Matera: Pasta Cooking Class Old Farmer Style in Sassi Cellar

Matera: Pasta Cooking Class Old Farmer Style in Sassi Cellar — An Authentic Taste of Basilicata

Imagine cooking inside a centuries-old cave, surrounded by stone walls that hold stories of generations past. That’s exactly what you get with the Matera Pasta Cooking Class Old Farmer Style, a hands-on experience blending culinary skills with local culture in the enchanting Sassi district. This small-group tour offers a genuine snapshot of Basilicata’s farming traditions, with expert guides and passionate hosts leading the way.

What I particularly love about this experience is how it combines interactive cooking with storytelling. You’re not just learning how to make pasta — you’re gaining insight into the region’s family recipes and heritage, all in a beautifully restored cave setting. Plus, the food tasting at the end is a real highlight, giving you a tangible connection to the hearty flavors that define Matera. Another plus? The hosts are known for their warmth and knowledge, making it feel like a culinary visit with friends rather than a typical tour.

One potential consideration is the group size, limited to just eight participants, which is perfect for a personal experience but might not suit travelers looking for a larger, more social class. Also, the experience is not suitable for those with gluten intolerance, so plan accordingly if you have dietary restrictions.

All in all, this tour offers incredible value — at about $80.55 per person for three hours, you’re getting a comprehensive glimpse into regional cuisine, local stories, and an unforgettable setting. It’s ideal for food lovers, culture seekers, or anyone eager to see Matera from a different perspective.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Setting: The class takes place in a beautifully renovated cave, offering a tangible sense of Matera’s history.
• Local Guides and Hosts: Guides like Lorenzo, Cosimo, and Sassimo are praised for their friendliness and storytelling skills, making the experience feel personal and lively.
• Hands-On Cooking: You’ll knead, shape, and learn the secrets of making regional pasta and dishes like Bruschetta and Strascinate, with tips passed down through generations.
• Cultural Insights: Beyond cooking, the experience includes stories about Matera’s traditions, family life, and regional ingredients that deepen your appreciation.
• Excellent Food Tasting: The meal you help prepare is hearty, flavorful, and representative of local recipes, with reviews highlighting how delicious and satisfying the dishes are.
• Value for Money: At $80.55, the combination of a guided tour, cooking class, and regional food tasting in such a unique setting is often described as outstanding value.

Entering The Stone Cave

The adventure begins at Recinto Santa Maria, where you meet your hosts next to a recognizable arch and green door (search for “Cava Marlò” on the map). The location itself is part of the charm — a converted cave that once served as a family home and wine cellar. The hosts, like Lorenzo and Cosimo, often share stories about their lives and the history of the place, making it feel like visiting friends rather than a commercial tour.

The setting is cool, shaded, and atmospheric — perfect for escaping the summer heat and soaking in the authenticity of Matera’s past. Many reviewers describe the space as beautifully restored but still retaining parts of its original charm, which adds a special touch to the entire experience.

The Guided Tour of Sassi

Before rolling up sleeves, you’ll enjoy a brief guided walk through the Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Guides like Lorenzo or Sassimo provide engaging narratives about the history and architecture of these ancient cave dwellings. This 20-minute tour offers context, making your later culinary activity even richer. Many reviews praise the guides for their friendly demeanor and storytelling, which help bring the surroundings alive.

The Pasta Making Workshop

The heart of the experience is the 1.5-hour pasta workshop, where you’ll learn to craft traditional regional dishes, including the region’s signature pasta. The guides, especially Cosimo, are recognized for their passion and patience, sharing tips on kneading, shaping, and cooking pasta the authentic way. You’ll also learn to prepare Bruschetta and Strascinate al tegamino, classic dishes rooted in local farmer traditions.

Reviewers frequently mention how fun and engaging this part is. They highlight the relaxed atmosphere, as if you’re cooking with friends, not in a class. The hosts’ stories about family recipes and their pride in local ingredients make the lesson more meaningful.

Break and Photo Stops

After working your culinary magic, there’s a brief break to enjoy some free time and snap photos of the stunning Sassi views. Many guests appreciate the chance to relax and take in the scenery, which offers fantastic photo opportunities of Matera’s ancient stone architecture. The atmosphere here, with its narrow alleys and sunset light, leaves a lasting impression.

Tasting the Fruits of Your Labor

The final hour is dedicated to tasting the dishes you helped create. The food is described as hearty, flavorful, and authentic — a true regional feast. Many reviews rave about the quality and taste, with some saying they had enough to enjoy for the rest of the day. The meal offers insights into how local farmers prepare simple ingredients into satisfying, traditional dishes.

Some guests comment on the excellent wine selection, which complements the meal perfectly. The hosts often share stories behind each dish, making the tasting not just about flavor but also about understanding the cultural significance.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to travelers who enjoy interactive, cultural activities over passive sightseeing. Foodies will find it especially rewarding, as you leave with new skills and a deeper appreciation for Matera’s culinary traditions. It’s also ideal for those who love stories and authentic settings — cooking inside a cave is a memorable highlight.

However, if gluten intolerance or dietary restrictions are a concern, check in advance as this class isn’t suited for gluten-free diets. Also, the intimate group size makes it less ideal for those wanting a large, bustling class but perfect for travelers seeking a personalized, warm atmosphere.

Price and Logistics

At approximately $80.55 per person for a 3-hour experience, this class offers good value considering the setting, guides, and included meal. The small group size (limited to 8) ensures plenty of personal attention, making it more engaging and relaxed. The activity is scheduled in the late morning or afternoon, so check availability to fit it into your itinerary.

The meeting point is straightforward — a recognizable arch at Recinto Santa Maria — and the experience ends back at the same spot. Booking is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which adds peace of mind for planning.

Who Should Book This Experience?

Travelers eager to dig deeper into Matera’s stories and traditions will find this tour especially rewarding. It’s perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers who appreciate authentic, hands-on experiences. Food lovers will enjoy the chance to learn regional recipes and taste hearty local dishes, while history enthusiasts will appreciate the setting and stories about the cave dwellings.

If you’re looking for a memorable cultural activity that combines learning, eating, and sightseeing, this class ticks all those boxes. It’s a meaningful way to connect with Matera beyond just walking its streets.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians?
The tour focuses on traditional regional dishes that are likely meat-based, but you might find vegetarian options or request special dietary accommodations when booking. It’s best to check with the provider beforehand.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, travelers meet directly at Recinto Santa Maria, which is easy to find with a map search for Cava Marlò. The activity is within walking distance of many central Matera accommodations.

Can children participate?
The activity is suitable for adults and older children, but it’s not specifically tailored for kids. The focus on adult conversation and the physical nature of pasta-making might be less engaging for very young children.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for getting floury and possibly a little messy. No special attire is needed, but an apron might be provided or you can bring your own.

How long does the entire experience last?
Approximately 3 hours, including the guided tour, cooking, and tasting. Check the booking options for exact starting times.

What if I have gluten intolerance?
This experience isn’t suitable for those with gluten allergies or sensitivities. You might want to inquire if any accommodations can be made, but generally, gluten-free options are not available.

In essence, the Matera Pasta Cooking Class in Sassi Cellar offers a warm, authentic, and flavorful journey into Basilicata’s culinary soul. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want more than just sightseeing — who crave a personal connection, tasty food, and stories that bring Matera’s history to life. For the price, it delivers a memorable, meaningful experience that’s hard to find elsewhere in Italy.