Do I need prior cooking experience to join?

No, the class is designed for all levels, and the professional chef will guide you step-by-step.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, please inform Discover Messina in advance so the menu can be adjusted accordingly.

How long is the entire experience?

The Messina cooking class experience lasts approximately six hours including cooking, sightseeing, and lunch.

Can the class accommodate food allergies?

Absolutely, just notify the organizers ahead of time to ensure safe ingredient substitutions.

Is transportation included from my hotel or the cruise port?

Pickup is available from Messina cruise port or accommodations in the city.

What specific dishes will we prepare?

You’ll learn to make braciole, traditional caponata, and fresh maccheroni pasta.

Sicilian Culinary Adventure with Discover Messina | Food Tour

Messina, perched on the northeastern tip of Sicily, offers travelers a vibrant blend of rich history and regional charm framed by the shimmering Strait of Messina. While this coastal city is often a gateway for explorers venturing into Sicily’s rugged landscapes, Discover Messina turns the spotlight onto an immersive cultural journey with its signature Messina cooking class experience. This isn’t just a cooking lesson—it's an intimate dive into Sicilian gastronomy that unfolds against the backdrop of one of Messina’s most iconic landmarks: the Cathedral and its renowned astronomical bell tower.

Participants meet their expert chef in a cozy restaurant just steps from the historic Piazza Duomo. Under her guidance, small groups or private parties roll up their sleeves to master Sicilian staples like braciole—meat rolls bursting with seasoned breadcrumbs—vibrant caponata, a tangy medley of fried vegetables, and the freshly made maccheroni pasta. The aromas alone evoke centuries of cultural influences, from Greek to Arab, layered within these recipes.

Midway through the class, the group pauses to witness the noon spectacle of the bell tower’s bronze statues, which mechanically enact a brief, mesmerizing show synchronized to Schubert’s Ave Maria. This rare experience connects culinary tradition with local heritage, offering a sensory feast beyond the kitchen.

Afterward, participants enjoy the dishes they prepared, savoring authentic Sicilian flavors in an atmosphere enriched by local artwork. The experience blends education, culture, and gastronomy into a seamless itinerary, perfectly suited for food lovers eager to gain hands-on skills in an urban Sicilian setting.

By sharing insider cooking secrets and revealing the city’s historical gems, Discover Messina crafts an experience that extends well beyond typical sightseeing, making this cooking class a standout choice for travelers drawn to genuine cultural connection and authentic tastes in Sicily.