Francesco is a passionate home cook and guitarist from Puglia who hosts an authentic Italian cooking class in central Venice, right in his Venetian apartment. Raised in a family where food was everything, he learned traditional Italian recipes from his parents and his grandmother, who shared generations of secrets for fresh pasta and classic desserts. Specializing in handmade pasta and iconic Italian dishes, Francesco teaches guests how to cook from scratch using fresh, local ingredients. His experience feels like an Italian grandma’s Sunday lunch - warm, genuine, and full of flavor and it always ends with a live guitar performance in the kitchen!
Please note menu might vary. If there are particular dishes you are interested in trying, please include your request in the booking form.
Cooking experience:
(1-5 guests)
Join Francesco in his apartment for a 2-hour hands-on pasta-making class in Venice. The experience begins on Giudecca, where you’ll meet in front of the Church of the Redentore and take a short walk through an ancient Venetian boatyard, a fascinating historic space, before arriving at Francesco’s home. Once inside, enjoy a stunning view from his apartment while savoring a welcome board of local cheeses and homemade bruschetta, topped with either fresh pesto or classic tomato. Then it’s time to put on your apron and begin your authentic Venetian cooking class. You’ll start by preparing a traditional Italian dessert, such as tiramisù, panna cotta or cheesecake, before moving on to fresh pasta made from scratch, including both the dough and a flavorful sauce, using high-quality, local ingredients. The cooking class lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, during which you'll share stories, laugh, talk about Venice, and enjoy a glass of local wine.
After cooking, sit down together to enjoy the meal you’ve helped prepare. The experience concludes with a live acoustic guitar performance in the kitchen, a special moment Francesco loves sharing with his guests. Before saying goodbye, you’ll receive printed recipes and a small jar of homemade herb salt, a thoughtful keepsake to remember your time in Venice.
This Venice cooking class is ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a hands-on, immersive Italian food experience in a local home.
Notes: Francesco can accommodate vegetarian, vegan and lactose free diets if informed in advance. Francesco' home comfortably accommodates up to 4 guests. He is, however, happy to welcome a family of 5, although the space may feel a bit cozy.
Languages spoken: English, Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese and Mandarin Chinese
Francesco was so kind and accommodating. The food was delicious and he was a great teacher!- jacob July 01, 2026
I am a travel advisor and my niece and I did our Traveling Spoon class with Francesco and I cannot say enough good things about this experience. He is a gem of a human. We had a FABULOUS time!!! 😊 Francesco is so kind, inviting and engaging with this cooking class. His charming apartment, fun and pleasant conversation and passion for what he does, makes this class the best in Venice. He was an excellent communicator before, during and after. Will definitely recommend to future travel clients and friends.- Hillary O June 09, 2026
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