Polignano a Mare: Pasta Making Cooking Class with Drink

Polignano a Mare offers a wonderful chance to dive into authentic Apulian cuisine without the fuss. This 2-hour pasta-making class combines hands-on learning with tasting local wines and regional specialties. Led by a seasoned local chef, you’ll craft traditional orecchiette and cavatelli, two pasta varieties that perfectly embody Puglia’s culinary soul. Plus, you get to enjoy your creations in a cozy, historic setting right in the heart of Polignano’s charming old town.

What really makes this experience special is the genuine connection to local food culture. You’ll learn the secrets behind making pasta from scratch, guided by a host who’s passionate about sharing her regional traditions. Another highlight: the pairing of your freshly made pasta with excellent Puglian wines and a relaxed, convivial atmosphere. But, a potential consideration is that hotel transfers are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation.

This class suits food lovers eager to get hands-on with Italian cooking, as well as curious travelers who want to understand the roots of Puglia’s culinary identity. It’s an ideal activity for small groups seeking an authentic, intimate experience rather than a large, impersonal tour.

Key Points

• Authentic Pasta Crafting: Learn to make oregchiette and cavatelli from a local chef.
• Local Chef Guidance: Enjoy expert tips that help you master Italian pasta techniques.
• Tasting & Drinking: Savor your homemade pasta paired with regional wines and typical Apulian snacks.
• Small Group Atmosphere: With only 8 participants max, expect a friendly, interactive environment.
• Cultural Stories: Gain insights into Puglia’s food traditions and regional stories from your guide.
• Convenient Location: Set in Polignano’s historic center, with options for nearby pick-up on request.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

What to Expect from the Class

When you arrive at the typical house in Via Porto 3, you’ll be greeted by Annamaria, the friendly host and local guide. She’s known for her warmth and her storytelling — expect her to share tales from Puglia’s culinary past while you knead dough and shape pasta. The setting is cozy and authentic, immediately making you feel part of the local scene rather than a tourist trap.

The class begins with a brief introduction to the ingredients and regional traditions behind Apulian pasta. As you get hands-on, Annamaria will guide you through the process of making oregchiette — the signature “little ears” pasta, shaped by pressing dough against a surface — and cavatelli, a smaller, shell-like pasta. Don’t worry if you’ve never made pasta before; her clear instructions and friendly demeanor make it easy to follow along.

The Pasta-Making Process

You’ll start by mixing and kneading the dough, learning how the right consistency makes all the difference. From there, shaping the pasta becomes a fun, tactile experience. Reviewers comment on how knowledgeable and engaging Annamaria is, with one noting her stories about regional food culture that add an extra layer of authenticity.

The entire process is relaxed and informal, making it perfect for those who prefer experiential learning over rigid instruction. Several reviews highlight that the guides are passionate and well-versed, with one mentioning how “Annamaria was full of helpful tips, not only about pasta but also about sauces and wine pairing.”

Tasting & Aperitivo

While your pasta cooks, the class moves on to the aperitivo. Expect to nibble on taralli (savory breadsticks), seasonal greens, and preserved vegetables, all accompanied by generous pours of local Puglian wines. Many reviewers mention how much they appreciated the quality and variety of the drinks, with some noting the wines were well-paired and enhanced the flavors of their homemade pasta.

Once the pasta is ready, you’ll sit down together in the intimate setting to enjoy your freshly made oregchiette with pesto or other sauces, accompanied by bread and more regional wine. The communal aspect — sharing your culinary creations with new friends — is often highlighted as a real highlight of this experience.

What Makes It Special?

Beyond just learning to make pasta, you get a taste of Puglia’s food culture. The host shares stories about traditional ingredients, regional dishes, and local life, adding depth to the culinary skills you’re developing. Reviewers often mention how engaging and friendly the guides are, with one noting that “Annamaria’s stories about Puglia and its food history made the experience even richer.”

Value and Practicalities

At $56.08 per person, the experience offers great value — especially considering the personalized instruction, regional drinks, and the memorable meal you create. It’s a hands-on activity that’s both fun and educational, perfect for anyone wanting to bring home a tangible culinary skill and a deeper appreciation of Puglia’s flavors.

Note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan accordingly. The class is in a small, historic setting, making it intimate and away from touristy crowds. You can request transfer from nearby cities like Monopoli, which adds convenience for those staying outside Polignano.

The Review Reader’s Perspective

With a rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 75 reviews, most guests agree that the class is enjoyable and authentic. Many comment on the quality of the instruction, the friendliness of the host, and the delicious food. One reviewer describes it as “a perfect activity for food lovers who want to learn the secrets of Puglia’s pasta.” Others appreciated how much they learned about regional food traditions, describing the experience as both fun and educational.

The small group size (limited to 8) ensures plenty of personal attention, allowing questions and interaction. Several mention the relaxed, friendly atmosphere, making it suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small groups.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you love Italian food — especially pasta — and want a genuine experience that combines cooking, culture, and good company, this class is a fantastic choice. The chance to make oregchiette and cavatelli with expert guidance and then enjoy them with regional wines feels authentic and satisfying. The instructor’s warmth and storytelling turn the activity into a memorable cultural exchange, not just a cooking lesson.

For travelers keen to take home a new skill and an appreciation for Puglia’s culinary roots, this experience offers excellent value. The intimate setting, hands-on approach, and high-quality food and drink make it a standout activity in Polignano a Mare.

However, if you prefer activities that include transportation or are seeking a larger, more commercialized tour, this might not be the best fit. Still, for those who want a personal, immersive experience that highlights regional traditions, it’s hard to beat.

FAQ

Do I need previous cooking experience? No, this class is suitable for all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced cooks.

Is the class suitable for vegetarians? While specific dietary requirements aren’t detailed, the focus on pasta and regional ingredients suggests vegetarian options are likely available or easily adaptable.

What’s included in the price? You get a professional chef guiding you, all kitchen utensils, a meal of your homemade pasta, and drinks including regional wines.

Are transfers available? Not automatically, but transfer requests from nearby cities like Monopoli can be made on request.

How long does the experience last? It runs for approximately 2 hours, with specific start times varying — check availability when booking.

Is the venue accessible for those with mobility issues? The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm specific needs when booking.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any age restrictions? The experience is suitable for adults; no specific age restrictions are noted, but children should be accompanied by an adult.

Can I bring home what I make? The pasta is enjoyed during the class, but typically, you’ll dine on your creations in the moment. It’s a culinary experience focused on learning and tasting, not takeaways.

To sum it up, this pasta-making class offers a hands-on, genuine taste of Puglia’s culinary life. It’s ideal for those who want to learn, taste, and connect with local traditions in a friendly, intimate setting. With expert guidance, regional wines, and delicious food, it promises a memorable slice of authentic Italy that you’ll be proud to recreate back home.