With Tiziana Cooking Class for Pesto , Gnocchi and Tiramisù

If you’re planning a trip to Genoa and love the idea of rolling up your sleeves to learn local culinary secrets, this Tiziana Cooking Class could be just what you’re looking for. It offers a chance to cook traditional dishes like Pesto alla Genovese, homemade gnocchi, and tiramisu in a beautiful, historic setting. From what we’ve seen through reviews and descriptions, this experience isn’t just about food—it’s about diving into Genoa’s culture with a warm, knowledgeable guide.

What makes this class particularly appealing are Tiziana’s expertise—she’s a certified Mortar Pesto specialist—and the stunning ambiance of a 17th-century palace. For travelers who appreciate authenticity and a personal touch, these features create a memorable experience. However, if you’re someone who prefers a quick, no-fuss cooking demo, this might feel a bit more involved than you want. Still, for anyone eager to learn and taste real Genoese flavors, this tour ticks many boxes.

This experience is best suited for food lovers, curious travelers, and those keen on experiencing local traditions firsthand. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, it offers a relaxed, engaging atmosphere that’s perfect for those who want more than just sightseeing.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: Guided by a true pesto expert, you learn real Genoese cooking skills in a historic setting.
• All-inclusive materials: Everything you need—aprons, utensils, ingredients—is provided, so you just show up ready to cook.
• Enjoy a leisurely meal: After cooking, you sit down to enjoy your creations paired with prosecco, water, coffee, and more.
• Personalized experience: It’s a private tour, so your group gets dedicated attention and a more intimate vibe.
• Flexible scheduling: Open daily from 11 am to 6 pm, with bookings made on average 33 days in advance.
• Good value for the price: At around $139 per person, you’re paying for expert guidance, authentic ingredients, and a memorable cultural experience.

What to Expect from the Cooking Class

The experience begins with a warm welcome at Salita Inferiore di Sant’Anna, a charming spot near public transportation in Genoa. From there, the journey into Ligurian cuisine starts with learning how to make Pesto alla Genovese. Tiziana’s mastery of mortar and pestle is a highlight here—she’s a certified pesto expert, and her explanations are clear and engaging. You won’t just mix basil and oil; you’ll see how to get the best flavors from the ingredients, especially with the right technique.

Once your pesto is ready, the focus shifts to making gnocchi from scratch. This isn’t just about following a recipe—Tiziana will teach you how to create soft, fluffy gnocchi that taste like they’re straight out of a family kitchen. The process involves preparing the dough, shaping the gnocchi, and cooking them to perfection. The reviews suggest that the entire process is fun, interactive, and accessible, even for those new to cooking.

The final savory course involves dressing your homemade gnocchi with the pesto you just made. This is the moment to appreciate the rich, fresh flavors of Ligurian basil. Afterward, it’s time for dessert—tiramisu—which you’ll also prepare together. Tiziana’s approach ensures that you’ll finish with a dish that’s both authentic and satisfying.

To round out the meal, there’s also focaccia prepared beforehand—a little touch that shows the care put into this experience. The meal is paired with Prosecco for every three people, adding a celebratory feel to the meal. Plus, bottled water, coffee, and tea are included, rounding out a full culinary experience.

The Atmosphere and Setting

One of the standout features is the setting in a 17th-century palace. This historic backdrop elevates the experience from just a cooking class to a memorable cultural event. The ambiance is cozy yet elegant, creating a perfect environment for learning and enjoying good food. Several reviews praised the warmth and hospitality of Tiziana and Roberto, making you feel like you’re visiting friends rather than just participating in a tour.

The Practical Details

Pricing is around $138.91 per person, which, considering the quality of instruction, ingredients, and setting, offers good value. All materials are included—aprons, utensils, and ingredients—so you don’t need to bring anything. The class lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable yet substantial experience.

Booking typically requires about a month in advance, reflecting its popularity. It’s a private tour, meaning only your group participates, which helps foster a relaxed, conversational atmosphere. The activity is scheduled between 11 am and 6 pm daily, giving you flexibility to fit it into your itinerary.

The Review Highlights

Many previous participants rave about the authenticity and warmth of the experience. Marie_T called it “an authentic and amazing experience,” praising Tiziana and Roberto for their clear explanations and delicious food, including a takeaway tiramisù. Others mention the fun, engaging nature of the class, with Samantha gurley noting the many laughs and the kindness of the hosts.

Even those who had to cancel last minute appreciated Tiziana’s offer to send a video session, showing her commitment to sharing her passion even if in a different format. The overall feedback is that this class strikes a perfect balance of learning, tasting, and culture.

The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?

For those interested in authentic Ligurian cuisine and a personal connection with local guides, this class delivers. The combination of expert instruction, beautiful historic surroundings, and delicious food makes it stand out. It’s especially good for travelers who like hands-on experiences, enjoy good company, and want to bring a taste of Genoa back home—literally and figuratively.

However, if you’re not a fan of cooking or prefer more structured, less interactive tours, this might not be your ideal fit. The price point is reasonable given the included ingredients, setting, and personalized approach, but it’s definitely a step above a simple cooking demonstration.

In summary, this experience is best suited for foodies, travelers who love culture and history, and anyone eager to learn a few authentic recipes from a passionate local. It’s a memorable way to connect deeply with Genoa’s culinary traditions and enjoy a delightful meal in a stunning setting.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
The menu includes vegetables, so vegetarians can likely enjoy the experience, but it’s best to confirm if specific dietary needs can be accommodated.

Do I need to bring anything?
No, all materials—including aprons, dishes, utensils, and ingredients—are provided by Tiziana.

How long does the class last?
The class runs for approximately 2 hours, making it a nice, manageable amount of time without feeling rushed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the booking has a free cancellation policy if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is the experience family-friendly?
The tour is private and designed for groups. While it’s not explicitly marketed for children, it could be suitable for older kids with an interest in cooking.

What’s included in the price?
You get all ingredients, utensils, water, coffee/tea, and a glass of prosecco for every three participants. Tips are not included but are at your discretion.

What is the setting like?
The class takes place in a beautiful 17th-century palace, adding an extra layer of charm to your cooking experience.

Are alcoholic beverages served?
Yes, prosecco is included for groups of three or more, and only those 18+ can partake.

When can I book this experience?
It’s available from November 2024 through June 2026, daily between 11 am and 6 pm. Book early to secure your spot.

If you’re eager for an authentic, hands-on Genoese culinary experience that combines history, culture, and delicious food, this class is definitely worth considering. It’s more than just cooking—it’s a chance to connect with the soul of Genoa through its flavors.