Lorna Wheatley Photos
Recommended Reviews - Lorna Wheatley
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos

If you are spending the day in Lucca, please, please, please (!) contact Lorna to do a personalized cooking class!!! She can be reached via email at jswheatley82@aol.com My husband and two teenage daughters spent four hours with Lorna making fresh bruschetta, homemade pasta for Tordelli Luccese, artichokes parmesan, and she prepared amazing mascarpone cream cups for dessert. She was incredibly patient, very informative and the food was delicious! We left feeling like old friends. One of the best experiences in our 10-day trip to Tuscany!

Another family and ours arranged a cooking class with Lorna and it was one of our favorite experiences during our 3 week stay in Italy. She came to our villa and brought all of the ingredients and cooking utensils to make a fabulous 4 course meal. We have kids ages 9 and 12 and she was very patient with them and helped them learn her techniques. We had a blast chatting with Lorna and learning cooking tips as well as tips for visiting the local area. She is a true gem and would highly recommend her!

We were planning a vacation to Lucca and looking for interesting activities to participate in. My mom loves to cook so we tried searching for a cooking class. Someone recommended Lorna, a private chef. She was fantastic! She was very easy going, spoke English and she's Fun! We made a white bean bruschetta, an eggplant confonato, pork tenderloin and a chocolate nemesis cake! We cooked everything in a private kitchen located on a Tuscan hillside. The view was unbelievable, it was straight out of the movies! (Watch my video to see the location) Cooking class with Lorna was one of the highlights of our 3 week Tuscan retreat. Thank you Lorna! You can reach her through her husband's email address at: jswheatley82@aol.com Ciao!
10 months ago
Lorna was incredible. First of all, she was super accommodating to our group and came to us at our Airbnb in Lucca. She gave us a bunch of options of things to learn. We have small children 2.5 years old, 9 and 10 and she worked with them in such a caring way. She brought all the things we needed for an incredible dinner. We made pasta, panzanella, artichoke bake, and meatballs as well as mascarpone snow with chocolate sauce. We laughed and had a blast. Would 1000% reccomend! read more
2 years ago
Cooking with Lorna was an amazing experience. It is my first time in Tuscany, and I wanted to taste as many Tuscan dishes/ flavors as possible. So she came up with awesome tasting menu. Everything she instructed me to make came out absolutely delicious . I'm so happy to have met her and learned from her. Thank you. read more
4 years ago
Not only did Lorna have a strong grasp of Italian cooking techniques, she made sure I was able to get hands-on with the cooking and she had wonderful anecdotes to share as to how she'd learned some of the dishes we made. All in all I was able to prepare a lovely lunch for my friends with her guidance, enjoyed great conversation, and will have handy techniques to take home so I can prepare delicious Italian food for friends and family. Grazie mille Lorna! If you're looking for nonna-quality Tuscan culinary flair with a fluent English speaker, you've found your teacher! read more
7 years ago
If you are spending the day in Lucca, please, please, please (!) contact Lorna to do a personalized cooking class!!! She can be reached via email at jswheatley82@aol.com My husband and two teenage daughters spent four hours with Lorna making fresh bruschetta, homemade pasta for Tordelli Luccese, artichokes parmesan, and she prepared amazing mascarpone cream cups for dessert. She was incredibly patient, very informative and the food was delicious! We left feeling like old friends. One of the best experiences in our 10-day trip to Tuscany! read more
4 years ago
Another family and ours arranged a cooking class with Lorna and it was one of our favorite experiences during our 3 week stay in Italy. She came to our villa and brought all of the ingredients and cooking utensils to make a fabulous 4 course meal. We have kids ages 9 and 12 and she was very patient with them and helped them learn her techniques. We had a blast chatting with Lorna and learning cooking tips as well as tips for visiting the local area. She is a true gem and would highly recommend her! read more
4 years ago
While on a grandparent/grandchild tour in Tuscany, one of the other grandparents and I along with our two granddaughters had the great good fortune of spending an afternoon and early evening learning from Lorna and then eating the wonderful four course meal that she had talked us through preparing from scratch. The combination of her friendliness and enthusiasm and the beautiful hillside location would be hard to match and impossible to beat. Hank Harrell read more
9 years ago
We were planning a vacation to Lucca and looking for interesting activities to participate in. My mom loves to cook so we tried searching for a cooking class. Someone recommended Lorna, a private chef. She was fantastic! She was very easy going, spoke English and she's Fun! We made a white bean bruschetta, an eggplant confonato, pork tenderloin and a chocolate nemesis cake! We cooked everything in a private kitchen located on a Tuscan hillside. The view was unbelievable, it was straight out of the movies! (Watch my video to see the location) Cooking class with Lorna was one of the highlights of our 3 week Tuscan retreat. Thank you Lorna! You can reach her through her husband's email address at: jswheatley82@aol.com Ciao! read more
Lorna is AMAZING! My friends and I were on a vacation and wanted a authentic Italy cooking class and we found Lorna through yelp and it was one of my favorite activities of the vacation. We opted to cook at Lorna's place and it was a beautiful hillside kitchen with a breathtaking patio and view of the country side. Upon arrival Lorna made us feel at home and we made: white bean bruschetta, peasant soup, fresh pasta with shrimp zucchini sauce, marinated chicken and a awesome desert. The meal was amazing and so fun + educational. We also had local wine which was delicious. I highly recommend Lorna and her cooking class as it was easy to set up and a unforgettable experience! read more
4 years ago
Lorna provided a once in a lifetime experience for a true Tuscan cooking class. All of her ingredients were top notch, she came prepared and ready to teach, and guided us through a full afternoon of cooking! If you're in the area and wanting to do a cooking class, can't recommend this experience enough. Also, the location of the class is at a winery that provides amazing views and oppurtunity for a tasting and to grab a couple of bottles of wine for during the class and later! read more
7 years ago
Cooking class with Lorna was the highlight of our stay in Petrognano. The entire experience was delightful starting with grocery shopping. Her energy, enthusiasm and expertise got even our non-cooks engaged and involved in the experience. Plus, the food was amazing. Highly recommend her for the novice or experienced cook. Bon appetit! read more
7 years ago
Booked as a birthday gift for a friend, from my initial contact by email to saying goodbye after a delightful day with Lorna, the experience could not have been more wonderful. Given free reign to develop our day with her ... the only stipulation being seasonal ingredients ...we quickly found ourselves fully immersed in the preparation of the menu Lorna designed for us. A menu we shall not, soon, forget. From White Bean Bruschetta through to a Marscapone mixture draped in Chocolate Sauce, and everything in between ... Fresh Pasta with Zucchini Sauce, Risotto Primavera, Baked Artichokes, Rosemary Potatoes, and Rabbit ... Lorna took into consideration our small group's range of kitchen experience walking us through each dish step-by-step with patience and a great sense of humor. Unlike many classes offered, this is 100% hands on with Chef intervention only when needed. Given courage by the jolt of coffee offered upon arrival and braced by the locally produced cellar wine purchased at the local tavern, our confidence grew by leaps and bounds as one dish after another came to a successful, and very tasteful, end. Never rushed. Never pretentious. It was all about real food prepared and shared with friends. In the end, three friends from Canada and the US left knowing we had made a new friend Thank you, Lorna, for making time spent with you a highlight of our time in Italy. Until we meet again. read more
7 years ago
Our 7/19/19 cooking class with Lorna was the highlight of our time in Tuscany. Afternoon winding our way uphill to Petrognano, not at all sure we were arriving at the right place, we met Lorna in front of "the big yellow church." From there, it was a short stroll to her compact but very efficient kitchen where we had a delightful day. Lorna made us a coffee, gave a tour of the premises and then we launched into making bruschetta, both the tomato and white bean varieties, shrimp risotto, roast potatoes, mixed roast (chicken, sausage, pork ribs and rabbit) and a desert of mascarpone cheese and meringue covered with chocolate sauce. The four of us did nearly all the chopping, stirring, etc under Lorna's expert direction. While we are all experienced cooks, each of us learned some new things and the finished products were delicious. We will treasure the recipes that we got to take home with us and they will be repeated. Lorna is a delightful person to spend the day with, a great raconteur with sly British humor. We highly recommend a day with Lorna as an addition to your Tuscany itinerary. read more
More info about Lorna Wheatley
Via Tofori 95
55012 Capannori
Italy
Directions
Hours
What time does Lorna Wheatley open?
Lorna Wheatley opens at 10:30 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
What time does Lorna Wheatley close?
Lorna Wheatley closes at 11:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Mon-Sun 10:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Indoor Amenities
Does Lorna Wheatley allow dogs?
Yes, Lorna Wheatley allows dogs.
Outdoor Amenities
Does Lorna Wheatley have parking?
Yes, Lorna Wheatley has parking options. Private Lot Parking
Other Amenities
Is Lorna Wheatley wheelchair accessible?
No, Lorna Wheatley is not wheelchair accessible.
From the Business
Specialties
My passion and enthusiasm. I have over 40 years experience in hospitality. It’s just ME
History
Established in 2005.
From my first introduction to Italian cuisine at the tender age of 16 I have continued my passion. I moved to Italy 20 years ago and knocked on doors to learn my trade from the ladies of the village, and boy did I learn. Couple that with long hours in restaurants, helping at local events and my natural inquisitive nature I’ve learnt a lot and want to pass it all on because I just love it. Of course there’s always much more to add to my knowledge but now I can say “ I used to think I could cook and now I know I can”. I’m the second hand nonna
Meet the Business Owner: Lorna W.
Hi, contact me on Lunawheatley82@gmail.com. I’d love to hear from you. My cooking days are flexible and I hope fun. I have many years of experience and learnt from lots of Nonna’s and hands on in Italian restaurants.
Review Highlights - Lorna Wheatley
“From White Bean Bruschetta through to a Marscapone mixture draped in Chocolate Sauce, and everything in between ...”
Mentioned in 3 reviews
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
18 reviews that are not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
7 years ago
We've been traveling Europe for nearly 2 weeks and this was our favorite day! Lorna is such a great hostess and our conversations flowed effortlessly as though we'd been friends forever. The setting in Petrognano is fabulous and the actual cooking location is perfect as it affords great views of the Tuscan country side and is right next to the church (also where you acquire the local wine). Lorna does a masterful job of teaching/guiding through all the phases of the food preparation...especially the pasta. It was hard work and so much fun. We had a total of 4 courses...all of them were superb. Lorna gave us so many hints, tips, and tools to use when we do this on our own. The meal was absolutely amazing! Words and descriptions cannot do it justice. So, if you're even remotely close to Petrognano...it will be an epic mistake to not spend an incredible half day with Lorna. You will create a lifetime memory! And the cost...for me I think it was too reasonable!!!! Lorna...thank you...and may many others be blessed cooking alongside you! Give our best to John. read more
7 years ago
Here's Lorna's new email address (Sept.2019): lunawheatley82@gmail.com Lorna cooked for us in August 2019 during our holidays in Tuscany (we were 11 adults and 6 kids). A few of us were vegetarian and ALL of us agree: Lorna is a fantastic cook! She offered a large variety of choices and we've had the chance to taste a lot of exquisite Italian meals, all home made. Once we were gathered at the table, she took the time to explain to us what was each meal made of, its ingredients, its origins and if she had adapted the recipe or sticked to the original one. And every single dish was DELICIOUS, we were all delighted!! In addition to that, she's a lovely person, always available and really flexible, so if you want to enjoy perfect Italian meals, don't hesitate to contact her: she's a star ! Thanks a lot Lorna! Gilles read more
3 years ago
Lorna provided a cooking class for 4 of us while visiting Petrognano. We had an amazing experience with Lorna. She is extremely knowledgeable about the area as well as the local foods and traditions. She worked with us ahead of time to develop a delicious menu that we could make from scratch and she provided us with the recipes at the end of class. We learned how to make simple yet delicious Tuscan meals from appetizers, to a main dish and dessert. We were even able to make enough to take home. The recipes are easy enough to duplicate. Thank you Lorna for a day all 4 of us will always cherish. You are the best!! read more
2 years ago
I decided to take my kids on their first trip to Italy as they love pizza, (who doesn't) . I was browsing through yelp and came across Lorna Wheatley and decided to get us some cooking lesson on some pizza making. Lorna was amazing she catered to our needs she was a pleasure to be around, she knew her food and we learnt so much and was great fun being around her and making pizza. Even had to have a cheeky Nutella one just for fun. Will definitely be seeking her again next time I'm here as I would like to try more of wonderful food from this beautiful country. Thank you so much for your time read more
7 years ago
My daughter and I spent the day learning to cook authentic Tuscan cuisine with Lorna. This day was one I will never forget. By the time we left, I felt sad knowing it might be a long tome till our paths crossed again. She has a gift of making you feel at home and she personalizes the class around you. Everything is hands on and she made us feel so comfortable in the kitchen. We both would highly recommend her class. Her recipes are always created from what is in season locally. A day to remember, for sure. read more
7 years ago
Lorna is the BEST. My friend and I were backpacking across Europe and decided to email Lorna out of the blue. She immediately responded and helped us coordinate a cooking lesson. Lorna personalized a specific menu for us, which included bruschetta, homemade pasta, a tradition Tuscan meat dish and a delicious mascarpone dessert. Lorna is so interesting and knowledgable about Tuscan cuisine and culture. This was definitely one of the best parts of our 5-week trip. Highly recommend! read more
7 years ago
My wife and I wanted to learn how to make some authentic Italian dishes to cook at home. The owner of the home we stayed in recommenced Lorna Wheatley to us and it was the best time we had on the holiday. The setting was in a beautiful winery with amazing views and Lorna advised us what food to buy in the supermarket for future meals and gave great tips and advice. She will also cater for larger parties and it was worth every penny. Great fun was had by all. read more
1 year ago
This past October 18, 2024, my husband and I has a personal chef Lorna giving us her expertise on tips and cooking. we had a wonderful day and enjoyed amazing food. Lorna went out of her way since we are pescatarians and adjusted the menu for us. Thank you for the great memories, history of the area and tips. We 100% recommend her for all ages and palates. I don't know why I can't posted pictures. sorry read more
7 years ago
We had a cooking class with Lorna Wheatley who is an English woman based in Tuscany. She taught us to make authentic Italian lasagne which was the best I have ever eaten. The other courses were just as amazing and it was lovely as Lorna is so knowledgeable about the history of Italy and is really funny. Loved every minute and will certainly book her again. Her email is jswheatley82@aol.com read more
7 years ago
Our day with Lorna was the highlight of our Tuscan vacation! We felt as though we left with a new friend. She is an amazing teacher and provides great cultural insight into the food and region. The Villa used for the lesson is a plus- great wine and views! Highly recommend contacting Lorna if you are looking for a true Italian cooking experience. read more
3 years ago
Lorna created a fun-filled, informative day of cooking for my family. Everything was delicious and easy to make. As we prepared our meal, Lorna encouraged us every step of the way and shared many helpful cooking tips. Spend a day with Lorna, you'll be glad you did! read more
4 years ago
The cooking lesson with Lorna was perfect for us. We felt very comfortable and it enriched our holiday extremely. She showed us a lot and everything was brilliantly organised. We had a great time with wine and good food. We can highly recommend this course! read more
7 years ago
My friends and I had the most amazing day with Lorna, her knowledge of Tuscan cuisine was second to none it also tasted fantastic, who would have thought that non cooks like us could create food so wonderful, all down to Lorna's tuition. Highly recommend. read more
3 years ago
Lorna's cooking classes represent the best of Italy and Italian cuisine. You would be lucky to have one of her classes and take home her skills. I highly recommend her and have first-hand experience over many years. read more
7 years ago
We took Lorna's cooking class yesterday. She was fantastic! I learned so much about cooking and the meal that we cooked was delicious. I highly recommend her class. She is so fun and so informative and so patient. read more
4 years ago
Lorna did a cooking class for our 2 families while visiting Tuscany and it was the highlight of our trip!! We will take what we learned home and use it for family dinners. She was awesom! best food ever!! read more
7 years ago
Lorna is the absolute best. She is incredibly knowledgeable about Tuscan cuisine and super sweet. We can not give a higher recommendation for her class. If you come to Italy, look Lorna up!! read more
4 years ago
We can highly recommend Lorna as a fabulous teacher and chef with vast local knowledge and a lovely bubbly persona. She is worth her weight in gold a real find for a Tuscan cooking class! read more
Lorna Wheatley - cookingclasses - Updated May 2026
Browse Brands
Browse Articles
Related Cost Guides
People who viewed Lorna Wheatley also viewed
Lovexfood
72 reviews
Fiori in Piazza Stazione
1 review
Santa Maria Novella
The Arts Inn
11 reviews
Santa Maria Novella
€€
Pastamania - Pasta making class
14 reviews
Palazzo Pitti
Rachkova
2 reviews
Palazzo Pitti
Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella
97 reviews
Santa Maria Novella
€€€
Volume
56 reviews
Palazzo Pitti
€€
La Cité
60 reviews
Palazzo Pitti
€€
Il Bussetto di Giuseppe Fanara &C. SNC
2 reviews
Stazione Ferroviaria Santa Maria Novella
Todo Modo
31 reviews
Santa Maria Novella
€€














































