Cooking class with family and in the garden of an old boathouse

A Delicious Journey into Salento’s Culinary Traditions

Imagine preparing pasta in the peaceful shade of an ancient boathouse garden, surrounded by the scent of fresh basil and ripe tomatoes, while traditional music drifts through the air. That’s exactly what this cooking class in Lecce offers—a chance to connect with local flavors and family traditions in a setting that feels more like visiting a friend’s countryside home than a typical tourist activity.

We love how this experience combines hands-on pasta making with a cozy, authentic atmosphere, and the way it ends with a lively, musical celebration. On the flip side, it’s a three-hour experience, which might be a bit of a stretch for travelers with tight schedules. Still, if you’re after a genuine taste of Salento’s food culture, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for those eager to get their hands dirty in the kitchen, savor local wines, and enjoy an evening filled with music and good company.

Key Points

• Authentic setting in a beautifully renovated old boathouse garden
• Hands-on pasta making with recipes for orecchiette and macaroni
• Includes local aperitif, wine tasting, and homemade desserts
• Lively musical atmosphere with “La Pizzica” music and traditional instruments
• A small, private group for a personalized experience
• Great value at around $95 per person for a full evening of food, fun, and culture

Setting the Scene: A Unique Venue in Lecce

This experience begins in the intimate garden of an old family boathouse, a structure with a history as a stable and warehouse, now beautifully renovated into a welcoming cooking space. The Salento-style architecture, with its characteristic four-star vaults, provides a charming backdrop that instantly transports you away from the hustle of Lecce’s streets into a peaceful, rustic environment.

The setting is a perfect blend of history and comfort—a quiet spot to enjoy the company of your fellow travelers while learning about local culinary traditions. The garden’s lush greenery, coupled with the rustic charm of the structure, makes it an ideal place to relax before jumping into the cooking.

The Warm Welcome and Aperitif

Once gathered, the experience kicks off with a generous aperitif featuring local products—think cured meats, cheeses, and regional snacks—paired with some of the best wines Salento has to offer. This social start is a lovely way to break the ice, chat with your hosts, and get into the spirit of the evening.

One reviewer highlights this part as “more than just a cooking lesson,” emphasizing the shared atmosphere and the chance to enjoy a delicious traditional Apulian family-style dinner. The relaxed, friendly vibe sets the tone for the rest of the evening, making you feel like you’re visiting friends rather than just participating in a class.

The Art of Pasta Making

Next comes the core of the experience—making pasta from scratch. You’ll learn how to prepare orecchiette and macaroni, two staples of Salento cuisine. The hosts are patient and passionate, guiding you step-by-step through the process, which is part demonstration and part hands-on effort.

Expect to see the pasta shaped in traditional ways, with plenty of tips on perfecting your technique. The real joy, of course, comes when you start working with the ingredients—fresh tomatoes, basil, chickpeas, and vegetables—to craft two different sauces: a simple “fresh tomato & basil” and the hearty, flavorful “Ciceri & Tria,” a chickpea-based dish flavored with vegetables and fried pasta.

This focus on traditional recipes means you’ll leave with not only new skills but also authentic recipes to recreate at home. The emphasis on fresh, local ingredients makes everything taste vibrant and true to Salento’s culinary identity.

Food, Wine, and Musical Atmosphere

Once your pasta is prepared, it’s time to sit down and enjoy the fruits of your labor. The evening is accompanied by excellent local wines, which are thoughtfully selected to pair with the dishes. Many reviews praise the quality of the wine and the “stunning views,” often mentioning the pleasure of sipping regional varieties in this bucolic setting.

Adding to the atmosphere is live traditional music—”La Pizzica”—a lively folk dance and music style from the region. If you’re feeling inspired, you can even pick up the violin, guitar, or tambourine provided, and join in the rhythm. Several guests mention it as a highlight, describing it as a fun, immersive cultural experience that goes beyond just eating.

Dessert and Digestif

The evening concludes with homemade ice cream—rich, creamy, and perfectly crafted—and a refreshing house-made limoncello that acts as the ideal digestif. This sweet ending caps off a memorable night of food, music, and conviviality.

Practical Details and What to Expect

This experience lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable and enjoyable evening activity. The tour is private, ensuring personalized attention, and the meeting point is conveniently located at Via Giuseppe Casciaro in Lecce.

At around $95.78 per person, the price reflects the value of a full evening—delicious food, local wine, lively music, and the rare chance to learn traditional pasta recipes firsthand. The small group size maximizes interaction, making it a warm, intimate experience rather than a large, impersonal class.

You’ll want to book about 40 days in advance, as it’s a popular choice among travelers seeking authentic, immersive activities. Weather considerations are important since the activity is outdoors; cancellation due to poor weather is possible, but you can reschedule or get a full refund if needed.

Authentic, Family-Style Experience That Feels Like Visiting Friends

From the glowing reviews, it’s clear this experience resonates with travelers looking for more than just a cooking lesson. One reviewer describes it as “a real family experience,” with shared aperitifs and dinner surrounded by a delicious traditional Apulian family. The patience and friendliness of the host, Ana, are frequently praised, emphasizing the warm, welcoming environment that makes this tour stand out.

The chance to not only learn recipes but also to enjoy local music and savor regional wines adds to its appeal. Guests often leave feeling they’ve gained a deeper understanding of Salento’s culinary and cultural tapestry.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour suits travelers who love hands-on activities, want to explore local food traditions, and enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere. It’s particularly appealing if you’re interested in authentic, family-style experiences rather than scripted or commercialized classes.

If you’re traveling with family or a small group and crave some culture paired with good food and music, this experience offers excellent value. It’s also a good choice for those who appreciate regional wines and want to taste them in a charming setting.

The Sum Up

This Lecce cooking class in the garden of an old boathouse is a rare find—a genuine chance to connect with Salento’s culinary roots in a warm, intimate environment. You’ll leave not only with new pasta-making skills but also with a deeper appreciation for regional ingredients, flavors, and traditions.

The combination of authentic setting, friendly hosts, regional wines, lively music, and delicious food makes this experience a standout for those seeking a meaningful cultural activity. It’s an excellent way to spend an evening—learning, tasting, listening, and creating memories.

While it’s best suited for those who don’t mind spending a few hours in an outdoor setting and want to indulge in local customs, it offers excellent value for anyone eager to experience Italy through its food and family traditions.

FAQ

How long does the cooking class last?
The experience lasts about 3 hours, offering enough time to enjoy each step without feeling rushed.

Where does the activity start and end?
It begins and concludes at Via Giuseppe Casciaro in Lecce, with the group returning to the starting point at the end.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private activity, so only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention.

What is included in the price?
You get a hands-on pasta-making lesson, an aperitif of local products, regional wines, traditional music, homemade ice cream, and house-made limoncello.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is good weather necessary?
Yes, since the activity takes place outdoors, poor weather can lead to cancellation, but alternative dates or refunds are offered.

Is this suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly stated, the warm, family-style atmosphere suggests it could appeal to families with older children interested in cooking and culture.

What kind of pasta do we make?
You will learn to make orecchiette and macaroni, two traditional shapes from the region.

Is the experience worth the cost?
Given the comprehensive experience—food, wine, music, and authentic recipes—it offers excellent value for travelers looking for an immersive, cultural activity.

Whether you’re a foodie, a culture seeker, or someone wanting to enjoy a relaxed, meaningful evening in Lecce, this cooking class promises not just a meal but an authentic taste of Salento’s soul.