Genova: Cook and Enjoy a full Ligurian menu with local chef

Discover the Flavors of Liguria with a Hands-On Cooking Class in Genoa

If you’re eager to learn how to whip up authentic Ligurian dishes with a friendly local chef, this cooking experience in Genoa offers a delightful way to do just that. While I haven’t personally taken this class, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a warm, engaging, and delicious journey into northern Italy’s culinary heart. Expect to get your hands floury and your taste buds excited as you learn to prepare a full menu that’s rich in tradition and flavor.

What I love most about this experience is the chance to learn from Fabrizio, a chef with years of experience and a genuine passion for sharing Ligurian cuisine. His focus on making the process fun and approachable really shines through, making it perfectly suited for food lovers who want more than just a quick tasting. Plus, the setting in the very center of Genoa promises a relaxed and authentic atmosphere.

One thing to keep in mind is the price—around $158.60 per person—which reflects the quality of the ingredients, the expertise of Fabrizio, and the comprehensive nature of the class. However, some reviews mention that the recipes aren’t provided afterward, so if you’re hoping to recreate the dishes at home easily, this might be a minor downside.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Expert local chef Fabrizio guides you through making a complete Ligurian menu, sharing authentic tips and tricks.
• Focus on traditional dishes like focaccia, gnocchi with pesto, Panera, and Panissa provides a full taste of Ligurian cuisine.
• Hands-on experience helps you learn techniques directly, from making focaccia varieties to preparing Genoese pesto from scratch.
• Relaxed, friendly atmosphere encourages laughter, chatting, and enjoying your culinary creations with good wine.
• Authentic setting in the heart of Genoa makes the experience feel genuine and immersive.
• Includes all ingredients and utensils for a stress-free, fully guided cooking session.
• Limited recipes post-class might mean less confidence to recreate dishes at home, according to some reviews.
• Approximate duration of 4.5 hours offers plenty of time without feeling rushed, perfect for a leisurely day.

An In-Depth Look at the Ligurian Cooking Experience

Starting Point: A Central and Accessible Location

You’ll meet Fabrizio at 4 Via Malta, ringing the doorbell marked “Seminario.” This spot in Genoa’s bustling center makes it easy to reach, whether you’re coming from a cruise, hotel, or train station. The setting is spacious and welcoming—ideal for a hands-on class—and sets the tone for an informal, friendly atmosphere. The fact that it’s in the heart of Genoa means you’re close to other sights, should you want to combine culinary learning with sightseeing.

What You’ll Cook: A Full Ligurian Menu in One Session

The class is designed to give you the full spectrum of Ligurian cooking, and Fabrizio ensures everyone gets involved. You’ll start with Panissa, a traditional appetizer made from chickpea flour, seasoned with oil, lemon, and pepper. This dish might be less familiar outside Italy but is a Ligurian staple, offering a taste of the regional flavors.

Moving on, you’ll prepare three types of focaccia—a kind of flatbread that Liguria is famous for. One seasoned simply with oil and salt, another with onions, and a third with cherry tomatoes and olives. Fabrizio’s expertise in making these varieties shine, and he claims to make the best focaccia in Genoa—so you’ll get a real insider tip.

Next, you’ll learn to craft gnocchi topped with Genoese pesto, made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil. Making both the gnocchi and pesto fresh on the spot ensures you experience the authentic flavors and textures of the region.

For a second course, you’ll prepare Focaccia di Recco, a thin and very tasty focaccia filled with stracchino cheese—a delicacy that’s hard to find outside Liguria. This dish demonstrates the cheese’s importance in Ligurian cooking and offers a delightful contrast to the thicker focaccia varieties.

Finally, you’ll finish with Panera, a traditional Ligurian dessert, completing your culinary journey. The course is designed to be leisurely, with plenty of time to taste, chat, and sip wine—Fabrizio’s way of making it feel like a convivial gathering rather than a classroom.

The Chef: Fabrizio’s Passion and Expertise

Fabrizio is a seasoned chef whose love for Ligurian cuisine shines through. His background includes running restaurants and a home restaurant called Nonna Leo, named after his grandmother. This personal touch brings authenticity to the class. His enthusiasm isn’t just about techniques but also about sharing stories and secrets behind each dish.

One review highlights Fabrizio’s warmth and humor, mentioning that he even sings during the class—adding a fun, personal dimension. Sonia, his wife, also helps create a welcoming environment, making you feel like part of the family.

What’s Included? Everything You Need for a True Cooking Adventure

All utensils and ingredients are provided, so you don’t need to worry about sourcing or bringing anything. A glass of wine is included, which often turns the chatter and laughter up a notch, creating a relaxed vibe. At the end, you enjoy the fruits of your labor—delicious dishes shared among friends.

The Experience: Fun, Friendly, and Authentic

The reviews consistently praise the engaging, laughter-filled atmosphere. One reviewer mentions that the process is very authentic and appreciated the opportunity to practice Italian with Fabrizio. Others note the high quality of the food—especially Fabrizio’s focaccia, which some say is better than what you find in delicatessens.

However, some reviewers wish they had recipes to take home, as the recipes aren’t provided automatically. This might be a minor frustration if you’re hoping to recreate these dishes easily after the class, especially since one of the dishes, the focaccia dough, is pre-prepared.

Who Will Love This?

This class suits travelers looking for an authentic, hands-on experience of Ligurian cuisine. It’s perfect if you’re eager to learn techniques directly from a passionate chef and enjoy communal meals. Families with older children, food lovers, and those interested in regional Italian cooking will find this especially rewarding.

On the other hand, if you’re mainly after a quick tasting or a small, exclusive experience, this might feel a bit lengthy or not tailored to quick visits. Expect to spend around 4.5 hours, so plan for a full morning or afternoon.

Price and Value

At $158.60 per person, this experience offers a comprehensive and personal approach to Ligurian cooking. Given the expert guidance, all ingredients, and the opportunity to enjoy a full meal with wine, it’s a fair value—especially for those interested in deepening their culinary knowledge. Keep in mind that the focus is on learning and authentic participation rather than just tasting.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you love Italian food and want more than just to eat it—if you want to make it, understand its secrets, and enjoy the company of a passionate chef—this class is ideal. It’s particularly suited to travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace, are curious about regional dishes, and aren’t overly concerned with taking home every recipe.

It’s also a great fit for those who appreciate engaging, personable guides and a lively, convivial atmosphere. If you’re traveling with someone who enjoys cooking or wants to experience Genoa beyond its landmarks, this experience will make for a memorable and tasty day.

FAQ

How long does the class last?
The experience lasts approximately 4.5 hours, giving enough time to learn, cook, and enjoy your meal without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
All utensils, ingredients, a guided cooking session with Fabrizio, a full Ligurian menu, and a glass of wine are included. You’ll also share your meal afterward.

Is the experience suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 6 years old, likely due to the length and complexity of the class.

Can I get recipes to recreate the dishes at home?
The reviews suggest that recipes are not automatically provided, so you might want to ask Fabrizio for tips during the class if you hope to replicate the dishes later.

Is the location easy to access?
Yes, it’s based at 4 Via Malta in Genoa’s city center, close to other sights and public transportation.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Vegan options aren’t available, and specific dietary needs are not mentioned, so check with the provider if needed.

Is there a dress code?
No special dress code; comfortable casual clothing suitable for cooking is fine.

What language is the class taught in?
It’s offered in both English and Italian, making it accessible for most travelers.

In brief, this Ligurian cooking class in Genoa offers a chance to gain practical skills, enjoy regional flavors, and share good company—all in a relaxed, authentic setting. Perfect for foodies eager to deepen their understanding of northern Italy’s culinary traditions, it offers a memorable taste of Genoa that goes beyond sightseeing.