Athens: Traditional Cooking Class with Drinks

If you’re heading to Athens and love the idea of rolling up your sleeves to make your own Greek feast, this Traditional Cooking Class with Drinks at SOYBIRD could be just what you need. With a solid 4.9 out of 5 from over 80 reviews, it’s clear this experience strikes a chord with most participants. But beyond the high ratings, what makes this class stand out?

We particularly like the fact that it offers vegan options, making it inclusive for plant-based eaters. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the digital recipe book means you can recreate the magic at home. One thing to keep in mind is that hotel transfers are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation. This experience is perfect for those who want to get a real taste of Greek cuisine in a friendly, relaxed setting—whether you’re a foodie, a couple, or a small group of friends.

Good To Know

• Vegan-friendly options make this cooking class accessible to a variety of diets
• Hands-on participation ensures you learn practical skills, not just watch a demo
• Small group setting creates a more intimate and engaging experience
• Includes drinks and a full meal, adding great value for the price
• Digital recipe book offers a lasting souvenir and at-home cooking inspiration
• Located near the Acropolis, you enjoy a convenient central Athens spot

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Introduction to the Experience

This cooking class in Athens is all about sharing the flavors and traditions of Greek cuisine in a fun, approachable way. Set in the modern SOYBIRD studio in the Koukaki neighborhood, close to the iconic Acropolis, it offers a relaxed environment where you’ll cook alongside fellow travelers or locals. The focus is on healthy, vegan, and authentic dishes, making it a delightful option for those seeking plant-based options without sacrificing flavor.

What we find particularly appealing is the hands-on approach — you don’t just watch someone cook; you actively participate in preparing the dishes. The small group size (max 10 people) ensures everyone gets enough attention from the chef, and there’s plenty of room for questions and interaction. Plus, the inclusion of drinks like white wine, beer, ouzo, water, and soft drinks keeps everyone refreshed throughout the experience.

A potential consideration is that transfers aren’t included, so you’ll want to plan your route to SOYBIRD in advance. The studio is on the ground floor on the far right of the building, easy to find with Google Maps. But assuming you’re in central Athens, getting there is straightforward.

This experience is ideal for food lovers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to learn how to cook traditional Greek dishes like moussaka, spanakopita, and almond feta — vegan-style, of course. The overall vibe is warm, informative, and packed with practical tips, making it an excellent value for the price.

What’s on the Menu?

The class covers a variety of classic Greek dishes, all prepared step-by-step in two teams. The menu includes:

• Moussaka with Cashew Bechamel: a vegan twist on the beloved casserole, rich and comforting
• Tzatziki: cucumber-yogurt dip (made vegan with plant-based alternatives)
• Spanakopita: spinach pie, flaky and savory
• Fava: yellow Greek hummus, smooth and flavorful
• Almond Feta: a standout vegan cheese, surprisingly similar to the real thing
• Dakos: Greek-style bruschetta with tomatoes and herbs
• Koulouri: sesame rings, a popular street snack
• Ekmek: a traditional dessert, sweet and satisfying

This variety ensures you get a broad experience of Greek tastes, textures, and colors. As one reviewer mentioned, “after cooking, you will have a great Greek feast,” and there’s no shortage of flavors to enjoy.

The Cooking Experience

Once you arrive, you’ll receive a warm welcome and a brief introduction to the class. The chef, whose reviews praise her for her clarity and patience, guides you through each step. Participants are split into two groups, encouraging teamwork and interaction.

We loved the way the chef explained the vegan substitutions, making the dishes accessible for all diets. Reviewers like Wanda and Paula Lucia appreciated the attentiveness and warmth of the instructors, along with the clear instructions. The atmosphere is lively but relaxed, and many mention how much fun they had “cooking with friends” in a friendly environment.

As you chop, stir, and season, you’ll learn tips and tricks that make Greek cooking approachable. The use of fresh ingredients and simple techniques highlights the essence of Greek cuisine—simple, flavorful, and healthy.

The class lasts about 3.5 hours, which includes cooking, eating, and socializing. With drinks included, you’ll be encouraged to relax and savor your creations. Many reviews note the quality of the wine and drinks, which complement the dishes perfectly.

The Meal and Cultural Touches

Once the cooking is done, everyone sits down together for a feast of the dishes prepared. This communal dining experience is a highlight for many, fostering a sense of camaraderie. Participants rave about the generous portions, and the fact that they get to taste everything they cooked.

The digital recipe book, provided after the class, is a thoughtful bonus. It allows you to recreate these dishes back home, which many reviewers say they’ve already started doing. One guest mentioned that the recipes are both easy to follow and delicious, making the effort worthwhile long after the class ends.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Practical Details and Value

At $89 per person, this cooking class offers excellent value. For that price, you get a full meal, drinks, a hands-on experience, and a recipe book—a package that beats many typical sightseeing tours. Plus, the small group setting and skilled guidance ensure you leave with more than just a few recipes; you gain a deeper appreciation for Greek culinary traditions.

Outdoor transportation isn’t included, but the location near the Acropolis makes it easy to reach if you’re exploring central Athens. Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you peace of mind to plan your trip.

The class operates from a group of five participants, but private lessons are available upon request, with prices varying based on group size. The instructor’s multilingual skills (English and Greek) make communication straightforward, and many reviews praise her for her knowledge, patience, and passion.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This class suits foodies eager to learn authentic Greek recipes, especially those interested in vegan cuisine. It’s also perfect for small groups wanting a fun, interactive activity that combines cooking, culture, and socializing. Travelers who enjoy hands-on experiences and want to take home a tangible skill will find this particularly valuable.

Couples, friends, or solo travelers wanting to meet like-minded people will appreciate the intimate vibe. The focus on healthy, vegan, and delicious dishes makes it appealing for those with dietary restrictions or simply looking for wholesome, flavorful meals.

The Sum Up

This Athens cooking class at SOYBIRD offers more than just a meal — it’s a chance to get closer to Greek culinary traditions in a relaxed, friendly environment. The emphasis on vegan options, small group participation, and comprehensive recipes makes it stand out as a worthwhile activity.

The high praise from past guests about the knowledgeable guides, delicious food, and convivial atmosphere suggests it’s a reliable choice for travelers eager to explore Greece’s flavors authentically. If you’re looking for an engaging, tasty experience that leaves you with new skills and stories to tell, this class might be just perfect.

Whether you’re a vegetarian, a curious foodie, or a culture lover, this experience promises a flavorful, fun, and memorable slice of Athens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cooking class suitable for vegans?
Yes, the class is vegan-friendly, and many dishes are prepared with vegan ingredients, including the famous almond feta.

How long does the class last?
It lasts approximately 3.5 hours, covering cooking, eating, and socializing.

Are drinks included?
Yes, water, soft drinks, one glass of wine or beer, and ouzo are included in the price.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation provided?
No, transfers are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to SOYBIRD, located near the Acropolis.

Can I book a private lesson?
Private lessons are available on request, with pricing depending on group size.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes are recommended since you’ll be actively involved in cooking.

This cooking class in Athens makes for a delightful way to connect with Greek culture through its food, all within a friendly, engaging setting. It’s a must-try for those who crave authentic flavors, a hands-on approach, and a good dose of fun in the heart of Greece’s historic capital.

You can check if your dates are available here: