If you’re looking for a genuine taste of Liguria’s culinary soul, the Pesto Experience at Trattoria da Turin offers a delightful way to learn, create, and savor one of Italy’s most iconic sauces. For around $55 per person, you get an engaging hour of hands-on pesto making, paired with local wine, and the chance to pick up some age-old secrets of Genoese culinary craft. The setting in the historic center of Sestri Levante, just steps from the enchanting Baia del Silenzio, makes this a memorable addition to any trip along Italy’s Ligurian coast.
What I really appreciate about this experience is how it’s designed not just as a cooking class, but as a lively, convivial moment rooted in tradition. The guides, who speak multiple languages including Italian, English, French, and Spanish, clearly love sharing their culture. You’ll love the fact that during the class, you’re given a real Genovese mortar made of Carrara marble, which isn’t just a pretty souvenir but a tool that connects you to centuries of Ligurian pesto-making history. Plus, the recipe and diploma you receive feel like a real badge of honor, turning your pesto into more than just a sauce—it’s a keepsake.
One thing to keep in mind: this experience lasts about an hour, so it’s quick but packed with enough detail and fun to feel satisfying. That said, some might find the timing tight if they’re looking for a lengthy, sit-down meal. Also, it’s worth noting that the activity is wheelchair accessible but not suitable for those with mobility challenges in the bathroom facilities.
- Authentic connection: You’ll make pesto using a traditional Genoese mortar, not a blender, which makes all the difference in flavor.
- Expert guidance: The guides are knowledgeable, sharing stories about Liguria’s products, Basil, and the history behind the sauce.
- Local wine pairing: Enjoy a glass of Sestri Levante wine or a traditional local drink during your class.
- Custom recipes: Each pesto you make will be unique, and you’ll receive an ancient recipe with all the secrets.
- Authentic souvenir: The “Pesto Chef” diploma and marble mortar are great keepsakes.
- Flexible options: Additional experiences like wine, beer, or dinner can be booked to enhance your time in Sestri Levante.
Entering the World of Ligurian Pesto
When I first read about the Pesto Experience at Trattoria da Turin, I thought it sounded charming—a perfect blend of food, culture, and fun. This is no ordinary cooking class; it’s a lively, convivial session that invites you to roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and local olive oil. The setting is the historic center of Sestri Levante, right near the breathtaking Baia del Silenzio, making it a great way to experience authentic Ligurian life.
The guides are friendly and knowledgeable, often sharing stories about the land, the products, and the history behind the ancient Genoese mortar. They’re fluent in multiple languages, making it accessible to travelers from all over. The highlight, of course, is the use of the traditional mortar, which is quite different from modern food processors. I love the way this method slows down the process, allowing the basil’s aroma to intensify and the ingredients to blend harmoniously.
The class ends with everyone savoring their freshly made pesto, served over Trofie pasta, with a glass of local wine or traditional drink. The moment of tasting your own creation, knowing you’ve made it just like the Genoese do, is genuinely satisfying. Plus, the “Pesto Chef” diploma and recipe are a thoughtful touch that makes the experience feel special and memorable.
The Experience Itself: Step-by-Step
The class begins with a warm welcome at Trattoria da Turin, a family-run spot with a long-standing reputation for Ligurian hospitality. Once seated, the instructor introduces the history of pesto and the significance of basil in Ligurian cuisine. I found it interesting when they explained how the origin of Basil in this region is intertwined with centuries of tradition, and how the ancient mortar is a symbol of that heritage.
Next, it’s time to get your hands on the Carrara marble mortar—a solid, cool piece of Italian craftsmanship. The guide demonstrates how to crush garlic and pine nuts first, then add basil leaves, salt, and olive oil. Watching the process unfold, I appreciated the slow, deliberate crushing, which releases more aroma and flavor than a high-speed blender ever could.
Throughout the process, the guide shares stories about Ligurian products, maybe even tossing in some anecdotes about local vineyards or traditional recipes. The smell of fresh basil in the air is intoxicating. When the pesto reaches its perfect consistency, everyone gets a chance to taste their creation with some traditional bread, which helps bring out all the flavors.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Sestri Levante.
Savoring the Fruits of Your Labor
The highlight comes when you sit down to enjoy your handmade pesto over Trofie pasta—an authentic Ligurian dish—and sip on the local wine or traditional beverage. This part of the experience is relaxed and social, with everyone sharing their pesto stories and tasting each other’s creations. As one reviewer put it, “Delicious—my pesto turned out fantastic,” which is exactly the feeling this experience aims to evoke.
The guide’s enthusiasm and storytelling make the tasting session even more enjoyable. You leave not just with a new skill, but with a deeper appreciation for Liguria’s culinary traditions and a genuine sense of connection to the land and its people.
Additional Options and Enhancements
While the core experience is focused on pesto, the offering extends to wine, beer, and traditional dinners, which can be booked separately. These add-ons are perfect if you want a more extensive tasting experience or a full meal with local wines. Keep in mind, these are not included in the base price, but they’re worth considering if you’re keen to indulge further.
Practical Details: Cost, Duration, and Logistics
At $54.66 per person, this experience offers excellent value, especially considering the quality of the instruction, the use of authentic tools, and the personalized souvenirs. The one-hour duration is short but dense with information, making it a perfect activity for travelers in search of culture without a big time commitment.
Meetings are at Via 25 Aprile, 133 in Sestri Levante, close to major sights and easily accessible. The experience is suitable for private groups and is wheelchair accessible, although the bathroom facilities may pose a challenge for some.
The flexibility to reserve now and pay later is a helpful feature, especially when planning trips around uncertain schedules. The cancellation policy is simple—full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.
This pesto class is ideal for travelers who enjoy hands-on learning and authentic experiences. Food lovers who want to understand the craftsmanship behind Ligurian cuisine will find it enriching. It’s also perfect for those interested in cultural stories, local products, and a convivial atmosphere. Families, couples, or small groups looking for a memorable, interactive activity will enjoy this the most.
If you’re a solo traveler seeking a social moment or a couple wanting a taste of local tradition, this class offers both. It’s less suited for travelers with limited mobility, given the bathroom setup, or those expecting a sit-down, lengthy meal.
The Pesto Experience at Trattoria da Turin captures the essence of Ligurian culinary culture in a fun, engaging way. You leave with more than just a jar of pesto—you gain new skills, stories, and a souvenir that ties you to a region where food is more than nourishment, it’s a way of life. It’s a fantastic choice for those who appreciate authenticity, craftsmanship, and conviviality.
Whether you’re a foodie, a culture seeker, or someone simply curious about Italy’s most famous sauce, this experience provides genuine value. It’s a chance to look beyond the touristy trappings and connect with Liguria’s heart through its most beloved flavors.
How long does the pesto experience last?
It lasts about 1 hour, during which you’ll make your own pesto, learn about its history, and taste your creation.
Is the experience suitable for non-Italian speakers?
Yes, guides speak English, Italian, French, and Spanish, making the class accessible to most travelers.
What’s included in the price?
You get to use a traditional marble mortar, all ingredients, a glass of local wine or traditional drink, traditional bread, a “Pesto Chef” diploma, and the recipe.
Can I add a meal or extra tasting?
Yes, you can book options like wine, beer, or traditional dinners separately. Contact the provider for details and group offers.
Is the location wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, but note that the bathroom facilities are not suitable for all mobility levels.
Do I need to prepare anything before the class?
Just send the names of all participants in advance so they can prepare your “Chef” diplomas.
This pesto class in Sestri Levante is a charming and authentic way to connect with Liguria’s culinary traditions. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a memorable, hands-on experience that goes beyond just tasting.