Rome: Tonnarello Cacio & Ama Cooking class with Dinner & Wine

Discover Authentic Roman Food with a Cooking Class in the Jewish Ghetto

If you’re seeking a hands-on culinary experience in Rome that goes beyond just eating, then the Tonnarello Cacio & Ama Cooking Class with Dinner & Wine offers an engaging glimpse into traditional Roman cuisine. This 3-hour, small-group experience is led by a passionate chef who has learned the secrets of making pasta from his grandmother, making it a perfect blend of history, culture, and delicious food.

One of the things we love most about this experience is its intimate setting—you’re not lost in a large crowd but instead sharing a cozy, 12th-century eatery in the Jewish Ghetto, a neighborhood packed with stories and flavors. Plus, the inclusion of all ingredients and wine makes it both convenient and great value.

A potential consideration? Since the food isn’t kosher and the experience is quite hands-on, it might not suit those with strict dietary needs or very young children. But if you’re a foodie eager to learn Roman cooking techniques in an authentic atmosphere, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

This class is ideal for travelers who enjoy culture, love good wine, and want to leave with practical skills they can show off back home.

Key Points

• Authentic Roman recipes: Learn to make traditional pasta and sauces directly from a chef passionate about his craft.
• Small-group intimacy: A maximum of 10 travelers ensures personalized attention and a friendly vibe.
• All-inclusive experience: Ingredients, equipment, wine, and water are provided, making it a seamless experience.
• Cultural insights: Guides share fascinating stories about the Jewish Ghetto and its rich culinary traditions.
• Tasty and filling: You’ll enjoy a hearty meal of pasta, fried seasonal appetizers, and a sweet ricotta cheesecake.
• Fun and engaging: Expect a lively, humorous atmosphere with plenty of tips and tricks from your chef.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Meeting in the Heart of the Jewish Ghetto

Your journey begins in Piazza Mattei, a charming square bursting with character. From here, your guide, Benedetta, will lead you to the historic restaurant where the magic happens. Reviews consistently mention her knowledge about the Jewish Ghetto’s history—not just about food, but about the neighborhood’s stories and legends, adding depth to the experience.

The Historic Setting

The restaurant itself dates back to the 12th century—an ambiance that immediately transports you to a different time, with stone walls and old-world charm. This isn’t a sterile cooking studio; it’s a place with layers of history, much like the food you’ll be preparing.

Hands-On Pasta Making

The core of the class is learning to make pasta from scratch. Under the guidance of Chef Gabriele, you’ll start by cleaning and preparing seasonal vegetables—think artichokes or zucchini flowers depending on the time of year—and then move on to crafting two different sauces from fresh ingredients. You’ll get to challenge yourself at the stove, aiming to cook a perfect al dente pasta that you can savor later.

Many reviewers highlight how engaging and humorous Chef Gabriele is—he makes the process fun, sharing little secrets and tips along the way. One guest mentioned that the class was “full of joy and laughs,” which is a common theme among reviews.

Sampling the Fruits of Your Labor

Once your pasta and sauces are ready, it’s time to sit down. The meal includes authentic Roman dishes like cacio e pepe and amatriciana, paired with generous pours of Italian wine. The experience is more than just cooking; it’s tasting your creations in a convivial setting.

You’ll also indulge in the “gift of the chef”: a homemade ricotta cheesecake—a sweet finale that many say is worth the trip alone. One reviewer called it “delicious” and appreciated it as a perfect end to their meal.

Learning the Local Culture

Throughout the class, Benedetta shares insights about the Jewish Ghetto’s food traditions and the neighborhood’s history. Guests praise her for her “knowledgeable” and “helpful” guidance, which elevates the experience beyond just cooking.

All-Inclusive and Family-Friendly

The price of approximately $103.37 per person covers everything—ingredients, equipment, water, wine, and a cotton apron to remember the day. The class is suitable for kids, vegetarians, vegans, and those with other dietary preferences, though it’s important to note that foods are not kosher.

Authentic, Yet Relaxed Atmosphere

The reviews consistently emphasize how fun and personalized the experience is. One guest mentioned singing and lively atmosphere, making it feel more like a gathering of friends than a formal class. The small-group size ensures everyone gets individual attention, and the guide’s translation makes the experience accessible for non-Italian speakers.

Practical Details and Why They Matter

Duration and Meeting Point

The class lasts about three hours, starting at a central spot in Rome—Via del Portico d’Ottavia. Being in a central location makes it easy to incorporate into your sightseeing day. Because it ends at the same point, you can seamlessly continue exploring the area afterward.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Limited to 10 travelers, the small group ensures a more intimate, engaging experience. This fosters interaction, making it ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups.

Cost and Value

At roughly $103.37 per person, the experience includes a full meal, drinks, apron, and recipes to take home—offering excellent value. Considering the personalized instruction and the authentic setting, it’s a worthwhile investment for anyone eager to take a bit of Rome home in their cooking skills.

Accessibility and Weather

The class operates in all weather conditions, so regardless of Rome’s unpredictable skies, your experience is protected. Just dress appropriately for the season.

Dietary Considerations

While suitable for vegetarians and vegans, the class isn’t kosher and contains allergens like gluten, milk, eggs, nuts, and soy. Travelers with allergies should inform the provider in advance.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This class is perfect for food lovers who want a more genuine taste of Rome away from tourist traps. It’s especially suitable for those interested in culinary techniques, cultural stories, and wine. Families with children who enjoy hands-on activities will find this fun and educational, while couples can enjoy a romantic, lively evening.

If you’re looking for a personalized, authentic, and delicious way to experience Roman cuisine, this class checks all boxes. It’s much more than just cooking; it’s about understanding food’s role in culture, sharing laughs, and creating memories over a hearty meal.

FAQs

Is the class suitable for children?
Yes, the class is suitable for kids, and many reviews mention families having a great time. Just keep in mind the food contains allergens, and the experience is hands-on, so younger children should be supervised accordingly.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Vegetarians and vegans are welcome, but it’s not kosher. If you have specific allergies, inform the provider beforehand, as the menu includes gluten, milk, eggs, nuts, and soy.

Where does the class meet?
The meeting point is in Piazza Mattei, within easy reach of public transportation.

How long is the class?
Approximately three hours, making it a manageable activity that won’t take up your entire day.

What’s included in the price?
All ingredients, cooking equipment, water, wine, a cotton apron, recipes, and a small souvenir.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Do I need prior cooking experience?
No, the class is suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned home cooks.

Is the food filling?
Yes, the meal of pasta, fried appetizers, and cheesecake is quite generous—satisfying enough to serve as dinner.

What makes this class special?
The authentic setting, expert guidance, and stories about the Jewish Ghetto make it more than just a cooking lesson—it’s a cultural experience.

Final Thoughts

For anyone eager to learn authentic Roman cooking techniques in a setting that’s steeped in history and culture, this class offers a fantastic combination of education, fun, and flavor. The small-group atmosphere ensures you get personalized attention, while the inclusion of wine and a delicious meal makes it feel more like a celebration.

Whether you’re a solo traveler wanting a meaningful activity, a couple celebrating a special occasion, or a family looking for a memorable outing, this experience delivers an engaging taste of Rome’s culinary soul. The stories, the laughter, and the delicious food all come together to create a truly authentic Italian memory that you’ll carry home long after the plates are cleared.

In summary, this small-group pasta class offers excellent value, expert guidance, and a taste of local culture, making it a must-do for foodies exploring Rome.