Meet Francesco at his seaside home, then enjoy a short 10-minute walk together to Catania’s iconic fish market, La Pescheria. There, you’ll dive into the vibrant world of fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and traditional Sicilian street food, while discovering the lively rhythms of local market life with your expert guide. After the market tour, return to Francesco’s home for your hands-on Sicilian cooking class. Before stepping into the kitchen, take a moment to explore his beautiful garden, where he grows over 50 varieties of aromatic herbs!
Start your Catania cooking class with a welcome aperitif and a tour of Francesco’s historic seaside villa, offering breathtaking views over the Gulf of Ognina. Then step into Francesco’s beautiful home kitchen, complete with hand-painted ceilings and warm Sicilian charm, for a 1.5-hour hands-on cooking experience in Catania. Learn how to make traditional Sicilian pasta from scratch using ancient grains like Tumminia and Russello, along with a fresh tomato sauce and a creamy cannoli filling. As you cook together, Francesco shares expert tips, family recipes, and stories about Sicily’s rich culinary heritage. After the class, sit down to enjoy the delicious meal you helped prepared paired with local Sicilian wine, right by the sea.
Whether you're a passionate foodie, a traveler seeking authentic experiences, or simply looking for the best cooking class in Catania, this experience offers a true taste of Sicily’s flavors, hospitality, and history.
Enjoy an authentic home-dining experience in a historic seaside villa overlooking the Gulf of Ognina - a hidden gem just beyond Catania. Francesco’s cooking is a tribute to Sicily’s rich culinary heritage, featuring ancient grains like Tumminia and Russello in time-honored recipes passed down through generations. Each ingredient tells the story of the fertile Etna region, from sun-ripened volcanic tomatoes to wild, aromatic herbs. Together, you’ll share traditional dishes such as caponata di melanzane (Sicilian eggplant stew) and pasta alla Norma topped with fresh ricotta salata. The meal concludes with classic Sicilian cannoli filled with ricotta cream and pistachios, all paired with local wines for a truly authentic and flavorful experience.
Francesco can accommodate lactose-free, gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan diets upon request, if informed in advance.
Please note that, as is common in many Italian homes, this residence
does not have air conditioning.
This is just a sample menu to give you an idea of the types of dishes the host cooks. Your menu will vary according to seasonal availability.
Welcome aperitive Appetizer: Caponata di melanzane (eggplant stew)Main: Pasta alla Norma with fresh ricotta salataDessert: Sicilian cannoli with ricotta cream and pistachios1-2 glasses of wine per personFrancesco is a Sicilian chef born and raised in Catania, with over 15 years of experience in the culinary world. He began cooking at just eight years old, inspired by a deep love for seafood and local flavors. His career took him across Europe, working in some of the best kitchens, but his passion ultimately led him back to Sicily. Today, Francesco welcomes guests into his home for hands-on cooking classes that celebrate traditional Sicilian recipes, fresh local ingredients, and the warmth of true Sicilian hospitality.
