An Italian Summer in Carlton: Pasta Heaven at Ms. Frankie’s Masterclass

Walking into Ms. Frankie’s in Carlton felt like stepping into the heart of an Italian family gathering. Long tables stretched across the room, dressed in checkered cloth and scattered with sprigs of greenery. Candles flickered from wine bottles dripped with wax, prosecco sparkled in tall glasses, and the air carried the buzz of laughter and conversation. Hospitality was present in every detail. This was Pasta Palooza, Ms. Frankie’s signature pasta masterclass, where the spirit of Italy comes alive in the middle of Melbourne.

A Table That Feels Like Home

The setting blended modern Melbourne with timeless Italy. Sleek interiors and open light met traditional touches like the wood-fired oven, creating a space that felt both fresh and familiar. Two long tables welcomed us in , one dusted in flour and lined with pizza boards and gnocchi makers, the other styled for dining with polished glassware and candlelight. The entire atmosphere carried the warmth of a shared family meal.

Pillowy Gnocchi, Crafted with Love

The stars of the show were, of course, the gnocchi. Made with Royal Blue potatoes , the preferred choice at Ms. Frankie , and combined with silky 0-0 flour, each piece was soft and pillowy, melting beautifully in every bite.

The trick, we learned, lies in preparation. The potatoes are baked whole the night before and left to cool completely, allowing humidity to escape. This small but crucial step keeps the dough light and prevents it from becoming heavy. Paired with the rich, slow-cooked beef ragu, the gnocchi delivered flavours that balanced depth and delicacy with ease.

The Magic in the Masterclass

The pasta masterclass celebrated process as much as outcome. Maria guided us with patience and grace, showing how to mash the potatoes, fold in the yolks, and roll the dough into long logs before cutting them into pieces. She reminded us to take our time and enjoy the act of shaping each gnocchi. Laughter filled the room as flour dusted the air, and the imperfections only added to the charm.

Beside her, Chef Giorgio taught with energy and humour. His playful commentary and sharp eye kept us engaged, offering both encouragement and correction in equal measure. This gnocchi masterclass was an afternoon of hands-on learning and an extended invitation to cook with joy.

The Story Behind the Kitchen

What made the afternoon unforgettable was understanding the people behind it. Chef Giorgio, now in his sixties, began his culinary journey at twelve and still cooks with the same spark. He teased the class, shared jokes, and showed that mastery can be lighthearted. Maria, his partner in life and in the kitchen, radiated quiet warmth, pausing often to check that we were happy, comfortable, and enjoying the process.

Their story reflects the founding of Ms.. Frankie itself, shaped by immigrant kitchens, family recipes, and traditions passed through generations. For Ms.. Frankie, pasta is memory, family, and love, carried to the table with pride.

An Italian Summer in Melbourne

What held the day together was the generosity of hospitality. From coffee offered in the morning, to prosecco refills that flowed with ease, to making sure our dinner plans were in place, the team cared for every detail. By the end, it felt as though we had stepped into an Italian summer afternoon, complete with food, laughter, and togetherness. Ms. Frankie’s Pasta Palooza was more than a class. It was an experience that invited us to slow down, roll dough with care, sip prosecco, and taste the meaning of tradition and love. My tummy was full, yes , and so was my heart.

Ms. Frankie, Carlton & Cremorne

Step into your own slice of Italy – reserve your place at Ms. Frankie’s Pasta Masterclass today.

Address: 221-229 Faraday St, Carlton VIC 3053
Website: https://www.msfrankie.com.au/

Disclaimer: The Social Secret invited Glamorazzi to join this Gnocchi Masterclass on 30th August 2025 in Carlton, attended by Roslyn Foo and Meenakshi Chintalapati. As per Glamorazzi’s editorial policy, our review remain honest and independent.