Sanremo: Pasta & Basta offers a warm, engaging dive into Italy’s beloved pasta traditions. This 2.5-hour experience, led by Monica in her welcoming apartment, isn’t just about learning recipes — it’s about stepping into an authentic Italian kitchen and experiencing a genuine family atmosphere. With a focus on handmade pasta like ravioli, tagliatelle, and orecchiette, this class promises to leave you with practical skills and a new appreciation for Italy’s culinary artistry.
Two things I particularly love about this experience: First, the personalized attention Monica provides, sharing not only recipes but stories and tips that make the lesson memorable. Second, the chance to enjoy your creations on a terrace with views and a real Italian coffee at the end adds a convivial, authentic touch not often found in typical cooking classes.
One consideration for travelers is the price — at around $226.57 per person, it’s an investment. But for those eager to truly learn Italian pasta techniques and enjoy a cozy, family-style setting, the value is clear. Keep in mind, wine isn’t included, so if that’s part of your plan, bring your own or purchase locally. This experience is well-suited for foodies, families, or anyone craving a taste of true Italian hospitality.
Key points / Takeaways:
- Authentic family atmosphere makes this more than just a cooking class — it’s a warm cultural experience.
- Hands-on pasta making with easy-to-follow tricks ensures you’ll be able to replicate dishes at home.
- The small group size (limited to 10) guarantees personalized attention from Monica.
- All ingredients and tools are provided, so you only need to focus on learning and enjoying.
- Enjoying the freshly made pasta on the terrace with coffee completes the experience with scenic views and conviviality.
- The class can be tailored for special occasions, dietary needs, and even kids, making it flexible for different groups.
If you’re craving an experience that combines Italian culinary tradition with warm hospitality, Pasta & Basta in Sanremo might be just the ticket. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill cooking class. Monica, the host, transforms it into a genuine family-style gathering, where learned skills turn into a delightful meal paired with stories, humor, and a splash of Italy’s charm.
Entering Monica’s Cozy Kitchen in Sanremo
The experience begins in Monica’s apartment, a homey space that instantly makes you feel like a welcome guest rather than just a participant. She introduces the program with enthusiasm, sharing the traditional recipes handed down from her grandmother, adding both historical context and personal anecdotes. This personal touch is what elevates Pasta & Basta from a simple cooking lesson to a true culture.
You’ll each receive an apron and step into your role as a pasta chef. Monica’s approach is practical: she teaches easy tricks to make perfect pasta at home, such as how to knead dough properly or how to seal ravioli so they don’t burst during cooking. Her explanations are clear, and her patience for questions makes this suitable even for beginners.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Sanremo.
The Art of Pasta: Making Ravioli, Tagliatelle, and Orecchiette
The core of the class focuses on handcrafting three distinct types of pasta. You’ll start with tagliatelle, rolling and cutting dough into thin ribbons. Then, it’s on to ravioli — folding and sealing with fillings inspired by traditional recipes. Finally, participants learn to make orechiette, a pasta shape typical of southern Italy, with a simple yet precise technique.
What truly stands out is Monica’s storytelling about each pasta’s origin and her sharing of tricks to make the process smoother. For example, she shows how a simple turn of a knife or a pinch of flour can elevate your pasta to an art form. Her lively teaching style makes the process fun rather than a chore.
From Kitchen to Terrace: Sharing the Meal
Once the pasta is made, everyone moves to the terrace. Here, Monica arranges a convivial setting with scenic views of Sanremo. The freshly cooked pasta is served directly from the kitchen, accompanied by water, coffee, and some small snacks. This part of the experience feels especially authentic — sitting together, savoring dishes you’ve prepared, “talking pasta” with new friends.
Reviews repeatedly highlight this ending as a highlight. One guest, Lana, described Monica as “an incredible host who shared her passion with infectious enthusiasm,” making the evening as delightful as the food. Another said, “I love the way Monica’s stories and jokes kept us entertained throughout.”
The Value of This Experience
At around $226.57, this experience might seem steep for a short class, but the value lies in the personalized guidance, the authentic recipes you get to take home, and the memorable atmosphere. You’ll walk away not just with new skills, but with stories to tell and recipes you’ll want to recreate.
While wine isn’t included, Monica offers flexibility for special occasions and dietary needs, such as vegetarian or vegan options, or arrangements for children. This makes it accessible for families or groups celebrating a special day.
Who Will Love This
This class is perfect for food lovers eager to master pasta from scratch. It’s also ideal for travelers who want a genuine taste of Italy beyond the usual sightseeing. If you’re interested in cooking in a relaxed, family environment with scenic views, this experience hits all the right notes.
It’s less suited for those on a tight schedule or seeking a quick, transactional activity. The class’s intimacy and depth make it more of an investment in an authentic experience rather than a fleeting attraction.
Logistics, Accessibility, and Practical Tips
The activity lasts approximately 2.5 hours, with start times varying based on availability. You’ll meet at Monica’s apartment, with details provided after booking. The group size is limited to 10, ensuring personalized attention, and the experience is wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal.
If you’re traveling with children or have special needs, Monica can tailor the experience, even arranging a special table for kids. Remember, alcohol is not included, but you’re encouraged to bring your own if you’d like to pair your pasta with wine.
Pasta & Basta stands out as a truly authentic Italian cooking experience in Sanremo. Monica’s warmth, her expert guidance, and the scenic terrace make this a memorable highlight for anyone craving genuine, hands-on pasta making. The recipes and tips you’ll learn can be brought home, turning your kitchen into a little Italy.
This experience offers an excellent balance of fun, skill, and authentic atmosphere — a perfect choice for food aficionados, couples, or families wanting to share a delightful piece of Italy. If you’re after more than just sightseeing and want to dive into local culinary traditions, Pasta & Basta deserves a spot on your Sanremo itinerary.
Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, Monica’s approach is friendly and clear, making it accessible for those new to pasta-making or cooking in general.
Are ingredients and tools provided?
Absolutely. All ingredients and utensils needed for making the pasta are included in the price, so you only need to focus on learning and enjoying.
Can the class be tailored for dietary restrictions?
Yes, the experience can be customized for vegetarian, vegan, or special needs, and can be arranged for occasions like birthdays or anniversaries.
What is the group size?
The class is limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.
What’s included in the price?
You get to prepare and taste three types of pasta: ravioli, tagliatelle, and orecchiette, plus water, coffee, and snacks.
Is wine or alcohol included?
No, alcohol is not included, but you are welcome to bring your own if you wish.
Where does the experience end?
The activity concludes back at the meeting point, which is Monica’s apartment, after enjoying your meal on the terrace.
In short, Pasta & Basta offers a genuine slice of Italian life, perfect for those wanting to learn, eat, and connect. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking for a memorable cultural experience, this class brings Italy’s culinary heart directly to your hands.