Cooking class, traditional Greek cuisine, on a Greek island

Prepare to gain a true taste of Greece through this cooking class in Syros, part of the beautiful Cyclades Islands. Priced at $150.94 per person, this 4-hour culinary experience offers participants the chance to craft seven traditional Greek dishes under the guidance of a knowledgeable local cook, Elisa. The tour is highly rated with a perfect 5.0 out of 5, based on 100 reviews, and is recommended by 99% of those who have taken it.

This small-group experience maximizes interaction and personalization, with a maximum of 12 travelers. The class begins at Villa Maria, a historic guesthouse, in a gourmet kitchen equipped for hands-on cooking. Participants enjoy organic, local, and seasonal produce to create hearty dishes like vine leaf pies, smoked aubergine spread, stuffed sardines, and a cinnamon-flavored semolina halva. After the cooking, everyone sits down to enjoy the meal, either outdoors in the garden or in the villa’s dining room overlooking the bay. For an extra $47, visitors can indulge in a Greek wine and cheese tasting, sampling local varieties from Greek islands.

While most bookings are made about 71 days in advance, the class offers convenience with a mobile ticket option. The experience provides an authentic, educational, and delicious glimpse into Greek culinary traditions, ideal for food lovers and those wanting to connect deeply with local culture. The only consideration might be transportation to the meeting point, as private transport is not included.

Key Points

• Authentic Greek cooking experience on Syros with seven dishes prepared from scratch
• 4-hour class held at Villa Maria, a historical guesthouse with a gourmet kitchen
• Learn traditional recipes not typically found in restaurants, with an option for vegan or vegetarian menus
• Enjoy your meal in a beautiful outdoor setting overlooking the bay or in the villa’s dining room
• Optional wine and cheese tasting for $47, featuring Greek wines and artisanal cheeses
• Small-group setting with up to 12 participants ensures personalized guidance and interaction

Syros Village Setting and Meeting Location

The cooking class begins at Villa Maria, a charming historic guesthouse located in Ermoupoli, a hub of Syros. The class takes place in the villa’s gourmet kitchen, which is well-equipped for hands-on cooking. The meeting point is explicitly at SyrosIdras 42, making it straightforward to find, especially with the mobile ticket convenience.

Participants are welcomed with a glass of herbal tea made from local wild herbs, setting a relaxed tone. If fewer than four participants are involved, the class may be held in a countryside home in Finikas, about 10 km from Ermoupoli, with transport arranged. This flexibility helps maintain an intimate experience.

The Focus on Local and Seasonal Ingredients

What makes this Greek cooking class stand out is the emphasis on organic, local, and seasonal produce. This approach ensures that dishes are fresh and authentic, representing the best of what Syros offers. The menu varies according to the season, meaning that every class can feature different dishes, keeping the experience fresh for repeat visitors.

Elisa, the host, provides insights into Greek culinary traditions and explains home recipes that are rarely seen in restaurants. Participants get the chance to learn step-by-step instructions for dishes like vine leaf pies, smoked aubergine spread, and stuffed sardines—all crafted with care and local ingredients.

The Menu: What’s Included and Customization Options

The seven dishes prepared during the class typically include several starters, a pie, a salad, a main dish, and a dessert. Guests can choose a vegan or vegetarian menu if preferred, with options tailored to personal dislikes or dietary restrictions. The dishes are authentic Greek home recipes, offering an experience beyond typical tourist fare.

After cooking, everyone gathers to share the meal in either the shade of a fig tree in the garden or inside the villa overlooking the bay, creating a warm and convivial atmosphere. This communal dining experience is a highlight, making the entire class feel like a gathering of friends sharing hearty, homemade dishes.

The Optional Greek Wine and Cheese Tasting

For an additional $47, participants can indulge in a wine and cheese tasting. The selection features Greek wines—a white, a pink, a red, and a dessert wine—each from Greek grape varieties. The cheeses are artisanal, sourced from various Greek islands, complementing the dishes and adding another layer of culture.

This tasting is praised for showcasing excellent wines and artisanal cheeses, adding sophistication and depth to the overall experience. It’s a perfect option for those wanting to deepen their appreciation of Greek culinary products.

The Cooking Experience with Elisa

Elisa, the guiding chef, is highly praised for her knowledge, warmth, and ability to tailor the class to participants’ preferences. She asks about likes and dislikes a day before the class, ensuring a personalized experience. Guests mention her clear instructions and friendly demeanor, making the class both educational and enjoyable.

Her storytelling extends beyond recipes, as she shares insights into Greek food sourcing, techniques, and cultural influences. The class is described as relaxed, collaborative, and fun, suitable even for those without prior cooking experience.

The Atmosphere and Setting

The villa’s kitchen and outdoor courtyard provide a beautiful setting for this culinary journey. Guests describe the space as traditional, warm, and inspiring, with many appreciating the outdoor dining options under a fig tree or with a bay view. The relaxed pace and intimate group size make it easy to ask questions and learn comfortably.

The timing begins at 11:00 am, giving ample time to enjoy the entire process without feeling rushed. The pacing is praised as well, allowing full participation in each step of the cooking.

Accessibility and Practical Details

Service animals are welcome, and the tour is near public transportation, making access straightforward. The maximum group size of 12 travelers ensures a personalized experience, with ample opportunity to connect with the guide and fellow participants.

Transportation is not included in the price; however, if the class is held in Finikas in case of small groups, transport is arranged for convenience.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

The experience can be booked up to 71 days in advance and includes a free cancellation policy if canceled at least 24 hours before the start time. This flexibility is helpful for adjusting plans if needed, and the process is simple and straightforward.

Syros Cooking Class: A Slice of Greek Life

This cooking class offers a genuine connection to Greek home cooking in a relaxed, beautiful setting. The focus on seasonal, local ingredients and authentic recipes makes it stand out among culinary experiences. The small-group atmosphere and personalized guidance from Elisa create an engaging, warm environment.

The addition of a wine and cheese tasting elevates the experience for those interested in Greek wines and artisanal cheeses. With perfect reviews and high praise for both the food and setting, this class is ideal for foodies eager to learn home-style Greek recipes in an authentic setting.

While transportation might require some planning, the overall value and cultural richness make this tour a memorable highlight of a trip to Syros. Whether you’re seeking a culinary adventure or a culture, this experience promises to deliver delicious food and lasting memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the cooking class last?
The class lasts approximately 4 hours, starting at 11:00 am.

What dishes will I learn to make?
You will prepare seven dishes, including starters, a pie, a salad, a main dish, and a dessert, based on seasonal, local ingredients.

Can I choose a vegan or vegetarian menu?
Yes, there is an option to select a vegan or vegetarian menu during the booking process.

Is transportation included?
No, private transportation is not included, but the meeting point at Villa Maria is accessible by public transport.

What is the cost of the wine and cheese tasting?
The wine and cheese tasting costs an extra $47 per person and features Greek wines and artisanal cheeses.

Is the experience suitable for children or service animals?
Service animals are welcome, and the experience is suitable for most ages, but it’s best suited for those interested in cooking and culture.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where does the class take place?
In Villa Maria in Ermoupoli, or in the countryside home in Finikas if fewer than four participants.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the hands-on approach and clear guidance make it accessible for beginners and experienced cooks alike.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 71 days in advance to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.