Villa Ida: An unforgettable family-style cooking lesson in Sorrento
When visiting Sorrento, take advantage of this unique culinary experience at Villa Ida…
With dramatic cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples and striking architecture, Sorrento has numerous hotels, cafes, restaurants, and shops that seem to woo tourists. It’s also a popular port for cruise ships. If you are interested in food, you’ll want to savor some of the local dishes while sipping Limoncello.
But once in Sorrento, don’t miss a unique cooking experience that invites guests inside the beautiful home of the Cuomo family, who have lived at Villa Ida for several generations. Either Marida or Roberta will warmly welcome you with some freshly squeezed orange juice, a slice of delicate lemon flavored plum cake, and a cup of Neapolitan coffee.
After meeting the big Italian family, you and other guests will move into the kitchen to prepare traditional Italian dishes, with a particular emphasis on Neapolitan recipes. The menus vary according to what’s in season but always include an appetizer, prima and secondo courses, and delicious dessert. In a warm and relaxed atmosphere, Zia Angela shares recipes that she learned from her mother Ida and guests “learn by doing” beside her.
Each class at Villa Ida last approximately three hours, including a visit to the family’s wine cellar to taste some uniquely handcrafted, homemade wines and local cheeses. Another family member, Charlie explains the various phases of his wine production and fills carafes with a selection of these wines so the group can bring them to the table for lunch under the pergolato (little arbor) or in cooler seasons, by the warm fire. It’s perfect for couples, families, singles, and travelers of all ages—and offers plenty of memories and photo ops.
IF YOU GO
Cooking classes are held mornings, from 9:30AM to 2PM, and afternoons, from 4PM to 8PM. Class sizes vary between 2-20 people.
Cost is € 130 per person, for two to ten guests.
For further information, email: [email protected]
[Read my prior article from the Chicago Tribune: Food and Family are the Focus of a Cooking Class.]
