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Join native chefs in Valencia for a hands-on seafood paella workshop complete with tapas and a sangria session. Discover local flavors, culinary techniques, and the culture behind Spain’s signature dish.
Join native chefs in Valencia for a hands-on seafood paella workshop complete with tapas and a sangria session. Discover local flavors, culinary techniques, and the culture behind Spain’s signature dish.
Book with My First Paella
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by My First Paella · València, Comunidad Valenciana
Valencia, on Spain’s sunlit Mediterranean coast, is more than just a gateway to beaches and historic streets—it's the birthplace of paella, the iconic Spanish dish that defines regional cuisine. My First Paella taps directly into this culinary heritage with an evening workshop that blends hands-on cooking with local culture, making it a distinct experience amid Valencia’s vibrant outdoor and gastronomic scene.
Set in a well-appointed kitchen within the city, the Seafood Paella Workshop offers a deep dive into traditional Valencian cooking under the guidance of native chefs. The experience begins with a welcoming spread of fresh tapas, including Manchego cheese, ham, steamed mussels, and patatas bravas, paired perfectly with a sangria workshop where you learn to craft the classic refreshing drink. The chefs introduce the freshest market ingredients, emphasizing the local seafood and vegetables that form the base for a paella unlike any other.
This particular paella recipe is more intricate—it starts with a homemade fish and vegetable broth and a sautée called "salmorreta" that builds layers of flavor before the seafood joins the pan. Participants cook alongside the team, absorbing key cooking techniques and hearing stories about Valencia’s customs and the paella’s history.
Once complete, the group sits to savor their creation paired with Valencian tomato salad, local wines, seasonal fruit, and the region’s traditional sponge cake, Coca de llanda. The convivial atmosphere, rich flavors, and cultural immersion create a unique way to connect with Valencia beyond its outdoor vistas—the city’s culinary craft shines just as brightly. This workshop stands out as an authentic regional experience for food lovers and travelers seeking active engagement with local tradition.
easy.
3 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels; involves standing and light movement in a kitchen environment.
No prior experience is necessary; the workshop is designed for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
Yes, all ages are welcome, and children under three participate for free.
This particular seafood paella workshop focuses on seafood; please inquire about vegetarian options in advance.
Sangria, beer, soft drinks, water, and Valencian DO wines are included.
Group sizes vary; expect an intimate setting to allow personal guidance from the chefs.
The workshop takes place at Carrer del Penyagolosa, 5, Quatre Carreres, 46006 València.
Paella originated in the mid-19th century as a hearty meal for Valencian field workers, combining locally sourced ingredients from land and sea.
Efforts in Valencia support sustainable seafood sourcing and protect regional agriculture, ensuring authentic ingredients remain abundant for future generations.
My First Paella is a Valencia-based cooking school and guided culinary experience operator located in València, Comunidad Valenciana. The company offers hands-on paella workshops that teach participants to prepare traditional Valencian paella and regional variations using fresh ingredients sourced at the Ruzafa market. Each experience is led by native chefs who provide step-by-step instruction, practical techniques for the paellera, and explanations of local ingredients and history. Workshops include guided visits to Ruzafa market to select seafood, seasonal vegetables, rice, and saffron, followed by in-class preparation, tapas, and a shared meal. Several offerings focus on seafood paella and vegetable paella, while authentic Valencian paella workshops emphasize traditional recipes and methods. Evening options pair paella with sangria and social tasting, and daytime workshops often include Valencian wines and desserts. My First Paella structures each session for hands-on learning and communal dining, making it suitable for solo travelers, couples, and small groups seeking culinary immersion. The combination of market tours, native-chef instruction, and shared tasting reinforces local culinary culture and practical cooking skills. Booking information, availability, and exact meeting points are provided at reservation; participants receive clear guidance during the experience. My First Paella operates in the heart of Valencia’s culinary district, with a focus on authentic ingredients, market sourcing, and traditional cooking techniques. This transparent, market-focused approach supports trustworthy, educational culinary experiences for visitors wanting to learn Valencian paella. Participants leave with practical cooking tips, a deeper appreciation for Valencian gastronomy, and a printed recipe to recreate dishes at home for friends.
Book with My First Paella