A cinque stelle! Some Yelp friends booked this for a make your own pasta night, and I had no idea what I was in for. I think this night was run from the former chef from K in College Park and it was an experience I'd definitely go back for.
It was BYO Wine so I brought some. I wasn't sure how much to bring, and others brought wine too, but they did open every bottle I brought, which made it tricky to bring home. Basically, if you're going with a group, coordinate appropriately. And bring wine stoppers as the corks and lids disappear. Better yet, just bring a box of wine!!! :)
They had all of the ingredients ready for the pesto which we "made". Basically, since everything was there, we tossed them into a food processor and that was the extend of it. But it's amazing what basil, garlic, almonds, cheese and Roma tomatoes make! Don't forget the olive oil. Also, a few people were allergic to nuts, so they were able to accommodate... by keeping them away from me!
They showed us how to make the pasta and we made some pasta. 3 parts semolina flour (imported of course) to 1 part water. We mixed and kneaded and then wrapped and rested. After the pasta rested, we rolled them into little worms like an adult play-doh party with wine. We made a LOT of pasta.
After making pasta, we went outside to peruse the grounds while the staff transformed the bench areas to a dining experience with plates, cloth napkins and cutlery for all.
There was so much food besides the pasta. There was a charcuterie tray with meats and cheeses. There were 3 different salads: the burrata, an arugula, and an amazing panzanella salad. If bread in the salad wasn't enough, there was bread at the table too.
They cooked the pasta and tossed in the pesto and brought it out family style like everything else. It was so friggin' good! It's kinda neat to make something like that and being able to eat it fresh! It was easy enough where you could do it at home too.
Just when you thought you couldn't fit anything else inside you, they brought desserts. It was a cornucopia of smaller servings of sweets which were all good as well. They had this lemon curd imported from Sicily and even though it was a small sample, it was an amazing bite, especially with the strawberries.
I would totally recommend this as well as attend again. Great experience with a great staff. Just be mindful of the amount of wine you bring. The "Just in case" bottle may be opened and may not get touched. read more