Thessaloniki: Greek Cooking Class, Market Visit and Lunch

Thessaloniki, the vibrant port city in northern Greece, is a culinary haven that beckons foodies from around the world. The Thessaloniki Greek Cooking Class, Market Visit, and Lunch offers an immersive experience that delves into the rich tapestry of Greek cuisine. Participants embark on a journey through the local market, sourcing fresh ingredients for a hands-on cooking session led by expert instructors. From the creation of classic starters to the preparation of a comforting main course and a delightful dessert, this class promises to unveil the secrets behind the flavors that have captivated palates for generations. But the experience doesn’t end there, as participants savor their creations and indulge in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

About Your Stay

• A 3.5-hour Greek cooking class in the heart of Thessaloniki, allowing participants to learn traditional recipes and techniques.
• Preparation of classic Greek starters like tzatziki, dolmadakia, and Greek salad using fresh local ingredients.
• Focus on the traditional stuffed vegetable dish Gemista, with hands-on experience in its preparation.
• Creation of a sweet dessert, the chocolate salami, combining biscuits, cocoa, and alcohol for a unique treat.
• An all-inclusive experience with complimentary beverages, accessibility, and a convenient meeting point in Thessaloniki.

Overview of the Cooking Class

The cooking class in Thessaloniki offers a hands-on culinary experience, allowing participants to explore the vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine.

Held in the heart of the city, the class takes travelers on a journey through the local market, where they’ll select fresh ingredients for their dishes.

The activity lasts approximately 3.5 hours, starting at 11:30 AM. With a maximum of 16 travelers, the intimate setting ensures personalized attention from the expert instructor.

Priced from $95.43 per person, the class includes a full menu, alcoholic beverages, and bottled water.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience begins, making it a flexible option for visitors to Thessaloniki.

Starters: Tzatziki, Dolmadakia, and Greek Salad

As the cooking class begins, participants learn to prepare a trio of classic Greek starters.

First, they’ll make tzatziki – a cool, creamy dip of strained yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and herbs.

Next, they’ll assemble dolmadakia – tender grape leaves stuffed with fragrant rice, onions, and spices.

Finally, the class will create a traditional Greek salad, featuring juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, pungent red onions, briny olives, and tangy feta cheese, all dressed in a vibrant herbal vinaigrette.

These starters provide a delightful introduction to the flavors of authentic Greek cuisine that the class will continue to explore.

Main Course: Gemista

For the main course, participants dive into the preparation of gemista, a beloved Greek dish of stuffed vegetables.

Gemista are traditionally made by hollowing out tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplants, then filling them with a savory mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes ground meat.

The stuffed vegetables are then baked with a tomato-based sauce and potatoes. The aroma of the aromatic herbs and the simmering tomato sauce fill the air, whetting the appetite.

As the class assembles the gemista, they learn the nuances of this comforting and satisfying dish, which showcases the Mediterranean flavors that Greece is renowned for.

Dessert: Chocolate Salami

One indulgent highlight of the cooking class is the preparation of the chocolate salami, also known as kormos or mosaico. This decadent dessert is named for its unique shape, resembling a savory salami.

Participants will learn to create this rich treat by combining crushed biscuits, cocoa powder, butter, and a touch of alcohol to bind the ingredients together. The mixture is then rolled into a log, chilled, and sliced to reveal its mosaic-like interior.

The final result is a sweet, fudgy delight that perfectly balances the crunch of the biscuit with the velvety chocolate. Served as a satisfying finale to the Greek feast, the chocolate salami is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Beverages and Amenities

Included in the cooking class experience are beverages and other amenities that enhance the culinary journey.

Participants will enjoy a full menu, including one complimentary glass of wine or beer per person (for those 18 and over). Bottled water is also provided throughout the class, ensuring everyone stays hydrated as they learn to prepare authentic Greek dishes.

The cooking class’s all-inclusive nature allows guests to fully enjoy the flavors of Greece without worrying about additional costs for drinks or refreshments.

These thoughtful inclusions contribute to an enriching and memorable cooking experience in Thessaloniki.

Meeting and Pickup Information

The meeting point for this Greek cooking class is the Electra Palace Thessaloniki, located at Aristotélous 9, Thessaloniki 546 24, Greece.

Specific instructions will be provided after booking. The class starts at 11:30 AM, and at the end, you will be returned to the meeting point.

Getting to the meeting place is straightforward, as it’s near public transportation.

Those attending can also use infant seats if needed.

Accessibility and Confirmation

This cooking class is accessible to a range of travelers.

It isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible and allows service animals. The class is located near public transportation, making it easily accessible.

Infant seats are available, accommodating families with young children. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, providing travelers with the necessary details to attend the class.

With these accessibility features and booking confirmation, the Greek cooking experience in Thessaloniki is suitable for diverse groups, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable culinary journey.

Review Rating and Checks

Boasting a perfect 5-star rating from a single review, this Greek cooking class in Thessaloniki has undergone thorough vetting to ensure its quality and reliability.

The review highlights the exceptional experience, with the guest praising the knowledgeable instructor, delicious menu, and overall value.

To maintain this high standard, the cooking class has been subject to additional verification checks, including confirming the instructor’s credentials, verifying the authenticity of the menu, and ensuring the class meets all safety and hygiene requirements.

With these measures in place, travelers can feel confident in the class’s ability to deliver an authentic and memorable Greek culinary adventure.

Worth The Stay

The Thessaloniki Greek Cooking Class, Market Visit, and Lunch offers an immersive culinary experience that immerses participants in the rich gastronomic heritage of Greece. From sourcing fresh ingredients at the local market to preparing classic dishes under expert guidance, this 3.5-hour class provides a personalized and delightful journey through the flavors of Thessaloniki. Participants can savor a complimentary drink while enjoying the company of up to 16 fellow foodies in the heart of the city.