Cooking Class – cook and enjoy local dishes with our Chef

If you’re looking to turn your vacation into a delicious adventure, this private cooking class in Sorrento offers a perfect opportunity. For about three and a half hours, you’ll learn to craft iconic Italian dishes — from gnocchi and pizza to ravioli and tiramisu — guided by an engaging English-speaking chef. The experience takes place in the lively center of Sorrento, just meters from the main square, making it easy to combine with sightseeing or a leisurely stroll around town.

What makes this class stand out? First, the setting — a family-run store filled with handcrafted goods, adding a charming, authentic backdrop to your culinary journey. Second, the comprehensive menu and included drinks — you’ll start with a refreshing Limoncello Spritz, enjoy multiple courses with local wine or a small beer, and finish with a homemade Limoncello liqueur that perfectly complements the Sorrento vibe. The price of around $154 per person might seem steep for some, but considering all ingredients, drinks, an apron, and a certificate, it offers good value for a memorable experience.

One potential consideration? The class is solo or small-group oriented, so if you prefer larger, more impersonal groups, this might not be your first choice. But for those craving a relaxed, personalized atmosphere with plenty of hands-on learning and quality food, this is ideal. Perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike, it’s especially well-suited for travelers eager to bring a taste of Italy home.

Key Points

• Authentic experience in a family-run shop close to Sorrento’s main square
• Hands-on instruction with an engaging chef, no experience required
• Includes drinks: local wine, Limoncello, Spritz, and water, offering great value
• Complete meal: starting with antipasto, through main courses, to dessert
• Certificate of participation to remember your culinary achievement
• Private tour with just your group, ensuring personalized attention

What To Expect from Your Sorrento Cooking Class

When you book this three-hour-and-30-minute experience, you’re signing up for more than just cooking: it’s about learning, tasting, and connecting with Italy’s culinary soul. The class begins with a welcoming aperitif — a lively Limoncello Spritz paired with a snack — setting a relaxed tone. From there, your experienced chefs will guide you step-by-step through recipes that have been passed down through generations, focusing on simplicity and flavor.

The hands-on nature of the tour means you’ll get your hands dirty — kneading dough, shaping ravioli, assembling pizza — all under friendly guidance. You don’t need to worry about experience; reviews consistently highlight how Silvia and her team make cooking accessible for everyone. In fact, one guest mentions how Silvia “simplifies the process for those who aren’t natural cooks”, ensuring everyone feels successful.

Once your dishes are prepared, you’ll sit down at a cozy table to enjoy your homemade creations along with a bottle of water and a glass of local wine or small beer. The meal typically includes a first course, a second course, and dessert, often tiramisu. As you savor your food, you might find yourself appreciating the authentic flavors that reflect the best of Sorrento’s culinary traditions.

The finale is a small glass of Limoncello liqueur, perfectly paired to end your meal on a high note. The class concludes with a certificate of participation, a lovely keepsake to remind you of your culinary accomplishment. The entire experience takes place within a charming, family-run shop filled with handcrafted goods, lending a warm, authentic setting to your cooking.

The Details That Matter

The Itinerary — Step by Step

Your day begins at Via S. Francesco, 17, a short walk from the heart of Sorrento. After meeting your chef, Silvia, and her team, you’ll start with your aperitif and snack — a glass of Limoncello Spritz that embodies Sorrento’s lively spirit. From there, the focus shifts to hands-on cooking.

The chef will guide you through preparing gnocchi, teaching you how to get the perfect texture and shape. Next, you’ll learn to make pizza dough from scratch, which you’ll top and bake before enjoying. You’ll also tackle ravioli, mastering the art of folding and sealing pasta, an essential skill in Italian cooking.

For the second course, you might prepare a classic zucchini parmigiana or similar regional specialties. The dessert is typically tiramisu, where you’ll learn the secrets of balancing coffee, mascarpone, and ladyfingers. Throughout, you’ll have ample opportunities to ask questions and get personalized tips from Silvia, who has a reputation for making the experience both fun and educational.

Food and Drink — Quality and Authenticity

One of our favorite parts of this class is the quality of the ingredients and drinks. As one review gushes, “The food was excellent,” and guests consistently praise the delicious pasta they make themselves. The local wine served with the meal complements the dishes beautifully, enhancing the flavors and giving you a true taste of Southern Italy.

On top of that, the inclusion of a Limoncello liqueur at the end offers a quintessential Sorrento experience — sipping the famous lemon liqueur while reminiscing about your culinary success. The small beer or wine included with the meal provides good value, especially since the entire experience covers not just cooking but also tasting and socializing.

The Setting and Group Size

The family-run shop is a highlight — a lively environment filled with handcrafted goods that add to the authenticity. You’ll be part of a small, private group, which allows for more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. Many reviews mention how Silvia and her team make everyone feel welcome and engaged.

Accessibility and Practical Info

The tour is near public transportation, making it accessible from most parts of Sorrento. It’s also suitable for all ages and skill levels, as no prior cooking experience is needed. The mobile ticket ensures a smooth check-in process, and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start gives you peace of mind.

The cost of $154.16 per person covers everything — ingredients, drinks, apron, certificate — making it a surprisingly good value for a comprehensive, memorable experience in the heart of Sorrento.

Authenticity and the Reviews

This experience has earned glowing reviews, with a rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 19 reviews. Guests consistently highlight Silvia’s warm, engaging teaching style, which “simplifies the process” for beginners while still being interesting for seasoned cooks. Many describe the class as “the highlight of their trip”, emphasizing the authentic flavors and delightful atmosphere.

One guest mentions how they “luckily ended up as the only participants”, making the experience feel especially personalized. Others praise the delicious pasta, especially the homemade gnocchi, and how the wine selection enhances the meal.

Authentic Experiences and Value

While the price might seem high at first glance, the all-inclusive nature — food, drinks, apron, certificate, and the intimate setting — offers excellent value for food lovers. You’re not just learning recipes; you’re experiencing the essence of Sorrento’s culinary culture.

Who Should Book This Tour

This class is ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who want a fun, relaxed, and educational experience. Food lovers eager to learn new skills or bring authentic Italian recipes home will find it especially rewarding. It’s also a great activity for families or friends looking to bond over a shared meal and new skills.

If you’re interested in local wines, homemade pasta, and a friendly atmosphere, this class hits all the right notes. And if you’re a first-time cook or an experienced chef, Silvia’s approachable style ensures you’ll come away with new tips and lasting memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cooking class?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, giving ample time to learn, cook, and enjoy your meal.

Where does the class take place?
It starts at Via S. Francesco, 17, in the heart of Sorrento, just meters from the main square, making it easy to combine with sightseeing.

Is prior cooking experience needed?
No — this class is designed for beginners and experienced cooks alike. Silvia simplifies the process so everyone can succeed.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes all ingredients, drinks (local wine, a small beer, Limoncello, and water), an apron, and a certificate of participation.

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

Are children or non-drinkers allowed?
Yes, service animals are allowed, and the experience is flexible for those who prefer not to drink alcohol.

Is transportation provided?
No, but the meeting point is near public transportation, making it accessible.

What dishes will we prepare?
You’ll learn to make gnocchi, pizza, ravioli, and tiramisu, with the possibility of regional specialties like zucchini parmigiana.

Will I get a certificate?
Yes, you will receive a certificate of participation upon completing the class.

What makes this experience special?
The authentic setting, engaging chef Silvia, and comprehensive menu make it a delightful culinary snapshot of Sorrento.

Final Thoughts

This cooking class in Sorrento isn’t just about recipes — it’s about connecting with Italy’s culinary heart in a warm, friendly environment. You’ll learn practical skills, taste outstanding food, and pick up a few tips that will serve you well at home. The small-group setting ensures personalized attention, while the authentic setting makes every moment special.

For those who love local flavors, good wine, and a relaxed vibe, this experience ticks all the boxes. If you’re eager to bring a piece of Italy back with you — not just souvenirs but new skills and delicious memories — this class is a fantastic choice. It’s ideal for anyone wanting to make their trip a little tastier, more social, and truly authentic.