With Tiziana Cooking Class for Pesto , Gnocchi and Tiramisù

This experience made our article of Which Genoa Cooking Classes To Choose? We Rank The 7 Best.

Authentic Genoese Flavors with Tiziana: A Cooking Class in a Historic Setting

Imagine spending a couple of hours in Genoa’s charming heart, learning to make the city’s most iconic dishes — Pesto alla Genovese, homemade Gnocchi, and a luscious Tiramisu — all under the expert guidance of Tiziana. For $138.91 per person, this roughly two-hour experience offers more than just cooking; it’s a genuine dive into local culinary traditions in a beautifully preserved 17th-century palace.

What makes this experience shine are two key points. First, Tiziana herself, a certified Mortar Pesto expert, brings a depth of knowledge and passion that makes each step feel like a personal lesson from a friend. Second, the setting — a historic, atmospheric palace — adds a special touch, making the meal feel like a celebration of Genoa’s heritage.

A small caveat: since this is a hands-on class, you’ll be kneading dough, crushing basil, and assembling dishes. If you’re looking for a purely observational tour, this might not suit you. But if you want a practical, authentic experience and to take home a few skills, you’ll find this is worth every euro.

This tour is perfect for food lovers, especially those eager to learn regional recipes with a genuine local touch. It’s also well-suited for couples or small groups wanting a personalized experience in a historic setting, with the bonus of enjoying your creations with paired prosecco and good company.

Key Points

• Authentic recipes: Learn to make Pesto alla Genovese, gnocchi, and tiramisu from scratch.
• Expert guidance: Tiziana’s knowledge and friendly style make learning easy and fun.
• Historic ambiance: Enjoy your cooking in a stunning 17th-century palace.
• All materials included: Aprons, utensils, and ingredients come with the experience.
• Delicious meal: Conclude with a shared meal paired with prosecco and soft drinks.
• Flexible cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the class.

Exploring the Experience: What You Can Expect

The Meeting and Setting

You’ll meet at the address in Genoa’s historic Salita Inferiore di Sant’Anna. The location — a well-preserved 17th-century palace — instantly transports you to a different era, with its ornate ceilings and old-world charm. It’s a cozy, intimate space perfect for hands-on learning and sharing a meal.

The Pesto Lesson

Tiziana’s specialty is pesto, and her expertise is evident. As a mortared pesto master, she will guide you through the traditional process of making Pesto alla Genovese using fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, cheese, and best-quality olive oil. You’ll use a marble mortar and pestle, a traditional method that many consider the only authentic way to prepare pesto. She emphasizes the importance of quality ingredients — especially the basil, which she claims to be the finest in the world.

Gnocchi Making

Next, you’ll learn to craft homemade gnocchi. Tiziana will walk you through the process of mixing potatoes, flour, and possibly other secret ingredients to get the perfect dough. Then, you’ll shape and cut the gnocchi, discovering how simple ingredients can turn into a delicately tender pasta. The joy here is in the hands-on experience — kneading, rolling, and forming your own small pieces of culinary art.

The Tiramisu Finale

To finish, you’ll assemble a classic tiramisu — a dish that needs no introduction. Tiziana’s version is made with the right balance of mascarpone, coffee, and ladyfingers, promising a rich, creamy dessert to cap off your meal.

Dining and Conversation

After the cooking, you’ll sit down at a shared table to enjoy what you’ve made. The meal is complemented with focaccia baked beforehand, adding a traditional touch. Tiziana generously offers prosecco — one bottle for every three guests — to toast your efforts. You can also expect bottled water, coffee, and tea to round out the meal.

What Our Reviewers Love

Multiple reviewers highlight the warm, welcoming atmosphere, noting that Tiziana and her team are patient, clear teachers. One described the experience as “amazing and authentic,” with clear instructions that made them feel at ease. Others mention the deliciousness of the dishes and the fun, relaxed environment — a perfect way to spend a couple of hours in Genoa.

The Value of This Cooking Class

While $138.91 might seem modest for an experience that includes professional instruction, ingredients, and a shared meal, it’s important to consider what you’re getting. You’re not just learning recipes — you’re gaining a cultural insight into Genoa’s culinary heritage, understanding traditional techniques like mortar-pesto making, and creating a meal you can replicate at home.

In addition, the class’s small group size ensures personalized attention, and the historic setting elevates the experience beyond a typical cooking demo. The reviews back this up, with travelers praising the knowledge, warmth, and fun they experienced.

Additional Practical Details

The experience runs every day from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, giving you plenty of flexibility. It’s suitable for most travelers, with near public transportation nearby making getting there straightforward. If you have specific dietary needs, vegetarian options are available — at least for vegetables, as noted in the tour info.

The cancellation policy is generous, with full refunds offered up to 24 hours before the experience — helpful if your plans shift unexpectedly. All materials, including aprons, utensils, and ingredients, are provided, so there’s no need to bring anything.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

If you’re eager to get your hands dirty and truly learn how to make classic Genoese dishes, this class offers a well-rounded experience. It’s especially good if you value authenticity and culture — Tiziana’s enthusiasm and expertise shine through, and her personal touch makes the class memorable.

This experience is well-suited for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who enjoy culinary adventures and want a personalized, intimate setting. The fact that it’s highly praised for its delicious food, knowledgeable guides, and friendly atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to deepen their appreciation of Ligurian cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the class suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the menu includes vegetables, and vegetarian options are available.

How long does the class last?
Approximately 2 hours, from start to finish.

Are ingredients and utensils provided?
Yes, all materials, including aprons, dishes, and utensils, are included.

Can I cancel this experience?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the class.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
Yes, prosecco is provided, with one bottle for every three people. It’s only available to guests 18 and over.

What is the location?
The meeting point is Salita Inferiore di Sant’Anna in Genoa, in a historic palace setting.

Is the experience suitable for children?
The information doesn’t specify, but it’s best suited for adults or older children who can participate actively.

Do I need to speak Italian?
No, the guides speak English, and instructions are clear.

What is the price point?
$138.91 per person, which covers instruction, ingredients, and the meal.

Is it a private experience?
Yes, this is a private tour, so only your group will participate.

Final Thoughts

For anyone craving a genuine taste of Genoa’s culinary traditions, this cooking class offers a lovely blend of learning, tasting, and culture. With a knowledgeable guide like Tiziana, you’re guaranteed an experience that’s both fun and informative, set against the backdrop of a charming historic palace. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want to bring home new skills and delicious memories from their stay in Italy.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or simply someone eager to taste the flavors of Genoa, this class makes for a memorable, authentic outing. It’s a chance to connect with local traditions and enjoy a meal crafted by your own hands, making it more than just a tour — it’s a genuine part of your travel story.