Lecce: Cooking class on fresh pasta in the garden of an old shed

Trying to picture a perfect day in Italy’s southern region? This Lecce cooking experience offers a genuine taste of Salento’s culinary soul, wrapped in the charm of a family-run setting. It’s a wonderful way to connect with local traditions, learn new skills, and enjoy a lively, authentic atmosphere.

What we love most? The chance to roll up our sleeves in the garden of a beautifully restored old shed, savoring homemade pasta paired with local wines, and the delightful touch of traditional “La Pizzica” music. Plus, the small group size ensures a cozy, personalized experience. One potential consideration? The tour’s focus on local, homemade-style dishes might not suit travelers craving more structured or extensive cooking lessons. Still, it’s an ideal pick for those who want a relaxed, warm, and engaging introduction to Salento’s flavors and culture.

This experience suits travelers eager for an authentic, family-led culinary outing—perfect for food lovers, culture seekers, and anyone wanting a memorable, hands-on day in Lecce. Whether you’re visiting for a day or looking to deepen your appreciation of Italy’s culinary roots, this class offers more than just recipes—it’s a slice of local life.

Key Points

• Authentic Family Experience: Cook alongside local hosts in their garden, gaining insight into Salento traditions.
• Hands-On Pasta Making: Prepare fresh orecchiette and maccheroni with guidance, not just watch a demo.
• Local Wines & Aperitifs: Sample regional wines and typical products, enhancing the flavor of your culinary creations.
• Music & Folk Atmosphere: Enjoy traditional “La Pizzica” music, with the option to play instruments and join in folk songs.
• Beautiful Location: The renovated old shed, formerly a stable, offers an authentic and picturesque setting.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Food, drinks, pasta, ice cream, and limoncello are included, offering great value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Taste of Salento’s Heritage

This Lecce cooking class is much more than a typical culinary workshop. It’s a glimpse into how locals have preserved their culinary identity, now shared with visitors in a warm and informal environment. The setting alone is worth the trip—an old barn transformed into a cozy, inviting space that balances rustic charm with modern comfort.

The tour begins with a welcoming aperitif in the garden, where you’ll enjoy a selection of typical regional products. This is a perfect moment to relax, soak in the atmosphere, and chat with your hosts about life in Salento. The hosts, part of a local family, are praised for their hospitality and enthusiasm—many reviewers mention feeling like they’re visiting friends rather than participating in a commercial activity.

The Culinary Experience: Making Pasta with a Local Twist

Once the aperitif winds down, it’s time to get hands-on. Under the guidance of your expert, you’ll learn to make two traditional pasta types: orecchiette and maccheroni. The process of shaping the pasta allows you to connect with centuries-old techniques, passed down through generations.

Expect to knead fresh dough and shape it into the local specialties, with plenty of tips and encouragement from your hosts. According to reviews, the hosts are knowledgeable and eager to share stories about their culinary heritage, making the experience both educational and entertaining. One guest noted, “They explained each step with patience and humor, making it easy to follow along.”

The pasta is then served with two typical sauces: “fresh tomato & basil” and “Ciceri & Tria”—a chickpea-based dish flavored with vegetables and fried pasta. These are classic Salento flavors, showcasing the region’s simple yet vibrant ingredients.

Pairing Food with Local Wines and Aperitifs

No Italian meal is complete without good wine, and this experience offers generous tastings of regional wines. The hosts select quality local varieties that perfectly complement the dishes. Guests have mentioned the “excellent Salento wines” as a highlight, noting how they elevate the flavors of the pasta and sauces.

The aperitif before cooking also features regional products, giving you a taste of Salento’s culinary basics—fresh cheeses, cured meats, and locally baked bread. It’s a relaxed, convivial moment that sets the tone for the evening.

Music, Fun, and Cultural Flair

What sets this experience apart is the lively atmosphere fostered by traditional music and folk entertainment. Guests can listen to “La Pizzica,” a dance-infused musical genre native to Salento, while enjoying their meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, the hosts even provide guitars and tambourines, encouraging participants to join in singing folk songs, adding a joyful, communal element.

Reviews frequently mention the fun of participating in this musical aspect, describing it as “the perfect way to end a delightful day.” The blend of food, music, and conviviality creates a memorable ambiance that embodies Salento’s welcoming spirit.

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Sweet Ending and Final Notes

To wrap up, a homemade ice cream and limoncello—also crafted locally—are served. Guests rave about the homemade ice cream’s creamy texture and authentic flavor, as well as the refreshing limoncello that acts as a perfect digestif.

The entire experience lasts about a day, with most tours starting in the morning or early afternoon. It’s designed for small groups—limited to 10 participants—which ensures personalized attention and a more intimate setting.

Practical Details & Tips

• The tour starts at L’Antica Rimessa, where you meet your hosts. The end point is back at the same location.
• The activity is available on specific days; check availability to confirm start times.
• It’s a small group experience—up to 10 people—which means a more relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
• The experience is conducted in both Italian and English, making it accessible for international travelers.
• Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if your plans change.
• The price covers the entire day’s activities: aperitif, pasta making, dinner, ice cream, and tastings, making it excellent value for a comprehensive culinary encounter.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This class is ideal for food lovers wanting to learn authentic Italian recipes directly from locals. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a familial, relaxed atmosphere—not a formal cooking school—and those interested in culture. If you enjoy live music, storytelling, and participatory activities, you’ll find this experience charming and fun.

However, if you are looking for a lengthy, in-depth culinary course or a hands-on experience that covers many different dishes, you might feel this is somewhat limited. Still, for a taste of Salento’s culinary tradition in a cozy setting, it’s hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs for about one day, with specific starting times available. It includes all activities from aperitif to dinner and desserts.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the aperitif, local wine tasting, the pasta-making lesson (oregchiette and maccheroni), dinner, homemade ice cream, and limoncello.

Is the group size small?
Yes, limited to 10 participants, which promotes a friendly, personalized atmosphere.

What languages are spoken?
The experience is conducted in both Italian and English, making it accessible to international travelers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund.

Where do we meet?
The meeting point is L’Antica Rimessa, and the tour ends back at the same location.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the hands-on nature and family-friendly setting suggest it could be enjoyable for older children and teenagers.

Do I need prior cooking experience?
No, this is designed for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned cooks, with guidance provided throughout.

Final Word

This Lecce pasta-making class offers a delightful mix of hands-on cooking, culture, and lively entertainment without being overly formal or commercial. You’ll leave with new skills, authentic recipes, and a deeper appreciation for Salento’s culinary traditions—all in a warm, welcoming environment. It’s perfect for foodies, culture lovers, and anyone wanting to experience a genuine slice of local life in southern Italy.

Travelers seeking a memorable, authentic family-style experience should definitely consider this tour. It’s a chance to connect, learn, and taste, all while enjoying the company of passionate hosts in a stunning, rustic setting.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, this experience promises fun, flavor, and a true taste of Salento’s heart.

You can check availability for your dates here: