Catania Cooking Classes

Our cooking class with Mariella was one of the highlights of our trip to Sicily. From the moment we arrived, Mariella welcomed us into her home like family. Her warmth, energy, and passion for Sicilian cuisine made the experience truly special. We loved learning about local dishes, cooking together, and hearing her stories about the region and its traditions. It felt less like a class and more like spending time with a dear friend. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone visiting Catania—it’s an authentic, memorable, and wonderful way to experience Sicilian culture.

Everything was well planned and well executed. We were given a tour of the local markets, introductions to local merchants, treated to Sicilian drinks, told about customs and history--and even learned a few phrases in Sicilian. Mariella directed us in the kitchen, and let us do as much as we seemed capable of doing; we used vegetables and fish which we bought together that morning, but of course some of the preparation was already done, so as to save time. The table was beautifully set and decorated (for Easter), and the food was, of course, delicious. The meal was truly fun, with lots of toasts, jokes, and enjoyable conversation. It is hard to imagine a better or more welcoming experience.

During our stay in Catania we had the pleasure of meeting Mariella and her family. They were welcoming people and getting to learn how to prepare traditional Sicilian dishes and a dessert was the most enjoyable portion of our time spent on the island. It was not only fun to cook the meals we ate, but sharing it with good company made it even better. Be careful how much food you put on your plate because you’ll be very full by the end of the night! An important part of getting to sit down and have dinner with Mariella’s family was getting to understand Sicilian culture and life in Catania. It’s a unique place with a rich history and you can only understand that by visiting for yourself. Just make sure you show up hungry. Cincin!

Mariella meet us as if we were her's family! Very cozy space, a lot of information, tips and small details. At the same time perfect timeline and attention to all participants. We really enjoyed the class, learned a lot and had a great time!!! Thank you very much, Mariella! Ciao!❤️

We had a very authentic, plentiful, and culturally rich cooking class, with wonderful tips and products. Appetizers, starters, pasta with clams, tiramisu, we learned about wines, and typical desserts. The atmosphere was welcoming and very homey. I highly recommend it.

We loved our cooking class and had an absolutely wonderful experience. Hosted by the warm and welcoming Mariella, her husband Gino, and their friend Malene, the class felt like a delightful gathering of friends. We started with refreshing drinks—fresh strawberry puree mixed with prosecco—followed by delicious bruschetta and a selection of excellent local wines. The hands-on cooking was a highlight, as we learned to make authentic caponata and linguine with clams, both bursting with flavor. The meal concluded with a delectable dessert that perfectly capped our afternoon. The cozy home setting, fresh ingredients, and the joy of connecting with such lovely hosts made this an unforgettable culinary experience. I highly recommend this class to anyone looking to immerse themselves in local culture and cuisine!

We loved the cooking class, the food was wonderful and we loved Mariella. It’s what a cooking class should be: home cooking of local cuisine in a lovely environment sprinkled with laughter and many useful tips! Thank you Mariella for opening your beautiful home and heart to share your wonderful cooking.

We had a great time during our cooking class in Catania with Mariella. Mariella welcomed us into her beautiful home graciously with her husband Gino. We enjoyed learning how to cook traditional Sicilian pasta with dessert and enjoyed appetizers and wine with the experience. Such a unique opportunity to be welcomed into a local's home and experience both cooking and sharing a meal together. It was one of our favorite parts of our vacation! I would highly recommend to other travelers!

While visiting the beautiful Sicily island (Italy) this past month of September, my husband and I decided to fulfill the long postponed wish of learning to make the very famous and unique Napolitan Pizza! After searching for the best option, we opted for the highly reputed "Master Class", from Alessandro. The class was given by Alessandro himself, who taught the secrets of the art of cooking a true "Pizza Napolitana". This was a hands-on experience! Each of us made our own dough, following a precise step-by-step preparation, to ensure the unique and delicious texture and quality that the Pizza Napolitana has. It was trully an unique and delightful experience!

While visiting the beautiful Sicily island (Italy) this past month of September, my husband and I decided to fulfill the long postponed wish of learning to make the very famous and unique Napolitan Pizza! After searching for the best option, we opted for the highly reputed "Master Class", from Alessandro. The class was given by Alessandro himself, who taught the secrets of the art of cooking a true "Pizza Napolitana". This was a hands-on experience! Each of us made our own dough, following a precise step-by-step preparation, to ensure the unique and delicious texture and quality that the Pizza Napolitana has. It was trully an unique and delightful experience!

my friends and I came here on our final night in Catania and we are glad we saved the best till last! Had the greatest time and the pizza at the end was delicious. The hosts were extremely welcoming and friendly and really made us feel at home. They went over and beyond to make our experience memorable. I recommend you book this pizza making class when in Catania- you won’t regret it!

Mariella gave us an exceptional Sicilian cooking class, teaching us how to prepare Pasta alla Norma and Tiramisu. We celebrated my daughter's birthday, and it was a truly special occasion. Mariella and Gino made us feel at home from the moment we arrived. Their attention to detail made all the difference. We learned so much about Sicilian customs and didn't want it to end. I even had candles ready to sing "Happy Birthday" to my daughter. Without a doubt, it was one of the best experiences of the trip. If you have the opportunity, take the cooking class with Mariella; it will be the highlight of your trip.

During our trip to Sicily we enjoyed a fantastic afternoon, cooking at Mariella’s lovely home. Mariella and Masumi welcomed us warmly and taught us how to make traditional dishes. After cooking we enjoyed the delicious meal at the table. This experience was without a doubt one of the highlights of our trip.

Perfectly orchestrated day of Sicilian cooking from start to finish so enjoyable!! Food and hosts were perfect we totally enjoyed our Sicilian cooking experience!❤️