In Liguria, food is not about spectacle — it is about quality ingredients, tradition and time spent together.
Our Portofino pesto-making class offers a refined yet relaxed culinary experience in carefully selected local venues. You will learn the traditional marble mortar technique while enjoying regional wines, olive oil and seasonal specialties in a welcoming and informal atmosphere.
This is not a staged cooking show.
It is a genuine, well-organized experience designed for travelers who appreciate simplicity done properly.
Ideal For
Couples looking for a memorable experience
Families wanting to cook together
Private groups and celebrations
Corporate retreats
Cruise guests seeking authentic experiences
The Pesto Making Experience
Pesto was born in Liguria, and here it is still prepared the traditional way.
During your Portofino pesto making class, you will learn how to prepare pesto using a marble mortar and wooden pestle — the method that preserves texture, aroma and balance.
We focus on:
High-quality Ligurian basil
Extra virgin olive oil from the region
Pine nuts, garlic and aged cheese
The correct proportions and technique
The experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours and is hands-on, relaxed and carefully guided.
It is not rushed, and it is never staged.
You cook, taste, adjust and understand.
What Makes This Experience Special
Traditional marble mortar technique
Carefully selected local venues
Combination of cooking, tasting and storytelling
Flexible private or small group format
Possibility to combine with boat tours or guided visits
Extend the Experience
For those who wish to explore further, the pesto class can be combined with:
Fresh pasta or gnocchi preparation
Ligurian focaccia or pizza baking
Seasonal vegetable dishes
Traditional cakes
Wine tasting with selected regional labels
Olive oil tasting session
The cooking session concludes with a light lunch where you enjoy what has been prepared together, accompanied by additional local specialties.
Locations for the Experience
Countryside Farm Setting
Surrounded by olive trees and terraced hills, this location offers a peaceful rural atmosphere.
Here the experience feels informal yet well-structured.
In addition to pesto making, we often include:
Focaccia baking
Pizza preparation
Pasta making
Ideal for families and small private groups who appreciate space and authenticity.
Pick-up in Portofino with their vehicles to reach the farm.
Traditional Food Store Setting
Hosted inside a historic local food shop, this setting offers an intimate and genuine environment.
Here we combine:
Pesto making
Guided wine tasting
Introduction to local olive oils and regional products
Perfect for couples and small groups looking for a refined but relaxed atmosphere.
Osteria Cooking Setting
Set in a traditional osteria, this experience allows for a broader culinary exploration.
In addition to pesto, we can include:
Fresh pasta making
Fish preparation
Traditional desserts
Complete Ligurian cookery sessions
This option works particularly well for private groups and special occasions.
Cook, Taste & Discover Liguria
Simple ingredients, traditional techniques, shared moments.
Info & BookAdditional Food & Wine Experiences
Beyond the cooking class, we organize complementary food experiences in Portofino and nearby villages.
Aperitifs around Rapallo
A relaxed walking experience in Rapallo through selected food shops and wine bars.
We taste Ligurian products and wines, escorted by a local wine and food expert.
Balanced, unhurried and well curated.
Olive Oil Tasting
We’ll visit an authentic olive mill for a guided tasting focused on Ligurian extra-virgin olive oil.
You will learn how to recognize quality, understand production methods and appreciate the delicate characteristics of local varieties.
Guided Walk for Food Lovers
A combination of a guided walking tour of the coastal villages and gastronomic stops.
We’ll explore some of the Italian Riviera’s towns (Rapallo, Santa Margherita, Camogli, Portofino) while sampling traditional food specialties, moving with a private driver or public means of transport.
Reception on a Private Boat
For those seeking something memorable yet understated, we can organize a wine and food reception aboard a private boat along the Riviera coastline.
Local wines, simple appetizers and coastal views create a refined but relaxed setting.
Ideal for large family groups or corporate incentives.
Who This Experience Is Designed For
Travelers who value authenticity and quality
Couples and families
Small private groups
Guests staying in Portofino and the surrounding Riviera
After the Experience
Your culinary experience can be combined with:
Private boat tours
Guided walking tours
Scenic car tours of the Italian Riviera
Everything can be coordinated smoothly, without overcomplicating your day.
