Taranto isn’t just about ancient ruins and seaside views; it’s also a hub for hands-on culinary workshops and classes that give you a real taste of Puglia. Whether you’re eager to recreate authentic pasta, learn secret dessert recipes, or make your own pizza, Taranto offers experiences that go beyond typical sightseeing. We’re particularly fond of the Puglia Cooking class “Le orecchiette, che pasta!” because it combines regional tradition, small-group intimacy, and a beautiful countryside setting—a true immersion into local cuisine. Plus, the rave reviews and authentic dishes make it stand out.
If you prefer a flexible, private experience, the Private Pasta & Tiramisu Class at a Cesarina’s home offers personalized attention and a chance to master Italian classics in a home setting. For a more sociable, local home atmosphere, the Share your Pasta Love in Ostuni is perfect for meeting fellow food lovers and enjoying regional specialties. And for those who want the ultimate private, tailored experience, the Private Pizza & Tiramisu Class combines the fun of pizza-making with the sweetness of tiramisu—all in a family home.
1. Puglia Cooking class “Le orecchiette, che pasta!”
This small-group countryside cooking class takes you to a traditional trullo in Puglia, where you’ll learn to make the region’s most iconic pasta—orecchiette. The class lasts about 4.5 hours and is led by a local cook who shares insights into Itria Valley cuisine. During the session, you’ll prepare not only oregchiette but also a full multi-course meal that includes a starter, a meat dish, vegetables, and a sauce, all paired with local wine to celebrate your success.
What makes this experience special is the authentic setting—a stone country home surrounded by lush fields—and the chance to see the traditional techniques firsthand. The reviews highlight how Simona and her team create a warm, welcoming atmosphere where learning feels like sharing with friends. The focus on regional ingredients from the valley makes the dishes both flavorful and meaningful.
Bottom line: If you want an authentic, hands-on lesson rooted in tradition, this class offers excellent value for its price and leaves you with skills to impress back home. It’s ideal for food lovers who appreciate a genuine setting and regional stories.
2. Cooking Class in your accommodation: Fresh handmade pasta
For those who prefer a more private, flexible experience, this at-home pasta-making class brings Puglia’s culinary magic directly to your lodging. Over about 4 hours, you learn how to make three types of fresh pasta—including orecchiette, with expert guidance from local instructors Francesca and Marianna. This personalized approach allows for tailored instruction, making it a wonderful choice for families or groups wanting to learn at their own pace.
Participants rave about the fun and interactive nature of the class, describing it as a “great activity for all ages” with excellent English instruction. You’ll walk away with the confidence to recreate the dishes, plus handy techniques and tricks to delight your family with authentic Italian fare. The convenience of having a class at your holiday home means no rushing, just a cozy, immersive experience.
Bottom line: This private class is perfect if you want personalized attention and to learn culinary skills in your own space, though it costs more than group options. It’s best suited for foodies eager for a bespoke experience.
3. Share your Pasta Love: Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class in Ostuni
In this small-group class in Ostuni, you’ll gain insider tips from a Cesarina—a home cook dedicated to preserving regional recipes. Over about 3 hours, you’ll learn to roll, cut, and cook fresh pasta, then move on to making tiramisu in a style that reflects local flavors. The class emphasizes local food traditions, and you’ll enjoy a chatty, convivial atmosphere with up to 12 participants.
The reviews make it clear that Angela and her family create a warm, inviting environment where cooking becomes a shared experience. The lesson doesn’t just end with the pasta and tiramisu but also includes a traditional aperitivo to start the evening. It’s ideal for travelers who want to connect with locals, share cultural stories, and leave with practical cooking skills.
Bottom line: This experience is perfect if you value small-group camaraderie and want to deepen your understanding of Pugliese cuisine while having fun in a home setting.
4. Private Pasta & Tiramisu Class at a Cesarina’s home with tasting in Ostuni
This private, half-day cooking class offers an intimate experience in a local Cesarina’s home. For about 3 hours, you’ll learn to make pasta from scratch and craft delicious tiramisu, with personalized tips from your host. The class includes tastings of your own creations, complemented by drinks like water, coffee, and wine.
What sets this apart is the one-on-one attention and the chance to really master Italian cooking techniques. The reviews note how the instructor’s expertise shines through, making it a memorable, hands-on lesson. It’s well suited for couples or small groups seeking a personalized culinary adventure.
Bottom line: If you prefer a private, tailored experience with a focus on authentic techniques, this class provides excellent value and a chance to learn directly from a local expert.
$168.41 per person
5. Private Pizza & Tiramisu Class at a Cesarina’s home with tasting in Ostuni
Finally, this private class is a fun and tasty way to learn pizza-making from scratch alongside tiramisu dessert in a warm family setting. Over around 3 hours, you’ll get hands-on experience in making dough, choosing toppings, and preparing a sauce from fresh local ingredients. Afterward, you enjoy your creations seated at the family table.
The review highlights how Angela and her family create a relaxed, friendly environment perfect for foodies wanting to experience authentic Italian cuisine in a casual setting. It’s a great option for those who want a full, interactive meal and appreciate local hospitality.
Bottom line: This experience is ideal if you want to combine pizza and dessert lessons in a personalized setting, perfect for families or couples seeking a fun, relaxed culinary outing.
How to Choose
Picking the right workshop in Taranto depends on your budget, interests, and preferred setting. For a full immersion in regional pasta traditions, the Puglia Cooking class “Le orecchiette, che pasta!” offers a hands-on countryside experience—great for those wanting authentic local scenery and regional cuisine. If you prefer personalized attention or a private experience, both Private classes in Ostuni and private pizza lessons deliver tailored instruction.
Travelers looking for a more sociable, community feel will appreciate the Share your Pasta Love with its lively home setting. Those with more flexible schedules or staying in private accommodation should consider the at-home pasta class, which combines convenience with authentic learning.
Remember to book early, especially in the high season, as these classes tend to fill quickly and often include limiting group sizes for a more intimate experience.
Final Thoughts
Taranto’s culinary workshops offer a fantastic way to learn about local flavors, whether it’s through learning to make orecchiette, creating delicious tiramisu, or mastering pizza from scratch. If you’re after a traditional experience in a country setting, the Puglia Cooking class “Le orecchiette, che pasta!” is a highlight. For a personalized, private lesson, the Private Pasta & Tiramisu class delivers expert guidance in a cozy home environment.
Travelers seeking engaging social experiences will find the Share your Pasta Love a memorable choice. No matter which you pick, these classes promise a delicious, authentic taste of Puglia that you’ll cherish long after your trip ends. Book early, prepare to get your hands dirty, and enjoy a truly Italian culinary adventure.