Rome, the Eternal City, is a feast for the senses. There are far too many icons whispering legends to list here, but, just briefly, my fave is Fontana delle Tartarughe, at Piazza Mattei. Needless to say, history and beauty are everywhere. But what captures the heart (which in Italy is extremely closely related to the stomach) of a city? It’s cuisine, I would argue. So, today I propose to you a slightly unusual immersive Roman experience: consider stepping away from the tourist trail and into the heart of a local cooking class.
Daniela’s Cooking School isn’t your average tourist trap — it’s so above average, that you might just want to willingly fall into it. Peeking through Daniela’s warm smile on her Instagram, you get a glimpse into a passionate cook who shares her love for Roman cuisine with infectious enthusiasm — she’s so friendly and sincere. Founded in 2003, Daniela’s school is the best I’ve tried if you’re looking to level up in the culinary traditions passed down through generations, all within the charming Trastevere neighborhood.
From Market Frenzy to Forkfuls of History
Daniela’s classes are an interactive experience, not just step-by-step guidance. Picture it: kicking off your morning with a stroll through the vibrant Campo de’ Fiori market, a sensory overload of colorful fresh produce, fragrant cheeses, and cured meats. With Daniela as your guide, you’ll learn to navigate the stalls, picking out the ripest tomatoes and the freshest seafood. Then the magic begins, back at the cozy school. Your culinary muse will guide you through the art of crafting classic Roman dishes. From the art of hand-rolling pillowy gnocchi to the secrets behind a perfectly creamy carbonara, you’ll gain hands-on experience and a newfound appreciation for these seemingly simple yet soul-satisfying dishes. The finale of your Roman cooking odyssey is savoring the fruits (or rather, pasta) of your labor. Lunch, enjoyed with your fellow classmates and Daniela, is a chance to share stories, laughter, and of course, the delicious meal you’ve created together. Food very much connects here, transcending language barriers and cultures. Daniela will send you on your way with all the recipes from your class tucked into a goodie bag, and, I imagine, a phone full of very fun photos.
But the learning doesn’t need to stop there. Armed with your newfound culinary prowess, venture out and explore the city’s vibrant restaurant scene. Compare your creations to the work of Roman masters at these local gems:
Our Recommendations
La Matricianella
La Matricianella
Why we like it
If the website doesn’t make your mouth water, then just make a reservation on the sidewalk preferably, for authentic old-world Roman fare (since 1957)
Where to find them
Via del Leone, 4, Rome, 00186, Italy
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Ad Hoc
Ad Hoc
Why we like it
A brief walk from Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps, this top-rated Roman restaurant offers a la carte or tasting menu options. It’s elevated and refined and old-world all at the same time.
Where to find them
Via di Ripetta, 43, Rome, 00186, Italy
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Retrobottega
Retrobottega
Why we like it
Michelin-trained chefs and a modern, minimal space with eddy tasting menus and wine pairings. A must visit for non-traditional Roman cuisine.
Where to find them
Via della Stelletta, 4, Rome, 00186, Italy
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
La Matricianella
La Matricianella
Why we like it
If the website doesn’t make your mouth water, then just make a reservation on the sidewalk preferably, for authentic old-world Roman fare (since 1957)
Where to find them
Via del Leone, 4, Rome, 00186, Italy
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Ad Hoc
Ad Hoc
Why we like it
A brief walk from Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps, this top-rated Roman restaurant offers a la carte or tasting menu options. It’s elevated and refined and old-world all at the same time.
Where to find them
Via di Ripetta, 43, Rome, 00186, Italy
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Retrobottega
Retrobottega
Why we like it
Michelin-trained chefs and a modern, minimal space with eddy tasting menus and wine pairings. A must visit for non-traditional Roman cuisine.
Where to find them
Via della Stelletta, 4, Rome, 00186, Italy
Were you here recently? Let us know how it went!
Taking Daniela’s class will help you unlock a deeper connection to the city, one filled with human connection, delicious food, and memories that will linger long after your Roman holiday comes to an end. Ditch the guidebooks and grab an apron.
Pair It With:
- Movie: In preparation for your visit to Rome, curl up with the classic Audrey Hepburn film, “Roman Holiday” (1953). The gist is that Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn whisk you away on a charming journey through the Eternal City. What’s not to love?
- Book: The Emperor’s Children by Claire Messud. Set in contemporary Rome, this novel explores the lives of an American family who have moved to the city for a year. Through their experiences, the novel reflects on themes of alienation, privilege, and the enduring legacy of the Roman Empire in the modern world.
- Music: Soundtrack your Roman culinary adventure with Ottorino Respighi’s “Pines of Rome” (Pini di Roma). This evocative and layered symphonic poem captures the essence of various places throughout Rome. Mystical, rich, and very approachable.
Article by
Jason Claire
