Stepping into the world of Santorini’s culinary scene doesn’t have to mean just tasting the local dishes—it can also mean learning how to make them yourself. For those who love food, wine, and a bit of hands-on fun, the Ftelos Brewery cooking class offers an engaging 3-hour experience. Held just outside of Fira, this tour costs around $113 per person and is limited to small groups, ensuring plenty of personal attention from the chef.
What makes this experience stand out? First, you get to cook a 4-course Cycladic and Mediterranean menu alongside a professional chef, giving you practical skills to recreate these dishes at home. Second, after all that chopping and stirring, you get to feast on the meal you’ve prepared, paired with a craft beer brewed right on-site. Plus, you’re free to explore the brewery on your own, which adds an extra layer of interest for craft beer enthusiasts.
A potential consideration? The activity requires participation at all stages, so it’s not suited for those who prefer passive sightseeing. Also, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to reach the brewery—easy enough from Fira, with free parking available. This class is perfect for foodies, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a memorable, authentic taste of Santorini’s culinary culture.
Key Points
- Hands-on cooking: Learn to prepare a four-course meal with professional guidance.
- Local flavors: Focus on Cycladic and Mediterranean dishes, like Santorini salad and cod croquettes.
- Brewery tour: Explore a modern brewery with the chance to buy craft beer.
- Full meal experience: Enjoy your freshly cooked dishes paired with local craft beer.
- Small group setting: Ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Convenient location: Easily accessible from Fira with free parking.
A Deep Dive into the Experience
What to Expect from the Tour
This Santorini cooking class isn’t your typical demonstration — it’s a full participatory experience. You’ll start by gathering in a cozy indoor space overlooking the brewery’s beer production area or, depending on the weather, outside on a shaded wooden patio among century-old vineyards. The setting is charming and rustic, blending modern facilities with classic Greek scenery—perfect for inspiring culinary creativity.
Your host, often a knowledgeable chef like Katerina or Mike, will guide you through each step of creating four classic dishes:
– A fresh Cycladic salad, featuring cherry tomatoes, capers, and caper leaves
– Crispy cod croquettes in beer batter, showcasing local seafood
– A flavorful split-pea dip, seasoned with dry onion
– A tender pork fillet cooked with Malt n Marvel Stout and a rosemary-mustard sauce
Throughout the class, you’ll learn not just the “how,” but the “why” behind each ingredient and technique, adding depth to your cooking skills. The emphasis is on practical knowledge—these recipes are designed to be easily recreated at home.
The Brewery and Its Surroundings
Post-cooking, you’ll sit down inside the brewery—an industrial-style space that’s surprisingly welcoming. It’s a great chance to see the brewery’s state-of-the-art equipment, understand the craft brewing process, and perhaps chat with staff about their beer-making philosophy.
One aspect many reviews highlight is the extra free time to explore on your own. You can browse the brewery’s shop, where a selection of locally brewed craft beers is available for purchase. Many guests have found this to be a real bonus, especially when they want to bring a taste of Santorini home.
The Value of the Experience
At $113, this class offers more than just a meal—it’s an immersive cultural activity. You walk away with handwritten recipes and new culinary skills, plus the taste of a freshly cooked, beautifully presented full-course meal paired with local craft beer. Several reviewers mention that the experience exceeded their expectations—“the best experience and I recommend everyone do this activity if you’re in the area,” one enthusiastic traveler notes.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Will Love This
This tour appeals mostly to food lovers, wine and beer enthusiasts, and travelers who enjoy hands-on experiences. It’s ideal for those who want to connect more deeply with Greek culture through its cuisine and beverages. If you’re traveling with a partner or small group, you’ll appreciate the intimate setting and personal attention.
Things to Keep in Mind
Remember, this is a participatory experience—you’ll need comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for cooking. Also, transportation isn’t included; you can reach the brewery easily by foot or taxi. The class is conducted in English, making it accessible for international visitors, and is wheelchair accessible.
Why This Experience Stands Out
Unlike many other cooking classes that focus on traditional or touristy recipes, this tour emphasizes modern Cycladic cuisine, drawing on local ingredients and contemporary techniques. The emphasis on pairing dishes with craft beer adds a unique twist, especially for beer lovers. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the hands-on approach means everyone gets plenty of practice.
Reviewers consistently mention the knowledgeable guides and the delicious food as highlights. Many are impressed with the chef’s friendliness and humor, which makes the class both educational and entertaining. Seeing the inner workings of Ftelos Brewery also adds an extra dimension to the day, especially if you’re interested in local brewing.
The Sum Up
If you’re seeking an authentic taste of Santorini that combines culinary learning, culture, and a bit of fun, this cooking class at Ftelos Brewery is a fantastic choice. It offers a rare chance to learn local recipes directly from a chef, then enjoy the fruits of your labor paired with craft beer brewed on-site. The intimate setting, friendly guides, and delicious dishes make it well worth the price.
This experience is perfect for foodies, curious travelers, or couples wanting a memorable activity that’s both educational and delicious. It’s especially ideal if you enjoy hands-on experiences and want to take home more than just a postcard from Greece—you’ll have recipes and new skills to impress friends back home.
FAQ
Is transportation to the brewery included?
No, transportation isn’t included. You can reach the brewery easily by foot, taxi, or car from Fira. There’s free parking available if you’re driving.
How long does the class last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, with starting times available depending on the day.
What is the group size?
The workshop is limited to small groups of up to 10 participants, making it a personalized experience.
Is the activity suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, casual clothes, and a T-shirt are recommended. A passport or ID is also advised, but a copy suffices.
Are food and drinks included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a full meal paired with one craft beer and bottled water. Extra food and drinks aren’t included, and no additional alcohol is allowed during the class.
Can I buy the craft beer?
Yes, you are free to explore the brewery afterwards and purchase craft beer to take home.
Do I get a recipe to take home?
Absolutely. You’ll receive written recipes for all four dishes.
Is the class conducted in English?
Yes, the instruction is in English.
What makes this experience stand out?
Its hands-on approach, partnership with a local brewery, and focus on modern Cycladic cuisine make it a memorable activity for food lovers wanting an authentic, engaging experience.
Would you recommend this?
Definitely. It’s a wonderful way to connect with Greek culture, learn new skills, and enjoy a delicious meal in a relaxed setting.