Journal

Sicily is a feast for the senses - where centuries-old culinary traditions meet sun-drenched landscapes and vibrant local flavors. My recent foodie trip across this Italian island was an immersive dive into the heart of food in Italy, from elegant villas to bustling street markets. If you’re seeking one of the best foodie holidays or planning an Italy culinary trip, Sicily deserves a spot at the top of your list.

The villa itself was a dream: bright dining spaces surrounded by lush gardens bursting with blooms, the air perfumed with citrus and jasmine. Our first lunch set the tone – freshly picked tomatoes from nearby Noto, crisp salads, creamy cheeses, and rustic breads made for a simple but memorable introduction to the best food in Italy. Evenings were filled with traditional aperitivos – delicate canapés of smoked salmon, chorizo, and regional cheeses – before sitting down to dinner. A highlight was the pasta pie, or timballo, a celebratory dish layered with pasta, sauce, meat, and cheese, followed by beautifully grilled fish and seasonal vegetables.

Culinary Immersion in Ortigia

Next, we travelled to Ortigia, a tiny island that's part of the city of Syracuse and brimming with Baroque architecture and authentic Sicilian charm. We toured several breathtaking villas, including the show-stopping La Rocca, and met the incredible Chef Dora – renowned for her culinary expertise in the region.

Chef Dora hosts one of the most authentic cooking classes in Sicily, Italy and is proudly known for teaching the art of crafting cannoli from scratch. This hands-on experience can be part of a broader Italy culinary trip. Notably, La Rocca boasts an enormous kitchen facility ideal for cooking retreats.

Noto

Our final stop was Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage town known for its golden-hued palazzos and refined atmosphere. We visited the exquisite Villa Tenuta Baroniblei, where we were treated to a standout lunch of fresh fish, cured meats, mixed salads, and a personal favourite – Sicily’s take on Russian salad, creamy and delicious.