Positano: Ravioli & Tagliatelle Cooking Class

Imagine learning to craft traditional Italian pasta in a cozy home setting, with sweeping views of the Amalfi Coast as your backdrop. That’s exactly what this Positano cooking class offers — a genuine, hands-on experience that connects you to Italy’s culinary roots. It’s perfect for food lovers eager to go beyond restaurant fare and savor the satisfaction of making your own pasta from scratch.

What makes this experience truly stand out? First, the opportunity to pick fresh ingredients directly from a garden — a rare touch that adds authenticity and flavor. Second, the chance to learn old family recipes, passed down through generations, in a warm, welcoming environment. Third, the stunning terrace views that turn an ordinary cooking class into a memorable moment. That said, the experience involves some stairs, so it’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues.

Whether you’re visiting Positano for a romantic getaway, a foodie adventure, or simply want a meaningful activity, this class offers a delightful blend of hands-on learning, authentic flavors, and spectacular scenery. It’s an excellent choice for those who value genuine experiences and a personal connection with local traditions.

Key Points

• Authentic Italian Cooking: Learn to make ravioli and tagliatelle following traditional family recipes.
• Garden-to-Table: Collect fresh ingredients directly from the host’s garden to enhance your dishes.
• Cultural Insight: Enjoy stories and tips that reveal the history and customs behind the cuisine.
• Scenic Setting: Dine on a terrace overlooking the Amalfi Coast, making the meal extra special.
• Wine & Liqueurs: Sip local wines and taste homemade liqueurs that complement your meal.
• No Transportation Included: You’ll meet at a designated piazza, so plan to arrive on your own.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: A Deep Dive

This cooking class is hosted by Villa Genny and Emily, who pride themselves on delivering an authentic taste of Italy. It’s based in Positano, a place renowned for its striking cliffs and colorful houses, but here you get the bonus of stepping inside a home that preserves old culinary traditions.

The Meeting Point and Atmosphere
You’ll find your hosts waiting in Piazza Cappella, directly in front of Donna Rosa restaurant. From the very start, Emily and Villa Genny make everyone feel at home with warm welcomes and clear instructions. The class lasts around four hours, which is perfect for those wanting a relaxed, unhurried experience.

Gathering ingredients from the garden
One of the class’s highlights is the garden tour. You’ll walk through the lush greens, picking herbs, vegetables, and possibly even some fruits, all of which will find their way into your pasta. This practical step not only guarantees freshness but also deepens your appreciation for the land’s bounty — something our previous review enthusiastically supported with the comment, “We loved the way they showed us how to pick ingredients and explained their significance.”

Hands-on pasta making
The real fun begins with making two types of pasta: ravioli filled with ricotta, vegetables, or meat, and simple, yet delicate, tagliatelle dressed with lemon sauce. Villa Genny shares tips and tricks, ensuring everyone, regardless of skill level, can succeed. You’ll be surprised how much more satisfying it is to eat pasta you’ve made yourself.

Making the sauces and tiramisù
While pasta is boiling, you’ll prepare a classic tiramisù, a treat that epitomizes Italian dolce. The host will share their family secrets, making the dessert a highlight of the meal. The lemon sauce for the tagliatelle and the filling for the ravioli are also crafted with care, adding layers of flavor that elevate the experience beyond mere cooking.

Wine, liqueurs, and dining
The meal is complemented by a good glass of local wine, which enhances the flavors and sets a convivial tone. At the end, you’ll taste homemade liqueurs, a lovely finishing touch that many past guests found to be a delightful surprise — “The flavors of the liqueurs were incredible, and they topped off the meal perfectly,” one reviewer shared.

Comfort and logistics
The entire experience is in a home environment, and while the setting is idyllic, it involves stairs, so it’s not suitable for those with mobility challenges. The class size tends to be small, creating an intimate and friendly atmosphere where questions are encouraged.

What Makes It Worth It?

When considering the value, the price covers more than just the meal. It includes the opportunity to learn authentic regional recipes, gather fresh ingredients, and enjoy a scenic meal with a spectacular view. You’re not just paying for the food but for the memories, skills, and insights you’ll carry home.

Previous guests highlight the warmth of the hosts — “The whole family is so welcoming,” and the quality of the food, which many consider some of the best they experienced in Italy. This is not a quick demo but an immersive experience that leaves you with new skills and a deeper appreciation for Italian culinary traditions.

The shared experience and storytelling enrich the class further. You’ll hear stories about the land, the family recipes, and the history behind each dish, making it more than just cooking — it’s cultural storytelling through food.

Practicalities and Tips

• Location & Meeting Point: Piazza Cappella, in front of Donna Rosa restaurant. Arrive a few minutes early.
• Duration: Around 4 hours, allowing for a leisurely pace and ample hands-on time.
• Inclusions: Pasta making, garden tour, tiramisù, wine, appetizers, drinks, and tastings of homemade liqueurs.
• Exclusions: Transportation is not included, so plan your arrival accordingly.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes (the garden and stairs require some walking), camera to capture the views and your creations.
• Not Suitable For: Those with mobility impairments due to stairs.
• Languages: The experience is offered in English and Italian.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This class suits foodies eager to learn traditional Italian pasta recipes and enjoy a genuine family-style meal. It’s a great fit for travelers seeking an authentic experience rather than a commercialized cooking demo. Couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking for a personal touch will find this especially rewarding.

If you want to bring home practical skills, indulge in delicious homemade dishes, and soak up stunning coastal scenery, this is an ideal choice. However, if you’re after a quick, low-effort activity or have mobility constraints, you might want to consider other options.

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FAQ

Is transportation included?
No, you will meet at Piazza Cappella in Positano. It’s best to plan your own transportation to the meeting point.

How long does the class last?
It runs for about 4 hours, giving you plenty of time to cook, learn, and enjoy your meal.

What dishes will I make?
You’ll prepare two types of pasta: ravioli and tagliatelle with lemon sauce, plus a traditional tiramisù.

Are ingredients provided?
Yes, ingredients are included, and you’ll pick fresh herbs and vegetables from the garden.

Can I participate if I’m a beginner?
Absolutely. The host shares tips so that everyone, regardless of skill level, can succeed.

Is the experience suitable for children?
The activity involves stairs and a more relaxed pace suited for adults. It’s best for older children or teenagers.

What’s the dress code?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since there are stairs and outdoor garden areas.

Are drinks included?
Yes, a good glass of wine and homemade liqueurs are included in the experience.

Final Thoughts

This Positano cooking class offers far more than just a cooking lesson. It’s a window into Italian culture, a chance to gather fresh ingredients, and a moment to savor spectacular views with a delicious homemade meal. It’s perfect for travelers who want an immersive, authentic experience that combines culinary skills with genuine hospitality.

If you’re eager to learn traditional recipes, enjoy scenic dining, and connect with local customs, this class delivers on all fronts. It’s a wonderful way to spend part of your day on the Amalfi Coast, creating memories and flavors that will stay with you long after your trip ends.

For those who prioritize authentic experiences, good company, and hearty Italian food, this Positano pasta class is a top-tier choice.

Note: This experience is highly praised for its knowledgeable hosts, stunning vistas, excellent wines, and delicious food. As one guest put it, “The whole family is so welcoming and the food was some of the best I had in all of Italy.”

You can check availability for your dates here: