Surrounded by the green hills of La Spezia, enjoy an authentic Ligurian cooking experience. “Cook & Eat” is a relaxed, hands‑on culinary journey designed for anyone who wants to discover the flavours, aromas, and traditions of this region. Your experience begins in the morning inside a charming countryside restaurant, once an old cellar and now a cosy culinary retreat dedicated especially to vegetarian and vegan cuisine. Here, sustainability and taste come together: every dish is prepared with fresh, km‑0 ingredients grown on the surrounding farmland or sourced from local producers.
You’ll start by gathering fragrant basil directly from the greenhouse, learning how seasonal herbs are cultivated using natural, chemical‑free methods. Back in the kitchen, you’ll prepare traditional pesto using a mortar and pestle, discovering the gestures and aromas that make this recipe unique. You’ll then learn how to make fresh pasta from scratch and finish with a classic tiramisu, a sweet ending to your Ligurian menu.
This is not a technical cooking course, but a warm and convivial experience. You can participate at your own pace, observing, tasting, kneading, mixing, and enjoying the process. Along the way, your hosts will share stories about local cuisine, seasonal ingredients, and the rhythms of rural life.
Once everything is ready, you’ll sit down, indoors or outdoors depending on the season, to enjoy the lunch you’ve prepared, paired with a glass of local wine. It’s a moment to relax, savour your creations, and appreciate the simplicity and richness of Ligurian food culture.
Set in the hills of La Spezia, in a strategic position close to Portovenere and the Cinque Terre, this experience offers a peaceful escape from the city and a meaningful way to connect with nature, tradition, and good food. This cooking experience is designed to be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you’re confident in the kitchen or trying your hand at Ligurian recipes for the very first time, the atmosphere is relaxed, welcoming, and perfect for all levels.