The Sicilian Pantry

Michael is an amazing chef and a great teacher. We started by coming with him to shop at the market, where he taught us to buy things in season and what to look for. We then went to his home, where he taught us to prepare chickpea fritters, make our own pasta shells, create a simple but exquisite tomato and garlic sauce for the pasta, and create a watermelon pudding and pistachio dolce. The secondo was fresh grilled tuna with caramelized onions. It was all delicious and so much fun! His assistant was also terrific and told us lots of “grandmother rules” about Sicilian cooking. Very highly recommended!

Our time began with a trip to the market to buy the freshest of ingredients. Such a wonderful experience I wish I could replicate at home! Michael and his assistant Melissa guided us through the preparation of a typical multi course Sicilian meal. We learned much about the proper use of knives, appropriate chopping techniques, etc. while spending a few hours with a group of new friends. We laughed lots while cooking together. The meal was spectacular - chick pea fritters, handmade pasta with a tomato/basil sauce, involtini and strawberry granita all accompanied by local wines. I look forward to preparing the recipes at home to share with family and friends. It was an amazing day that was perfect end to my trip on Sicily!

This was the best thing we did in Sicily! Michael and his assistant, Melissa, did an excellent job providing us with a fun, educational and tasty experience. From taking our group through the market to buy the ingredients for the day's meal, to the food prep and then onto actually eating the meal they were always entertaining and informative. It was much more like having a fun, casual dinner at a friend's house than a normal cooking course. It was one of our favorite activities during our time spend in Italy. We would recommend this to anyone who enjoys good food and good company.

From booking to finish the experience was great. Chef Michael and Melissa are great hosts. Chef Michael meets you and the beginning of the marketplace, there you shop for what you are cooking. He explains everything along the way. The cooking experience was wonderful, Chef Michael gives great direction and tips along the way. The menu was complimentary of each course, and delicious. I highly recommend, and would love to do the experience again. Thank you Chef Michael and Melissa for the highlight of my trip