Sicilian chef partners with Bryan travel advisor to offer hands-on culinary experiences

BRYAN, Texas (KBTX) – A Sicilian chef is partnering with a Bryan travel advisor to offer authentic Italian cooking classes and food tours.

Annalisa Pompeo, CEO and founder of GoSicily Sicilian Cooking Experience, conducts cooking classes and leads food tours in Sicily. Pompeo, who is from Favara in the province of Agrigento, partners with Bryan native Marjie Montalbano of Andiamo Travel 1615.

“The purpose of my journey is to bring a piece of Sicily to the world, and invite the world to discover my land,” Pompeo said.

Montalbano sends clients traveling to Sicily to Pompeo for cooking classes and food tours.

“It’s been a joy to combine my passion for designing personalized travel with her love for sharing Sicilian traditions,” Montalbano said. “Together, we help travelers discover Italy in a way that goes far beyond sightseeing.”

Classes focus on food and connection

Each class features different menus, but all include authentic Italian dishes prepared by participants who then share the meal together. Pompeo said the classes focus on food, fun and connection.

“It’s a perfect way to spend time with friends and family creating memories while sharing food and culture,” Pompeo said.

Montalbano met Pompeo in 2018 through an Italian group on Facebook. Pompeo reached out after seeing photos of Montalbano touring clients in Italy and Sicily. The two have been collaborating ever since.

Pompeo comes to the United States once a year, and Montalbano organizes cooking classes for her while she is in Texas.

To book trips, cooking classes and food tours, visit Andiamo Travel 1615.