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Abruzzo Sapori d'Abruzzo | Read
more... |  We went to Abruzzo and were delighted with the way we were treated. Since we went "off-season", we were the only ones in the class so it felt less like a class and more like a visit to an old friend. The chef was very knowledgeable and taught us, not only Italian cooking, but tips on cooking in general. We stayed in an out-of-the-way part of Italy and never ran into another tourist. It was delightful. My Italian was minimal, but the people were cheerful and gracious. Our host, Massimo, went far beyond the expected to help us have a marvelous vacation. I especially liked the wine class where he showed us various wines and how to appreciate them. The trips to the little towns in the area gave us memories of a unique Italy.
We had such a problem with hair. We had a converter, but the curling iron, hair dryer, or electric curlers would not work with it. I'm not sure this is something you want to warn people about or not. [Note from TIK: this is a common problem when using electronic devices in Italy! We suggest you bring your own dual voltage hairdryer, along with a two prong western European plug. Do not bring any electrical appliance that requires a converter; you risk damaging the electrical system as well as destroying your appliance. Irons and curling irons can be particularly problematic. You can get an iron at almost anywhere you will be staying and consider a butane model for the curling iron.]
I thought the International Kitchen staff were very prompt and courteous in answering all our questions and helpful in getting us prepared to take the trip.
Thanks for a wonderful time. Hopefully we will be able to take another trip soon.
L. & C. |
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Amalfi Coast Cooking Under a Golden Sunset | Read
more... |  Everything was perfect! There really was nothing that i would have changed. The staff at Hotel Tramonto d'Oro were amazing. The hotel itself was perfect. The cooking classes were great. (I have cooked with friends since I've been home!), the sight-seeing was great. It was just the "right" amount for me. I like to be able to sleep in a bit and have some time to relax and nap on vacation. I liked that on most days we did not leave til 10am, this was plenty of time for sleeping in a bit and breakfast and we were back to the hotel, had cooking and then time on our own. I used this time for the pool or beach, sometimes napping and reading before a late dinner. I also enjoyed sight-seeing in the small group setting. That's priceless! I fell in love with the town of Praiano. Myself and the whole group I was with said that we loved all the towns we visited but we were so glad that we were staying in that small, little town. You, togther with the Hotel Tramonto d'Oro have put together a wonderful package!
Laurie, IL |
Mediterranean Cooking Experience | Read
more... |  What a wonderful time our group of seven had. The entire staff was warm, helpful and a joy to be with. Our
rooms were very comfortable and the views were spectacular. The weather
could not have been better.
Since this was our first cooking course experience we were not sure what
to expect. The chef was friendly, fun and a good teacher who taught us to
respect the dough we had just made. We were his last class for the
season and with 14 of us he really had his work cut out for him. He
needed a vacation after us!
The tours to Pompeii and the three tiny Amalfi Coast towns were
excellent. One of the real highlights was our visit to make
cheese. We were able to observe what day to day life was like in a
working household. Her son explained how he was instrumental in
convincing his father that if they sold their olive oil to area
restaurants and hotels that their profits would improve greatly rather
than simply selling the olives as a raw product. Having lunch there
was like dining with family. The program offered a nice balance between
cooking and touring the beautiful Amalfi Coast.
I can’t thank you enough for offering this very unique program. We all
loved every moment we spent and please let us know if
you decide to offer an advanced class. A true 10 out of 10 experience
for us all.
Vivian B., IL |
Ravello - Lesson with Chef Vincenzino | Read
more... |  We very much enjoyed our experience with Chef Vincenzino in Ravello. It was one of the highlights of our trip! We had a wonderful morning with him at the market and then preparing a delicious meal of all fresh ingredients from his garden as well as the shops. He was very personable and attentive to our questions and comments. My daughter is a chef and she also enjoyed learning his ways of preparing the dishes which, of course, differ somewhat from her training and experience. We would encourage anyone considering cooking classes on the Amalfi Coast to sign up with Chef V. for a memorable day that will bring happy memories as well as new cooking and taste adventures!
Katie R., CA |
Ravello - Lesson with Mamma Agata | Read
more... |  Pretty amazing experience - phenomenal setting, Chiara was an excellent "ambassador" for her class and she is obviously experienced and comfortable doing this. The food was tremendous - as were the beverages. I would highly recommend this class.
Michael R. |
Villa Romana: Authentic Amalfi Cuisine | Read
more... |  Well, now that we are home, I can tell you it was very simple to get cash in Minori...there was a bank with a 24 hour machine just a short walk away, as was everything else. What a wonderful learning vacation we had...We can't say enough. And anyone who thinks this is the wrong season to go there is horribly mistaken. The weather was like our spring, and there were no crowds to contend with. The people there were amazing. Exio, Sandra, Guiliano and the family and staff at the Villa Romana. We felt like sponges absorbing all the information, culture and cuisine we could get for our senses. Thankfully, the four pounds I gained from the wonderful food have gone, but the memories never will. We took over 3000 photos...a lot of them are of the food preparation and serving...as well as of the amazing views taken on our many hikes. Thanks so much...we can't say enough. My husband, who has captive audiences all day long, has been raving non-stop ever since.
Ian and Sharon W., Ontario, Canada |
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Emilia Romagna A Food Lovers' Cooking Adventure in Bologna | Read
more... |  Where do I begin to express my gratitude to you? So often a long awaited trip cannot live up to expectations when you finally get to take it. Not the case for me. Because of the two of you, it far surpassed anything I could have anticipated. From the day you picked me up at the airport, to the day you took me back for my departure flight, you amazed me. Even after every other wonderful thing you did for us during our tour, you continued to amaze me by bringing us lunch for the trip back. What a treat it was to have my last taste of your delicious mortadella (you remembered how I love it) and Prosciutto.You touched my heart with your thoughtfulness and your generosity. You anticipated our every need and always went that extra mile to fulfill each of our desires. Our entire group was in awe of your ability to constantly strive to make things better for us. You put together a trip that was designed to please each and every one of us, making changes as you got to know our likes and desires. If you heard one of us say we liked something, it appeared the next day. It was clear that we were more than clients to you and you became a dear friend to all of us. I know that I speak for everyone when I say how very grateful we are to the two of you for making our trip so memorable.Again, I want to thank you for the best trip I can ever remember taking. You truly made a dream come true for me. I look forward to seeing you on another trip one day. I will think of you each time I pour a glass of the Nocino you so graciously gave me when you saw how much I enjoyed it. When you make that trip to the states, I hope you will make Denver one of your destinations and give me the opportunity to return to you some of the hospitality I received on my wonderful Italian holiday.
Patti A., CO |
Parma - Lesson with Chef Micaela | Read
more... |  We liked that it was just us for the cooking class. It was also interesting and enjoyable to be taught in Micaela's own home. We enjoyed eating our creations with Micaela. It felt like having a meal with friends. Micaela made the lesson special because she was so welcoming and interesting to talk to. The meal we cooked was delicious and a recipe that we can realistically recreate at home regularly.
Sam L,, United Kingdom |
Parma Culinary Vacation | Read
more... | The staff was wonderful, only exceeded by the wonderful food. The quality of the food and wines were first class. The chef was delightful, our driver was most accomendating and great company. The location of the cooking school could not have been better. The Magnani Rocca grounds were lovely - we loved the peacocks. The tour of the museum with its priceless works of art were an unexpected treat. Our visit to the Parmesan cheese factory was just another highlight. The school was all that we had hoped for and more. A wonderful experience with the finest food and wine, delightful staff, great laughts, and memories shared. (Not to mention much overeating) We are passing the word to all who will listen of what a great opportunity cooking school provides for a vacation. We were a group of friends/family of varing ages and cooking ability, the chief cued in on this and adjusted accordingly. Thanks for an excellent program.
Marlene S |
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Lazio Rome (Mazzano Romano) - Lesson with Chef Fabio | Read
more... |  Just a quick note to say how much I enjoyed Chef Fabio's Mazzano Romano class last week. The day was the highlight of our Italian vacation, from the cooking lesson itself to the tour of the nearby medieval village and winery. I came home excited to try out the techniques Fabio taught us, as soon as I run out and buy a pasta roller! I will definitely be recommending his classes to anyone I know planning an Italian holiday. Truly superb!
Joanne H., Ontario |
Rome - Cooking Lesson and Walking Tour with Chef Fabio | Read
more... | We spent a wonderful day with Fabio, which felt like we had a personal contact in Rome! It was awesome to hook up with a native, hear about like in Rome on such an informal basis. And then the cooking class in his private home! Our children (11 & 12 years old) had a great time and Fabio was really great in making it child friendly and interesting. We are recommending this to all our friends with children!
Jennifer D., IL |
Rome - Lesson with Chef Stefano | Read
more... |  A very interesting visit to the market where the ingedients had been purchased. Stephano is a very sincere "foodie"" and much emphasis was placed on healthy methods of cooking, as well as the traditional. The menu was excellent, and the class was very personal...in Stephano's home kitchen, with the asistance of partner and young trainee. Exceptional wines, which matched the dishes, and an opportunity to be "hands on" with the preparation. A bonus, was drive to a National Park nearby to admire a Roman Aquaduct. Wonderful day, and recommend this to anyone interested in Italian cooking.
Michael S., Australia |
Rome Tours | Read
more... | We booked through you the anient walking tour of Rome. That was amazing and very informative. It was the best way to see Rome in my opinion, and very reasonable. We passed up all of the lines, asked what questions we wanted, and saw everything that interested us, not just a pre canned tour.
Joseph & Olga Z., IL |
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Liguria Rapallo - Lesson with Chef Fausto | Read
more... |  Our group of 3 had a wonderful morning w/Chef Fausto and his staff and visitors followed by an enchanting dinner that evening. It was truly one of the high points of our trip to Italy. Things we loved? The setting up a long & winding road; beautiful gardens; warm & friendly atmosphere; a large tray of fresh pumpkin flowers waiting to be added to zucchini quiche which we helped make; Fausto, his assistants, his family; the food; the hats.
Jane S., NJ
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Taste of the Italian Riviera and Cinque Terre | Read
more... |  We did four different cooking classes while traveling through Europe and The International Kitchen's was by far the best one. Chef Roberto was fantastic. We learned so much about technique, presentation and history of Italian cooking. Roberto eagerly answered our questions -- he is a wonderful teacher. Monte Rosa is a class act hotel and I would highly recommend it to all travelers.
Larry Y., USA
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Lombardia/Lakes Region Lake Garda - Lesson with Chef Andrea | Read
more... |  Our experience was wonderful in all respects! The setting was beautiful; the cooking class was hands on, the recipes choices were perfect. Chef Andrea and his wife were wonderful. They were so knowledgeable. We enjoyed both the cooking class and the conversation. After the class, they took us to a winery that only added to the experience... I would recommend Chef Andrea to everyone!
Stefanie & Juliene, TX |
Lake Garda Grandeur | Read
more... | Everything was wonderful. The accomodations and the lady who ran Villa were great. The Chefs were very nice and did a great job getting the information across to you.
Glenn & Mary, ME |
Retreat at L'Albereta | Read
more... |  Just to let you know: the trip to L'Albereta worked out great. Enjoyed the spa on the premises as well as the cooking lesson, a visit to the countryside and the winery. We both did go to their restaurant for lunch on Sunday, before they closed and were well impressed. Dinner you arranged at Da Vittorio in Bergamo on Sunday night was fabulous. And L'Albereta itself is a gem (we love these Relais and Chateaux places on principle).
Grace C. |
Villa d'Este Italian Cooking Holiday | Read
more... | Amazing. Intimate. Glorious food. Five-star hotel with staff to match. The trip was above and beyond my expectations. Lovely people with diverse backgrounds.
Lena C., Belleville, NJ |
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Piedmont Interlude on Lake Orta | Read
more... |  We were treated very well. The instructors (chefs) at the Villa Crespi were especially charming and made every effort to make our experience a memorable one. Learning to plate food was for me a high point as it was something not covered very well in previous classes I had taken in the States (not through International Kitchen). The location was fabulous: the hotel rooms were lovely and elegant, the villa itself was beautiful, and it was close enough to Lake Orta that we could enjoy walking to the lake and the town. The staff at International Kitchen were first rate and very helpful in making arrangements for travel to and from the Villa Crespi where our classes were held. We appreciated their flexibility in helping us to plan a trip that fit our needs.
Sandra M., CA |
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Sicily Amore Siciliano | Read
more... | Katia & Ronald are excellent coordinators and provided language
interpretation whenever needed. The excursions they arranged were
likewise interesting and worthwhile. We cooked with different chefs
at various locations, which was different from our experience last
year when we were with Carmen Mazzola the entire time at Oasi
Olimpia. There are pros and cons with each approach and we enjoyed
the opportunity to experience the different approach and specialties
of the various chefs. We did not do as much of the actual food
preparation and cooking as we did last year; the chefs and their
assistants did most of it, so the experience was not as "hands on" as
we would have liked. This varied by chef. The Agriturismo where we
stayed was very nice and recently renovated. The rooms were not air
conditioned, but we did not need it since the weather was cool when
we were there.
Good information was provided. What we did not have were the recipes
that we prepared. Katia mentioned that the chefs would provide them
afterwards based on whatever we prepared, since they did not have a
standard group of dishes used for the classes. We did receive the
recipes after we returned home. The disadvantage to this approach is
that we could not take notes on the recipes as we prepared them.
Taking notes the previous year proved to be very helpful when we
returned home and tried the recipes.
The International Kitchen staff [was] very helpful staff, as usual.
We look forward to an additional experience in 2008 in Tuscany and /
or Umbria.
Russ B., NJ
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Catania - Lesson with Chef Eleonora | Read
more... |  Meeting Eleanora was wonderful, as well as her kitchen. The only complaint was that I thought the class would have been more hands on. You can see that she is getting on in years and is not quite up to her full potential. She offered such great cooking tips to the dishes she was preparing and also to other alternatives. I really enjoyed this because I am an avid cook myself and I always welcome change; in fact, I already made one of her dishes at home. We shared many family traditions and experiences with each other and when we left she actually had tears in her eyes, as well as myself. She mentioned how much she enjoyed our company and what our experiences did to her soul. We are very grateful that she made an exception to receive us in the evening; which we have found out that she does not do anymore; only lunches.
Ann Marie D., USA
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Gourmet Sicily | Read
more... | The trip exceeded our expectations in all respects, but the cooking lessons were the most special aspect of the trip, along with the conscientious and caring attention we received from Angela, the Sicilian tour operator. You can have total confidence when you put your clients in Angela's care. In more detail, all hotels were as advertised and most had a special feature such as a wonderful setting or a special view. Our drivers were excellent, and although we have always been independent travellers and this was our first "organized" travel experience, we really enjoyed being driven everywhere in comfort, and this also enabled us to cover greater distances than if we were driving ourselves. The guides at the various sites were excellent; the meals provided in the tour package were in excellent restaurants; Michele, Angela's husband and one of our drivers, is truly one of the greatest guys we have ever known; and finally, there are the cooking classes. Each was a totally different, and totally wonderful, hands-on experience; and they have given us a great appreciation and fondness for Sicilian cuisine and inspired us to cook Sicilian dishes for our friends.
Kenneth & Linda, IL |
Palermo - Lesson with Chef Vincenzo | Read
more... | We returned from our trip to Sicily this past weekend, and I wanted to let you know that the cooking class with Vincenzo in Palermo was absolutely fantastic! My friend and I had so much fun with him at the market, and I have to say that the meal we prepared was one of our best of the trip (and we had terrific food). Our husbands joined us for lunch, and Vincenzo ate with us - he is fun and charming, and the whole experience was the best of our 10 day trip.
Thank you for arranging everything - it is a life memory!
Best Wishes,
Phyllis M., PA |
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Tuscany A Classic Tuscan Table with Chef Claudio | Read
more... |  I'm embarrased that it's taken me this long to send you a letter telling you what a wonderful cooking school adventure we had with Claudio at his B&B outside Florence. As far as cooking vacations go, this was top of my list. Claudio was a charming, attentive host at his B&B. He is also a terrific teacher, creatively entwining the technical aspects of cooking classic Tuscan food with (perhaps more importantly), an appreciation for fresh, local, 'Tuscan' ingredients and flavors. We were blessed with a number of factors that made the 4 days perfect: The class was smaller than usual, only four of us. The other guests were a couple from New Jersey who were as enthusiastic as we were and great fun. Because of the class size we cooked many dishes each day, all completely 'hands-on'. Menus were adjusted to what was freshest. Claudio would often run out to his garden or the orchard for vegetables and fruit we would need. We used his own, first-press olive oil and eggs from his chickens. He was also great about personal requests for dishes we wanted to try. Our favorite line of Claudio's was "Why Not?" If I asked to cook a risotto, he would say "Why not?" with a smile and quick trip to the pantry. If we loved a wine one night and wanted to have it the next he was off to his celler with a "Why Not?" and a smile. We loved staying at the B & B, rather than a larger, perhaps fancier hotel near by. It is charming, comfortable (air conditioning!) and nicely situated in the hills above town with pretty views, it's own gardens, pool and vinyard. We were able to relax - both at meals and between activities - rather than shuffling back and forth. Our dinners at the B&B were by the pool, cooked by Claudio and attentively served. By the end of our stay everyone felt like good friends and made us feel like 'family'. We also loved our excursions to the local market in Figline Valdarno, wine tasting and tour in Greve and hisotry and shopping in Arezzo, the latter two led by experienced guides. Our evening meal in Greve was not as good as at the B&B, but the view was spectacular and we enjoyed a 'night out'. I've been to 'cooking schools' in other countries over the years, but this was a wonderful, unpretentious 'vacation' with great memories and recipies to bring home.
Since the cooking school with Claudio was booked very late, I was impressed by how attentive The International Kitchen was to ensuring we were well prepared and had all needed documents, information and contact numbers. I was paticularly grateful for the phone numbers when a one day train strike in Florence complicated our arrival.
Allison W., MD |
A Luxury Lifestyle at Villa Mangiacane | Read
more... | Great time at Villa Mangiacane. Chef Massimo was wonderful - great tips, demonstrations, and great food. The Villa is lovely and staff is most gracious and helpful. Would have possibly preferred being in the actual villa building but our room was beautiful and very modern. [Note from TIK: the Villa Mangiacane is comprised of a main villa and adjacent smaller villas, which also house rooms.] Roll-away cot was less than perfect for third person in the room but not sure what the other options would have been. All of the hotels and arrangements for our trip were outstanding. Karen's recommendations were right on every step of the way. Sorrento and [the hotel there] were spectacular.... Take me back to Sorrento. Had a most marvelous vacation. Thank you a million times over.
Jonita, IL |
A Week with The Tuscan Chef at the Villas of Vorno | Read
more... |  I definitely give the Villages of Vorno 5 stars. From day one we were made to feel like old friends by Chef Valter Roman, his wife Julia and staff. The villa was 1st class, comfortable,tastefully decorated and scenic. I have cooked Italian food for years , but the cooking lessons gave me new methods and incentive to do more cooking. Every day was busy with cooking related trips and many truly delicious meals. I would definitely recommend and hope to go again myself. Suggest going one day ahead so as to be ready for the first day which was busy. A one night stay in Lucca would be more fun if flying into Pisa.
Mary Z., USA |
A Weekend in Chianti | Read
more... | 1) Claudio (cooking class chef) was wonderful. Above and beyond expectations. One recommendation: Tell people to bring bug spray, b/c you eat outside by the pool and the mosquitos are aggressive. 2) Accomodations were rustic and beautiful. Paulo and Julianne are very accomodating and laid back and their property is top notch. Their wine (La Stinche) was a great find, too. It is awfully far away from Claudio's place, however. 3) Vignamaggio is a great spot. Very worthwhile part of the trip. 4) Dario's meat restaurant is a truly unique experience. If I'd had to change anything I'd say 1 more cooking class and make everything closer together, but otherwise it mostly exceeded expectations.
Good stuff. Really introduced us to the region and it was truly one of the highlights of our honeymoon.
Michael & Cindy, CA |
An Intensive Tuscan Cooking "Stage" with Chef Claudio | Read
more... | First was the people. Claudio, Sabrina, Laura, Miguel, Ahmed, and Joe the dishwasher all received us with open arms as if we were friends for years. The 10 participants in the other program became close friends in a mater of minutes. They ALL were great to work with, eat with, drink with and laugh with. Second was the location. Figline is a quaint town with Claudio’s restaurant located in the town's main Piazza. Claudio’s cottages located in the Tuscan hills with sheep, chickens and some of the freshest vegetables used in our cooking class. The wood burning pizza oven located on the farm topped the cooking experience of Tuscany. Third was the food and wine. Claudio used the only best ingredients and the best wines for our class. He would ask us what we wanted to cook and had no problem getting those ingredients no mater if it was chicken or steak. Lastly is how all three elements blended to make this the most memorable trip to Italy we have ever had.
The Chicago staff was complete and knowledgable. I have no suggestions to improve.
Cono C., FL |
Authentic Southern Tuscany | Read
more... | I cannot find any faults with this wonderful trip. The hotel was well located, the staff extremely helpful and friendly and very knowledgeable. The cooking classes were fun and instructive. The tours to other Tuscan centers were interesting and great for photographers. The wonderful trip to visit a vineyard of friends of the owner of Palazzo Bandino were very special and an experience! Will always treasure Palazzo Bandino, it was a perfect holiday.
Betty Ann G., Ontario, Canada |
Chianciano - Lesson with Chef Luciano | Read
more... | [Note from TIK: These clients did both a cooking class in Ravello as well as the class with Chef Luciano.] This was different, in some ways more realistic. The setting, in Tuscany, was more authentic, the need for a translator was understandable. Regardless, he was a lively, friendly and knowledgeable teacher. This class was smaller (4 participants) and we actually got more hands-on work than at Mamma Agata...the kitchen, because it was part of a Hotel/Restaurant, was much bigger and easier to work in. The food was delicious and the experience was ejoyable.
Michael R.
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Chianti Retreat in a Medieval Castle | Read
more... | Very satisfied with European partners. Took care of us and made sure we had all of our accommodations, travel arrangements, etc. Very much enjoyed the cooking classes. We were fortunate to have only myself and my wife, so we were hands on all the time. We loved ending our otherwise hectic trip in Rome with a calming cooking experience at the castle. The accommodations were fantastic. Wine superb. The only "wish" was that the tour of Sienna had started earlier, so we could enjoy more. Our tour guide was excellent, but a couple of hours of an earlier start would have been better. Everything was to our satisfaction — we knew what to expect, and had those expectations met. [The International Kitchen]: was very helpful — especially as we made our arrangements within one month of our trip.
Alec S., OR |
Cooking with Giulietta | Read
more... | [Note: clients did Cooking and Walking itinerary.] We liked it a lot. We had a lot of fun and learned a lot. We could influence the menus and everyone was involved. The guide for our walking tours was great too. However the walking tours could have been a little more demanding, so we added distance. But the program as a whole was great and our stay in the beatiful house charming.
Lennart W., Sweden |
Figline Valdarno - Lesson with Chef Claudio | Read
more... | We've never done a cooking class abroad, but it was one of the best memories. Partially because of the cooking, but mostly because of Chef Claudio and his personal touch that made this a great time. He was an amazing teacher and very comfortable to be around.
Everything was perfect.
Adam & Jennifer M., IL |
Florence - Lesson with Chef Barbara | Read
more... | Barbara was fantastic, she took great time, detail and pride to explain all the aspects of Tuscan cooking and ingredients. We weren't supposed to make pasta from scratch but I wanted to so badly. She accommodated and now I can make it in less than 30 minutes!!
Anthony H., IL |
Florence - Lesson with Chef Jacopo | Read
more... | We had the most fabulous day from beginning to end. Our teachers were great.
Barbara, NJ |
Florentine Retreat | Read
more... | Two cooking classes: 1st at hotel (B&B) — small class, four participants (all family) more personable as host providing the class was very nice and interesting to talk with. She was very competent in kitchen. Recipes/instructions not too demanding — plenty of time to talk and drink wine:) and learn about life in Italy. Meal was fantastic! 2nd was in Florence at a cooking school, starting at market to pick up ingredients for a lunch — larger class (12 people). Chef was still very personable and knowledgeable at the market, less time to talk during meal prep as multiple stations working. Recipes/instructions more demanding, but very well instructed. Class was very fun and amazingly organized - credit due to the chef/instructor and his helper(s) for their patience and great attitudes. Everyone extremely nice. Time to prepare food was just right. Meal, again, was fantastic. Would definitely schedule more cooking classes on future trips (as soon as the dollar rises out of the ashes!). Have passed recommendations on to multiple others back home. Owner at Marignolle Relais & Charme was absolutely congenial and spent a day driving us all over Chianti. Hotel was isolated but extremely comfortable. Owner very knowledgeable of the region and a pleasure to talk with. Staff was great, very helpful. Everyone was extremely pleasant. Hotel Bauer in Venice was beautiful with an incredible location. Everyone at the hotel was very pleasant and helpful - breakfast on the terrace looking out on the main canal was unforgettable!
Your staff was incredibly helpful, patient and courteous. They helped us make several hotel choices based on what they could tell about our family over the phone - not having done this before, we didn't know what we really were looking for! Everything turned out perfect.
Kenneth S., VA
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Heart of Chianti at Villa Bordoni | Read
more... |  The vacation was amazing fro the care in picking me up at the airport by extremely nice and qualified drivers to the Villa Bordoni Villa and David and his wife who were fantastic. The cooking course was great and well presented and hands on while being informal was very, very informative and professional. The tours were informative and relaxed at the same time. I thoroughly enjoyed this experience and comment you on this cooking vacation and thank your staff for an excellent time.
Brian M., Montreal, Canada |
In Terre Di Toscana | Read
more... | From the very beginning, our trip was wonderful. The people at International Kitchen were extremely helpful assisting with our travel plans. We called often before we left and they were always willing to help in anyway they could. In addition, the information we received in the mail was invaluable. We used everything in the packet. Once we arrived in Italy the fun began. We were treated like royalty by chef Claudio and his wife. We fell in love with his restaurant staff and family. They were always willing to assist us with travel (we got lost a few times) and went out of their way in many ways to see that we had a wonderful vacation. The time we spent in their company was very special. I can't begin to thank them all for the trip of a lifetime. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys cooking and enjoys culture. It far exceeded any expectations I had for the trip. As my daughter tells everyone, I really did live out one of my dreams come true.
Linda M., PA |
Italian Cooking at Torre del Tartufo and Casa Ombuto | Read
more... | Torre del Tartuffo was a wonderful place. The location was beautiful and the people there were great. The cooking classes were fun and interesting. i think the group of people you happen to be with has a big impact on how much you enjoy the trip and lucky for us our week had a great group of people. The day trip we took to see the sheep farm, wine tasting, and lunch at the castle was great.
Melissa & Mark H. |
Ravello - Lesson with Mamma Agata | Read
more... |  Overall experience was excellent. Mamma Agata and Chiara were wonderful cooks and gracious hosts.
Lisa A., NY |
Siena - Lesson with Chef Elisabetta | Read
more... | We were thrilled with our class. It turned out that it was just me and my friend and the instructor so we were lucky to have a more personalized experience. We particularly enjoyed that the instructor selected approachable selections that would be easily replicated when we went home. Also, we enjoyed hearing the instructors stories of family and cooking and Italy in general. It was much more than a cooking class! The International Kitchen staff was very thorough and friendly.
Michelle C., CO
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Tastes of Tuscany | Read
more... | We were very satisfied. This was awesome!!! We loved being at a farm in the country. Pat and Paolo were wonderful hosts, chefs, teachers and guides!!! We loved the excursions to small villages that we might not have experienced otherwise and I have already been cooking the food that I learned from Pat. I can not think of anything that we were unhappy with. I think one of the top moments was being there during the olive harvest. We were able to see and experience how olive oil was made, from picking to the final process!! The [Chicago] staff was wonderful. We had many questions for them and they did their very best to answer all of them and in a timely manner. They also booked our train tickets for us and that was perfect. The perfect vacation!!!
Nancy P., AR |
Tavarnelle Val di Pesa - Lesson with Chefs Cecilia and Massimo | Read
more... | We had a wonderful class and visit. The class was informative, personal, and very interactive. We loved every minute of it and will do it again, when possible.
Carol W., IL |
Tuscany Tours | Read
more... | Our car tour of Chianti was fun and informative. Tour guide was very well spoken. The hotels and property that was recommended was outstanding, far surpassed our expectations, each one better than the next. All three had breathtaking views.
Maura T., IL |
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Umbria All About Umbria | Read
more... | I am a travel agent and this is the sixth trip our group of women have taken with The International Kitchen, and each one is better than the last. This was our first time in Umbria, and it was wonderful! The hotel is lovely and Filippo and Mama Giovanna really go out of their way to make sure you have a great time. If you don't know about Umbrian food and wine, it is so good! And shopping for pottery in Deruta is the best.
The International Kitchen, as usual, did a wonderful job for us. It is really great to find a tour operator that you can totally trust.
Jean B., IL |
Assisi - Lesson with Chef Letizia | Read
more... | We enjoyed the course very much. Letizia was wonderful!!! She made us feel right at home. We started out tasting oil, various cheeses and other local products in a store. Then the drive to her bed and breakfast outside of Assisi was beautiful. We learned to make homemade ravioli and a delicious melon flavored mousse! I would recommend Letizia to anyone!
Barbara G., Italy |
Assisi Cooking at Alla Madonna Del Piatto | Read
more... | Our experience was wonderful. The agriturismo was lovely and our hosts very gracious. Visiting the market and tasting various items was helpful interesting and helpful. The cooking classes were very well organized with lots of hands-on. Letizia's English is excellent and she is a very good teacher. We made two things in the first class and three things in the second class, but she also gave us lots of information and suggestions for making additional items. The weather was warm and they have a wonderful terrace where we had our lunches. Her kitchen is very nice and set up well for classes. One of the things we appreciated most was that Letizia sent us several menus, well before we went to Italy, and had us choose the things we wanted to learn to make. If we were to make any suggestion, it would be to offer bottled water to their guests. The water is full of minerals and does not taste very good. We would recommend Letizia's classes to anyone wanting to learn cooking of that area.
[The program packet] was complete and the maps and directions were excellent (although slightly intimidating the first time we make the drive to the agriturismo). After we had driven there once, it was easy.
Mary H., WA |
Cooking and Walking in Umbria and Tuscany | Read
more... | We had a fabulous Umbrian trip. We were treated like royalty in Piegaro. Our hotel really is a palace and decorated with amazing antiques and beautiful faux paintings on the walls and ceilings. We were certain our accommodations would be nice, but truly felt like we had been dropped into a fairy tale castle in a lovely medieval town. Our innkeeper Anna Maria Dotolo worked very hard to make our stay the most pleasant experience, and our guide/driver/interpreter Marco was so very helpful and interesting. Our cooking classes were enjoyable with Sonia and we learned how to make pasta as well as several different sauces. The roasting of wild boar was quite interesting, however trying to duplicate it may be somewhat difficult since we will have to special order boar from our local butcher. The desserts were yummy. In fact we have already invited family and friends over to practice recreating our new found culinary knowledge in the Italian style. While Marco did his best to translate recipes for us and we certainly were able to write down as much as we could of the recipes, It would have been better to have the recipes already printed out for us since these were standard on the menu of the hotel. We could then have paid more attention to technique and be thinking of questions rather than concerned about writing everything down. We especially enjoyed visiting the surrounding hill towns and partaking of the local specialties of pecorino cheese (direct from the farmer) and the wonderful local wines. Although much of the countryside beauty was already gone, we were thrilled to see people picking olives from their trees (neither of us had ever even seen an olive tree) and we enjoyed beautiful weather during the entire trip. he packet provided gave us lots of information and plenty of detail. One suggestion: It would be helpful for the driver who picks up at the Chuisi station the carry a sign identifying himself with the International kitchen. While we did find each other eventually, we approached several people thinking they might be there to pick us up, but discovered they were waiting for someone else. It's a small thing, but would have made us feel a little better, especially since our driver spoke no English. The Chicago staff was great and we thank you again for all your help.
Ronald A., IN
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Cooking and Walking in Umrbia and Tuscany | Read
more... | The Ca that we stayed in in Piegaro was wonderful! So beautiful and peaceful. The staff was very friendly and accomodating. We had been unable to recharge our digital camera batteries, and they were able to locate one that we could borrow. Our guide, Gianni was terrific, so knowledgable and kind. He was very solicitous of our needs, letting us doze in the car after lunch and not talking when we wanted to rest. The itinerary was just what we were looking for and we are ready to go back and explore the area some more.
Suzanne, FL |
Perugia - Lesson with Chef Christine | Read
more... | On June 22, 2008 a good friend and I took one of Christine's one day
classes and it was superb.
My husband and I traveled to Italy this summer for a five week stay in
Perugia. My husband had signed up for Italian language classes and I was
seeking out some cooking classes. While I attended other cooking classes
during my stay I found Christine's day to be the best! Our day started by
gathering ingredients for the day's lesson at the local market and small
specialty shops throughout the town, picking up a medium-aged pecorino at
her favorite cheese store, perfect pork at the butcher shop, crusty bread
at the bakery and let's not forget the chocolate!
Our day in Christine's fabulous kitchen included olive oil and cheese
tastings as well a hands-on preparation of five food courses well balanced
with local wines. She has an easy-going manner of imparting useful
information to her students in a relaxed but professional atmosphere. Her
menu choices were unique, delicious and recipes to take home and use. In
fact, I have made every dish at least once since returning home! My show
stopper is her zabaglione and grapes roasted with olive oil, rosemary and
sugar!
When we return to Perugia, another of Christine's classes will be at the top of my list!
Deborah B., CA
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Spoleto - Lesson with Mamma Giovanna | Read
more... | Dear Filippo and "Mamma" Giovanna,
Just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed my cooking school experience with you and your delightful family in Spoleto... It really was a very special vacation, what a wonderful way to live in a smaller Italian town for a week, have personalized cooking instruction, and see so many interesting places with a guide and good company. Your hotel was in a great location and the service was terrific, especially Marco at our dinners. I really appreciated all your help with making this such a pleasant visit for me.
Best wishes to you and your family,
Leslie A. |
Taste of Italian Cooking at Villa Di Monte Solare | Read
more... | Friendliness, helpfulness, and flexibility of the staff; high quality of rooms; organization of cooking sessions and integration with trips; professionalism of program presentation.
Mark A. & Valerie L., IL |
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Veneto Venice - Lesson with Chef Patrizia | Read
more... | We really enoyed the class. Patrizia was a wonderful hostess, and with the help of Silvia, our translator, we were able to understand everything. We enjoyed preparing the gnocchi and the chicken, and had a wonderful meal on the beautiful rooftop deck.
Our day was very memorable; not only did we learn how to make the gnocchi, but we really had a day of "Italian immersion." Thank you.
Maura & Madeleine, NJ |
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Cooking Vacations 
“This trip was the best one
EVER! The cooking lessons, the hotel, the meals, and most especially, the people we met who were with The International Kitchen were incredibly special! We were
expecting one notch above mundane; instead, what we got was superb -- couldn't have been more perfect.”
