Cooking at Casa Mia in Ortigia

Just across the bridge from the city of Siracusa lies Sicily’s little southern gem: the island of Ortigia. The architecture in Piazza del Duomo, the charming narrow streets, the city’s rich Greek history and hidden artwork are not to be missed. 

Our Sicilian cooking adventure starts at the ancient Ortigia market. Guests and their host browse the market stalls brimming with seasonal fruit and vegetables to meet fish vendors displaying their daily catch. Specialty food shops showcase local cheese like Ragusano (an Italian PDO stretched curd cheese made with whole milk from modicana breed cows in the provinces of Ragusa and Siracusa), sun-dried tomatoes and capers from Pantelleria. 

Together host and class pick up ingredients for the lesson: creating their own menu in the market. The products, season and market availability determine what will be made in the cooking class that day, along with any restrictions or special diets that guests might have.

After a short stroll, guests are welcomed into the elegant warmth of their host’s home overlooking the Ortigia harbor. After a coffee or welcome aperitivo, the class ties on aprons and gets cooking.

Guests take a seat around a table in the host’s dining room or outdoor terrace depending on the weather to enjoy each course together. Local bread, olive oil, and perfectly paired Sicilian wines to accompany the meal.