11 Course Lunch with Cooking Mastery and Wine Tasting in Rhodes

Introducing a Taste of Rhodes: An 11-Course Lunch, Wine Tasting, and Cooking Experience
This Rhodes experience offers a delightful combination of culinary mastery, authentic Greek wines, and local storytelling. The tour is based at a well-regarded winery in the picturesque landscape of Rhodes, where a friendly family welcomes you to explore their vineyard and distillery. It’s not just about tasting wines but also about understanding their origins and the land’s influence on local flavors.

Two things stand out: First, the hands-on cooking lesson with a seasoned chef focused on traditional Rhodesian dishes—making it both fun and educational. Second, the unlimited wine flow paired with the region’s most beloved dishes makes this a surprisingly good value at just over $80 per person.

One consideration? The tour has a set duration of about four hours, which is quite packed, so if you prefer slow-paced experiences or want to explore more of Rhodes at your leisure, this might feel intense. Also, the weather can influence the experience, so a clear day is best for fully enjoying the vineyard and outdoor elements.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Family-Run Winery: You’ll meet the owner, who shares stories about the vineyard’s legacy, offering a genuine slice of Greek hospitality.
• Expert-Led Wine Tasting: Explore local grape varieties and vinification techniques, with plenty of tasting opportunities of exquisite regional wines.
• Interactive Cooking Class: Get your hands (or at least your eyes) busy learning to cook popular Rhodesian dishes under guidance, with a focus on local flavors.
• Grand Feast of 11 Dishes: End with a family-style feast featuring the island’s top dishes, plus endless local wine, creating a true taste of Rhodes.
• Convenient Pickup & Mobile Ticket: Easy logistics mean less stress and more time savoring the experience.
• Highly Rated & Booked in Advance: With a perfect 5.0 rating from three reviews, locals and travelers alike find this tour memorable and worth planning ahead—most book about 5 months in advance.

Setting Off for the Vineyard: A Scenic Ride and Warm Welcome

The adventure begins with a short, breezy 30-minute ride from Rhodes town or cruise port to a renowned Greek winery. The bus ride itself is a good chance to relax and get a glimpse of Rhodes’s countryside—rolling hills, lush vineyards, and rural charm that you might not see from the main tourist spots. The transport is well-organized, and the pickup service adds to the relaxed feel of the day. Many reviews praise the promptness and politeness of the driver, making the whole process smooth.

Once you arrive, you’re greeted by a family that exudes warmth and genuine passion for their craft. This isn’t a staged commercial experience; it’s a real family sharing their land, their wines, and their recipes. The owner himself takes the lead, spinning tales about the vineyard, grape varieties, and the art of distillation—a window into local life that feels authentic and engaging. Gena_r called it “the best day,” highlighting how the surface was excellent and the cooking class beyond expectations.

Exploring the Vineyard and Learning About Greek Wines

The core of the experience is the wine tasting session. Here, you’ll learn about the history of Greek wines and the local grape varieties. The owner or guide explains vinification with patience, making it approachable whether you’re a wine novice or connoisseur. Expect to taste a variety of regional wines, each with its own story and flavor profile—think crisp whites, robust reds, and perhaps some aromatic rosés.

The reviews consistently mention the quality of the wines—“a selection of the most popular and delicious wines,” as one review put it—and the fact that this part of the tour isn’t rushed. You get to savor and understand what makes Greek wines special, which elevates the tasting from mere sipping to a mini lesson.

The Craft of Greek Cuisine: Hands-On Cooking with a Local Chef

After the wine journey, it’s time for the culinary part. The guide, often Jason (the owner’s son), leads a lively, approachable cooking lesson. You might find yourself making some of Rhodes’s most beloved dishes—though the exact menu varies, expect dishes that tell stories of the land and sea. As one reviewer notes, the interactive session was “interesting,” and it’s designed to be accessible—no professional chef experience needed.

The focus is on traditional recipes, often simple but packed with flavor, like local appetizers and main courses. The chef’s approachable style makes it fun rather than intimidating. Even if your culinary skills are limited, you’ll appreciate the chance to learn some tricks and get a true taste of local cuisine.

The Grand Feast: 11 Dishes and Unlimited Greek Wines

The finale is what everyone talks about: a family-style feast featuring 11 of Rhodes’s most popular dishes. These are served one after the other, giving you a hearty sampling of island flavors—meats, vegetables, cheeses, and more. The dishes are described as delicious, with many reviewers mentioning the food exceeded their expectations.

No need to hold back on wine; the tour offers an endless flow of local wines to match each course. Many reviewers, like Tonya_C, describe it as “outstanding,” noting the combination of great food, good wines, and a fun, lively atmosphere. The relaxed pace and generous servings make it a satisfying and social experience—perfect for sharing with travel companions.

What Makes This Tour Special?

This experience is ideal if you value authenticity and hands-on participation. You’re not just sitting and tasting; you’re actively involved in cooking, learning, and sharing. The setting, in a family-run winery, adds a personal touch that larger tours often lack.

The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, especially Jason, who makes the tour engaging with stories and explanations. Many travelers mention how this tour offers a glimpse into local life and traditions, making it more than just a meal or tasting.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At around $80 per person, this experience offers a lot: a scenic journey, expert-led wine and food education, and a substantial meal with unlimited wine. Given the quality of the food and drinks, plus the personalized touch, the value is high for those interested in genuine local experiences.

Compare this to other Rhodes tours—many might focus on sightseeing or beaches—but this one combines culinary education with culture, appealing to foodies and curious travelers alike. The fact that most people book this experience well in advance (about 148 days on average) indicates its popularity and perceived value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, engaging, and delicious day out. If you love wine, Greek cuisine, or simply want to taste Rhodes’s flavors in a genuine setting, this is a great choice. It’s also suitable for families, groups, or couples who enjoy interactive experiences with a social, family-oriented vibe.

Travelers who prefer a slow pace or have dietary restrictions might want to inquire beforehand, but overall, this tour seems to accommodate most. It’s less suitable if you’re pressed for time or prefer self-guided exploration rather than guided participation.

The Sum Up

This Rhodes experience stands out because it combines educational wine tasting, hands-on cooking, and a family-style feast of local dishes—all in a scenic vineyard setting. It offers a genuine glimpse into Greek food and wine traditions, with the added bonus of engaging guides and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

For those eager to learn, taste, and enjoy Rhodes’s culinary heritage without feeling rushed, this tour delivers outstanding value. It’s especially perfect for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences, good company, and excellent food and wine.

In the end, it’s a well-rounded, memorable way to connect with the land, flavors, and people of Rhodes—all within four hours that will leave your taste buds and heart satisfied.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, making the start of the experience easy and stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately four hours, which includes transportation, tasting, cooking, and dining.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the wine unlimited?
Yes, there is an endless flow of local wines served during the meal.

Is this experience suitable for children or non-drinkers?
Most travelers can participate, but the wine flow may not suit children or non-drinkers. The focus on food and learning, however, remains enjoyable for all.

What’s included in the meal?
Eleven of Rhodes’s most popular dishes are served family style, with additional Greek appetizers, all paired with local wines.

Who leads the cooking class?
The class is led by a seasoned chef, often Jason, who makes it approachable and fun.

What language is the tour conducted in?
While not explicitly stated, the reviews suggest English-speaking guides are involved, making it accessible to most travelers.