It’s not everyday a vegan (me) and a non-vegan (my husband) can enjoy a delightful cooking class together. Let alone in Italy where cheese and meat are in just about every.single.meal. It is a tough one to navigate and as if Cinque Terre didn’t impress me enough, this pesto making experience topped it off. An absolute winner and worth the sweltering heat!
The smell of pesto still sends me straight back in time to this spectacular day at Nessun Dorma. Overlooking the breathtaking views of the 2nd village called Manarola, sipping on Italian wine and Aperols; and devouring the most tasty lunch served by this vibrant team.
It just feels rude not to share this experience! Should you be travelling to this side of the world, it’s definitely one for the itinerary
Things you should know
- Pre-book this pesto experience a few weeks in advance. Especially if you are only in Cinque Terre for a few days and want to squeeze this in on a specific day. It is in high demand and there are only 2 time slots per day.
- The restaurant is situated on a hill but it is a relatively easy and comfortable walk from the station. It was very hot the day we went and I decided to wear sandals which were suitable.
- The walk from the train station to Nessun Dorma is approx 15-20 min with enough time to browse the shops along the way as well as admire the views.
- Arrive at least 20-30 min before your class starts, if you want a good seat. The long queue outside the restaurant is the line to enter the pesto making experience, even if you have tickets. We made this mistake and ended up queuing by the bar so we lost a valuable position in line.
- There is a toilet near the Nessun Dorma restaurant. Ask the staff for a token once you enter.
What’s included in the pesto making class
When you arrive, you have the opportunity to order drinks from the bar (at an additional cost).
- A step-by-step interactive class led by the staff, which is approx 2 hours
- A briefing about where the ingredients are sourced from, and a bit of the Cinque Terre history
- All ingredients and utensils to make the pesto (vegan or non-vegan) which can be eaten there or takeaway
- Vegan or non-vegan lunch presented on a beautiful platter
- A complimentary glass of wine
- Apron
More than a pesto making class
Learning to make vegan pesto with authentic ingredients was a real treat. We left with a new found love for pesto, full bellies and warm hearts. The ambience was relaxing with everyone chatting; Pavarotti music playing softly in the background and the sound of laughter which became gradually louder as the wine flowed. The owner shared his extraordinary journey to entrepreneurship and how this became one of the most popular destinations in the area. What an inspiration! I keep moments and stories like these close to my heart as it encourages me to look out for opportunities that are often found right in front of us.
So have I made pesto since? Truthfully? Absolutely not, but I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and learning how to make it to keep in my bag of tricks. I tell you… if this was my last day on earth, I’d happily spend it here. Just Leave Me There!
Find out more info about Pesto Experience in Cinque Terre.