Traditional Cooking Class with Lunch in Lecce’s Historic Center
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
We are more than a Traditional Restaurant, but a refined Puglia Heritage Restaurant, a place where people can learn hands-on how a historical dish comes to life. The origins of a dish go beyond the recipe. They encompass the history of a region.
Over the years, many of our customers have rediscovered flavors long lost in their memory. Forgotten tastes that have touched their hearts, bringing back vivid memories.
Currently, our Maestro di cucina is Giorgio Grassi. He learned everything from Rosalba De Carlo, his mother, a great expert in Puglia’s culinary culture. She belongs to the noble baronial family Andriani De Vito of Corigliano d’Otranto. Being also in close contact with the peasants of her village, Rosalba has deep knowledge of both the rich and the humble versions of the same culinary tradition. For this reason, a conference with the UNESCO Patronage chose her as a Case Study in 2010.
Rosalba is a great treasure to our Restaurant, but above all a precious jewel of our family.
Available options
Traditional Cooking Class with Lunch in Lecce’s Historic Center
What's included
The entire restaurant is available to guests: from the preparation at the work table for handmade pasta, in the kitchen at the stove, up to lunch.
For making pasta: a long oak and iron workbench. Into the kitchen you’re embraced by the vibrant colors of Salento. The space is also equipped with steel workbenches and elegant marble countertops.
The menu also includes drinks and dessert: Leccese Spumone ice cream with hazelnuts and chocolate flavors, stuffed with salted chocolate soft chunks.
The starvaulted rooms feature classic crystal chandeliers and air conditioning. Also have an old record player where you can listen to LPs by famous Italian singers like Mina, Celentano, and Battisti.
The dishes are paired with a selected bottle of Salento wine, chosen by Giorgio Grassi according to your preferences. With dessert, at the end of lunch, we’ll serve coffee and limoncello.
Our Traditional Cooking Class ends with a lunch that you will have prepared almost entirely with your own hands. Giorgio and Rosalba control your learning and activities… food is no joke!
At the work counter in the dining room, you’ll learn how to make hand made fresh pasta. In the kitchen, we’ll cook traditional dishes with ancient flavors, typical of Puglia’s culinary heritage.
What's not included
Private transportation
The tomato sauce needed for some dishes can't be made during the class, it takes too long to cook!
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
The Restaurant allows access to guests with wheelchairs, but not for the Traditional Cooking Classes: unfortunately in the kitchen it is not possible for structural reasons.
We serve alcoholic beverages only to travelers aged 18 and over. Non-alcoholic drinks will be served to travelers under the age of 18.
For any intolerances, allergies, or specific ingredient restrictions please write us in advance.
Meeting point
Alle due corti Restaurant is the place where our traditional cooking class in Lecce and the unforgettable lunch included take place. The door is in Corte dei Giugni 1, but you can also "enter from the window", in Via Prato 42, using a large window that looks out over the pretty Prato Arch Square.
About Lecce
Lecce is a stunning city in the Puglia region of southern Italy, known for its beautiful Baroque architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. The city is often referred to as 'The Florence of the South' due to its architectural splendor and artistic heritage.
Top Attractions
Basilica di Santa Croce
This stunning Baroque church is one of Lecce's most iconic landmarks. Its intricate facade and ornate interior are a testament to the city's rich artistic heritage.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Roman Amphitheatre
Discovered in 1901, this ancient Roman amphitheatre could once seat up to 25,000 spectators. Today, it's an impressive archaeological site and a popular tourist attraction.
Historical
1-2 hours
€4 (combo ticket with other archaeological sites)
Castle of Charles V
Built in the 16th century, this imposing fortress offers panoramic views of the city and houses several museums, including the Provincial Archaeological Museum.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
€4 (combo ticket with other archaeological sites)
Piazza del Duomo
This beautiful square is home to the Cathedral of the Assumption and the Bishop's Palace. The square is a great place to relax and soak in the city's Baroque architecture.
Historical/Architecture
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free (donations welcome for the cathedral)
Porta Napoli
This grand Baroque gate marks the entrance to the historic center of Lecce. Built in the 16th century, it's a symbol of the city's rich history and architectural prowess.
Historical/Architecture
15-30 minutes
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Orecchiette
A traditional pasta shape from Puglia, often served with cime di rapa (turnip greens) or tomato sauce.
Main dish
Vegetarian (if made without anchovies)
Burrata
A creamy, fresh cheese made from mozzarella and cream, often served with bread and local olive oil.
Appetizer
Vegetarian
Pasticciotto
A sweet pastry filled with custard, similar to a cream-filled croissant.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Negroamaro
A full-bodied red wine from the Salento region, known for its rich flavor and deep color.
Drink
Vegan
Popular Activities
Hiking in the countryside
Cycling tours
Water sports in nearby beaches
Beach relaxation
Spa treatments
Wine tasting
Historic sightseeing
Museum visits
Best Time to Visit
June to August
The summer months are the busiest and hottest, with numerous festivals and outdoor events. The weather is perfect for beach trips and exploring the city's historic sites.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Lecce is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
Getting there
By air
- Brindisi Airport • 40 km from Lecce
- Bari Airport • 150 km from Lecce
By train
Lecce Station
By bus
Lecce Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system covers the city and surrounding areas. Buses are affordable and frequent, but schedules can be irregular.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Centro Storico
San Biagio
Arnesano
Day trips
Otranto
30 km from Lecce • Half day to full day
Otranto is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic castle, and stunning cathedral. It's a great day trip from Lecce for those looking to combine history and relaxation.
Gallipoli
50 km from Lecce • Full day
Gallipoli is a historic seaside town known for its stunning beaches, medieval old town, and rich cultural heritage. It's a great day trip from Lecce for those looking to explore more of the Puglia region.
Alberobello
120 km from Lecce • Full day
Alberobello is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique trulli houses. It's a great day trip from Lecce for those looking to explore the unique architecture and cultural heritage of the Puglia region.
Festivals
Fiera di San Oronzo • August 25-26
Festival della Taranta • August
Sagra del Pasticciotto • July
Pro tips
- Visit Lecce's historic sites early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat
- Try the local specialty, orecchiette, a traditional pasta shape from Puglia, often served with cime di rapa (turnip greens) or tomato sauce
- Explore the city's narrow streets and hidden courtyards to discover the true charm of Lecce's Baroque architecture
- Take a day trip to the nearby coastal towns of Otranto and Gallipoli for a mix of history, culture, and relaxation
- Visit the local markets, such as the Mercato di San Oronzo, for a glimpse into the daily life of Lecce's residents and to sample the city's fresh, local ingredients
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
