Some of the most unforgettable moments in Italy happen not at a restaurant table, but in a kitchen.
The smell of fresh pasta dough, the sizzle of garlic in good olive oil, a glass of wine in hand while you learn from someone who grew up doing this.
That's exactly what Chef Melina Puntoriero offers.
Based in Emilia Romagna, one of Italy's most celebrated food regions, Melina is a professional chef and passionate advocate for authentic Italian slow food. She has spent years welcoming travelers into her world, sharing the recipes, rhythms, and rituals of real Italian kitchen life.
Trip Highlights:
You can join one of Chef Melina’s culinary retreats - 7 days of hands-on cooking using fresh, seasonal & locally foraged ingredients, foraging, visits to local artisans and cheesemakers, and dining in places you won't find in any guidebook.
Mention code “Olegana” when you book to SAVE $100!
Upcoming 2027 dates:
Spring: April 19-25, 2027
Summer: June 21-27, 2027
Autumn: October 13-19, 2027
Pasta experience:
Feb 15-21, 2027 | Mar 1-7, 2027 | Nov 8-14, 2027
Meet Chef Melina:
your guide on this culinary adventure
“In every tour, in every class, in every meal prepared in my restaurant, my goal is always the same, to teach my guests to learn to live like an Italian, to love like an Italian .. learn to BE Italian.”
Want a taste of Italy before you go?
Drop your email and I'll send you Chef Melina's recipes, the real ones she teaches at her table.