Mama Isa & Stefano were just the sweetest people. I literally told my husband while we were eating that I wanted to take her & Stefano home with me, Stefano was such a sweet helper too! She gave us very detailed instructions on how to reach her home, and everything went very smoothly getting there. It was a nice little break to get away from crowded Venice. They gave us a very warm welcome once we arrived at the home, and explained the plan of action for the day, as well as gave us a little tour of her lovely home. She then donned us with our aprons, and before we got started, offered us some very tasty treats! (Paired with some Prosecco of course). It ended up being a private cooking class for my husband and I that day, and it couldn't have been more perfect. She took her time explaining everything we were doing, and how to do it, as well as little helpful tidbits about cooking. She also had lots of patience with my very curious husband who went through all of her spices and asked what each one was for! :) We ended up going to a little market afterwards just to buy one of them to take back home, the peperoncini's. Yum! The Food was simply delicious! We made a pumpkin risotto, fettuccine with Ragu/bolognese sauce, and Ciambella della Nona (her Grandmothers cake recipe) The Risotto was so good, I don't normally eat pumpkin, but the risotto was so creamy and had such great taste that it was hard to resist. The bolognese sauce was also very delicious, and the cake was like eating a soft sweet cloud. Making the Fettuccine was such a fun experience for both my husband and I, I will definitely be making all of these things back at home. I also loved that all ingredients were fresh - Basil and parsley from the garden, olive oil and cheese from Stefano's family, etc. The recipes were so simple, yet so delicious, I absolutely recommend her to anyone who wants to eat (and make) delicious and authentic Italian food. P.S. She sends you the recipes via email so hat you don't have to worry about writing anything down, you just show up, cook, and eat! Thank you Mama Isa & Stefano for such a wonderful time at your home! read more

If you get the chance to book a cooking experience with Mama Isa, it is very much so worth your time and money! It is reasonably priced, and you get such an intimate experience. My friend and I recently participated in the fresh pasta making class and it was the highlight of my trip across Italy, France and Spain. The knowledge and experience Mama Isa has is incredible. Her true passion for the art is very obvious and lovely. We arrived to the class and were greeted with wine, hugs and excitement. The class was only two other people which was fantastic. We made two pasta dishes in a 4 hour time span and ate together as a group. She answered all of our questions, made videos and took photos for us to have while we were busy making pasta! Then after our class we received an email with detailed instructions so we can make the pasta at home and the name of all the tools we used (which everything is done by hand- no machines!! as it should be) so we have the opportunity to buy them once we got home. She also made available for purchase a hand tool for ravioli for 15 euros that works like a dream (absolutely no pressure to buy anything- just threw it out there that it was available) - I loved this and bought it as cooking is one of my biggest passions ... was also a nice little souvenir from the class. I could go on forever truthfully- my only regret is that I didnt have time to take another class or a longer one as we were only in Venice for one day. (Also her class is very easy to reach from Venice via train which is only approx 5 euros each way then you take maybe a 10 minute taxi ride directly to her house from there) Thank you Mama Isa!! If I ever am lucky enough to come back to Italy, I will be coming back to take another class! read more

Sono un'appassionata di novità nell'ambito culinario e viaggiando molto in Inghilterra soprattutto ho voluto provare più volte durante i miei viaggi i "supper club", una moda nel mondo, ma qui in Italia una realtà ancora difficile da trovare. Si tratta di case di privati che offrono ospitalità culinaria, spesso ottimo cibo che supera di gran lunga quello dei ristoranti, una specie di social club. Insomma i padroni di casa, spesso degli chef, aprono le porte della loro abitazione agli ospiti interessati nel gustare i loro menu sempre diversi, in cambio di donazioni. Cercando su internet ho trovato a Padova Mama Isa, la quale si offre di preparare cene nella perfetta tradizione della cucina italiana. L'ho contattata e sono stata sua ospite. La cena è stata a dire poco superlativa, tutti piatti rigorosamente abbondanti e genuini e la compagnia è stata altrettanto lieta, dal momento che la famiglia di Isa è molto ospitale, amichevole e soprattutto ricca di interessi. Quindi la serata è trascorsa velocissimamente. Inoltre alla fine della cena Isa mi ha dato anche parte del dolci da lei preparati. Insomma un'esperienza da ripetere e da consigliare. L'unico neo è che il supper club di Mama Isa è veramente destinato a pochi, dal momento che può accogliere solamente 4 o 5 persone massimo. La cosa davvero carina è che quando vai in un supper club non sai chi incontrerai (gli altri commensali intendo), e questa è l'occasione anche per fare nuove amicizie. Io, ad esempio, ho conosciuto al supper club di Mama Isa una signora australiana e suo marito. Relativamente a questo piccolo supper club consiglio di dare un'occhiata al sito di Mama Isa http://isacookinpadua.altervista.org o altrimenti al suo contatto su Twitter Cookery_teacher read more

We thoroughly enjoyed the cooking class with Mama Isa. We are weekend cooks and wanted to learn to make a few authentic Italian dishes to make for casual dinner parties. We learned that, and SO much more. Mama Isa, translating from Italian to English and back again, taught us about the cuisine typical of the region, and stressed the importance of organic, fresh local produce and seafoods. Stefano, her husband and also a chef, and she would go to the market before class daily to bring back amazing ingredients. Luckily, it's the perfect region to learn about a wide variety of dishes. She explained what flours to use, special eggs for pasta (and what makes them special), what kitchen gadgets to buy (and where), and any number of tips. She based the class on what we wanted to learn and the foods we liked. The pace is constant, but the day flies by. There is time for wine or Lemoncello, and plenty of laughter. She is engaging and her passion for cooking is contagious. Her home is warm and inviting and you feel as if you've known her and Stefano for ages. We prepared the meals from beginning dishes, salads, main dishes and desserts. It is Definitely worth the price. We came back with recipes (emailed later), tips, full bellies and a new friendship. Hopefully, we'll be back soon to do it all again. read more

Mama Isa's cooking class is a well-rounded experience! We made pasta (fettuccini), sauce (arrabbiata), and classic tiramisu. Not only did we learn the importance of ingredients but technique and cooking. Mama Isa is an excellent teacher---tell, show, and let you practice. Gentle correction as needed and encouragement as well. She also knows food history and provides insightful background information. She also shared sourdough bread made with her mother's starter (70 year old starter!) and some marvelous wine (one was a sparkling Chardonnay!). The meal was delicious! The experience also lets you experience an Italian home, friendly conversation, and exposure to the city of Padova (Padua). We enjoyed walking to the Basilica of St Anthony from her place as well as the Botanic Gardens. Mama Isa, her husband, and her son were warm and hospitable. The entire experience was perfect for us! We were staying on a cruise ship in Fusina but her directions were detailed and we got to Padua no problem. It was worth the trip plus it made us feel like accomplished Italian travelers using people mover, train, and taxi! My advice: take Mama Isa's Cooking class!!!! She is the real deal. read more

Myself and my partner enjoyed a 4hr cookery class here in March '23. Mama Isa went to extrodinary lengths to ensure our dietry requirements were met - with it being Gluten free and vegetarian. and these standards were kept up throughout. We were contacted throughout to set up our expereience to be exactly how we wanted - being able to chose starter, sauce, and gelato falvour as we wished (would highly recommend pistachio!) and Mama Isa was very very helpful when we were held up with transport in making us feel welcomed and not rushed at all. It was the best gluten free pasta I have EVER tried and the GF focciacia was amazing too. there has clearly been a lot of effort put into research to create a wonderful end product. We learnt a lot and loved it a lot. We even came home and purchased a gelato machine to carry on our love for the experience in the UK. Both Mama Isa and Stefano treated us with 5*** service, welcomed us like we were family and couldnt have done more to host us. Would 5/5 recommend and wouldnt hesitate to get in touch if you are not sure what you wish to book, I am sure between you, you could find the perfect class :)! Bellisimo! read more

This was one of our favorite things we did while in Italy. Chef Isa and Stefano were beyond hospitable. This isn't an ordinary cooking class. You can tell by the way Chef Isa talks how passionate she is about cooking and teaching. My husband doesn't cook at home, but now he's wanting to help me in the kitchen because of this experience. We made three different types of focaccia pizzas and two different gelatos. We are hosting a party for our friends in a couple weeks where we will attempt to recreate what we made that day. Not only do you get the lesson in a perfect kitchen space while listening to beautiful Italian music, but the table was set for two with some lovely wine and a cheese and meat plate as an appetizer. Again, Chef Isa went above and beyond, teaching us about all the different cheeses and meats. She even tells you where you can find certain ingredients in the USA. It was a top-notch experience, a phenomenal meal, and a highlight of our trip. Very highly recommend. We can't wait to go back and try some of the other classes offered. Grazie mille Mama Isa and Stefano!! read more

My wife and I had an absolutely wonderful time at Mama Isa's cooking class! The whole family is extremely welcoming and kind and we enjoyed their company as much as we enjoyed the incredible food and knowledge acquired. We had great wine, great conversation and learned so much. We also loved the flexibility offered. For example: "For the sauce, I had in mind to teach you a special family recipe, a lemon cream sauce that the kids always love, but if you want to learn something else, just tell me." We also learned fresh pasta, focaccia, and tiramisu. All the traditional, by hand techniques. Mama Isa & Steffano were also so willing to answer any and all questions about the history of the recipes, regional styles, and anything else we could think of. We also highly enjoyed learning the proper way to make "the real Italian coffee"! Wonderful Chianti was enjoyed throughout. Pictures and videos were encouraged (so we wouldn't forget!) and email provided for follow up questions and recipes. We could not have been more happy with the experience. Molto Grazie! read more

Hi, I and my sister have just returned from my cooking class with the lovely and charming Mama Isa Cooking Classes near Venice. It was a magnificent day of hands on learning Italian traditional recipes, which included 4 wonderful Italian meals. The cooking lesson came complete with a small recipe booklet, included the dishes we chose to cook, was very detailed, and we had the opportunity to ask as many questions as we had wanted about the recipes. Mama Isa is was not only an amazing teacher but she was warm hearted and personable. Mama Isa cuisine is unique and memorable. Mama Isa offers a different cooking class experience as you are able to select the dishes you want to do rather than a structured menu as most offer. I would highly recommend the Mama Isa's class to anyone looking for fun, insight into Italian life, and delicious food! Mama Isa has a website http://isacookinpadua.altervista.org/ Her school is in Padua, near Venice. I am sure you will enjoy the experience! read more

I took a half day cooking class with my 20 year old daughter. From the moment we entered Mama Isa's front door, we were made to feel like family. Her house is very easy to get to from Venice, and so worth the trip. Her house is very clean. We were taught to make 3 dishes, an antipasto, egg pasta with bolognese sauce, and tiramisu. The lessons were very hands on, and she made sure we mastered each step of the process. We were even offered wine from a local vineyard during the class and while enjoying the meal. We got to sit down and enjoy all of the delicious food we cooked. The 3 1/2 hours flew by and at the end, we were sad to leave-we felt like we were leaving an old friend. More importantly, my daughter and I left with a wonderful shared experience that will last a lifetime. The next day we received an email with all the recipes that me cooked, along with tips on other Italian cooking, ingredients and tools. I highly recommend this class to anyone. read more

Mama Isa is an Italian gem that all need to discover. From her customer service, to cooking, to learning the history behind what you are actually making, Mama Isa does it all. When we came across Mama Isa's website we sent an inquiry via WhatsApp that was responded to within a few short hours. She provided us with detailed directions to her cooking studio that were fool proof and easy to follow. We were welcomed into her home with a hug and brought to the cooking area which was immaculately clean with all tools and ingredients provided. Mama Isa allowed US to do the cooking while providing helpful instruction and history where the dishes we were making originated from. We cooked for 2.5-3 hours and then were able to enjoy the dishes we made with a few glasses of wine and some limoncello! This was the highlight of our honeymoon and we recommend to anyone, you will not be disappointed! read more

Had a lovely day with Mama Isa, while visiting friends in Northern Italy! I had plan a one day cooking class prior to leaving the USA, thru emails. After given directions we arrived promptly and Mama Isa greeted us with enthusiasm. We chose a pasta dish as the main course. Her instructions and helpness flowed showing her experience in culinary. The ease of her excellent English-speaking and friendly personality made for a woderful day! When I asked about a white sauce she explain the orgin of Carbonara sauce (Rome) and even made a little. However, the main dish was with a red meat sauce, savory focaccia bread with tomatoes and olives, for dessert we learned how to make delious tiramisu. After our lovely meal served by Mama Isa, she join us for cordials and general conversation. It was a remarkable day. Hope to repeat the experience soon! read more

One of the biggest highlights of our trip to Venice was the amazing cooking class with Mama Isa. We attended a cooking class at Mama Isa's Cooking Classes. From the moment we arrived it was most lovely.... and yummy!! Mama Isa's home was welcoming and delightful. The menu was wonderful and we learned many great tips and feel confident to make the food at home in California. It was like cooking with your sister or best friend. Mama Isa is very good at what she does and makes you feel you can really do this. We left full, happy and delighted to meet Isa, and Stefano. Taking cooking classes while we travel has become a must for us. We find it a way to get to know more about the culture, food and the people. Mama Isa was so informative and fun. If you are every in the Venice area don't miss this experience. You will love everything about it! read more

My mother and I went on a three week European trip to kick off 2019. We planned the trip on the fly. We visited Lisbon, London, and several Italian cities (Rome, Florence, Venice). This was the highlight of our trip! We reached out less than 24 hours before we wanted to take a class with Mama Isa. Booking was easy, Mama Isa gave us great instructions, and checked on us and we traveled to Padova from Venice. It was just me and my mother in the class. The pizza making class was amazing. Mama Isa took her time and explained each step. She took pictures of us and would instruct us what to take pictures of to reference when we want to make Pizza in the future. The wine was also excellent. We made three different pizzas over the course of three and a half hour course. I would highly recommend. read more

Our team been visit to Venice for holiday, we had joined the cooking class with Mama Isa for two days, it was a nice experience for us. She is a patient and friendly people that i had ever meet at venice. When on class all the things been explain very very clear until that we were fully understand. We look like 1 family when attend the class. She teach us all the traditional Italy recipes, and at the same times we wonder actually how the pasta and food need to eat freshly. Even two days class., we had learn a lot things that we may not been teach before that. She is not a selfish people to share everything about the cooking with us. We feel warm and comfortable when in the class. We will planed again to attend her class when we travel to Venice again. Thanks a lot for Mama Isa. read more

Working with Chef Isa was the absolute highlight of my family's time in Italy. Not only is Isa an incredible chef with storied food knowledge but she provided the most comfortable environment to cook in with her and Stefano going above and beyond the entire class. The recipes we learned were phenomenal but what really stood out was Isa's kindness and understanding. My father cannot eat solid food due to a medical condition and Isa took it upon herself to make him a fresh smoothie from her own personal kitchen- it truly showed that Isa was welcoming us into her home, not just providing a service in teaching us to cook a few Italian dishes. If you get the chance to take a cooking class from Mama Isa you will not be disappointed! 5 stars and an unforgettable experience! read more

We traveled throughout Italy with a group of friends and while visiting Venice we traveled to Padua and spent the day with Mama Isa and Stefano...it was definitely the highlight of our trip. Mama Isa is a true delight and her love of cooking is evident. She shared her knowledge and expertise as we prepared scrumptious dishes and wined and dined in the comfort of her home. This a unique and special experience and in our short time there we felt we made lifetime friends. If we are fortunate to travel back to Italy, we will definitely plan to again participate in a class with Mama Isa and Stefano. Do not hesitate to enjoy this special couple and the adventure of Italian cooking...your only regret will be that you cannot stay for days and days! read more

Fantastico! Mama Isa (and Stephano) taught a fantastic class and provided a warm and inviting atmosphere. I really enjoyed her hands-on teaching style, including all of the stories and background to traditional Italian cooking. My family, consisting of four adults and two teens, really enjoyed the experience. The short train ride (about 25 minutes) from Venice to Padova was also quite relaxing and gave us a chance to see the countryside. Fantastic! I highly recommend her classes! Since our visit (four weeks ago), we've already made fresh pasta six times. We've invited friends over as an event, and we've just made pasta for ourselves. Because of Isa, fresh pasta has already become a regular part of our meals. Thank you Isa. read more

If you are looking for a cooking class in Italy of the highest quality - along with Italian food recipe authenticity, stop looking and book with Mama Isa!! You will enter her lovely flat and you will feel right at home and begin learning her nonna's recipes along with hands on techniques. Mama Isa's classes will share the important simplicity of fresh ingredients along with the instruction for purchasing those ingredients at home. At the conclusion of the class you will enjoy one of the best meals you will have during your visit in Italy as well as having made new friends. Mama Isa's class will remain one of the best highlights of my four visits to Italy! Dee, Vermont read more