There’s something magical about gathering in the kitchen, sharing stories, and learning recipes that have been passed down through generations. To celebrate 20 years of La Cucina Caldesi in Marylebone, Katie & Giancarlo Caldesi are opening the doors to something truly special: Olives and Lemons – Across the Mediterranean.
 
From October to December 2025, a handful of wonderful women – each deeply in love with  the food of their home (or adopted home) – will welcome you into their world of cooking. Together, you’ll discover how the same olives, lemons, herbs and spices are transformed into completely different dishes around the Mediterranean, from Italy to the Middle East.
 
These one-off classes are about more than just recipes – they’re about connection, culture and the joy of cooking side by side. Think of it as stepping into someone’s kitchen, hearing their stories, tasting their favourite dishes, and leaving with new skills (and new friends).
 
Come hungry for flavour, tradition and inspiration.

"To celebrate the wonderful, renowned Caldesi Cookery School’s 20^th anniversary, Ozlem is absolutely delighted to be teaching a full-on flavour, hands on Turkish cookery class in this beautiful cookery school, where we will cook up this feast together and then sit around the table to enjoy the fruits of our labour with a glass of wine or two. Caldesi Cookery School specialises in and passionate about authentic Italian cookery, a cuisine dear to my heart too, with our mutual love of seasonal produce. It’s an absolute honour to be invited to teach delights from my homeland Türkiye this time, to mark their 20^th anniversary, on Saturday, December 6^th, from 10am to 2:30pm.

The class would make a lovely foodie gift to yourself or someone who enjoys good food and learning how to make. Book your spot soon, as spaces are limited. As always, you will get plenty of tips on preparing ahead, freezing, making variations of recipes. You will be welcomed with warm Turkish hospitality, plenty of delicious Turkish food to cook and enjoy and Özlem’s stories from her homeland Türkiye. Özlem will also make everyone the fragrant Turkish coffee, talk about its rituals; it is more than a drink for Turks".

Book early to avoid disappointment!