Genoa Culinary Masterclass-A Hands-On Experience by Do Eat Better

Our review of the Genoa Culinary Masterclass by Do Eat Better highlights an engaging and authentic way to explore Italian food culture. This 3-hour, small-group cooking class offers a chance to learn traditional Ligurian and Genovese recipes from passionate local chefs. It’s perfect for food lovers eager to get their hands dirty and bring home genuine flavors.

One of the standout features we love is the intimate setting—small groups mean more personalized attention, making it ideal for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. The inclusion of local recipes like pesto, focaccia, and fresh pasta elevates the experience beyond simple cooking. A potential consideration is that the class doesn’t include transportation, so you’ll need to get yourself to the meeting point. This experience suits travelers who enjoy immersive cultural experiences, love culinary adventures, and don’t mind getting a little flour on their hands.

Key Points

• Authentic Recipes: Learn to make traditional Ligurian dishes like pesto and focaccia from local chefs.
• Small Groups: Max of 10 travelers ensures personalized guidance and a cozy atmosphere.
• All-Inclusive: Enjoy drinks, snacks, lunch, and tasting of the dishes you prepare.
• Informative Guides: Guides and chefs share secrets and stories that bring the food and culture to life.
• Valuable Skills: Walk away with recipes, tips, and a deeper knowledge of Ligurian cuisine.
• Flexible Schedule: Class starts at 9:15 am, with options on Tuesday and Thursday, and children under 5 are free.

This cooking class isn’t just about recipes—it’s about experiencing the essence of Genoa’s culinary soul. The entire session is designed to be fun, educational, and memorable, especially given its small-group format, which allows for plenty of interaction.

The Starting Point and Meeting Logistics

You’ll gather at a central, accessible location—Casa di Cristoforo Colombo on Via di Porta Soprana—making it convenient to reach via public transportation. The meet time is 9:00 am, with the class kicking off at 9:15 am. The meeting spot is charming: in front of Columbus House, right in the heart of Genoa’s historic district.

The small group size—capped at 10 travelers—keeps things intimate, so everyone gets personal guidance. This setup is ideal for those who want to truly connect with the chef and ask questions. The class duration is about 3.5 hours, which balances learning with tasting and chatting.

What You’ll Learn

The menu is carefully curated based on local favorites and chef recommendations. You’ll prepare at least four recipes, which typically include:

• Testaroli: a traditional Ligurian pasta that’s both simple and flavorful.
• Pesto Sauce: a Genovese classic, made from scratch in a mortar, as locals often prefer over store-bought.
• Focaccia with Cheese: a crispy, fluffy bread topped with cheese, straight from Genoa’s kitchens.
• Canestrelli: Genoa’s beloved shortbread cookies, perfect for a sweet finish.

According to guest reviews, the chefs share their “secrets” and provide helpful tips that make the cooking process accessible and enjoyable. For instance, one guest mentions how Bernardo, the restaurant owner, kept the atmosphere lively and humorous, making everyone feel at ease.

The Experience in Action

Expect to get your hands dirty—kneading pasta, rolling out focaccia, and shaping cookies. Many reviews emphasize how interactive and engaging the class is. Guests appreciate the personal attention, with Bernardo and guides offering tailored advice and encouraging everyone to participate equally.

Water, wine, or beer are included for drinks, enhancing the convivial ambiance. The tasting portion is generous, with ample opportunity to sample your creations along with some local snacks and drinks.

The Food and Atmosphere

Guests consistently rave about the deliciousness of the food. Many mention that they couldn’t stop eating the focaccia—”I couldn’t stop eating the focaccia,” one guest admits—highlighting its perfect balance of crispy and fluffy textures. The pesto, made traditionally in a mortar, is described as vibrant and fresh.

Reviewers also note the lively, friendly atmosphere, with Bernardo’s sense of humor and Juliana’s professionalism creating a welcoming environment. Serena, the guide, is praised for her helpfulness and for providing extra tips for exploring Genoa afterward.

Who Will Love This Class?

This class is well-suited to travelers who:
– Enjoy hands-on activities and want to learn authentic local recipes.
– Appreciate small-group experiences for more personalized attention.
– Are interested in cultural stories and tips as much as the cooking itself.
– Want a delicious, memorable meal to take home—and maybe learn some Italian along the way.

It’s particularly appealing for families (children under 5 go free) and those who love a social, convivial atmosphere.

At around $112.62 per person, this class offers a lot for the price. Not only do you learn recipes that are central to Genoa’s food identity, but you also get an inclusive tasting—drinks, snacks, and a proper lunch. The fact that guests walk away with recipes and tips means you’ll have the skills to recreate these dishes at home, extending the experience beyond Genoa.

Guests have consistently rated this tour a perfect 5.0/5, with many citing it as a highlight of their trip. The combination of expert guidance, authentic recipes, and a friendly atmosphere makes it a worthwhile choice for anyone wanting to dive into Genoa’s culinary traditions.

Additional Practical Details

• Transportation: Not included, so plan to arrive on your own.
• Booking: Average bookings are made 44 days in advance, highlighting its popularity.
• Child Friendly: Under 5s are free; children 5-12 pay half.
• Language: Guides may speak both English and Italian, which adds to the local flavor.
• Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before, offering peace of mind.

This Genoa culinary class effectively combines authentic cooking with engaging storytelling. You’ll come away not just with a handful of recipes but with a deeper appreciation of Ligurian cuisine and its cultural significance. The small group size and expert guidance mean you’ll feel supported every step of the way, making it perfect for cooks of all levels.

If you’re after a meaningful, tasty experience that balances education, fun, and flavor, this class is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy connecting with local culture through food, sharing stories over good wine, and taking home recipes that truly capture Genoa’s essence.

Whether you’re a foodie wanting to master pesto or simply looking for an authentic taste of Genoa’s traditions, this experience offers excellent value and memorable moments in Italy’s culinary heart.

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation to and from the meeting point isn’t included. You’ll need to arrange your own way there, but the location is near public transportation.

What time does the class start?
The meeting point opens at 9:00 am, with the class beginning at 9:15 am, on scheduled days (Tuesday and Thursday).

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, ensuring a cozy and personalized experience.

Are drinks included?
Yes, water, wine, or beer are included as part of the experience, making the cooking and tasting more relaxed and enjoyable.

Can children participate?
Yes, children under 5 are free, and those aged 5-12 receive a 50% discount, making it family-friendly.

What dishes will I learn to make?
You’ll prepare at least four dishes: testaroli (a unique Ligurian pasta), pesto, focaccia with cheese, and Genoese cookies called canestrelli.

Is the experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Many reviews highlight how approachable the guidance is, with secrets and tips shared to help everyone succeed, regardless of skill level.

This Genoa culinary class promises a delightful mix of learning, tasting, and cultural storytelling. It’s a perfect way to get a true taste of Ligurian life while having fun in a relaxed environment.