Cooking Class traditional food

There’s something truly special about being welcomed into a home that feels both cozy and alive — a place where warmth isn’t just in the air but in the people themselves. That’s exactly how it felt meeting Pati and Dan. Dan spoke with depth and passion about Romanian history, traditions, and politics — his insight giving each conversation a richness that mirrored the country itself. Pati, on the other hand, opened the door to the heart of Romanian cuisine. Her knowledge of traditional cooking, local flavors, and time-honored techniques was inspiring — the kind of wisdom only passed down through years of care and practice. They offered me a taste of Transylvania in liquid form — traditional local drinks that were potent, savory, and, by some standards, a little hardcore. I, of course, loved them. As a cook, I’ve always appreciated authenticity over perfection, and this was the real thing. If you’re someone who values presentation over flavor, this might not be your kind of experience. But if you’re a traveler, a cook, or simply someone who seeks out genuine taste and tradition, you’ve found your jackpot. Later, I went searching for Pălincă in the market — no luck. But I did manage to enjoy three mici, with bread, mustard, and a beer. When I told the owner about my hunt for Pălincă, he laughed and handed me a glass of cherries soaked in it. It was both hilarious and perfectly Transylvanian — strong, sweet, and unforgettable.

The Pati and Dan are very friendly and the food is great. You get to help make the food and sample some other Romanian dishes. Would definitely recommend.

This was an highly enjoyable cooking class and a highlight of our trip in Bucharest. The hosts are kind, warm, and welcoming; their hospitality made the experience so special. They also were so knowledgeable and we appreciated all we learned about Bucharest, Romania at large, and its history and culture; we had great conversations. Our group was only two people, but I can see this class being great for kids and big groups alike—there’s no need for you to worry about being technical or experienced; you will still have a lot of fun! In addition to the two dishes we learned to cook (bulz and papanași), they also provided a hearty breakfast and a variety of drinks.