Experience Review: Rome’s Gourmet Ice Cream Class with Aperitif

If you’re looking for an activity that combines a bit of kitchen creativity with a taste of local flavors, this Gourmet Ice Cream Class with Aperitif in Rome might just be your cup of (gelato) tea. While we haven’t personally tried it, the details paint a picture of a fun, authentic experience that appeals to food lovers and curious travelers alike.

What immediately draws us in are two standout aspects: the chance to create your own savory ice cream flavor and the gluten-free and lactose-free options, which show a real consideration for different dietary needs. Plus, the accompanying gourmet platter of cured meats, cheeses, and local products, paired with a good drink or wine, promises a relaxed yet flavorful encounter.

One thing to keep in mind is the activity duration of 1.5 hours—so it’s a quick burst of fun rather than a long session—and you’ll need to plan ahead to agree on the flavor you want to make. This experience is best suited for adults or kids over 10, especially if you’re eager to get hands-on and enjoy some quality culinary chatting.

Key Points

Interactive Ice Cream Making: Create your own savory flavor, guided step-by-step by an expert ice cream maker.
Gourmet Tasting: Enjoy your homemade ice cream with a carefully curated platter of local cured meats, cheeses, and bruschetta.
Inclusive Options: Gluten-free and lactose-free choices are available, making it accessible for different diets.
Relaxed Atmosphere: Held at Criollo, a cozy bistro in Rome, with small group sizes for a more personal experience.
Educational and Fun: Learn fun facts and anecdotes about ice cream that spice up the session.
Flexible Booking: Reserve now and pay later, with full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Inside Look at the Experience

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Location & Setting

The class takes place at Criollo, il bistrot del gelato, located at Via Giuseppe Bagnera 59. This spot is known for its friendly, welcoming vibe, perfect for a small, intimate group of up to 8 people. The cozy setting feels more like a local hangout than a tourist trap, which we think adds to the charm.

The Workshop Itself

Once you arrive, you’ll be welcomed into a warm, informal environment. The session lasts around 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving plenty of time for hands-on participation. The instructor, who speaks both English and Italian, guides you through each step of making your savory ice cream.

What we particularly appreciate is the focus on personalization—you and your group select the flavor you want to create beforehand, making the process tailored to your tastes. Imagine mixing herbs, cheeses, or even cured meats into your ice cream base; this isn’t your average dessert.

Throughout the session, expect to hear interesting facts and anecdotes about ice cream, making it both a learning and tasting experience. The instructor’s international background ensures a lively, engaging atmosphere.

What You’ll Taste and Eat

After crafting your flavor, you’ll sit down to enjoy it alongside a gourmet platter. Think cold cuts, cheeses, and bruschetta—local products that complement the savory ice cream perfectly. The pairing with a drink or a glass of good wine elevates the experience from casual to quite refined.

For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free and lactose-free options are available, allowing more travelers to join without worry. The inclusion of soft drinks also caters to those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.

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Group Size & Atmosphere

Limited to 8 participants, the small group setting encourages interaction and personalized attention. This size makes it feel more like a gathering of friends than a generic class, which we think enriches the experience. You’ll have plenty of opportunity to ask questions and get tips from an expert in the field.

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Practical Details & Booking

You’ll need to coordinate with the instructor to agree on your flavor choice in advance—this ensures everyone’s preferences are accommodated. The activity can be booked with flexible payment options: reserve now and pay later. Cancellation is also straightforward, with a full refund available if you cancel 24 hours in advance.

Is This Experience Worth It?

When you break down the value, this experience offers a rare combo: hands-on culinary fun, a delicious tasting, and local insights—all in a cozy setting. The cost, considering the personalized activity and gourmet platter, seems reasonable for a unique, memorable experience in Rome.

It’s particularly suited for food lovers eager to learn a new skill, travelers who appreciate local flavors, or those simply looking for a relaxed, enjoyable activity that breaks from traditional sightseeing. Families with kids over 10 might also find it a fun, educational outing, especially if your group enjoys culinary adventures.

The Pros

Interactive and fun, perfect for engaging with local ingredients
Personalized flavor creation adds a special touch
Gourmet tasting with a wine or drink makes it feel indulgent
Small group size fosters a friendly environment
Accommodates dietary restrictions with gluten-free and lactose-free options

The Cons

The activity is relatively short (about 1.5 hours) if you’re looking for an all-day experience
Must coordinate flavors beforehand, which requires some planning
Not suitable for children under 10

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adults and older kids who love food and want a hands-on activity that’s educational but not too formal. If you’re keen on trying something a little different in Rome—beyond the typical gelato tasting—and enjoy pairing food with wine, this class will likely hit the spot.

It’s a great choice for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers who want a memorable, tasty snapshot of Roman culinary artistry. If your idea of fun involves creating something yourself and then relaxing with good food and wine, you’ll feel right at home here.

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Rome: Gourmet Ice Cream Class with Aperitif

FAQ

Do I need any prior cooking experience?
No, this is a beginner-friendly class. The instructor guides you through each step, making it accessible regardless of your cooking skills.

Can I participate if I have dietary restrictions?
Yes, gluten-free and lactose-free options are available, ensuring that most dietary needs are accommodated.

How long is the class?
The session lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including the ice cream making, tasting, and social time.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothes are fine. Since it involves some food preparation, an apron may be provided or you can bring one if you like.

Is it suitable for children?
It’s recommended for kids over 10, as the activity might be a bit involved for younger children.

Can I choose my flavor?
Yes, you will agree on your flavor choice beforehand, so you can pick ingredients that suit your taste.

What is the location like?
The workshop is held at Criollo, a cozy, friendly spot that feels more like a local hangout than a tourist trap, perfect for a relaxed culinary experience.

What’s included in the price?
You get the chance to make your own savory ice cream, enjoy it with a gourmet platter, plus drinks or wine. Soft drinks are also available.

If you’re in Rome and craving a creative, tasty activity that combines learning, local flavors, and a relaxed atmosphere, this Gourmet Ice Cream Class with Aperitif offers a genuinely enjoyable way to spend an afternoon. It’s a perfect blend of culinary curiosity and savoring the good things in life.