Cooking Class with Fire

Posted By : ExploringAngelo
The most amazing experience! Mario was the best host, both really attentive but also funny and insightful. 100% recommend and great value for money.

We were picked up and driven 20 mins outside of Florence. We stopped on the way to take pictures by the vineyards and olive farms. We then arrived at the most picturesque location by a lake with a dining area and kitchen. We proceeded to make 2 pastas, stopping to eat after each. As we are vegetarian, Mario kindly asked us what we would like instead and we chose aubergine parmigiana. It was amazing. We were constantly topped up on wine throughout the night. And made good friends with another couple there too.
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Posted On : 2024-05-14 06:03:24

Posted By : kem6v
The trip leader and chef, Mario, drove our van from downtown Florence to a beautiful farm growing olives and grapes outside of the city. The class took place in an outdoor kitchen beside a large farm pond stocked with carp-like fish that swam over when they saw us, clearly expecting some snacks! We prepared two kinds of pasta and sauce, while Mario grilled us a steak, then ate it along with two varieties of Chianti. A very fun experience in a spectacular setting.
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Posted On : 2024-05-09 16:48:15

Posted By : williamrr2023
This was an amazing experience that I recommend for anyone,any age. As a family we really enjoy this day. Out of all the places we went, this one without a dought was the most memorable. Gonzalo is an excellent host and cook. Food was delicious, the ambience was excellent and service was 5 starts. Without a dought everyone should visit and do this tour. It will not be forgotten.
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Posted On : 2024-05-06 10:14:21

Posted By : Lisa L
Such a memorable evening with Mario. We stumbled upon Home Cooking walking down a street in Florence. Our teenage son is very interested in cooking so it caught our eye. After speaking with Mario and reading the reviews, we decided to go. The trip to the Villa was a beautiful drive. We stopped along the way to walk and take in the countryside. The pasta lessons were easy and hands on. The food we made from the fresh ingredients was delicious. The wine paring was perfect. We also met other travelers who were interesting to talk to. 1000% the best thing we have done in Italy.
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Posted On : 2024-04-25 03:57:02

Posted By : jgjds
We took the course on conventional pasta, gluten-free pasta and the famous Fiorentina bisteca. Mario, the chef, is an exceptional host. Excellent teacher and wonderful place. I recommend and would do it again. Ask for Randy!
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Posted On : 2024-04-18 09:38:38

Posted By : DerekHolohan
Had an amazing time learning to make pasta and cook them in homemade sauce too, great tips even if you're a pro..........
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Posted On : 2024-04-06 13:30:08

Posted By : Maps39665536221
This was such a fantastic experience! Gonzalo is an excellent teacher and so fun! Highly recommend to anyone interested in great views, great food, and great company. We will definitely come back to learn something new on our next visit. Thank you so much for such a wonderful experience!!!

Questa è stata un'esperienza fantastica! Gonzalo è un insegnante eccellente e così divertente! Lo consiglio vivamente a chiunque sia interessato a splendidi panorami, ottimo cibo e ottima compagnia. Torneremo sicuramente per imparare qualcosa di nuovo durante la nostra prossima visita. Grazie mille per un'esperienza così meravigliosa!!!
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Posted On : 2024-04-03 16:48:38

Posted By : dtJ1792GQ
Mine was a late afternoon private tour with Gonzalo. We met at Santa Croce and walked for the first 1 1/2 hours with Gonzalo providing a history of the area, answering all my questions. His is not the typically dry "names and dates" history; he provides unique insights, tells stories, makes the past come alive. After our walking tour we travelled to the countryside not far away where he cooked outdoors using traditional methods. When I look back on my 5 weeks in Florence, this was a highlight experience: sitting at the edge of a pond, sipping a glass of local wine, watching the birds, fish, and turtles, in the peace and calm of early evening. So quiet! Such a contrast from the noise and busy-ness of the city. Dinner was "real," expertly prepared from simple ingredients, and very tasty. I felt completely comfortable and happy with my tour. Thank you, Gonzalo, for such a wonderfully memorable time. If/when I return to Florence, I'll be re-booking a tour with you.
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Posted On : 2023-12-30 15:02:34

Posted By : Dreamer16334117447
We had a wonderful evening in the hills outside Florence. Gonzalo, our host, was entertaining and instructive, showing us that ItaIian cooking does not need to be complicated. The kitchen was charming with its wood fire and large kitchen table for everyone to work around. We went in the evening, so we couldn’t see the countryside, but imagine it would be beautiful. If you want to have a great afternoon or evening adventure, contact Gonzalo.
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Posted On : 2023-11-06 12:04:04

Posted By : 552betsyg
This experience was one of the unexpected highlights of my Italy trip! I didnt initially plan to join a cooking class on vacation, but I stumbled upon the office on the way back to our hotel. And, I'm so glad I did! The Tuscan location was as advertised - beautiful and serene. Gonzalo's genuine passion for people, cooking, food and fellowship was evident from start to finish. This was a hands-on class that included lots of laughter and fun while learning. By the end of the night, our random group of strangers turned into what seemed like a family, sharing life experiences and stories over delicious, handmade food! I definitely recommend this class if you are thinking about one for your next trip.
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Posted On : 2023-10-25 21:48:58