Make Classic Pasta & Tiramisu by Bay of Naples (4-Course Meal)

A Flavorful Journey into Southern Italian Cuisine in Sorrento

Our review of the Make Classic Pasta & Tiramisu by Bay of Naples experience offers a taste of what you can expect from this intimate cooking class. Held in a charming kitchen just minutes from the scenic Bay of Naples, this session isn’t just about following recipes—it’s about connecting with the local culinary spirit in a relaxed, personal setting.

What drew us in are three standout features: the focus on seafood dishes, the inclusion of wine to complement each course, and the chance to learn in a small-group environment—just four people max. Plus, the chance to make both seafood pasta and tiramisù ensures you’ll walk away with skills to impress at home. One consideration is that, at $316.09 per person, this experience falls into a more premium category, but the quality and authenticity aim to justify that. This class is perfect for foodies, lovers of coastal Italian cuisine, and travelers eager to take a piece of Sorrento home with them.

Good To Know

• Authentic Coastal Flavors: Focus on seafood pasta, baked fish, and tiramisù rooted in local traditions.
• Small Group Intimacy: With a maximum of four travelers, expect personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.
• Includes Wine: Enjoy Prosecco as an aperitif, enhancing the flavors of each course.
• Hands-On Experience: You’ll prepare each dish yourself, guided by a host in a welcoming kitchen setting.
• Convenient Location: Situated near the Bay of Naples, the class offers a scenic and accessible setting.
• Value for Food Lovers: While priced higher, the quality, instruction, and atmosphere make it worthwhile.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Setting and Atmosphere

Hosted in a sunny, cozy kitchen near Sorrento’s coast, this class offers more than just cooking—it offers a slice of local life. Surrounded by lemon groves and the gentle sea breeze, you’re immersed in an environment that feels authentic and inviting. The kitchen’s intimate size—only four guests—means you get plenty of personal guidance, which is especially helpful if you’re relatively new to Italian cooking or just want to refine your skills.

The Menu Breakdown

The 4-course menu is designed to highlight seafood, a staple of Sorrento’s cuisine, with each dish crafted to showcase the freshness of local ingredients:

• First Course: Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Expect crispy, golden shrimp seasoned simply with salt and pepper. One reviewer pointed out how light and crispy these were, making them a perfect opener that whets the appetite without feeling heavy.

• Second Course: Whole Fish or Seafood in Salt or Acqua Pazza

The star here is a whole fish either baked in a salt crust or simmered in acqua pazza—a light broth with garlic and cherry tomatoes. The method of cooking allows the fish to retain moisture and flavor, giving you a real taste of seaside simplicity.

• Third Course: Handmade Pasta with Seafood

Whether you opt for gnocchi or scialatielli, you’ll cook pasta from scratch and pair it with clams, mussels, and other seafood. One guest described the pasta as “delicious” and noted the freshness of the seafood used. It’s a great way to learn pasta-making techniques that you can replicate at home.

• Dessert: Tiramisu

Classic Tiramisù layers espresso-soaked biscuits with mascarpone, chocolate chips, and cocoa. The balance of bitter coffee and creamy mascarpone makes this an all-time favorite, and making it yourself adds a special touch. Reviewers gushed about how divine the tiramisù was, noting the perfect coffee soak and light, fluffy texture.

The Instruction and Experience

Guided by a host (not named but described as welcoming), you’ll receive personal, hands-on instruction. We loved the way the lessons are paced—ample time to learn each step without feeling rushed. The inclusion of Prosecco as an aperitif adds a layer of enjoyment, helping everyone relax and bond over shared culinary achievements.

The class lasts roughly 2.5 hours, which strikes a good balance between thorough instruction and relaxed enjoyment. All ingredients are fresh and locally sourced, emphasizing the Mediterranean flavors that shine in Sorrento’s cuisine. Many reviewers highlighted the warmth and friendliness of the host, making the session not just educational but also enjoyable and memorable.

Practical Details and Value

The price of $316.09 per person reflects the quality of ingredients, personalized instruction, and the scenic setting. While it’s a more premium experience, the ability to learn seafood pasta and tiramisù—two iconic dishes—right in Italy’s culinary heart makes it a worthwhile investment.

The class includes not only the full menu but also Prosecco, enhancing the overall experience. However, tips for the chef aren’t included in the price, so consider bringing some extra to show appreciation. Transportation isn’t covered, so plan to arrive at the meeting point, Quanto Basta Sorrento, conveniently located near the coast.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This class will particularly appeal to food lovers looking for an authentic, hands-on cooking lesson in a small-group setting. If you appreciate seafood, are keen on learning traditional pasta and dessert techniques, or simply want to enjoy a relaxed, scenic environment, this is a great fit. The inclusion of wine and the chance to meet fellow travelers also make it ideal for those seeking a social, engaging activity beyond typical sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

This Sorrento-based cooking class offers a genuine taste of southern Italy’s coastal cuisine, blending fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and classic tiramisù in a warm, intimate setting. The small group size and personal instruction make it perfect for those who value quality and authenticity over mass-market experiences.

While the price might seem steep at first glance, the combination of premium ingredients, expert guidance, and a scenic locale justify the cost for many foodies. The experience is especially suited for travelers who want to deepen their culinary skills, enjoy local flavors in a relaxed atmosphere, and leave with recipes they can recreate at home.

If you’re after an authentic, memorable cooking adventure in Sorrento that combines great food, wine, and hands-on learning, this class deserves a serious spot on your itinerary.

FAQ

What is included in the price of the class?
The ticket covers a full 4-course coastal Italian menu featuring seafood pasta, tiramisù, and a fresh catch, plus Prosecco as an appetizer.

How long does the class last?
The experience is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, offering ample time for preparation, tasting, and chatting.

Is the experience suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes, the class is designed to accommodate various dietary needs—just inform the organizers in advance so they can tailor the menu accordingly.

Where does the class take place?
It starts at Quanto Basta Sorrento, located at Via Fuorimura, 20, near the Bay of Naples.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to and from the meeting point is not included, so plan accordingly.

How many people are in each class?
This is a small-group experience, with a maximum of four travelers, ensuring personalized attention.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the class for a full refund.

This cooking class offers a delightful combination of culinary education, scenic setting, and authentic flavors—perfect for those who want to truly taste and understand Sorrento’s coastal cuisine.