05/15/2026
Last night, Watermill Caterers in Smithtown, NY didnât just host a cooking class â they welcomed guests into the family Nonna style.
The minute you walked through the doors, it was clear this was not your average âlearn to make pastaâ night. The abundance was unreal. An overflowing cocktail hour with open bar, sushi, calamari, baked clams, fritto misto and enough incredible food to make you loosen your belt before the class even started.
Then came the sit-down dinner service⊠linens, stemware, fresh flowers, swag bags and restaurant-quality plates of Gnocchi Alla Vodka and Pappardelle Bolognese served right to the table. Elegant, warm and welcoming all at once.
And then⊠the magic happened.
Joe Zangri traded the executive office for an apron and transformed into âChef Z,â sharing the kind of cultural cooking experience that feels straight out of a grandmotherâs kitchen. Over 60 guests stepped into the classroom where every station was beautifully prepared with pasta tools, ingredients and aprons waiting for each student.
Under the guidance of Chef Z and the incredible Watermill staff, attendees rolled, shaped and created TWO POUNDS of handmade pappardelle and gnocchi to take home â along with recipes, tools and memories.
The evening ended the only way an Italian celebration should⊠with pastry tables overflowing in every direction and fresh fruit displays that looked like edible centerpieces. And let me tell you⊠the sfogliatelle was MOLTO BENE.
Five stars to the Watermill for creating a one-of-a-kind immersive culinary experience that somehow felt luxurious and deeply personal at the same time.
If you want a night out with your BFF, a unique date night, a team bonding event, or simply want to feel like your family just got a little bigger⊠follow Caterers and keep your eyes open for the next class. Rumor has it fresh mozzarella and a woodfire oven are coming next⊠and trust me, youâll want a seat at that table.
