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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... |  Perfection !!!! Praiano and the beautiful Hotel Tramonto D'Oro was the ideal location to experience everyday life on the Amalfi Coast. With its location between Positano and Amalfi; we had ample time to tour the areas we wanted to visit and be back in plenty of time for our cooking classes in the late afternoon. What made our experience so special was the warmth and care we received from each and every staff member. From the moment we arrived they were sensitive to our needs and went out of their way to ensure our comfort. The cooking classes, not only fun but informative, were a special highlight!!! Working with the talented chefs (Salvatore & Ciro) we were able to bring home more than memories and photographs. We have had a great time trying out our new recipes at home and toasting ourselves with Limoncello !!!! There really are no words to describe the beauty of the Amalfi Coast and Capri. A special moment that comes to mind was our visit to Ravello and Amalfi. Our tour guide was amazing in her knowledge of history....there was not a question she could not answer. She made it a very special experience. The only negative that comes to mind is that we did not stay long enough. As we became acquainted with the region we found more areas we would have enjoyed exploring. There will most definitely be a next time !!!
Susan & Steven H., IL |
A 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 |
Authentic Amalfi Cuisine at Villa Romana | 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 |
Ravello - Lesson with Chef Vincenzino | Read
more... | Vincenzino was such a delight to spend the day with. We feel that we really learned a lot about the whole "mealtime experience." The conversation throughout the day was enjoyable and truly taught us about Ravello, cooking Italian food in general, and how to adapt recipes at home. It was fabulous having the meal served to us on the terrace, enjoying a bottle of wine and savouring the food we helped prepare. I loved the fact that Vincenzino wanted to ensure that we knew how to prepare the meals at home without his supervision. We wrote down the recipes, filmed some of the class and have since cooked 3 of the recipes at home in Canada. After the class, we walked back to Minori using Vincenzino's recommendations... A fabulous day and something I would highly suggest!
We would book another class with Vincenzino. It was a highlight of a wonderful trip to Italy!
Tania N., Canada |
Ravello - Lesson with Mamma Agata | Read
more... |  We had a very enjoyable day. Spectacular view, everyone was friendly and made us feel welcome. I did expect a hands-on class and it really wasn't. We especially liked Mamma's assistant (she translated). I would have liked to make (or at least watch it made) the lemon cake we were served.
Bonnie D., CA |
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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 |
Bologna - Lesson at La Vecchia Scuola Bolognese | Read
more... |  The trip met our expectations. The teacher, a very young woman in her early 20's, was the daughter of the owner of the school. She knew everything about pasta and LOVED what she did! Her enthusiasm was infectious. The class was a joy! One woman in the class was studying all week long...heaven, indeed! The food we prepared was then served for lunch and enjoyed by all students. I have taken a pasta class in Chicago and the entire philosophy was different: different flour, hand-made dough vs. Cuisinart (in US) and the sauces. The sauces in the US were so much heavier.
Desiree G., IL
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Cooking in Parma | 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 |
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 |
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Lazio Rome (Mazzano Romano) - Lesson with Chef Fabio | Read
more... | The cooking lesson was wonderful from start of day til finish. It was great and convenient that we were picked up at our hotel. To arrange travel would have been a nightmare. Our lesson started out with shopping for ingredients which was very informative. Then we proceeded to a tour of Mazzano Romano with Fabio and Claire his helper. Cooking was so fun and such a learning experience! After working in a bakery and cooking my whole life, I can honestly say I learned a lot about technique and flavor layering. We learned to make a meat dish, three different types of filled pasta, and bruschetta. After eating our delicious food in Italy, Fabio took us to Calcata for a drink and walk. We then went to the vineyard where the wines we cooked with originated. We did a wine tasting and then were taken back to our hotel. It was by far the best day of my trip in Italy. I regret not booking the entire vacation with cooking lessons, as the smile from my face could not be wiped off for days. Honest to God I came home jetlagged but oh so excited to recreate the dishes for my family that the first thing I did was go buy a pasta maker for rolling out homemade dough. Thank you Fabio, Claire and The International Kitchen!
Courtney, CT |
Rome - Lesson with Chef Stefano | Read
more... |  Our day with Stefano could not have been better. We fancy ourselves food-knowledgeable and decent home chefs,and unlike several other "cooking" classes we had on our trip, our day with Stefano stretched our knowledge if cooking, food and wine. His planned menu reflected the our requests. The start of the tour at the local farmers' market was wonderful and when we saw some escarole (our favorite vegetable) at the market, Stefano bought it and added it to our meal. He was charming, highly informative and his deep knowledge of food history greatly enhanced the entire experience. A talented chef, he also taught us a whole new roasting technique — one that we have now introduced into our own kitchen. We also loved the way the day was presented. We cooked two samples of each course, then we sat at a beautifully-laid table and enjoyed them (with Stafano's excellent choice of wine for each), before beginning the next course. This gave us much time to learn, prepare and then enjoy each plate before going on to the next. Stefano's two assistants were also well prepared and delightful. This was a highlight of our three week trip to five countries. We continue to recommend Stefano to our food-loving friends.
Vic M., USA
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Rome Tours | Read
more... | On the private tour of Ancient Rome, our tour guide, Alvarro is an Archeology Professor at the American University in Rome. He was SPECTACULAR! Alvarro made the tour extremely engaging for both Kevin and me. On the private tour of the Vatican, our tour guide, Viviana, was an Art History major from Brazil and she spoke many languages, including English, beautifully. She was a treat!
Debra, TX |
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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 Como - Lesson at Culinary Institute | Read
more... | Just returned from our trip and wanted to let you know what a wonderful experience we all had at the Cooking School. The student translators were lovely, knowledgeable, and most helpful. The chef was charming and a wonderful teacher. The facility was top-notch and the food and wine were great! We all decided that it was truly the most memorable experience of our week in Como.
I speak for our entire group, both women and men, when I say that we will highly recommend your program and will certainly want to try another one if the opportunity arises.
Sincerely,
Harriet D., MD |
Lake Garda - Lesson with Chef Andrea | Read
more... |  Just being the two of us made it really personal and felt like we had just been invited to a friends for lunch! Chef Andrea and Lara answered all our questions and were really knowledgeable. We learned a lot of tips and techniques. We are now really inspired to try the recipes at home. Al in all, the class exceeded our expectations and was one of the highlights of our holiday. We would definitely recommend this day to anyone traveling in the region!
Geoff P., Singapore |
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 | 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 definately exceeded every expectation. It was exactly what I was looking for....a combination of the cultural aspects coupled with some cooking and tasting of local fare. Angela did an excellent job in putting together a sampling of all areas of Sicily. It was her goal to introduce us to all that Sicily has to offer so that the next time we visit, we will be able to zero in on the areas that we liked the best. All of the participants (restaurant owners, guides, private home chefs) were all extremely gracious and very professional. Our private driver was the most wonderful man. He was patient and understanding and had such a gentle personality. We felt very safe with him. He made our experience that much more wonderful. Each of the guides was fantastic!! Each was very knowledgeable in their area of expertise and each conveyed the lessons and information in a way that we could all easily understand and learn. Each of the chefs was wonderful as well. Each was very patient, very gracious and passionate about what he/she does. Doing Sicily on my own, with my mother, would have been very overwhelming and I would most likely have missed alot of what I had experienced with this tour. It was the perfect trip! The accomodations were incredible also! I loved every second of this experience and I thank you! I will most certainly be investigating future trips with your organization. And I will recommend your organization to all my friends and family.
Peg and Karen were most helpful during the initial investigation of the trip. Each took their time in explaining the various options so that I could make an informed decision. Karen was also most helpful in booking my airline and for that I thank her. Your staff in Sicily ... were all incredible!
It would have been nice to stay in each locale for two days but then you would have to extend the entire timeframe for the trip I think. We would have loved to enjoy each locale for just a bit longer (Erice, Siracusa/Ortygia, Caltagione, Taormina, Cefalu, and Polizzi Generosa) All of these places were fabulous! I would have loved to have stayed in each longer, but I think the idea is to introduce us to each place and have us come back for longer periods in the future.
Thank you again. Jamie, WI |
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 |
The Soul of Sicily | Read
more... | As a general comment, when asked about the trip I respond that the week in Sicily was the best vacation week we have had.
Like small groups? Like learning? Want to avoid tourist traps? Want to laugh? Want to laugh some more? Maybe eat great food? Want to say you’ve never had an experience like this. Join the group!
Bonnie and Jerry H., USA |
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Tuscany A "Second Helping" with Chef Claudio | Read
more... | Our departure flight was delayed and re-routed due to weather, and we needed to make several changes to our airport transfer arrangements. Your European partners were AMAZING. Elena (I think was her name) was on the phone with me and the car service several times, and she pleasantly tried to trouble shoot and help us out. She was really sweet and seemed ready to alter any plans to suit our arrival time. The Second Helpings Course was the perfect blend of cooking class and touring. We enjoyed the trips to Chianti and Cortona. We enjoyed the dinners at the hotel and Claudio's restaurant. Also, the week of our trip coincided with the 1000th Anniversary of Figline Valdarno. The festival was amazing and really added to our experience. We were very pleased with all of our interactions with the Chicago staff. The arrangements that were made by Robyn for our transfer to Rome and tickets to the Vatican were very helpful. It made our whole vacation run smoothly.
Lynn N., NC |
A Classic Tuscan Table with Chef Claudio | Read
more... |  Everything about the trip exceeded my expectations - which are generally very high. Chef Claudio was just delightful and we felt right at home. He was so accommodating to our tastes and likes/dislikes. The tours were extremely well organized and thought out and, with the exception of Greve, the drivers were pleasant, knowledgable, prompt and accommodating. The accommodations at the Casagrande were - so-so. Not great, but you could live with them. The folks at International Kitchen in Chicago couldn't have been more helpful and made all arrangements perfectly. I would heartily recommend you to anyone and will contact you when I want to do a cooking school in Paris.
Lydia N., NY |
A Luxury Lifestyle at Villa Mangiacane | Read
more... | We loved everything except the beds in Florence and at Villa Mangiacane as they were extremely hard ... The hotels were wonderful, the rooms spacious, and the bathrooms were huge. The food, the lessons, the transfers and the tours were wonderful. The special moments were the private cooking lessons at the villa, the private tours, and the spa at the villa. You should definitely mention the outlets to everyone--they were wonderful! The special moments were getting to cook what we wanted to learn. However, taking notes at the same time was challenging; but I wouldn't want it any other way... We can't wait to use you again for a culinary trip to France!!
Josephine Ann A., NJ
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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 |
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... | Hello! My HUGE apologies about being so overdue in submitting this review. But even though it's been months since we were in Italy, I still remember our experience with Chef Luciano like it was yesterday! He and Manuela (his translator) did a FABULOUS job. It was fun, interactive, informative — an absolutely amazing experience. We really wanted to experience authentic Italian cooking and this was the best way to do it. [The International Kitchen] — very courteous and helpful. In fact, we made a special request to have Chef Luciano substitute a dish from his regular course, and both he and the Chicago staff did everything they could to make it happen. We were VERY impressed and would absolutely reco the International Kitchen to anyone else going to Italy!
Kara P., MN
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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... | Chef Claudio was very personable and friendly... It was just the two of us which was even better and the menu was extensive and fun to learn especially one on one. I would recommend it and found the experience to be very positive.
Molly W., CA |
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 Silvia | Read
more... | Silvia's cooking morning was a delightful experience for us- Not only was she a charming, sophisticated and knowledgeable host but her teaching tips were excellent and we thoroughly enjoyed the ambiance of her lovely apartment in which we cooked and ate. The meal was delicious, her recipes great and she is a lovely person. The experience of shopping at the market was a highlight and we can't wait to come back to Florence again!
Lesley G., Durban, South Africa |
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... | I loved the entire experience. Villa Bordoni was amazing and exceeded my expectations both in atmosphere and congeniality. My cooking lessons were wonderful. The experience was relaxed, responsive to special requests and everyone went above and beyond to make us all feel welcome and special. I cannot say enough about how different this was from a typical vacation where you come home feeling just as tired and stressed as when you left. This entire experience was one of a kind!
The [International Kitchen] Chicago staff was wonderful, knowledgable and extremely informative. They kept me informed of changes and I had not one plan that they arranged fall apart while I was away. The seperate touring company that they worked with over in Italy was FANTASTIC. The people that worked there driving us back and forth to Florence, taking us on our wine tour and our walking tour in Greve were amazing and provided me with my second most talked about moments of the trip (everything in the kitchen being the first!)
Christine M., FL |
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... | My cooking class in Asissi was wonderful, thanks to our excellent chef, Letizia. I enjoyed our little tasting at a deli and our very through lesson in pasta making. I picked up some great tips and our meal was delicious. My friend came home to our rented house and recreated our dessert!
Jane N., VA |
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 Cook in a Veneto Villa | Read
more... |  [The Villa] was a great place and we enjoyed it very much. It is a great location with easy access to interesting cities in Northern Italy. The facility was great and the people were wonderful. Maria was a wonderful host. The cooks were superb and very friendly. The food was great. Upon our return we planted some fresh herbs and have made several meals using their recipes.
John H., MO |
Venice - Lesson with Chef Maria Grazia | Read
more... | Maria Grazia was wonderful. Her home was such a surprise in Venice. We didn't expect such a spacious beautiful place. We were definitely glad to have rented one of her rooms. Her cooking course was wonderful. We learned so much on how to prepare and clean sardines, squid, vegetables. Everything was hands on which we really enjoyed. She was really accommodating too. Since we had already made fresh pasta with our cooking class in Tuscany, she switched her menu to show us how to make risotto instead. Maria Grazia's English is not as strong but she arranged one of her friend to come and translate for us. That was a really nice gesture.
Bang and Tong, VA |
Venice - Lesson with Chef Patrizia | Read
more... | It was fabulous. Chef Patrizia is a doll and we had a wonderful time with her, even though her English is very limited. Her assistant/translator did a great job and it was nver a problem.
Larry, MN
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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.”