Athens: Traditional Cooking Class with Drinks

Walking through the vibrant streets of Athens, it’s hard not to feel the pull of the city’s culinary soul. For those who love food and want a true taste of Greece without the fuss, the Traditional Cooking Class with Drinks at SOYBIRD in the Koukaki neighborhood offers a genuine, hands-on experience. Priced at $89 per person and lasting around 3.5 hours, this class invites you to cook, learn, and feast on classic Greek dishes—many vegan-friendly—under the guidance of passionate local cooks.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the small-group setting (max 10 people) ensures everyone gets plenty of attention and opportunity to participate actively. Second, the diversity of dishes prepared—everything from moussaka to almond feta—gives you a comprehensive taste of Greek cuisine. A potential downside? The class is not suitable for children under 8, so families with little ones might need to look elsewhere. Overall, if you’re curious about authentic Greek flavors and enjoy interactive cooking, this experience suits travelers eager for an educational yet fun activity close to the Acropolis.

Key Points

• Authentic Greek Flavors: Learn how to make traditional dishes like moussaka and spanakopita.
• Vegan-Friendly Options: Includes unique vegan dishes such as almond feta and vegetarian fava.
• Small Group Size: Ensures personalized attention and active participation.
• Inclusive Experience: Drinks like wine, beer, ouzo, and soft drinks are included.
• Practical Recipes: You get a digital recipe book to recreate your favorites at home.
• Ideal for Food Lovers: Whether a foodie, vegan, or curious traveler, this class offers a genuine taste of Greece.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Location & Atmosphere

Situated in the lively district of Koukaki, near the Acropolis, SOYBIRD’s modern studio combines contemporary design with a welcoming vibe. The ground-floor space on Veikou street is easy to find, and the setting feels both professional and relaxed—perfect for a hands-on cooking session. The environment is bright and well-organized, with enough space for small groups to move comfortably while cooking.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Do

The class kicks off with a brief introduction, where your hosts—such as Alexandra or Mirka—share their enthusiasm for Greek cuisine. You’ll be divided into two teams, turning the kitchen into a lively, collaborative space. The dishes on the menu are thoughtfully curated to showcase traditional Greek flavors with a modern, vegan twist.

Main Dishes & Key Elements:

• Moussaka with Cashew Bechamel: A classic layered dish, made vegan with cashew-based béchamel sauce, promising hearty flavors without dairy.
• Tzatziki: The iconic cucumber-yogurt dip, made here with plant-based ingredients, perfect for dipping or as a condiment.
• Spanakopita: Spinach and herbs wrapped in crispy phyllo, offering a satisfying vegetarian treat.
• Fava: A yellow Greek hummus, smooth, flavorful, and a perfect appetizer.
• Almond-Feta: An inventive vegan cheese that mimics the tangy, salty taste of traditional feta.
• Dakos & Koulouri: Traditional Greek snacks, including sesame rings and crusty bread with toppings.
• Dessert Speciality: Finishing your culinary journey, you’ll likely sample a Greek sweet, rounding out your meal.

Throughout the cooking, guides emphasize teamwork and creativity, allowing you to actively participate in every step. Several reviewers highlight the calm, patient instruction that helps even novice cooks succeed—one describes the instructor as attentive and clear, making the process less intimidating.

The Flavors & Quality

Many reviews praise the flavorfulness of the dishes, noting that the dishes prepared are “delicious,” “full of flavor,” and “abundantly serving.” The inclusion of wine, beer, ouzo, and soft drinks adds a convivial touch, making the meal more than just about cooking—it’s about sharing a joyful experience.

Learning & Recreating at Home

Once all dishes are cooked and enjoyed together, you receive a digital recipe book. This feature is especially appreciated, as it means you can replicate authentic Greek flavors long after your trip ends. One reviewer notes, “We loved that we ate everything we cooked and worked in teams,” highlighting how the hands-on approach made the experience more memorable.

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The Social Element

The reviews reflect a genuine sense of camaraderie, describing the class as “fun,” “educational,” and “like cooking with friends.” Many mention the friendly atmosphere created by guides like Alexandra and Mirka, who foster a sense of comfort and encourage participation. For solo travelers, this can be a wonderful way to meet like-minded people, sharing stories over a meal.

Practical Details & Considerations

• Duration: About 3.5 hours, making it a substantial but manageable activity.
• Price: $89, which offers good value considering the meal, drinks, recipes, and the personalized experience.
• Group size: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Location & Meeting Point: SOYBIRD on Veikou 77, near the Acropolis, easy to find with Google maps.
• Availability: Check the schedule for starting times, as they vary.
• What to Bring: Comfortable clothes suitable for cooking.
• Age Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 8 years.

Who Will Love This?

This experience is ideal for foodies who want an authentic taste of Greece, vegans and vegetarians seeking plant-based options, and travelers who enjoy interactive activities away from tourist traps. It’s also perfect if you appreciate a convivial atmosphere, quality ingredients, and learning practical skills to take home.

At $89, this cooking class provides more than just a meal—it’s a culture. You get hands-on preparation, guided instruction, drinks, and a recipe collection to keep the flavors alive. The small-group setup means everyone gets to participate, ask questions, and enjoy the results together. Many reviews emphasize the deliciousness of the dishes and the friendly, attentive guidance—factors that elevate it beyond a simple cooking lesson.

If you’re after a fun, authentic, and educational activity during your time in Athens, this class hits the sweet spot. It’s perfect for those who love good food and want to learn new skills in a relaxed environment. The focus on Greek cuisine—traditionally vegan-friendly—adds a modern, healthy twist that appeals to a broad range of travelers.

While it’s not a sightseeing tour, this culinary experience offers a different lens into Greek culture—through its flavors, ingredients, and convivial spirit. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy a home-cooked Greek feast with new friends and local guides makes it a memorable highlight of any trip.

Is the class suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, the class is vegan-friendly and includes dishes like almond feta, showing a focus on plant-based Greek cuisine.

How long does the class last?
Approximately 3.5 hours, which includes cooking, eating, and socializing.

What drinks are included?
Water, soft drinks, white wine, beer, and ouzo are included in the experience.

Do I need to bring anything?
Just comfortable clothes suitable for cooking. All ingredients and equipment are provided.

Can I participate if I don’t know how to cook?
Absolutely. The guides are patient and clear, making it suitable even for beginners.

Is there a minimum group size?
Classes take place with groups of 5 or more. Private lessons are available upon request, but cost varies with group size.

Where is the meeting point?
SOYBIRD on Veikou 77, near the Acropolis. Enter “SOYBIRD” in Google Maps for exact directions.

What dishes will I learn to make?
A variety of traditional Greek dishes, including moussaka, spanakopita, tzatziki, fava, almond feta, and desserts.

Will I get a recipe to take home?
Yes, a digital recipe book is provided so you can recreate the dishes later.

Is this activity suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 8 years old.

In summary, this Athens cooking class offers a delightful, authentic introduction to Greek cuisine, especially appealing for food lovers, vegans, and those eager to learn practical skills. With friendly guides, a warm setting, and flavorful dishes, it promises a memorable and tasty adventure in the heart of Athens.

You can check availability for your dates here: