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Run with the help of my Italian born mother*, our cooking classes give an insight into our southern Italian traditions which focus on food and family. Expect to immerse yourself in how we live – lots of fresh food (including homegrown) prepared in simple quick ways yet so full of flavour, you'll want to come back for more. Classes range from different types of pasta, sauces, baked food, bread and more. Best of all our classes are hands-on and relaxed so everyone gets to have some fun, and they are suitable for most ages from 8+. In fact, in a family group, children as young as 5 have followed along, happy to copy their older siblings. All our meals include a range of our typical foods from Calabria and Sicily and cater to both meat and vegetarian diets, with vegan inclusions on request - our pasta is made from flour and water only. We also run Special Occasion Events such as our Ferragosto Lunch. You have the option to join others, or you may book your private group. Either way, it's not uncommon for participants to arrive as strangers and leave as family. That's what they tell us! They love the hands-on aspect of the class and the sharing of a meal around the table, a long standing custom throughout Italy. The expression "long lunch" does not necessarily mean a long table but rather a leisurely amount of time to savour the home-cooked meal, share the day's experiences and generally spend time together. What better way to leave your usual routine behind than with such a memorable experience? It’s all about experiencing the Italian laid back way of life, enjoying good food and great company. *It's a real family affair, as sometimes my sister or my daughter give me a hand. Participants love the three generations' involvement, something I take for granted. So it's a treasure to share our hospitality with you. We look forward to meeting you.

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Special Events: Ferragosto Lunch

Gathering of like minded guests in Katoomba, to celebrate the holiday season and religious festival in Italy

Special Event: Xmas In July

Can you think of a better way to spend time together on a Winter's day, than eating excellent Italian food, looking out to a Mediterranean inspired yard?

Milestone occasions celebrated with an experience

Life long friends' annual reunion from around the world

Mushroom Day Trip

Sharing my mother's knowledge of foraging in the nearby State Forest

Equinox BM - A Taste of Italy

Autumn is nature's way of showing us how to slow down and appreciate the good things in life.

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Contact Fifth Ave Katoomba Retreat

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ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF NGURRA

The City of the Blue Mountains is located within the Ngurra (Country) of the Dharug and Gundungurra peoples. MTNS MADE recognises that Dharug and Gundungurra Traditional Owners have a continuous and deep connection to their Country and that this is of great cultural significance to Aboriginal people, both locally and in the region. For Dharug and Gundungurra People, Ngurra takes in everything within the physical, cultural and spiritual landscape – landforms, waters, air, trees, rocks, plants, animals, foods, medicines, minerals, stories and special places. It includes cultural practice, kinship, knowledge, songs, stories and art, as well as spiritual beings, and people: past, present and future. Blue Mountains City Council pays respect to Elders past and present while recognising the strength, capacity and resilience of past and present Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the Blue Mountains region.