you have strict dietary restrictions or prefer a more formal cooking class with detailed culinary techniques, this might not be the ideal choice. It’s more about the fun, relaxed vibe than perfecting your pasta-making skills.

Final Thoughts

This “Spritz and Spaghetti” class successfully combines a taste of Italy’s culinary staples with a lively social scene. You’ll leave with new recipes, a full belly, and hopefully new friends. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon if you’re in Rome and want to try something a little different from the usual sightseeing.

For anyone keen on learning to make pasta from scratch while sipping on authentic Italian cocktails, this experience hits the mark. It’s casual, fun, and perfectly suited to those who want to enjoy good food in good company. Just keep in mind the dietary restrictions, and you’ll have yourself a memorable Roman day.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children? This tour is geared towards adults; it involves alcohol, so it’s not suitable for children.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. Less than that, and you won’t get your money back.

Are there vegan or gluten-free options? No, unfortunately not. The menu doesn’t accommodate vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free diets, so plan accordingly.

How long does the class last? About three hours, starting from the meeting point and ending back there.

Is transportation provided? No, but the meeting point is near public transit, making it easy to reach.

What’s included in the price? You’ll get a chef-led workshop, three spritz cocktails, unlimited water and soft drinks, your handmade pasta with sauce, and recipes to take home.

Would I meet other travelers? Absolutely. The small group size and lively guides make it easy to connect with others, making it a social highlight of your trip.

Is this good for solo travelers? Yes, many reviews mention meeting new friends, so solo travelers will likely enjoy the friendly, communal vibe.

Whether you’re a pasta novice or just looking for a fun Roman activity, this class offers a chance to enjoy Italy’s best flavors in a relaxed, friendly setting. Just bring your appetite and your sense of humor—you’ll leave with a full belly and a smile.