Santorini Dinner Class with Margarita in Athens

Discovering a Greek Cooking Class in Athens with a Santorini Twist

If you’re looking to step beyond the usual sightseeing routines and truly connect with Greece’s culinary soul, a dinner class with Margarita in Athens offers a surprisingly authentic taste of the islands’ flavors—without ever leaving the city. This 4-hour experience, rated a perfect 5.0 based on three glowing reviews, combines a warm, social environment with expert guidance from Margarita herself, a passionate Athenian who owns a stunning apartment decorated with her personal style.

What I particularly love about this experience is how it feels like cooking and sharing dinner in a friend’s elegant home—an intimate, personal touch you don’t often find in typical tour-based classes. Plus, Margarita’s love for presentation means every dish is plated with care and style, making the meal as beautiful as it is delicious. Another highlight? The wine selection from Santorini, with local whites like Assyrtiko and reds like Mandilaria, showcasing the island’s volcanic terroir.

One thing to keep in mind is that this class is quite intimate—capped at just 8 participants—so if you’re craving a lively, large-group atmosphere, this might not be your scene. Also, the cost, at around $260 per person, reflects a high-quality, personalized experience, but it’s worth considering if you’re after value for a private, chef-led cooking adventure.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Local Atmosphere: Margarita’s chic apartment in central Athens offers a warm, inviting setting that feels more like a gathering of friends than a commercial class.
• Island Flavors in the City: The focus on Santorini wines and dishes gives a unique glimpse into island cuisine, making it different from standard Greek cooking classes.
• Expert Host & Creative Menu: Margarita’s elegant taste shines through in a menu that balances tradition with style, making every dish both tasty and visually appealing.
• Interactive & Social: Guests learn recipes firsthand, share stories, and enjoy a relaxed, friendly environment—perfect for foodies who love to connect.
• Quality & Value: While the price may seem high, reviews confirm that the personalized attention, beautiful presentation, and access to local wines provide excellent value.
• Limited Group Size: With a max of 8 travelers, expect a cozy, engaging experience where everyone has a chance to participate.

An Inside Look at the Experience

The experience begins at 7:00pm at Akadimias 8, Athina, where you’ll meet Margarita in her stylish apartment. The small group size ensures a personalized touch, and many guests appreciate the near public transportation access, making it easy to reach. Once inside, Margarita’s home—decorated by herself—sets a tone of elegance and comfort. You quickly realize this isn’t a typical tourist trap; it’s more like being invited into a friend’s stylish home for a night of cooking and conversation.

The focus of the class is on creating a three-hour journey of Greek flavors, with Margarita guiding you through each step of the menu, which includes dishes inspired by her love for presentation and authentic ingredients. Throughout the workshop, her passion for good food, combined with her ability to teach in an engaging manner, makes the process enjoyable and educational. Guests often comment on her excellent taste and hospitality, with reviews noting that Magda and Yannis, two of her previous guests, appreciated the warm environment.

As you cook, Margarita shares insights into Greek culinary traditions, tips for perfecting each dish, and stories that connect the food to Greece’s culture. She emphasizes the importance of presentation, making sure each plate is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. The menu includes a variety of traditional Greek dishes, all beautifully decorated and served with local wines from Santorini, like Assyrtiko and Mavrotragano, known for their volcanic soils and unique flavors.

The wine tasting aspect is another highlight—guests are encouraged to sip and savor while soaking in the relaxed atmosphere. Many reviews praise Margarita’s selection of wines, describing them as some of the best they’ve tasted in Greece, adding an authentic island touch to the meal.

By the end of the class, everyone has not only learned new recipes but also shared stories and laughs over a beautifully prepared meal. Clinking glasses in this friendly environment makes it a memorable experience that extends beyond just a cooking lesson.

The Menu & Culinary Highlights

The menu is designed to showcase the best of Greek island flavors, focusing on dishes that are as appealing visually as they are delicious. While the exact recipes aren’t listed, reviews suggest that Margarita’s creations are styled with a sense of elegance. You might expect to prepare and eat traditional dishes, all served on a table decorated with a keen eye for detail.

What makes this experience stand out is Margarita’s approach: she emphasizes presentation and balance, ensuring that each dish is both tasty and a visual delight. Guests leave not just with new recipes but with a deeper appreciation for Greek culinary artistry.

The Wine Selection

Wines from Santorini are renowned for their minerality and unique flavors, thanks to the island’s volcanic soils. Margarita’s personal collection includes a variety of whites like Assyrtiko, Athiri, and Aidani, as well as reds such as Mandilaria and Mavrotragano. Guests often describe the wines as a highlight, with some calling the tasting “great” and noting that they perfectly complement the meal. This pairing elevates the entire experience, giving you a taste of Santorini’s distinctive terroir without leaving Athens.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This class is ideal for travelers seeking a personalized, intimate cooking experience that combines authentic Greek flavors with island wines. It’s perfect if you’re a fan of interactive learning and enjoy engaging with local hosts who have a passion for sharing their culture.

Food lovers who appreciate beautiful presentation and are interested in learning culinary secrets will find this especially rewarding. It’s also well-suited to those who appreciate a relaxed, social environment where storytelling and good conversation are part of the package.

Given the price point, it’s best suited for those looking for a special, memorable evening rather than an everyday activity. The experience is particularly meaningful for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers who enjoy connecting with locals over delicious food and wine.

Logistics & Practical Tips

The experience starts promptly at 7:00pm, so plan to arrive a few minutes early. The meeting point at Akadimias 8 places you conveniently in central Athens with good public transport options nearby, making it easier to find your way.

The class lasts roughly four hours, including cooking, eating, and socializing, which makes for a relaxed but substantial evening. Because it’s a small group, expect a more interactive and personalized experience—don’t be shy about asking questions or sharing your own cooking stories.

The price of approximately $260.46 per person includes all ingredients, instruction, and the local wines, which many find to be a fair exchange for the quality and authenticity of the experience. Remember, cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, providing some flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For anyone eager to deepen their appreciation of Greek cuisine and culture, Margarita’s dinner class offers a rare opportunity to learn from a host who combines style, knowledge, and genuine hospitality. The focus on authentic flavors paired with high-quality wines makes it more than just a cooking lesson—it’s a mini-culinary escape to Santorini right in Athens.

If you enjoy hands-on activities that foster connection and conversation, this is an experience you’ll treasure. The small class size ensures a relaxed, friendly environment where you can learn, taste, and share stories. The elegant setting and Margarita’s attention to detail make it clear this is a premium experience, worth the investment for serious food lovers.

It’s particularly suited for couples, small groups, and solo travelers who want a memorable, immersive evening that combines culinary skill, local culture, and a touch of island elegance—all without leaving Greece’s capital.

FAQ

How long is the experience?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, starting at 7:00pm, allowing plenty of time for cooking, tasting, and socializing.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers all ingredients, instruction, and local wines from Santorini, providing a complete culinary experience.

Is the group size limited?
Yes, with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized and engaging atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the class begins, offering flexibility.

Do I need prior cooking experience?
No, the class is suitable for all levels—Margarita guides you through each step with patience and clarity.

Where does the class take place?
At Margarita’s stylish apartment located at Akadimias 8, in central Athens, close to public transportation.

To sum it up, this Athens cooking class with Margarita is a fine choice for those wanting to experience Greek culture through its cuisine in an intimate, stylish setting. It offers a genuine taste of island flavors, paired with local wines, all served with Margarita’s personal touch. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or just looking for a memorable, authentic evening, this experience promises to leave lasting impressions—and perhaps a few new recipes to try at home.