The Aegean Cooking Class

Traveling to Santorini isn’t just about jaw-dropping views and stunning sunsets—it’s also about savoring its incredible food. The Ftelos Cooking Workshop offers a chance to learn how to prepare authentic Cycladic dishes, turning your trip into a culinary adventure you can recreate at home. This review covers everything you need to know about this highly-rated experience, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your Santorini itinerary.

We’re drawn to this class because it combines hands-on cooking with local ingredients, a relaxed atmosphere in a stylish setting, and the opportunity to enjoy your own creations with a glass of craft beer. The small group size promises a personalized touch, and reviews rave about the welcoming staff and delicious food.

One thing to keep in mind is that this experience is non-refundable, so it’s best to book with confidence. It’s a perfect choice for foodies, curious travelers, or anyone looking to deepen their understanding of Greek cuisine and culture. If you’re eager to leave Santorini with new skills and tasty memories, this class might just be your favorite activity.

Key Points

• Authentic Cycladic recipes taught by professional chefs in a relaxed setting.
• Small group sizes (max 10 travelers) ensure personal attention and an interactive experience.
• Includes local ingredients, craft beer, and a 4-course meal—great value for the price.
• Enjoy your meal in a modern brewery environment, combining food and drink in one spot.
• Ideal for food lovers wanting to learn new skills and discover local flavors firsthand.
• Booking in advance is recommended, with an average wait of 69 days.

An In-Depth Look at The Aegean Cooking Class

What Makes This Cooking Class Special?

Unlike typical cooking classes, this experience puts a focus on Cycladic cuisine, which is light, flavorful, and perfect for the Mediterranean climate. Led by professional chefs from Ftelos Brewery, the class is designed to be accessible for all skill levels. Reviewers share that Chef Michael and Katarina are both knowledgeable and fun, making the learning process enjoyable.

The setting is equally appealing. Depending on the weather, you’ll cook either indoors or outdoors—a flexible approach that ensures comfort and great lighting. After preparing a four-course meal, participants move to a high-end brewery area, which adds a modern, vibrant backdrop to your culinary efforts.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

For $115.24 per person, the package covers local ingredients, supplies, and equipment, which means you don’t need to worry about bringing your own tools. You also get one craft Ftelos Beer per person as a welcome drink, along with bottled water and freshly baked bread. The meal you cook includes dishes like cod croquettes, pork fillet with beer sauce, and a Greek-style salad—all designed to showcase local flavors.

The only thing not included are additional drinks beyond the one craft beer and bottled water, so if you’re a fan of wine or other beverages, you might want to bring your own or purchase extras at the brewery.

The Itinerary and Cooking Experience

The experience begins at Ftelos Brewery in the MALT Restaurant, where you’ll meet your chef and fellow participants. The small group format—limited to 10—means you’ll get plenty of personal attention and opportunities to ask questions.

You’ll move through each step of preparing a traditional Cycladic menu, guided by your chef. This hands-on process is described as relaxing, fun, and informative by past guests. Reviewers have especially loved the interactive nature of the class, with some noting that Katarina was knowledgeable and entertaining.

Once your dishes are ready, you’ll enjoy them in a high-end brewery setting, which has been praised for its modern, welcoming atmosphere. The combination of excellent food, craft beer, and good company provides a memorable end to the session.

Authenticity, Quality, and Atmosphere

Guests consistently mention the quality of the food—not just the recipes but the ingredients, which are local and fresh. The beer, brewed on-site, is considered very good, and the bread served alongside is homemade and warm.

The atmosphere is often described as top-notch, with a casual yet stylish vibe that encourages mingling and learning. Reviewers like Shelley F and Shemartin appreciated the relaxing environment and the chance to connect over food.

Practical Considerations

Booking is recommended around 69 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The experience lasts about three and a half hours, making it an ideal activity for an afternoon or early evening. Meeting point is centrally located at Ftelos Brewery, which is accessible by public transport and has parking options.

While the maximum group size is limited to 10, some reviewers noticed that classes can be quite intimate, sometimes with only three participants, enhancing the personalized feel. The experience is non-refundable, so plan accordingly.

What Past Guests Say

Reviewers frequently mention delicious food, engaging guides, and a lively atmosphere. Isabella C called it “Love it,” emphasizing the amazing staff and the opportunity to learn about Greek cuisine. Shelley F described it as “Incredible,” highlighting the fun and relaxing nature of the class.

Shemartin summed it up as “fabulous,” praising the top-notch food and beer, while Therese B appreciated the knowledgeable, friendly guides. The consistency across reviews suggests a reliable, high-quality experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience?

This cooking class is ideal for foodies, especially those wanting to get hands-on with traditional Greek recipes. The small group format and interactive approach make it suitable for travelers who enjoy learning and socializing in a relaxed environment.

It’s a fantastic choice if you want to combine culinary education with local culture—a tasty souvenir that goes beyond typical sightseeing. The modern brewery setting adds a fun twist, making it perfect for those who appreciate good food, craft beer, and a lively atmosphere.

However, if your schedule is tight or if you prefer activities with strict schedules or large groups, this might not be the best fit. But for anyone keen on authentic, personalized experiences, this class offers great value for money and plenty of memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cooking class suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to be accessible for all skill levels, whether you’re a seasoned cook or a total novice. The chef guides you through each step, making it easy to follow.

How long does the experience last?
It usually takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes, including the cooking, meal, and social time.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers local ingredients, supplies, equipment, one craft beer, bottled water, and the four-course meal you prepare.

Can I book this experience in advance?
Absolutely. Booking is recommended about 69 days ahead, as it’s quite popular.

What if I want to drink more than the included beer?
You might find that additional drinks are not included, so bringing your own or purchasing at the brewery is advisable.

Is the activity accessible for people with service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed, making it accessible for travelers with specific needs.

Final Words

The Aegean Cooking Class in Santorini offers more than just a cooking lesson—it’s a chance to connect with local flavors, learn new skills, and enjoy a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere. It’s perfect for those who love food, want a hands-on experience, and enjoy sharing moments with like-minded travelers. While it’s a non-refundable booking, the positive reviews and high ratings suggest it’s a dependable, memorable addition to any Santorini trip.

Whether you’re looking to impress friends back home with your newfound skills or simply want to indulge in authentic Cycladic cuisine, this tour delivers genuine value and a delightful taste of Santorini’s culinary soul.