The art of the Italian Aperitivo with a Cesarina: Learn & Enjoy in Como

Getting a Taste of Italy’s Aperitivo Tradition in Como

If you’re heading to Lake Como and looking to soak up a slice of genuine Italian culture, this art of the Italian Aperitivo with a Cesarina experience might just catch your eye. While I haven’t personally been on this exact tour, reviews and descriptions paint a pretty inviting picture. It’s essentially a cozy, two-hour session where you’ll learn to craft the perfect aperitivo—those delightful pre-dinner drinks—and enjoy some expertly prepared local snacks.

What really appeals to us is how it combines a hands-on cooking and bartending lesson with the warm, welcoming vibe of a local home—Giusy and Elena’s place, in this case. Plus, the small group size (max 10 people) promises a more intimate, personalized experience. On the flip side, the price tag of around $207 per person is on the steeper side for just a couple of hours, which makes sense if you’re after a special, authentic experience rather than a quick taste. This tour suits travelers who love food, wine, and local culture, and who prefer experiences that feel genuine rather than touristy.

Key Points

• Authentic Learning: You get to learn how to make traditional Italian aperitivo and accompanying snacks.
• Local Wines & Food: Enjoy a selection of regional red and white wines alongside homemade nibbles.
• Intimate Atmosphere: Small group size ensures personalized attention and a cozy environment.
• Cultural Connection: Experience Italian hospitality inside a local family’s home, feeling like part of the community.
• Gourmet Highlights: Expect to taste delicious bruschetta, grilled vegetables, and a curated selection of cheeses and charcuterie.
• Flexible & Convenient: Starts at 6:00 pm in downtown Como, near public transport, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

First Impressions & Venue: The workshop takes place in Giusy and Elena’s home in the heart of Como, overlooking a lively square. From the reviews, it sounds like a warm, inviting setting—less of a sterile classroom and more like sitting in friends’ cozy kitchen. That’s a big plus if you’re after the genuine feel of Italian living.

What You’ll Learn: The main goal is to teach you how to craft a traditional aperitivo, which is a beloved part of Italian social life. The Cesarine—Italy’s first network of certified home cooks—are passionate about preserving local culinary traditions. Their focus is on sharing authentic recipes that reflect the region’s flavors and ingredients.

The Food: You’ll prepare and taste five different nibbles using local ingredients. Expect rustic delights like bruschetta with fragrant olive oil, fresh market vegetables on the grill, and a selection of cheeses and cured meats. Kim M, one of the reviewers, called it a “wonderful local cooking and eating experience,” praising the delicious aperitifs they made that made going out unnecessary. It’s a true taste of local produce, carefully curated to showcase the area’s best.

The Drinks: The highlight for many is the tasting of regional red and white wines. These aren’t mass-produced labels but wines from local cellars, offering a real sense of place. Sipping these alongside your snacks, you’ll get a feel for how Italians enjoy socializing over good wine and simple, flavorful bites.

Group Size & Interaction: With only up to 10 travelers, the vibe is relaxed and conversational. You’ll have plenty of opportunity to ask questions, swap stories, and get to know your hosts. This isn’t a slick commercial tour; it’s a genuine, hands-on experience.

Timing & Convenience: Starting at 6 pm means you can unwind after a day exploring Como or as the perfect pre-dinner activity. The tour’s location near public transportation makes it accessible, even if you’re staying outside the immediate city center.

Price & Value: At around $207, this experience leans towards the premium side, but it’s justified if you value authenticity, quality, and learning. Kim’s review indicates that the experience’s warmth and the deliciousness of the food and drinks make it worthwhile. You’re not just paying for a tasting but for a culture, with the added bonus of taking home some newfound skills.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who love food and drink and want a genuine taste of Italian hospitality. It’s perfect if you’re keen to learn new culinary skills, enjoy wine tasting, or simply want a cozy, memorable evening in Como. If you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or even solo, the intimate setting ensures a friendly, engaging atmosphere.

It’s less suited if you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly activity or prefer large-group tours with more sightseeing and less hands-on participation. Also, note that at two hours, it’s a relatively short experience, so if your trip is packed, this might be a nice, relaxed break rather than a full-day outing.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a personal, authentic Italian experience in Como, this aperitivo workshop offers a lovely combination of learning, tasting, and socializing. It’s a chance to pick up some simple yet delicious skills, enjoy local wines, and connect with hosts passionate about their culinary heritage. The intimate setting creates a warm, genuine atmosphere, making it more than just a standard tasting.

While the cost might seem high for a couple of hours, the quality of the experience and the chance to enjoy real home-cooked flavors and regional wines make it a worthwhile splurge for food lovers and curious travelers alike. It’s particularly suited to those who want to step off the beaten path and indulge in a meaningful cultural activity.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
The tour is designed as a small-group workshop focusing on food and drink, so it’s best suited for adults or older teens interested in culinary activities. It’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, but if children enjoy cooking, they might find it enjoyable.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll receive instruction on preparing aperitivo drinks and snacks, along with a tasting session of various regional red and white wines. Water is also provided.

How long does the experience last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours, starting at 6:00 pm in downtown Como.

Is the activity accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit, making it easy to reach without a car.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience, getting a full refund.

Are drinks and food included?
Yes, both are included as part of the workshop, with a selection of wines and homemade nibbles.

What if I’m not a wine drinker?
While wine is part of the experience, the focus is on the social and culinary aspect of aperitivo. Even non-wine drinkers can enjoy the atmosphere and the food.

How many people typically participate?
The maximum group size is 10, ensuring a cozy, interactive environment.

If you’re looking for a warm, authentic way to experience Italian culture through food and drink, this Como aperitivo workshop could be a lovely choice. It’s a chance to learn, taste, and connect in a setting that feels both genuine and memorable.