Gjirokastër: Traditional Albanian Vegetarian Cooking Class

If you’re seeking an immersive and delicious way to connect with Albanian culture, a vegetarian cooking class in Gjirokastër offers just that. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews highlight its engaging nature, genuine local atmosphere, and mouthwatering dishes. It’s perfect for food lovers, culture enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a hands-on experience that goes beyond just sightseeing.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to learn how to prepare authentic Albanian vegetarian dishes in a cozy setting. Second, the warm and friendly guidance from locals like Marjeta, who makes cooking feel like visiting a friend’s house. Third, the opportunity to pair your meal with local homemade wine or raki, making the experience even more memorable. The only caveat could be the limited availability of starting times, so planning ahead is advised.

This cooking class suits travelers who enjoy culinary adventures, want to gain skills they can replicate at home, or simply love tasting local flavors in an authentic environment. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate small-group experiences, personalized attention, and cultural storytelling alongside their meal.

Good To Know

• Authentic Albanian vegetarian dishes crafted under the guidance of local hosts
• Small groups ensure a personal and engaging experience
• Enjoy a local homemade wine or raki to complement your meal
• Recipes and cooking tips to recreate the dishes at home
• The tour takes place in historic neighborhoods, adding charm to the experience
• Ideal for food lovers, culture seekers, and cooking enthusiasts

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Gjirokastër Cooking Class Experience

The journey begins at Cerciz Topulli square, a lively hub in Gjirokastër, where your guide will greet you and lead you into one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, Pazar i Vjeter. The walk itself offers a glimpse of local life, with narrow alleys and stone houses setting an authentic scene. As you arrive at Marjeta’s home or workshop, the atmosphere shifts to warm and welcoming, echoing the hospitality of a family gathering.

Starting with a Toast: Raki or Soft Drinks

The class kicks off with a glass of raki or soft drink, a simple yet effective way to ease into the experience. The convivial vibe immediately makes you feel like a local chef, sharing stories over drinks. This small gesture also sets the stage for a relaxed, communal cooking session.

The Menu: Traditional Dishes You’ll Learn to Make

The chef, Marjeta, guides you through preparing three key vegetarian dishes—each with its own story and regional significance.

Qifqi: This dish is unique to Gjirokastër and involves rice mixed with herbs and sometimes yogurt, shaped into small balls or patties. It’s a local specialty that’s often served as a snack or appetizer.

Hasude: A delightful dessert made from simple ingredients but packed with flavor, typically involving a batter or dough that’s cooked and sweetened, offering a perfect end to your meal.

Qofte bobollaqe: A savory yogurt-based dish, different from the familiar meatballs, highlighting Albania’s inventive vegetarian fare. The dish’s ingredients mainly include yogurt and seasonings, offering a creamy, tangy option that pairs beautifully with the salad prepared beforehand.

All dishes are accompanied by a seasonal salad prepared by Marjeta, which adds freshness and balance to the meal. These dishes are designed to be straightforward enough to replicate at home but are packed with authentic flavors you won’t find in typical restaurants.

The Cooking Process: Learning from a Local

Under Marjeta’s watchful eye, you’ll chop, mix, and shape ingredients, absorbing tips and tricks that make Albanian cuisine so memorable. Reviewers praise the patience and clarity of guides like Marjeta and her translator, Klarisa, who make the process accessible even to beginners.

One guest remarked, “Klarisa was great and super nice, patiently explaining all the ingredients, steps, and jokes,” emphasizing how the experience feels like cooking with friends. Another reviewer highlighted how well-organized everything was, allowing ample time to focus on learning and enjoying.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Savoring the Meal

After the cooking, everyone sits down together at a communal table. You’ll enjoy tasting your creations, paired with a complimentary glass of wine, raki, or soft drink. The relaxed environment encourages conversation, sharing impressions of the dishes, and soaking in the local ambiance. Many reviewers mention that sitting together and eating the food you just made brings a satisfying sense of achievement and connection.

Julia called it a “feel-good experience, just like cooking with local friends,” while Colin appreciated taking away “good ideas for Albanian food” after the meal.

Recipes to Recreate at Home

Before departing, you’ll receive detailed recipes for each dish. This means you can attempt to recreate the flavors back home, keeping the culinary memories alive long after your trip.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are all ingredients, kitchen facilities, aprons, the full meal, beverages including local homemade wine or raki, and recipe cards. The focus on local, fresh ingredients ensures a genuine taste, while the small group size (limited to 10 participants) guarantees personalized attention.

Not included are personal expenses beyond the class, so souvenirs or additional drinks are on you.

The Logistics: Timing and Practicalities

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, with starting times varying by day and availability—so checking ahead is recommended. The meeting point is in Cerciz Topulli square, a central location easily accessible on foot or by local transport.

Participants rave about the professional yet friendly guides like Marjeta and Klarisa, who make the experience both educational and entertaining. The small group size ensures a more intimate atmosphere, where questions and interactions are encouraged.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This experience isn’t just about cooking; it’s about understanding Albanian culture through its food, history, and people. The fact that you learn recipes that are uniquely local makes it valuable for future recreations at home, especially for those who enjoy culinary projects.

For travelers who appreciate authentic experiences, the chance to explore old neighborhoods while learning to cook traditional dishes elevates the tour beyond a simple class. It’s about capturing a sense of place through its flavors and stories.

The Sum Up

This Gjirokastër vegetarian cooking class offers a wonderful blend of culture, cuisine, and connection. The knowledgeable guides and friendly environment make it accessible whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious beginner. The dishes you learn are authentic, flavorful, and designed to be replicated later, providing lasting value.

Ideal for food lovers, culture seekers, or anyone wanting a memorable hands-on experience, it’s a chance to enjoy Albanian hospitality while gaining practical skills. The inclusion of local wine or raki adds to the convivial spirit, making each session feel like a gathering among friends.

If you’re looking for a genuine, well-organized, and tasty way to spend a few hours in Gjirokastër, this cooking class ticks all the boxes. Just remember to book ahead—these small-group experiences tend to fill quickly, especially during peak seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the menu is entirely vegetarian, focusing on dishes like Qifqi, Hasude, and yogurt-based Qofte, with no meat involved.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is offered in both Albanian and English, with guides like Klarisa ensuring smooth communication.

How long does the cooking class last?
The class lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including preparation, cooking, and enjoying the meal.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Cerciz Topulli square and concludes back at the same meeting point.

Are drinks included?
Yes, each guest receives a complimentary glass of wine, raki, or soft drink to enjoy with the meal.

What should I wear?
Aprons and kitchen facilities are provided, so just wear comfortable clothes suitable for cooking.

Can I get a copy of the recipes?
Absolutely. You will receive detailed recipes for all the dishes prepared during the class.

Is there a minimum group size?
The experience is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended as availability varies, and small groups fill up quickly.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

This cooking class in Gjirokastër offers more than just a meal — it’s a chance to connect with Albanian traditions, learn new skills, and enjoy authentic flavors in a warm, inviting setting. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just love trying new things, this experience is sure to leave you with tasty memories and new friends.

You can check if your dates are available here: