A Sobremesa in Valparaiso

This 4-hour cooking class shares Valparaíso's culinary legacy through four dishes celebrating the fusion of Chilean heritage and European influences from when the seaport was at its heyday. The cooking experience and wine pairing take place in the home of Al Ramirez, a sommelier and street artist from Valparaíso. In keeping with the spirit of "sobremesa", the cherished Chilean tradition of lingering around the table, the experience is unhurried and focuses as much on human stories as kitchen secrets. You'll start with every Porteño's favorite sharer—Calugas de Pescado, a platter of fried fish drizzled with lemon. Machas a la Parmesana (baked razor clams) follow suit while a pasta dish fusing Chilean and Italian techniques simmers on the stove. Dobladitas (French-inspired bread) served with pebre (Chilean salsa) or manjar (dulce de leche) completes the experience. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available; any dietary requirements must be communicated in advance.

This cooking class goes beyond recipes; it's a cultural deep-dive into the spirit of Sobre Mesa. Al does not simply instruct you on what to cook—he explains in vivid detail why these dishes matter. Every ingredient has a story, and every technique is rooted in tradition or adaptation. The spotlight focuses on regional flavors across South America—from indigenous cooking methods to street food staples—through the lens of someone who cooks professionally and travels often. The class is designed for curious, experience-driven travelers seeking a deeper connection to place, and Al's kitchen is a window into local life. To keep things interactive and engaging, everyone plays a part. Chopping, grilling, sautéing—there's no passive watching on Al's watch. You'll discuss flavor, history, and technique while cooking and tasting local wines selected by your sommelier host. Al incorporates blind tastings, plating challenges, and stories that create the kind of memories that last a lifetime.

Al Ramirez is a tourism entrepreneur, Sommelier, chef, and street artist from Valparaíso who thrives off connections with people from all walks of life. In the instance that Al is unavailable to host, his cooking experience will be led by one of his close friends from his Barbosa Food and Wine Club. This is a passionate group of cooks and wine lovers who regularly gather to experiment, share recipes, and create unforgettable food and wine pairings together.

Just bring your curiosity and a big appetite! Comfortable shoes are recommended since you'll be on your feet throughout the experience. If you like taking notes, feel free to bring a small notebook—everything else is taken care of. Please message Al in advance via Chat after your booking, if you have allergies or dietary requirements.