Sorrento is a standout destination not only for its stunning coastal views and lively streets but also for its vibrant food scene. The town offers a rich array of dining experiences that go beyond typical restaurants—think immersive cooking classes, scenic wine tastings, and sunset cruises with gourmet dinners. One of our favorites is the Bella Sorrento Evening ‘Progressive Dinner’ Experience, which takes you through four local eateries, sampling traditional recipes paired with regional wines. It’s a fantastic way to get a true taste of Sorrento’s culinary soul while learning stories behind the dishes.
What makes Sorrento a perfect food destination is its mix of authentic local cuisine, scenic settings, and intimate experiences. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or a casual diner, the options range from hands-on cooking classes to elegant wine tastings, all designed to deepen your appreciation for southern Italy’s flavors. Below, we’ve compiled the best of Sorrento’s dining scene, highlighting what makes each experience stand out.
What Types of Tours Made This List?
Our list features a variety of dining experiences that cater to different tastes and schedules. You’ll find progressive dinners exploring multiple restaurants, like the Bella Sorrento Evening ‘Progressive Dinner’, where you taste multiple courses in different settings. For those interested in learning to cook, options like the Dinner or Lunch in Sorrento with Chef Carmen or the Private Cooking Class with Lunch or Dinner in Vico Equense offer hands-on culinary lessons.
Wine lovers can explore local vineyards and tastings with the Light dinner accompanied with Masterclass Wines or enjoy a scenic Sunset & Supper cruise. If you prefer a more immersive farm experience, the Sorrento Farm and Food Experience combines farm visits with tastings and a meal.
Ready to see what makes each of these options unique? Let’s dive into the detailed descriptions.
1. Bella Sorrento Evening ‘Progressive Dinner’ Experience
For around $186, this progressive dinner experience takes you through four carefully selected local restaurants. Over 3.5 hours, you’ll sample starters, mains, desserts, and regional wines, all while strolling through Sorrento’s charming streets. The tour is led by an insider foodie guide who helps you avoid tourist traps and discover authentic flavors. Small groups of up to 10 people mean a relaxed atmosphere where you can chat easily with your guide and fellow travelers. Many reviewers highlight the diversity of dishes and the friendly, informal vibe, with comments like, “the food was fabulous and the views stunning.”
Bottom Line: A fantastic way to savor a wide variety of Sorrento’s culinary delights with expert insights, perfect for those who want a comprehensive taste of local life in a convivial setting.
2. Dinner or Lunch in Sorrento with Chef Carmen
At just over $100, this intimate meal with Chef Carmen offers a warm, family-run atmosphere for lunch or dinner. Chef Alex personally prepares classic dishes like gnocchi alla sorrentina, homemade meatballs, and eggplant parmesan, all served with local wines. The chef’s passion for authentic ingredients and flavors makes this experience stand out. The focus on a familiar setting means you’ll learn recipes passed down through generations, making it ideal for foodies wanting an authentic, home-cooked meal. The environment is friendly and personalized, with the chef often sharing stories about family traditions.
Bottom Line: Great for those seeking an authentic, home-style Italian meal with a personal touch, especially if you want to connect with local family life.
3. LEMO’ Restaurant Tasting Experience
This 3-hour tasting experience is priced at about $89, set in a restaurant surrounded by nature and gardens. The host Elena welcomes families and friends alike, sharing dishes that highlight the flavors of the lemon farm and regional produce. Guests savor a variety of dishes in a tranquil setting, perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner. While some reviews mention the flavors could be punchier, most rave about the charming host and the lovely garden setting. It’s especially suited for those who want a peaceful escape from the town’s hustle.
Bottom Line: Ideal for nature lovers and those wanting a quiet, scenic meal with a focus on local ingredients, especially lemon and farm produce.
4. Dinner and Cooking Demonstration
This 3.5-hour class at $142 lets you learn how to make seafood pasta—scialatielli—and gnocchi, among other dishes, in a fun, informal setting. Hosted in a local home, the experience includes hands-on participation and a chance to ask questions as you cook. Reviewers mention Maria’s warm hospitality and the chance to enjoy your culinary creations with a glass of regional wine. The experience is suitable for families and anyone eager to pick up authentic techniques while enjoying a relaxed evening. The highlight is the personal connection and the chance to learn recipes you can recreate at home.
Bottom Line: Perfect for home-chefs and those wanting a fun, interactive evening that ends with a delicious meal in a cozy setting.
5. Private Cooking Class with Lunch or Dinner in Vico Equense
For about $171, this private class in Vico Equense offers a personalized culinary experience. You’ll learn to prepare three regional dishes, then enjoy your creations with wine and coffee. The guides emphasize authentic regional flavors, and the private setting allows for tailored instruction. Many guests praise the attention from the hosts and the chance to go behind the scenes of southern Italian cuisine. The experience suits travelers seeking something exclusive, with the flexibility to choose a lunch or dinner timing that fits your schedule.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for serious food lovers wanting a private, in-depth cooking session coupled with local hospitality.
6. Light Dinner Accompanied with Masterclass Wines
At $91, this 2-hour wine and dinner experience offers a sophisticated evening. Guests taste prestigious wines, including DOCG and DOC labels, paired with small bites like meats and cheeses. Dario’s engaging commentary enhances the experience, making it both educational and enjoyable. The limited reviews reflect a very positive response, especially from those eager to explore Campania’s winemaking traditions. This tour is best for wine aficionados and those looking for a relaxed, elegant evening.
Bottom Line: A refined choice for anyone wanting to deepen their understanding of local wines while enjoying a light, quality dinner.
7. 2-Hour Sorrento Coast Sunset Cruise with Dinner Experience
For $114, this sunset cruise offers a magical 2-hour journey along the coast. You’ll see hidden coves, citrus groves, and even the island of Capri, with the chance to swim and enjoy the sea. The cruise includes a selection of local delicacies, seafood, and pasta, all served onboard while soaking in the sunset. Many reviews highlight the friendly crew and the unforgettable views, making it perfect for romantics and those wanting a special experience outside the restaurant scene.
Bottom Line: An ideal option for travelers seeking a scenic, relaxed dinner with the bonus of a boat ride and sunset views.
8. Italian Cooking Experience with Lunch or Dinner
This 4-hour hands-on class at around $130 is a full immersion into Italian culinary traditions. Hosted by Chef Riccardo, it combines learning, fun, and authentic flavor, all set against a beautiful seaside backdrop. Reviewers appreciate the chef’s skill and enthusiasm, describing the experience as “incredible” and “lasting memories.” Whether you choose lunch or dinner, you’ll leave with recipes and skills to impress back home. It’s perfect for those wanting a comprehensive, engaging cooking day.
Bottom Line: Best for dedicated foodies wanting a full, authentic cooking lesson combined with scenic views.
9. Dinner in Sorrento with Love, Laughs, and Spaghetti
For about $74, this 2.5-hour garden dinner offers a charming, intimate experience. Barbara’s family garden provides a scenic setting for a meal of organic, homegrown ingredients, including pumpkin flowers and fresh tomatoes. The dinner is homemade, with dishes like spaghetti and sauces crafted on-site. Many reviewers mention feeling like part of the family, with a memorable, warm atmosphere. Pick-up and drop-off included make it easy to enjoy without hassle.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a cozy, family-style meal with fresh ingredients and a personal touch.
10. VIP Private Capri Dinner with Luxury Yacht Transfer & Aperitif
This high-end experience, costing about $388, combines a luxury yacht trip from Sorrento to Capri with an elegant dinner overlooking the Faraglioni rocks. You’ll enjoy an aperitif onboard, then be driven to a stunning restaurant on Capri for a memorable meal. The 4.5-hour experience is perfect for celebrating special occasions in style, with reviews praising the boat ride and spectacular views. It’s suited for travelers seeking exclusivity, privacy, and a touch of luxury.
Bottom Line: Best for honeymooners or those celebrating, looking for an unforgettable, all-inclusive evening of sea, scenery, and fine dining.
How to Choose Your Perfect Sorrento Dining Experience
The best way to pick depends on your interests, budget, and schedule. If you love variety and socializing, the progressive dinner offers multiple tastings in one evening. For hands-on fun, a cooking class or a private chef experience gives you the chance to learn recipes firsthand. Wine enthusiasts should consider the wine tasting or the Capri yacht dinner for a refined, scenic evening.
Budget-wise, tours range from $74 for garden dinners to over $380 for luxury yacht experiences. Consider how much time you want to spend—most are between 2-4 hours—and whether you prefer a casual, intimate setting or a more elaborate, scenic adventure.
Final Thoughts
Sorrento offers a broad spectrum of dining experiences, whether you’re after a casual taste of local life, a culinary lesson, or a luxurious boat dinner. For a comprehensive, lively evening, the progressive dinner is hard to beat, while food lovers will cherish the authentic home-cooked meal with Chef Carmen. If your focus is on romance and scenery, the sunset cruise or the Capri yacht dinner will make your trip memorable.
Remember, booking early ensures you get the experience that best fits your plans—many of these tours fill up fast, especially in peak season. Whether you’re after a quick flavor fix or a full culinary immersion, Sorrento has a food experience waiting for you.
