Small-Group Cooking Class in Positano: Gnocchi, Tiramisù & Drinks

Planning a trip to Positano and craving a genuine taste of Italy? This small-group cooking experience offers just that—a chance to cook, eat, and relax in a cozy home above the town, led by a local family. We’ve seen plenty of classes in Italy, but this one consistently stands out for its authentic vibe and personal touch.

What really caught our attention are the hands-on nature of the class—you don’t just watch from the sidelines, you get to roll gnocchi and whip up tiramisù yourself. Plus, the stunning hilltop views and the warm hospitality make it a memorable way to spend an afternoon. On the flip side, the one potential snag is the price point—at around $174 per person, it’s not the cheapest option, but many find it well worth the cost for the experience and quality of food.

This experience is ideal for those who want a true taste of local life, enjoy cooking, or simply want a relaxed, intimate way to connect with Italy’s culinary traditions. It’s especially suited to travelers who value authenticity and a personal connection over large-group tours.

Key Points

• Authentic Family-Run Setting: Experience Italian hospitality in a private hillside home.
• Hands-On Cooking: Prepare gnocchi with two different recipes and Tiramisù, learning family secrets.
• Beautiful Views & Atmosphere: Enjoy your meal on a scenic patio overlooking Positano.
• Local Ingredients & Garden Freshness: Dishes include produce from the host’s garden, adding flavor and charm.
• Includes Drinks & Aperitivo: Sip prosecco, local wine, and enjoy a relaxed, family-style meal.
• Personalized Experience: The class is tailored to your group’s ages and skill levels, making it suitable for most.

What to Expect from the Experience

This isn’t a large, impersonal cooking class. Instead, you’ll be welcomed into a family’s home perched high on the slopes of Positano, where warmth and genuine hospitality set the tone. The experience lasts roughly three and a half hours, giving you plenty of time to learn, cook, and savor.

The Meeting & Atmosphere

You’ll meet at Piazza Cappella, a convenient location in Positano, and from there, a short transfer will bring you to Emily’s charming hillside home. Many reviews mention the lovely setting—a restored house with expansive views where you’ll immediately feel at ease. Emily and her family are passionate about sharing their culinary heritage, and their stories make the experience more than just cooking; it’s a window into local life.

The Cooking Part

The core of the experience revolves around making two types of gnocchi—the classic with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan, and a family recipe with limoncello. You’ll learn the techniques behind shaping and cooking these tender potato dumplings, using fresh ingredients sourced from their garden or local markets.

Alongside gnocchi, you’ll prepare tiramisù, the beloved Italian dessert. Emily’s family shares their secret recipes, which have been handed down through generations, adding that authentic touch. The ingredients are farm-to-table, with fresh mozzarella and mascarpone made on the same day, guaranteeing a flavor boost that packaged products can’t match.

The Aperitivo & Meal

Before cooking, you’ll kick things off with a friendly aperitivo—think prosecco, smoked cheese, and salami—to loosen up and share stories. This relaxed start sets the tone for the afternoon.

Once the dishes are ready, you’ll gather around a family-style table on the terrace or patio, where you’ll enjoy the fruits of your labor. Many reviews mention the spectacular views—a perfect backdrop for savoring your freshly cooked gnocchi and tiramisù paired with local wines or prosecco. It’s an experience that combines great food, lovely scenery, and warm company.

What Makes It Special

• Family Recipes & Personal Stories: Emily emphasizes the history of her family and their recipes, which adds depth to the experience.
• Garden-Fresh Ingredients: From ripe tomatoes to fresh herbs, everything feels authentic and flavorful.
• Tailored for Groups: The class adapts to your group’s age and experience, making it accessible whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook.
• Incredible Value for Money: Considering the quality of ingredients, the personalized attention, and the meal itself, many find the $174 price reasonable.

The Authenticity & Authentic Experience

Based on numerous glowing reviews, this class truly offers a taste of genuine Italian hospitality. Guests often mention feeling welcomed “like family,” a sentiment that is reinforced by Emily’s warm approach and the multi-generational family setting. One reviewer pointed out, “You get a bit of their family & Positano history, as well as homemade Italian food,” which captures the heart of this experience.

Another traveler loved how the recipes are handed down through her grandmother, making each dish meaningful. The fact that the ingredients, including almonds and produce, are sourced directly from their garden adds a layer of authenticity many other classes lack.

The Food & Drink

The highlight for many is undoubtedly the delicious food. Guests rave about their gnocchi with tomato sauce and mozzarella, as well as the unique limoncello gnocchi. The tiramisù, made with fresh mascarpone, is often called “the best” by those who love their desserts.

The drinks are thoughtfully included—prosecco, local wine, and limoncello—making the meal feel festive and relaxed. The wine selections, in reviews, are described as “incredible,” adding a special touch to the meal.

The Setting & Views

The outdoor terrace or patio where you dine offers sweeping views of Positano’s colorful rooftops and the sparkling sea below. Several reviews mention how the scenery enhances the meal, turning an ordinary cooking class into a memorable experience. It’s not just about the food but about soaking up the atmosphere of this iconic Amalfi Coast town.

Practical Details & Tips

• Pricing & Value: At approximately $174.43 per person, this class is on the higher end, but many guests feel it’s worth it for the personalized experience, quality ingredients, and authentic environment.
• Duration: About 3 hours and 30 minutes, enough time to enjoy each step without feeling rushed.
• Group Size: Limited to 10 travelers, ensuring plenty of individual attention.
• Booking & Planning: The experience is popular, often booked 85 days in advance, so plan early if you want to secure a spot.
• Transportation: The meeting point is easy to reach near public transportation, and the host helps with organizing transfers when needed.
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund.

Who Would Love This?

This experience suits travelers who want more than just sightseeing—those eager to understand Italian culture through its cuisine. Food lovers, home cooks, or anyone curious about authentic family recipes will find this rewarding. It also appeals to those seeking a relaxed, intimate setting with scenic views and delicious food.

It’s not geared toward large groups or commercialized experiences. Instead, it offers a genuine peek into local life, making it perfect for travelers who cherish personal stories and farm-fresh ingredients.

FAQs

Is the class suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is tailored to your group’s ages and experience, so it’s welcoming whether you’re new to cooking or more advanced.

What is included in the price?
You’ll learn to make two types of gnocchi and tiramisù, enjoy an aperitivo with prosecco and salami, and sit down for a family-style meal with local wines and drinks.

How far in advance should I book?
Given its popularity, especially with a booking window of around 85 days, it’s best to reserve early to secure a spot.

Is transportation provided?
The meeting point is near public transportation, and the host can organize pickup from your hotel or accommodation.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for cooking—aprons are usually provided, but dress casually and be prepared for some flour or sauce splashes.

Are children allowed?
The experience is best suited for adults or groups of all ages; it’s not specifically designed as a family activity, but families with older children who enjoy cooking may enjoy it.

What happens if I have to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund. Less notice means no refund, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This small-group Positano cooking class offers a genuinely enriching glimpse into authentic Italian family life. It’s perfect for those who value personal stories, farm-to-table ingredients, and scenic dining settings. The emphasis on making gnocchi and tiramisù from scratch, combined with the warm hospitality and stunning views, transforms a simple cooking lesson into a memorable experience.

While the price might seem steep at first glance, many guests feel it’s justified by the quality, intimacy, and authenticity of the experience. If you’re eager to learn traditional recipes, enjoy good company, and savor a beautiful meal in a gorgeous setting, this class will likely be a highlight of your trip.

Whether you’re a foodie, a curious traveler, or looking to create lasting memories with loved ones, this class offers a wonderful way to connect with Italy’s culinary heart in Positano.