Barcelona: Spanish Cooking Class with a Social Enterprise

If you’re dreaming of spending a couple of hours in a kitchen, learning to make classic Catalan dishes while supporting a meaningful cause, this cooking class might just be perfect. Hosted at Mescladís, a nonprofit restaurant in Barcelona, the experience promises more than just good food—it offers a chance to connect with local culture and give back to the community.

What we love about this experience is its focus on sustainability and social impact, the chance to learn authentic recipes from a local chef, and the warm, family-style meal that follows. However, one point to consider is that it’s not suitable for vegans or children under 6, so keep that in mind if you’re traveling with little ones or special diets. This class is ideal for food lovers wanting an immersive, responsible experience that combines culinary skills with social good.

Good To Know

• Authentic Catalan Cuisine: Learn to cook iconic dishes like gazpacho, paella, and crema catalana with seasonal ingredients.
• Support a Noble Cause: The class benefits Mescladís, a nonprofit that trains refugees and marginalized communities for careers in hospitality.
• Family-Friendly and Accessible: Open to kids from age 6, wheelchair accessible, and accommodating vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets.
• Value for Money: At $90 per person for a 2-hour hands-on experience, you get a detailed cooking class plus a family-style meal with drinks.
• Sustainable Focus: Use of seasonal and sustainable ingredients highlights local culinary traditions.
• Memorable Cultural Connection: Cooking in a community-focused setting adds depth and meaning beyond just the recipes.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Practical Guide to the Barcelona Spanish Cooking Class

What the Experience Entails

This class takes place at Mescladís, a well-regarded nonprofit restaurant in Barcelona. It’s hosted by an expert local chef who guides you through preparing three of Catalonia’s most loved dishes: gazpacho, paella, and crema catalana. All dishes are made with seasonal, sustainable ingredients, providing a true taste of regional flavors.

The class lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect addition to a day of sightseeing or a relaxed afternoon activity. The session starts promptly, so arriving 15 minutes early is recommended. During the class, you’ll get hands-on experience, learning tips and techniques for each dish—an opportunity to elevate your home cooking with authentic Catalan methods.

The Setting and Atmosphere

The cooking takes place inside the cozy, community-oriented space of Mescladís, which emphasizes food as a connector and a way to create opportunities. The energy in the kitchen is lively but welcoming, with a clear focus on education and social impact. Participants often mention the friendly, inclusive vibe, making it easy for beginners or those unfamiliar with Spanish cuisine to feel comfortable.

What You’ll Cook

You’ll start by preparing gazpacho, a cooling, flavorful cold soup that’s perfect for summer. The chef recommends using seasonal, sustainable ingredients, which ensures freshness and supports local producers. Next, you’ll move on to paella, choosing between a meat or vegetarian version. This dish is a true centerpiece of Catalan cuisine, and you’ll learn techniques for achieving the perfect rice texture and flavor. Finally, you’ll make crema catalana, a silky custard dessert similar to crème brûlée, showcasing the sweet side of the region.

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Learning Experience

According to reviews, the instructor’s approach is friendly and clear, making complex techniques accessible. One visitor noted, “We learned helpful tips I can’t wait to try at home,” highlighting the practical value of the class. The recipes provided are comprehensive, so you can recreate your favorite dishes after your trip.

The Meal and Drinks

After cooking, everyone gathers around a family-style table to enjoy the fruits of their labor. It’s an informal, warm environment where new friends are quickly made. The meal is served with wine, beer, or non-alcoholic drinks such as soda or juice, catering to different preferences. This communal aspect adds a social and authentic touch to the experience.

Supporting a Nonprofit

One of the most meaningful elements of this class is its backing by Mescladís, which uses proceeds to offer free job training for refugees and marginalized communities. Participants often appreciate knowing their money goes toward social good, adding an extra layer of fulfillment to the experience.

Practical Details

• Price: $90 per person offers a well-rounded experience with guided instruction, recipes, drinks, and a meal.
• Duration: 2 hours, suitable for a relaxed afternoon or early evening activity.
• Meeting Point: Inside Mescladís restaurant at Carrer del Comte Borrell 122.
• Start Time: Check availability for specific times; arriving 15 minutes early is recommended.
• Accessibility: The class is wheelchair accessible and suitable for strollers.
• Dietary Options: Vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options are available, although vegan diets are not accommodated.
• Age Limit: Suitable for children age 6 and up, provided they are accompanied by an adult.
• Language: Conducted in English, ensuring clarity for international visitors.
• Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Unlike typical cooking classes, this experience places a significant emphasis on community, sustainability, and social impact. We loved the way it connects participants not just to Catalan cuisine but also to a greater purpose—helping refugees build new lives through culinary training.

The use of seasonal ingredients and the focus on slow-food principles mean you’ll learn techniques rooted in local traditions. Plus, the family-style meal and drinks create a convivial atmosphere, making it more than just a cooking lesson—it’s a cultural experience.

Potential Drawbacks

While the focus on social enterprise adds depth, some travelers might find the menu somewhat limited if they prefer vegan or vegan-friendly dishes. Also, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan how to get to the venue, especially if you’re staying outside the city center.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This class is ideal for travelers who value authentic local cuisine with a social purpose. Food lovers eager to learn traditional Catalan recipes will appreciate the hands-on approach, and those interested in supporting community projects will find extra meaning in their participation. It’s also a great choice for families or groups with kids over 6 looking for a fun, educational activity.

If you’re a conscious traveler wanting to combine culinary discovery with social impact, this experience offers plenty of value. However, if you’re vegan or vegan-curious, you might want to seek alternative options, as vegan dishes aren’t currently offered.

FAQs

Is transportation to the venue included?
No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to Mescladís at Carrer del Comte Borrell 122.

Can I cancel this experience?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this class suitable for children?
Yes, kids from age 6 are welcome when accompanied by an adult.

Are there vegetarian or gluten-free options?
Yes, vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets are accommodated. Vegan options are not available.

What drinks are included?
You can choose from wine, beer, or non-alcoholic options like soda or juice.

How long does the class last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours from start to finish.

Is the venue accessible?
Yes, the class is wheelchair accessible and suitable for strollers.

Will I get recipes to take home?
Absolutely, you’ll receive recipes so you can recreate the dishes yourself.

This Spanish cooking class in Barcelona offers more than just culinary skills—it’s a chance to engage with local culture, support social change, and enjoy a hearty, authentic meal. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, it’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression.

You can check if your dates are available here: