Polignano a Mare: Pasta Making Cooking Class with Drink

Polignano a Mare’s Pasta Making Cooking Class offers a charming way to dive into southern Italy’s culinary traditions. For about two hours, you’ll have the chance to learn how to craft authentic Puglian pasta, specifically orecchiette and cavatelli, from a knowledgeable local chef. The experience is set right in the historic center of Polignano, a town renowned for its stunning coastal views and lively atmosphere, making it an ideal backdrop for a hands-on food adventure.

What I love about this experience is how approachable and friendly the guides are. Whether it’s Annamaria, who hosts the class, or the detailed tips she shares about traditional pasta shapes, there’s a genuine sense of warmth and passion. Second, I appreciate the combination of learning and tasting — you don’t just watch or listen, you get to make your own pasta, then enjoy it with a carefully curated selection of Apulian wines and local snacks like taralli and preserved vegetables.

A potential drawback? If you’re expecting a very structured, highly detailed class, this one leans more toward relaxed conviviality, which many will find charming but others might find a tad casual. Also, while transportation isn’t included, you can request transfers from nearby cities like Monopoli, so plan your timing accordingly. The price of just over $56 per person offers quite a good value given the lively atmosphere, the quality of instruction, and the inclusion of wine and food.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Puglian Pasta: Learn to make orecchiette and cavatelli directly from a local expert, gaining practical skills that you can try at home.
• Lively, Friendly Guides: Annamaria and others offer engaging stories about Puglia, making the experience both fun and educational.
• Tasting and Drinking: Savor your homemade pasta with local wines, accompanied by taralli and preserved vegetables, creating a true taste of Apulia.
• Small Group Atmosphere: With only 8 participants max, the class feels intimate, encouraging interaction and personalized tips.
• Historic Setting: Set in a charming house in Polignano’s historic center, the atmosphere feels authentic and cozy.
• Flexible Cancellation and Payment: You can reserve now and pay later, with full refunds available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

An Engaging Look at the Experience

When I first considered this cooking class, I was intrigued by the chance to learn traditional pasta shapes that are so characteristic of Puglia — specifically orecchiette, meaning “little ears,” and cavatelli, which are small, shell-shaped pasta. These are staples in the local cuisine, often served with simple, flavorful sauces like pesto or tomato-based condiments. The fact that you get to make these from scratch, guided by someone with expert knowledge, is a real highlight.

The location in Polignano’s historic center adds a lot to the experience. You’re not just in a kitchen; you’re in a typical Italian house, which makes the entire process feel more rooted and genuine. The setting is described as gorgeous, with an ambiance that makes you feel like you’re cooking in a friend’s home rather than a commercial kitchen, which elevates the whole experience.

What you’ll love most is the hands-on nature. Making pasta by hand isn’t just fun — it’s a practical skill that adds to a sense of achievement. As one reviewer, Elizabeth, mentioned, “We made orecchiette and cavatelli pasta…while the pasta was cooking, we drank red wine and nibbled on olives, and focaccia.” The relaxed, friendly environment allows for plenty of conversation and storytelling, often led by Annamaria, who shares tales about Puglia’s history and culinary traditions.

The pairing of food and wine is another strong point. The class includes local wines that perfectly complement the meal, enhancing the tasting experience. Critics say the selection of wines is excellent, and the taralli — crunchy, savory snacks — add a delightful crunch and flavor contrast.

While the class is designed to be approachable, it’s clear that the main focus is on enjoyment rather than intense technical mastery. That’s a definite plus for travelers looking to relax and have fun, but if you’re seeking a strict culinary training, this might be a bit more laid-back than some might prefer.

Itinerary and What You Can Expect

The class begins with a warm welcome at the meeting point on Via Porto 3 in Polignano a Mare. You’ll meet Annamaria in her charming house, a cozy venue that makes everyone feel at home straight away. After introductions, the chef will guide you through the dough-making process, explaining the importance of ingredients and technique. You’ll learn how to knead the dough properly, which is surprisingly satisfying and a great way to connect with local culinary customs.

Once the dough is ready, the focus shifts to shaping and forming the orecchiette and cavatelli. Annamaria shares practical tips on forming these pasta shapes correctly — a skill that can seem tricky but is very doable when broken down step-by-step. Watch out for her playful reminder to not “overthink it,” and instead, just enjoy the process.

As the pasta boils, the class moves on to preparing accompanying sauces or toppings. You might be given directions for a simple pesto or other regional condiments, which pair beautifully with your freshly made pasta. Meanwhile, you’ll enjoy a typical Apulian aperitivo, featuring taralli, seasonal greens, and preserved veggies, all paired with local wines. The convivial atmosphere makes it feel more like a friendly gathering than a formal lesson.

At the end, everyone sits down together to enjoy the fruits of their labor. The pasta is served with the recommended sauces, and you’ll get to savor your own handiwork. Many reviews highlight how delicious the meal is — making it clear that making pasta is just the beginning of this experience.

The class wraps up after about two hours, returning you to the vibrant streets of Polignano. The small group size guarantees personalized interaction, and many guests mention how much they learned, laughed, and enjoyed the shared meal.

Who This Experience Is Best For

This class is ideal for food lovers eager to get a feel for authentic Puglian cuisine and handmade pasta. It suits travelers who enjoy a relaxed, social environment and don’t mind getting their hands dirty in the kitchen. The mix of instruction, tasting, and cultural storytelling makes it a well-rounded experience perfect for those wanting to connect more deeply with southern Italy’s culinary traditions.

It’s also a very good value — for about $56, you get the hands-on experience, food, and wine. If you’re visiting Polignano and looking for a way to spend a couple of hours engaging with local culture and cuisine, this class delivers.

While it doesn’t include hotel pickup, the option to request transfers from nearby cities like Monopoli adds flexibility. The activity ends right back at the starting point, simplifying logistics.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying the Class

• Reserve in advance since small groups fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
• Check the schedule for available times, as they vary.
• Remember that transportation isn’t included, so plan to arrive at the meeting point on time.
• If coming from nearby towns such as Monopoli, inquire about the optional transfer.
• Dress comfortably and wear clothes you’re okay with getting a little flour on.
• Bring an appetite — you’ll be eating your own pasta!
• Consider bringing a small camera or phone to capture the process and your finished dish.
• Feel free to ask questions — guides like Annamaria are eager to share stories and tips.
• If you’re celebrating a special occasion, mention it; guides often make small gestures to make the day memorable.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour price?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, but you can request transfer options from nearby cities like Monopoli.

How long does the class last?
The experience is approximately 2 hours, with start times varying based on availability.

What skills will I learn?
You’ll learn how to make orecchiette and cavatelli pasta from scratch, including kneading, shaping, and cooking techniques.

Is the experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the hands-on, relaxed nature makes it potentially enjoyable for teens and older children who can handle the kitchen environment.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Many reviews mention the guides’ friendliness and flexibility, but specific dietary accommodations should be requested in advance.

Do I need to speak Italian?
No, the guides speak English and Italian, and the class is designed to be accessible to all language levels.

What’s included in the price?
You get a professional chef, kitchen utensils, a dinner with a panzerotti-based menu, and drinks, including wine.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and reserve now with the option to pay later.

To sum it up, this Polignano a Mare pasta class offers an authentic, casual way to cook, taste, and learn about Apulia’s culinary roots. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy hands-on activities, local stories, and good company. While it’s not a formal culinary course, it delivers plenty of value and fun — perfect for creating memorable moments in one of Italy’s most picturesque towns.