Cooking with Francesca: Risotto al tartufo

An intensive course of Italian cooking, tasting, eating & sipping while in Paradise!!!

To fully immerse ourselves in Italian cooking’s passion and rich history, we need to feel Italian in our bones. We need to relax in laid-back surroundings and enjoy the full experience.

One of the hardest obstacles to hosting cooking classes in New York City is the lack of spaces. I have attended and hosted many events in restaurants and private apartments. Guests come to enjoy the food and good wine, learn recipes, get cooking tips from the chef, and hear stories of my personal experiences. The spaces tend to be smaller, the acoustics are not the best, and time is limited. Is this truly the full experience?

That’s how Back to Basics began.

During one of my recent journeys I discovered a place where I felt at home, reminiscent of the coast of Italy where my parents lived. In this place, we’re going back to a simple way of living where electricity comes and goes, and we’re surrounded by nature and water. Everything is so fresh and natural. 

We are going to enjoy three days filled with cooking, fun and entertainment. You will ultimately leave feeling rejuvenated – reborn, so to speak. Feeling relaxed and at home, you will work directly with our guest chef's to prepare the daily meals. You will be delighted with an explosion of new flavors. Similar to a workshop, this retreat provides the perfect balance of cooking classes side by side with the instructor, interacting in a full hands-on experience rather than a lecture. It will be an unforgettable experience that you will take home with you!