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Join a 1-hour pesto and pasta cooking class in Sestri Levante’s historic Trattoria da Turin, with local wine, recipes, and a "Chef del Pesto" diploma.

The Pesto and Pasta cooking class at Trattoria da Turin offers an authentic taste of Ligurian culture in the heart of Sestri Levante. This 1-hour experience blends hands-on pesto making with regional wine, providing a fun and educational activity suitable for all levels. Priced affordably and designed as a private group session, this tour emphasizes local products and traditions, making it an ideal choice for food lovers eager to learn and taste Italy’s iconic basil pesto.
Set in a charming historic restaurant just 50 meters from the Baia del Silenzio, the experience boasts a warm atmosphere and expert guidance. While the class is brief, it delivers a genuine connection to Liguria’s culinary heritage, topped with a special “Chef del Pesto” diploma and the Ancient Recipe to recreate the dish at home.
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Planning more time in Sestri Levante? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

The class takes place at Via 25 Aprile 133, a well-located spot in the old town of Sestri Levante. This traditional restaurant is only 50 meters from the iconic Baia del Silenzio, making it both convenient and scenic. The coordinates 44.270381927490234, 9.394227981567383 help locate the venue easily. Guests are encouraged to send their participant details in advance for personalized diplomas, adding a special touch to the experience.
Weather or footwear considerations are minimal, but comfortable, washable clothing is recommended, as some ingredients may cause minor splashes. The venue is wheelchair accessible, ensuring those with mobility needs can join comfortably.

The core of this experience is learning how to prepare pesto using a traditional Genoese mortar. The instructor explains the origin of basil, the importance of local products, and the history behind the recipe. Guided by an expert, participants create their own pesto, paying attention to ratios and techniques that preserve authenticity.
Once the pesto is ready, everyone spends time savoring their homemade creation, often accompanied by a good local wine. The process is designed to be fun and convivial, emphasizing shared stories and regional flavors. The recipe remains familiar, but each batch ends up delivering a unique taste, highlighting personal touch and fresh ingredients.
Besides pesto, the experience can extend into wine tasting or beer pairing sessions. Guests can book these additional options to complement their culinary activity, enjoying regional wines or craft beers paired with traditional Ligurian products. These add-ons enrich the experience, offering a broader taste of local flavors.
For those interested in a more substantial culinary outing, a Traditional Tasting Dinner with local wines is also available. These options provide a deeper dive into Ligurian gastronomy, perfect for visitors wanting to indulge beyond the basic class.
More Great Tours NearbyOne of the highlights is the “Chef del Pesto” diploma awarded at the end of the class. This certificate recognizes participants’ newfound skills in pesto preparation and serves as a memorable souvenir. Plus, guests receive the Ancient Recipe, which contains tips and secrets for crafting the perfect “Trofie con il Pesto” at home, ensuring long-lasting value from the experience.

The class is led by a knowledgeable instructor who speaks Italian, English, French, and Spanish. Reviews praise the friendly and informative approach of the guide, with specific mention of host Fabio, who demonstrates passion and expertise. The setting emphasizes Italian hospitality, making the class both instructive and enjoyable.
Participants often find the pace comfortable, allowing for engaging stories about Ligurian tradition and interactive preparation. The class’s small size and private format foster a relaxed environment, ideal for questions and personal attention.

The experience receives high praise for being kid-friendly, with families noting how children enjoy the activity. The relaxed, informal setting makes it accessible for all ages, especially those interested in learning traditional cooking techniques. The short duration ensures it fits well into a day of sightseeing or other activities.
Reservations are simple and flexible, allowing guests to reserve without payment upfront and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour operates as a private group, ensuring an intimate experience tailored to your party’s needs. The venue is wheelchair accessible, and the team encourages contacting them via WhatsApp for any special requests or customizations.

While this pesto class is highly rated, the provider also offers related experiences like wine tastings, boat tours, and hiking, making it easy to extend your exploration of Sestri Levante’s culinary and scenic delights. Links to similar activities are available for those seeking a broader taste of the region.
This 1-hour pesto-making experience offers an authentic glimpse into Ligurian culinary traditions with hands-on participation and regional wine. The warm, historic setting and knowledgeable guides make it a memorable activity, especially for those interested in regional cuisine and local products.
While short, the class delivers practical skills, regional stories, and a diploma that celebrates your newfound expertise. It suits food lovers, families, and anyone eager to connect with Italy’s culinary roots in a friendly, informal environment. The affordable price and flexible booking add to its appeal.
How long does the pesto and pasta class last?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour.
Where does the class take place?
It is held at Trattoria da Turin in Sestri Levante, located at Via 25 Aprile 133, near the Baia del Silenzio.
Is the class suitable for children?
Yes, the experience is family-friendly and enjoyable for children, with reviews highlighting its engaging and fun nature.
Can I receive a certificate?
Yes, participants receive a “Chef del Pesto” diploma at the end of the class.
Are there options to taste local wines or beers?
Yes, guests can book additional wine or beer tastings to enhance their experience.
Is the venue accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible.
Do I need to prepare anything before the class?
It’s helpful to send participant names in advance for the diplomas, but no special preparation is required.
Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.
Is clothing a concern?
Wearing comfortable, washable clothing is recommended, as some ingredients might stain.
How do I book the experience?
Reservations can be made with no payment upfront, offering flexibility, and can be arranged via contact with the provider.