A charming 2.5-hour cooking experience in the heart of Rome, the Pasta Cooking Class with Pesto Sauce Making offers an authentic taste of Italy’s culinary traditions. Held inside the Ristorante Panzirone at Piazza Navona, this class combines hands-on pasta making with the art of crafting Genovese Pesto from scratch. With a small group capped at 7 participants, it promises personalized attention and an intimate atmosphere. The experience costs a fixed fee, includes ingredients and a meal, and is suitable for those eager to learn Italian cooking techniques in a relaxed setting.

The class is led by an English-speaking instructor who guides you through every step, from kneading pasta dough to crushing basil and pine nuts for pesto. After preparing your handmade fettuccine and fresh pesto, you’ll sit down to enjoy your meal, accompanied by appetizers and drinks. This tour provides a great way to deepen your connection to Italian culture, enjoy a delicious meal, and pick up practical culinary skills that you can recreate at home.

Key Points

Duration: 2.5 hours, ideal for a relaxed yet engaging experience.
Location: Inside Ristorante Panzirone on Piazza Navona.
Small Group: Limited to 7 participants for personalized attention.
Included: Hands-on pasta making, pesto preparation, a full meal with appetizers and drinks.
Age Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 7, vegans, or those with gluten allergies.
Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point Inside Ristorante Panzirone at Piazza Navona

The tour begins inside Ristorante Panzirone, a well-known spot on Piazza Navona. Once you arrive, the restaurant staff direct you to the cooking class area. The location is easy to find, and it’s recommended to arrive 10 minutes early to settle in before the class starts. The central position in Lazio makes it convenient for travelers exploring nearby attractions.

The setting combines casual comfort with a lively kitchen environment. The small group setup means you won’t feel lost among crowds, and the guide’s friendly approach creates an inviting atmosphere for all skill levels. Whether you’re a complete beginner or familiar with Italian cooking, this class offers practical insights and plenty of chances to participate.

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Making Fresh Fettuccine from Scratch

The core of this experience focuses on handcrafting fettuccine pasta. Under the guidance of the instructor, you learn how to prepare pasta dough, knead it smoothly, and roll it out to the perfect thinness. The chef then demonstrates how to cut the dough into traditional fettuccine strips.

This part of the class is engaging and interactive, allowing everyone to get involved in the process. The chef’s clear instructions make it accessible, even for first-time pasta makers. Once the pasta is ready, the chef takes over to cook it, while you prepare the pesto sauce. The entire process emphasizes simple, traditional techniques that result in delicious, fresh pasta.

Crafting Traditional Genovese Pesto

A highlight of the class is learning to make authentic Genovese Pesto. The instructor walks you through crushing fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil using a mortar and pestle or a food processor. The focus on traditional methods helps preserve the authentic flavors.

Since pesto is one of Italy’s healthiest and easiest sauces, making it from scratch offers insight into its simplicity and health benefits. The process is quick and doesn’t require cooking, which keeps the kitchen clean and minimizes accidents. The freshly prepared pesto pairs perfectly with the homemade fettuccine for a true taste of Italy.

Enjoying Your Handmade Meal Outdoors

After preparing the pasta and pesto, you sit down at outdoor seating within the restaurant. The meal includes your freshly made fettuccine with pesto, along with appetizers and drinks such as bruschetta and Prosecco. This setup creates a relaxed dining experience with views of street performers and water fountains, adding to the authentic Roman atmosphere.

The meal is served immediately after preparation, allowing you to enjoy the fruits of your labor while the pasta is at its freshest. The outdoor seating enhances the experience, blending culinary achievement with lively street ambiance.

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Meeting Location and Practical Details

This cooking class departs from Piazza Navona 73 inside Ristorante Panzirone. The restaurant is easy to spot, and participants are advised to arrive 10 minutes early. The coordinates 41.8995475769043, 12.473382949829102 help locate the exact spot.

The experience is designed to suit small groups, with a maximum of 7 participants to ensure personalized attention. It’s accessible in terms of language, with English-speaking guides, but not suitable for children under 7 or individuals with certain dietary restrictions, including vegans, gluten intolerance, and nut allergies.

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Booking Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

Reservations can be made without immediate payment, offering flexibility to travelers. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a low-risk option for spontaneous plans or uncertain schedules. Check the current availability to find a suitable time slot during your stay.

The class operates on a fixed price basis, with the total experience covering all ingredients, guidance, and the meal itself. This straightforward pricing structure provides good value for a hands-on culinary experience that includes a complete meal.

What Reviewers Say About the Experience

The overall rating is 4.4 out of 5, based on nine reviews, with many praising the knowledgeable guides and personalized attention. Highlights include the chef’s friendliness and the opportunity to learn authentic techniques.

Reviewers enjoy the chance to make and eat their own pasta, with some noting the delicious meal served outside after class. Many find the experience fun and interactive, perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking an authentic cooking adventure.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most

This class appeals to those interested in cooking, Italian culture, and food. It’s especially suitable for people wanting a hands-on experience combined with a relaxed meal in a historic piazza. The small group format ensures personalized guidance, making it ideal for beginners and foodies alike.

However, it’s not suitable for children under 7, vegans, or people with gluten allergies. Travelers seeking a quick sightseeing tour or formal culinary training might find this experience more casual but no less rewarding.

Authentic Roman Cooking Experience in the Heart of Piazza Navona

This Pasta and Pesto Cooking Class offers a delightful introduction to Italian culinary traditions with a focus on simplicity and freshness. The small group setting enhances the learning process, and the outdoor meal provides a lively Roman backdrop. While it emphasizes participation and enjoyment, some might wish for more involvement in the cooking process, but the overall quality and friendliness of the guides make up for it.

The location and culture make this experience a memorable part of any Rome itinerary, especially for those eager to add some practical cooking skills to their vacation memories. If you want to learn how to make real Italian pasta and authentic pesto, this class stands out as a practical, friendly, and flavorful choice.

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Pasta Cooking Class with Pesto Sauce Making in Rome Center

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cooking class suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to be accessible for all skill levels, with clear guidance from the instructor and step-by-step instructions.

Can I cancel my reservation if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
This experience is not suitable for vegans, people with gluten intolerance, or those with nut allergies, as it involves specific ingredients.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers all ingredients, guidance, the preparation of pasta and pesto, plus a meal with appetizers and drinks to enjoy outdoors.

How many people participate in each class?
The class is limited to 7 participants, ensuring a personalized and engaging experience.

Where do I meet for the class?
Inside Ristorante Panzirone at Piazza Navona 73, with directions provided and a recommendation to arrive 10 minutes early.

Is there any physical requirement or accessibility concern?
The experience is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, and children under 7 are not allowed.

Can I book this experience last minute?
Yes, booking is possible with flexible reservation options, and availability varies, so check current openings in advance.

This Pasta and Pesto Cooking Class offers an engaging way to explore Italy’s beloved culinary traditions, all set within the vibrant atmosphere of Rome’s Piazza Navona. Perfect for food lovers and curious travelers alike, it provides practical skills, delicious food, and a lively outdoor dining experience.