We recently gathered in our private dining room for another Hands-On Paella Cooking Class, and it was everything we love about Boca Bistro in one room. Good food. Great people. A little controlled chaos. A lot of saffron.
Each table was set with its own burner and paella pan, ready for action. Chef Ian kicked things off with a quick dive into Paella de Catalana, then it was aprons on and knives out. Guests chopped, seasoned, stirred, and asked plenty of questions as the foundations of their paella came together.
As the stock simmered and the saffron worked its magic, the room filled with that unmistakable aroma that instantly transports you to Spain. Chef Ian moved from table to table, talking heat control, layering flavors, and how to develop that perfect socarrat on the bottom of the pan. The crispy layer is always the moment everyone waits for.
Throughout the class, guests enjoyed chef-selected tapas while they cooked. It kept the energy relaxed and social, exactly how we like it. Conversations flowed, pans sizzled, and there may have been a little friendly competition over who had the best chopping skills.
When the paellas were finished, everyone gathered around their own creations and dug in. There is something special about sharing a dish you made yourself, especially one rooted in Spanish tradition and meant to be enjoyed together.
We closed the night with warm, house-made churros, because at Boca, we always end on a sweet note.
Thank you to everyone who joined us and brought the energy. Nights like this are what make Boca more than just a restaurant. They make it a place to gather, learn, and celebrate around the table.
