The Aegean Cooking Class

Thinking about adding a uniquely flavorful experience to your Santorini trip? The Aegean Cooking Class offered by Ftelos Brewery might just be what you’re looking for. It’s not your typical sightseeing tour; it’s a chance to roll up your sleeves, learn some of the island’s best-kept culinary secrets, and enjoy a hearty meal with fellow food lovers.

What caught our eye about this experience? First, the small group setting ensures a cozy, interactive vibe—you won’t feel lost in a crowd. Second, the combination of cooking, tasting, and relaxed socializing makes it a well-rounded and memorable way to spend part of your day. That said, one thing to consider is that it’s a non-refundable booking, so it requires a bit of commitment upfront. This tour suits anyone curious about Greek cuisine, especially those who appreciate good company and hands-on experiences.

Key Points

• Hands-on cooking experience with professional chefs
• Tasty 4-course meal featuring Cycladic dishes
• Includes local ingredients, craft beer, and homemade bread
• Small group size (max 10 travelers) for personalized attention
• Post-cooking experience at a high-end brewery setting
• Non-refundable booking — plan accordingly

What is the Aegean Cooking Class?

This experience isn’t just about learning recipes; it’s about enjoying Santorini’s culinary soul. Starting at Ftelos Brewery’s MALT Restaurant, you meet a professional chef who guides you through preparing a traditional four-course meal featuring local ingredients. The menu includes dishes like pork fillet with malt stout sauce, cod croquettes, and a Santorini split-pea dip, ending with a satisfying meal you’ve crafted yourself.

The class lasts about 3.5 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy each step without feeling rushed. The setting is a mix of indoor and outdoor spaces, depending on the weather, which adds a relaxed, authentic vibe. After cooking, you get to sit down in a special high-end brewery area to savor the food you made, paired with a craft beer welcome drink and mineral water.

Learning and Tasting: The Culinary Journey

Throughout the session, the focus is on interactive learning. You’ll be working closely with a chef, gaining knowledge about local produce and traditional techniques. As one reviewer put it, the class is “relaxing, fun, and informative,” making it ideal whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out.

The ingredients are local, which is part of what makes this experience stand out. You’ll get to understand how Santorini’s fresh produce and flavors come together in each dish. Plus, the inclusion of homemade bread and a variety of beverages—not just wine, but craft beer—adds an extra layer of enjoyment. For many, this kind of hands-on, multi-sensory activity is a highlight of their trip.

The Brewery and Post-Cooking Atmosphere

One of the best parts is finishing your meal in the brewery itself. The industrial, high-end setting makes it feel special and modern, providing a nice contrast to the rustic charm of the cooking part. You’re not just eating; you’re experiencing a culinary culture in a space that feels both exclusive and welcoming.

Reviewers consistently highlight the friendly staff and knowledgeable chefs, like Katarina, who make the experience both educational and fun. The relaxed atmosphere encourages conversation and a shared appreciation of Greek cuisine. As one guest mentioned, “Chef Michael and the staff were fantastic,” emphasizing the quality of the hospitality.

Is it Worth the Price?

At around $115 per person, this might seem like a splurge for a short class. But considering the all-inclusive nature—local ingredients, a four-course meal, a craft beer, and a memorable experience—the value becomes clearer. It’s a chance to learn, taste, and take home new skills and recipes, which can be a meaningful souvenir long after your trip ends.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy interactive activities. If you’re curious about Greek food or want a break from typical sightseeing, it offers a genuine peek into local culinary traditions. It’s also great for small groups looking for a personalized, relaxed environment.

While it’s not specifically designed as a family activity, anyone with a genuine interest in cooking and good food will find it rewarding. Be prepared for a small group setting (maximum 10 travelers), which enhances the intimacy but also means you should book in advance.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Check-In

You’ll meet at the Ftelos Brewery’s MALT Restaurant in Karterados, easily accessible and near public transportation options. The check-in process is straightforward, with confirmation received at booking, and the activity is designed for up to 10 guests, ensuring plenty of personal interaction.

The Cooking Session

Once you’re inside, the chef introduces the ingredients and shares stories behind each dish. You’ll get to learn how to prepare each course, from chopping and mixing to plating. The recipes are described as easy to execute, making them accessible whether you’re a beginner or more experienced in the kitchen.

Expect to prepare dishes like pork fillet with mustard-rosemary sauce, cod croquettes, and a Santorini split-pea dip. The ingredients are fresh, and the supplies are included, so all you need to do is focus on learning and enjoying yourself.

The Meal and Brewery Setting

After cooking, the fun continues as you sit down with your group to indulge in the meal you’ve made. The setting is a modern brewery, offering a comfortable space to relax and chat. You’ll enjoy one craft beer as a welcome, with additional beverages available—though other drinks are not included.

Guests rave about the delicious food, the quality of the beer, and the atmosphere, which really feels like a local hideaway rather than a tourist trap.

Reviews and Feedback

Multiple reviews highlight how “fantastic” and “wonderful” the experience is. One guest shared, “Chef Michael and the staff at Ftelos were fantastic!” They also appreciated the top-notch atmosphere and the fact that the food was “delicious” and the beer “very good.”

Others mention the small group size as a plus, making the experience intimate and personalized. Several reviewers noted how knowledgeable and fun Katarina and other staff members are, contributing significantly to the positive vibe.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: Roughly 3.5 hours, enough to enjoy each step without feeling rushed.
• Price: $115.24 per person, offering a full culinary experience with food and drinks included.
• Meeting Point: Ftelos Brewery in Karterados.
• Booking: Usually booked about 69 days in advance; plan early to secure a spot.
• Availability: Confirmed upon booking, with no refunds, so be sure of your plans.
• Group Size: Max 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized and engaging experience.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

If you’re someone who loves discovering new recipes and wants to bring a taste of Santorini home, this cooking class is a smart choice. It’s especially good for those who enjoy interactive, small-group activities where they can ask questions and get personalized attention. The chef-led instructions combined with the relaxed brewery setting create an inviting environment that’s about more than just cooking—it’s about sharing and experiencing Greek culture.

While it isn’t a traditional sightseeing tour, it offers a valuable inside look at local ingredients, techniques, and flavors. The inclusion of a hearty meal and craft beer makes the price feel justified for many, providing a well-rounded and tasty souvenir of your trip.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy culinary adventures, social settings, and learning new skills. If you’re looking for a fun, authentic activity that balances education with entertainment, the Aegean Cooking Class at Ftelos Brewery is definitely worth considering.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians?
The menu includes meat dishes like pork fillet and cod croquettes, so it might not be ideal for vegetarians unless special arrangements are made beforehand.

How long does the class last?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours and 30 minutes, including cooking, dining, and socializing.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers local ingredients, supplies, equipment, one craft beer per person as a welcome, fresh homemade bread, and mineral water. Additional drinks are not included.

Can I book last minute?
It’s best to book well in advance (average 69 days ahead) since the class is small and popular; last-minute availability might be limited.

Is the experience family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as a family activity, it may suit older children or teens interested in cooking, but check with the provider if unsure.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothes suitable for cooking and possibly getting a little messy.

Is there parking available?
Yes, parking options are available near Ftelos Brewery, making it convenient to access.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The class can be held indoors or outdoors depending on weather conditions, so it’s flexible and still enjoyable regardless of rain or shine.

In the end, the Aegean Cooking Class provides a relaxed, engaging way to connect with Santorini’s culinary culture, perfect for foodies and curious travelers alike. It’s a chance to learn, taste, and share stories—making your trip even more memorable.