Mortar Pesto Lesson with World Champion and Local Menu with Wine

If you’re visiting Liguria and have a passion for good food and authentic experiences, this pesto class might just be your new favorite activity. Visit Genoa and learn how to craft the perfect genovese pesto with Camilla Pizzorno, the 2022 World Champion of Pesto al Mortaio. The experience combines hands-on culinary skill, local flavors, and a relaxed, intimate environment — all in a setting that feels like a home away from home.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the chance to meet a true expert, who doesn’t just teach but shares her passion and secrets in a friendly, approachable way. Plus, the chance to make pesto with a century-old marble mortar and vintage pestle elevates this class from just another cooking lesson to a memorable cultural experience. On the flip side, some might find the price a bit higher than standard cooking classes, but considering the quality, personalization, and the privilege of learning from a world champion, it’s worth it for many.

This experience is best suited for those who want to truly connect with Ligurian culinary traditions, enjoy a relaxed setting, and love discovering local flavors. If you’re a food enthusiast or looking for a meaningful, authentic activity during your trip, you’ll likely find this experience both enjoyable and rewarding.

Key Points

• Expert Guidance: Camilla Pizzorno, a world champion, shares her personal recipe and secrets.
• Authentic Techniques: Use of a century-old marble mortar and vintage pestle makes the pesto-making truly special.
• Local Flavors: The ingredients are carefully selected, including D.O.P. basil, Vessalico garlic, and Ligurian olive oil.
• Tasty Finale: Enjoy your freshly made pesto paired with Ligurian pasta, focaccia, and a good selection of local wines and liqueurs.
• Comfortable Setting: Held in a summer garden or a heated outdoor space, ensuring a cozy vibe year-round.
• Memorable Keepsakes: Take home the original recipe, photos, videos, and a small gift to remember your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Inside Look at the Experience

The Perfect Introduction: A Genuine Ligurian Welcome

As you arrive at the location, you’ll find yourself in a charming Ligurian garden or an outdoor area surrounded by greenery—an ideal setting that makes you feel like visiting a friend’s home. Whether it’s summer or winter, the space is designed for comfort: in warm months, you’ll be outside under the sun; in colder days, a covered, heated outdoor space keeps the atmosphere inviting.

The hosts, Lorenzo and Camilla, are praised repeatedly for their warmth and friendliness. Reviewers often mention how they immediately felt at ease, which is key for a hands-on class like this. Camilla’s reputation as a champion pesto maker adds a special touch, knowing you’re learning from someone who has beaten over 100 rivals from around the world.

The Ingredients: Recognizing Quality

The class begins with a focus on ingredients, which is often overlooked but is crucial for authentic Ligurian pesto. Camilla emphasizes the importance of using fresh, high-quality basil (D.O.P.), Vessalico garlic, Ligurian extra virgin olive oil, Italian pine nuts, and aged Parmigiano-Reggiano. The goal is for you to understand how each element impacts flavor and texture.

Many reviews comment on how engaging this part is, as Camilla carefully explains how to recognize quality and why it matters. One traveler noted, “We learned a lot about the ingredients and their role in the perfect pesto,” which shows how educational this segment is. This preparation sets a solid foundation for the next step — making pesto from scratch.

The Pesto-Making: A Step Back in Time

The core of the experience is making pesto in a large Carrara marble mortar with a century-old olive wood pestle. Camilla guides each participant through the traditional process, demonstrating the original gestures handed down through generations. This isn’t just about mixing ingredients; it’s about respecting an age-old craft.

From crushing garlic and basil to adding pine nuts and cheese, the process is interactive and tactile. Participants often mention how special it is to make pesto with tools that are over 100 years old, heightening the sensory experience. “Camilla’s technique is so precise and respectful of tradition,” according to a reviewer.

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Tasting Your Creation

Once the pesto is ready, you get to taste it fresh — a highlight for many. The pesto is served as an appetizer with Genoese focaccia, which is also homemade and deliciously soft. Many users describe the pesto as aromatic, vibrant, and full of flavor, thanks to Camilla’s skill and the quality ingredients. One review even shared, “The pesto was obviously excellent, better than any store-bought version,” which shows the true value of making it yourself.

You’ll savor your pesto with Ligurian trofie or homemade gnocchi, giving you a taste of genuine local cuisine. This part of the experience offers a real sense of accomplishment and a deeper appreciation for Ligurian pasta dishes.

The Dessert: A Sweet Finish

The class wraps up with a classic Italian tiramisu, adding a sweet, creamy contrast to the savory pesto. According to reviews, the tiramisu is homemade and delicious. It’s served alongside wines from the Ligurian Riviera and traditional Italian liqueurs like limoncello, myrtle, grappa, and Camatti bitters, giving you a well-rounded tasting experience.

The Takeaways: Recipes, Photos, and Souvenirs

Before leaving, you’ll receive the original recipe in PDF format, along with photos and videos of your pesto-making session if you choose. Many travelers appreciate this because it allows them to recreate the dish at home and relive the experience. A small gift is also included, so you can take a little piece of Liguria back with you.

The Value and Practical Considerations

How the Pricing Measures Up

While the class isn’t cheap, many reviewers feel it offers good value. You’re paying for personalized guidance from a world champion and the chance to use historic tools, which are not elements you’ll find in typical cooking classes. The intimate group size (limited to 6) also means you get plenty of attention and room for questions.

Accessibility and Comfort

The setting is cozy and welcoming, whether you’re outdoors in summer or in a heated covered space in winter. If bad weather crops up, the host confirms the experience still takes place indoors, which is reassuring.

Duration and Group Size

The experience lasts about 1.5 hours, which is perfect for a relaxed but informative activity. Small groups mean a more personal, engaging lesson — reviews consistently mention how friendly and caring the hosts are, making the entire experience warm and memorable.

Practical Tips

If you have allergies or intolerances, it’s best to communicate beforehand. The hosts ask for this info at booking, and while they guarantee the ingredients won’t be the reported allergens, they can’t promise the absolute absence of contamination. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, you can request a homemade cake—just ask in advance.

Transportation and Accessibility

If needed, transportation can be arranged, making it easier to reach the location. The meeting point is straightforward, with clear coordinates, and hosts are responsive if you encounter any issues.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This pesto class suits food lovers, especially those interested in traditional techniques and hands-on cooking. It’s perfect for travelers who want an authentic taste of Liguria and enjoy learning from an expert. The intimate setting and personalized attention also make it a good pick for couples, small groups, or anyone celebrating a special occasion.

If you’re traveling with a family, the reviews suggest the experience is very personable, and children up to a certain age might enjoy the relaxed, friendly atmosphere — but it’s best to check with the provider about age restrictions.

Final Thoughts

This pesto lesson with Camilla Pizzorno offers a genuine taste of Ligurian culture and craftsmanship. The chance to learn from a world champion and use historic tools makes it more than just a cooking class — it’s an immersive cultural experience. The combination of expert guidance, authentic ingredients, and a cozy setting creates a warm environment that makes learning fun and meaningful.

While the price may be higher than average, many find it justified given the quality of the experience, the personal touch, and the memories created. It’s ideal for those who want to deepen their appreciation of Italian cuisine and enjoy a relaxed, friendly activity with lasting keepsakes.

For travelers looking for a unique, hands-on way to connect with the local food scene, this pesto class delivers an experience that’s both educational and delicious. It’s a perfect way to take a piece of Liguria home—literally and figuratively.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
Many reviews highlight how welcoming and personable the hosts are, and the experience is quite relaxed, making it accessible for families. However, it’s best to ask beforehand if you’re traveling with young children or have specific age considerations.

What ingredients will I learn about?
You’ll focus on traditional Ligurian ingredients like D.O.P. basil, Vessalico garlic, Ligurian olive oil, pine nuts, and aged Parmigiano-Reggiano. Camilla emphasizes how quality ingredients impact flavor.

Can I get a copy of the recipe afterward?
Yes, at the end of the class, you’ll receive an original recipe in PDF format, perfect for recreating your pesto at home.

What is the setting like?
The class takes place in a charming outdoor space—either a summer garden or a heated outdoor area—making it suitable for year-round visits. The environment is described as cozy and welcoming.

How long does the class last?
The experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, allowing plenty of time to learn, cook, and enjoy your creations without feeling rushed.

Is transportation organized?
If needed, the host can arrange transportation, and the meeting point is easy to find using the provided coordinates. The hosts are responsive and helpful if you have questions.

This pesto class isn’t just about learning to make a sauce; it’s about experiencing a piece of Ligurian tradition with someone who truly cares about sharing her craft. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a casual traveler, it offers a genuine, memorable taste of Genoa’s culinary heart.

You can check availability for your dates here: