This experience made our article of Sanremo’s 10 Best Tours (With Prices & Reviews).
Sanremo Home Cooking Class: A Taste of Liguria in Your Hands
If you’re dreaming of a genuine Italian culinary experience right on the Riviera, the Sanremo Home Cooking Class offers just that. For about five hours, you get to explore the local food scene, shop at a traditional market, learn to cook authentic Ligurian dishes with a friendly chef, and end with a shared family-style meal complete with wine and olive oil tastings. The cost is approximately $235 per person, which includes everything from market visits to recipes you can recreate at home.
What we love about this experience is the focus on hands-on cooking—not just watching a demonstration, but actually making the dishes ourselves, guided by Roberta, a knowledgeable local chef. Plus, the chance to shop at a local market gives you a real flavor of Sanremo’s vibrant food scene—fresh fruits, vegetables, and local specialties. Another highlight is the well-curated wine and olive oil tastings, which pair beautifully with the meal and deepen your appreciation for Ligurian flavors.
One potential consideration is that this experience is about half a day, so if you’re after a full-day tour or a more extensive sightseeing itinerary, this might be a bit compact. Also, it’s best suited for those comfortable in a casual kitchen environment and open to participating in a hands-on meal.
This class is ideal for food lovers, couples, families, or small groups who want a personalized, local experience. If you’ve ever wanted to get behind the scenes of Italian home cooking, this tour will satisfy that craving, providing not only a delicious meal but also inspiring recipes to try back home.
Key Points
- Authentic Ligurian Recipes: Learn to make pasta, antipasti, and desserts like panna cotta or tiramisù.
- Market Shopping: Experience a lively local market, sourcing seasonal ingredients.
- Guided by a Local Chef: Benefit from Roberta’s insights and tips.
- Wine and Olive Oil Tastings: Enjoy artisan Ligurian wines and PDO Riviera extra virgin olive oil.
- Shared Meal: End with a family-style dinner, creating a warm, communal atmosphere.
- Flexible for Groups: Private classes available for couples or small groups, with the option for non-cooking friends or family to join for dinner.
While in Sanremo, here are other experiences we've covered
An In-Depth Look at the Sanremo Home Cooking Class
Starting Point and Location
You’ll meet in front of the main entrance of Sanremo Casino, a recognizable spot that helps you easily find your guide. The tour is designed to be intimate and engaging, with only your group participating, ensuring plenty of personal attention from Roberta. The meeting point’s central location means you’re already in the heart of Sanremo, close to shops, cafes, and the seaside.
The Market Visit: A Slice of Local Life
One of the tour’s standout features is the market visit, where you’ll stroll through a small, family-run stalls and shops. Here, Roberta introduces you to the seasonal fruits, vegetables, and local specialties, giving insight into Ligurian ingredients. This part of the experience is highly praised; Clare_M shared, “We made all dishes using our hands,” reflecting her appreciation for hands-on involvement and authentic preparation.
This market experience isn’t just about picking ingredients—it’s about understanding what makes Ligurian cuisine unique. You’ll see how Italians select their produce, and you might even chat with local vendors, soaking up the lively atmosphere.
Cooking with Roberta: Creating a Four-Course Meal
Once back in the home kitchen, the real fun begins. Roberta, a licensed tourist guide and passionate cook, guides your group through each step of the process, making it accessible whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook. The menu typically includes a Mediterranean antipasto, a pasta dish (perhaps fresh tagliatelle or ravioli), a main course, and a dessert like panna cotta or tiramisù.
We loved the way Roberta encourages participation, making sure everyone gets involved—kneading dough, stirring sauces, or assembling desserts. The fact that all dishes are made by hand adds to the satisfaction, and the recipes you learn are designed to be easily recreated at home.
While you're exploring Sanremo, here are other experiences we've looked into
Tasting and Pairings: Wine and Olive Oil
Throughout the experience, you’ll enjoy boutique Ligurian wines carefully selected to complement each course. The olive oil tasting of PDO Riviera Ligure extra virgin olive oil and Taggiasca olives is a highlight, revealing the rich, nuanced flavors of local producers. Clare_M particularly appreciated the depth of knowledge Roberta shared, noting that the wine selection made the meal even more memorable.
The Family-Style Meal: A Warm Ending
The session culminates in a shared meal where everyone gathers around the table, enjoying the fruits of their labor. It’s a relaxed, convivial atmosphere, ideal for conversation and savoring the flavors of Liguria. If friends or family members not involved in cooking want to join the dinner, they can do so for an additional fee.
What You Take Away
The tour ends with a Med Food Lab certificate and a collection of recipes, so you can impress friends or recreate the dishes at home. This tangible takeaway keeps the experience alive long after your trip.
Practical Details: What You Need to Know
- Duration: Approximately 5 hours—perfect for a leisurely half-day.
- Price: Around $235.29 per person—a fair value considering the personalized instruction, market experience, tastings, and meal.
- Group Size: Private for your group, ensuring tailored attention.
- Languages: Conducted in English, Italian, or French, accommodating international visitors.
- Children: Allowed if accompanied by an adult, making it family-friendly.
- Clothing: Comfortable, casual clothes and walking shoes recommended—there’s some walking around the market.
- Availability: Book about 13 days in advance—popular, so plan ahead.
- Meeting Point: In front of Sanremo Casino.
What’s Not Included
Transport to and from the activity isn’t provided, so plan your arrival accordingly. This tour is best suited for those already in Sanremo or nearby.
What Real Participants Say
Clare_M’s review sums up the experience perfectly: “The depth of knowledge of Roberta made it so very memorable. We made all dishes using our hands. My granddaughter, 12, was a rapt audience. She’s do gracious.” Her comment highlights how engaging and family-friendly the class is, making it suitable even for young cooks.
The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Experience?
This home cooking class offers a warm, authentic taste of Ligurian life that’s perfect for foodies, curious travelers, and families. It’s especially valuable if you want more than just tasting—you’ll learn real skills and recipes that can bring a piece of Italy home with you. The focus on fresh ingredients, local wines, and a convivial atmosphere makes it stand out as a meaningful part of your Sanremo visit.
For those interested in a personalized, small-group experience that combines market exploration, hands-on cooking, and an authentic family-style meal, this tour hits the mark. Keep in mind that it’s a half-day commitment, so it pairs well with other sightseeing or relaxing by the sea afterward.
FAQ
Do I need cooking experience to join?
No, this experience is suitable for all skill levels. Roberta guides you step-by-step, making it accessible whether you’re a seasoned cook or a complete beginner.
Can non-cooking friends join for dinner?
Yes, friends or family members who prefer not to cook can join the dinner for an additional fee, making it a flexible social occasion.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 5 hours, from market shopping to the shared meal.
Is the experience family-friendly?
Absolutely. Clare_M mentioned her 12-year-old granddaughter was captivated, indicating it’s suitable for children with adult supervision.
What’s included in the price?
The fee covers a guided tour, market shopping, cooking instruction, wine and olive oil tastings, a four-course meal, recipes, and a certificate.
Are there vegetarian options?
The provided menu includes traditional Ligurian dishes, but if you have dietary restrictions, it’s best to inquire directly with the provider beforehand.
Is transportation included?
No, participants are responsible for their own transport to and from the meeting point.
Can I book last minute?
Booking is recommended about 13 days in advance, as the experience is popular and spots fill quickly.
What language is the tour conducted in?
The class is offered in English, Italian, and French, making it accessible for most travelers.
Final Thoughts
For those wanting a genuine, hands-on look into Ligurian cuisine, this Sanremo home cooking class delivers. It’s more than just a cooking lesson—it’s a chance to connect with local flavors, learn new skills, and enjoy a delicious meal with new friends. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking for an authentic cultural experience, this tour offers a well-balanced, meaningful taste of Italy’s culinary heart.