Athens: Traditional Cooking Class with Drinks

If you’re planning a trip to Athens and want a taste of local life beyond the usual sightseeing, a Greek cooking class offers a perfect way to connect with the culture. This particular class, offered by SOYBIRD in the Koukaki neighborhood near the Acropolis, has earned a stellar reputation with a 4.9/5 rating from over 80 reviews. It promises not just cooking, but a genuine flavor of Greece, with an emphasis on vegan options and an engaging, hands-on experience.

What we really love about this experience is how approachable and educational it is—an ideal activity for those who want to learn authentic Greek recipes while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere. Plus, the inclusion of drinks and a digital recipe book adds excellent value. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that hotel transfers aren’t included, so you’ll need to plan how to get to Soybird’s central location.

This experience is well-suited for foodies, couples, small groups, or solo travelers eager to take home more than just photos. If you’re open to trying vegan dishes that are both healthy and flavorful, this class offers an insightful introduction to Greek culinary traditions in a modern setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Greek recipes like moussaka, spanakopita, and almond feta are prepared in a friendly, small-group environment.
• Vegan-friendly options make this a healthy, inclusive choice for many dietary preferences.
• Experienced guides lead the class, with praise for their knowledge, patience, and engaging teaching style.
• The location near the Acropolis offers a convenient, central Athens setting.
• Drinks included—wine, beer, ouzo, water—add to the convivial atmosphere.
• The digital recipe book allows you to recreate these dishes at home, extending the experience beyond Athens.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Arriving at SOYBIRD: Starting Point and First Impressions

Located at Veikou 77, on the ground floor on the far right of the building, SOYBIRD is easy to find if you use Google Maps. The spot is close enough to the Acropolis to make it a convenient add-on after sightseeing. The interior, as described by reviewers, is a modern and inviting space—designed with creativity and comfort in mind. This aesthetic sets the tone for a fun, relaxed culinary session.

What the Class Entails

Each session lasts around 3.5 hours, though the exact start time varies, so check your booking. The class size is capped at 10 people, ensuring everyone gets hands-on participation and personal attention. This small-group format is a highlight, as it fosters camaraderie and makes it easier for the instructor to offer tailored guidance.

The course includes a variety of classic Greek dishes—from savory staples to delicious desserts. You’ll learn to prepare Moussaka with Cashew Bechamel, a vegan twist on a Greek favorite, as well as Spanakopita (spinach pie), Tzatziki, Fava (yellow hummus), and Almond Feta—a vegan cheese that surprises many with its flavor and texture. You’ll also craft Dakos (Cretan barley rusk salad), Koulouri (sesame rings), Ekmek (bread), and a dessert specialty.

The Cooking Process

Divided into two teams, you’ll work together to prepare each dish step-by-step. Multiple reviews highlight how much fun this teamwork adds: “A lot of fun with help and instructions while we cooked and of course, a little wine,” noted one reviewer. The instructor is described as attentive, patient, and knowledgeable, guiding you through each stage with calm explanations.

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Tasting and Socializing

Once the dishes are ready, everyone sits down to enjoy the fruits of their labor. The included drinks—water, white wine, beer, and ouzo—are available throughout, fostering a lively, convivial atmosphere. Participants often comment on how generous the portions are, leaving full and satisfied.

Learning and Leaving with Recipes

The class doesn’t just end at eating. You receive a digital recipe book, so you’ll leave equipped to recreate these dishes at home, even long after your trip. This aspect is especially valued among reviews, with many saying it enhances the overall value of the experience.

The Value Proposition

At $89 per person, this class offers an excellent balance of interactive learning, authentic recipes, and social fun. Considering the included drinks, the full meal, and the personalized attention, many travelers find it to be a good deal—a memorable, edible souvenir from Athens.

Authenticity, Comfort, and Cultural Insights

What makes this class special is its focus on Greek cuisine’s diversity and health-conscious approach, emphasizing vegan options without sacrificing flavor. One review highlights a teacher who is both passionate and knowledgeable about making Greek food “more Earth-friendly,” which adds a thoughtful layer to the experience.

The setting, in a modern studio away from tourist traps, offers a comfortable environment to learn and ask questions. The proximity to key Athens sights makes it easy to include this activity in your itinerary, especially if you’re already exploring the Koukaki neighborhood.

Group Dynamics and Personal Experience

Guests often mention how welcoming and friendly the atmosphere is. The instructor is praised for her clarity and patience, making even novice cooks feel confident. Several reviews describe the experience as “like cooking with friends,” which is exactly the vibe you want when trying to learn new dishes abroad.

Criticisms and Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, some mention that private lessons are available but depend on group size and cost. Also, since hotel transfers aren’t included, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation, which might be a small inconvenience depending on your accommodation location.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cooking class is perfect for food lovers seeking an authentic introduction to Greek cuisine. It suits those who appreciate hands-on participation, small-group settings, and vegan-friendly options. Families with older children (over 8) will find it engaging, especially if they’re curious about healthy, plant-based dishes.

If you want a fun, social activity that ends with a delicious meal and lasting recipes, this class checks all the boxes. It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer learning about local food traditions in a modern, stylish environment rather than a traditional or overly touristy setting.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
This class is not suitable for children under 8, but older children and teenagers interested in cooking will likely enjoy it.

Are drinks included?
Yes, water, white wine, beer, and ouzo are included, creating a lively, relaxed atmosphere.

How long does the class last?
The experience lasts approximately 3.5 hours, with starting times subject to availability.

Do I need to bring anything?
Just wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting a little flour or oil on.

Is transportation included?
No, hotel transfers are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own route to SOYBIRD’s location.

Can I book a private lesson?
Yes, private lessons are available upon request, with the cost depending on group size.

Will I get the recipes?
Absolutely. You’ll receive a digital recipe book to help you recreate Greek dishes back home.

The Sum Up

This Greek cooking class in Athens offers a genuine, hands-on way to explore local flavors in a friendly, modern setting. It’s a particularly good choice for those who want an authentic experience that includes learning, socializing, and tasting, all at a reasonable price. The focus on vegan options makes it accessible and inclusive, while the drinks and warm atmosphere keep the mood light and fun.

Ideal for foodies, small groups, or solo travelers eager to take home new skills, this class turns a typical sightseeing day into a memorable culinary adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, you’ll leave with new recipes, happy memories, and perhaps a new appreciation for Greek cuisine.

If you’re looking for an activity that combines learning, local culture, and delicious food, this class checks all the boxes—and then some.

You can check availability for your dates here: