Menu
Starters
Tzatziki – Traditional Greek yogurt dip with cucumber, garlic, and herbs
Greek Salad – Fresh tomatoes, cucumber, peppers, olives, feta cheese, and extra virgin olive oil
Dakos – Traditional Cretan barley rusk topped with fresh tomato, feta cheese, oregano, and olive oil
Main Courses
Moussaka – Greece's famous baked dish with layers of eggplant, potatoes, minced meat, and creamy béchamel sauce
Gemista – Tomatoes and peppers stuffed with rice, herbs, and vegetables, baked in the traditional Cretan way
Dessert
Traditional Cretan Cheese Pies (Kalitsounia) served with local honey and cinnamon
Included
Traditional Cheese Making Experience
Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil Tasting
Local Cretan Wine, Water, and Raki
Step into a traditional Cretan home and discover the authentic flavors, traditions, and hospitality of Crete through a unique hands-on cooking experience.
Cook in the wood oven for groups more than 4 people.
Your host, Stamatia, was born and raised in a traditional Cretan village and will warmly welcome you into her home as a friend rather than a visitor. Together, you will prepare a selection of beloved Greek and Cretan dishes, including Tzatziki, Greek Salad, Dakos, Moussaka, Gemista, and traditional Cretan Cheese Pies.
During the experience, you will also learn the art of traditional cheese making and participate in a guided olive oil tasting, discovering why Cretan extra virgin olive oil is considered one of the finest in the world. As you cook, Stamatia will share stories about local life, family traditions, and the important role food plays in Cretan culture.
After cooking, gather around the family table to enjoy the delicious meal you have prepared together, accompanied by local wine, raki, and genuine Cretan hospitality. This experience is perfect for food lovers, couples, families, and travelers seeking an authentic cultural connection and unforgettable memories in Crete.
During Stamatia's cooking class, you'll enjoy a guided tasting of premium extra virgin Cretan olive oils. Learn how to taste olive oil like a professional by discovering its aromas, fruitiness, bitterness, and peppery finish. You'll also explore the health benefits of olive oil, how it is traditionally produced, and why it is the heart of the Cretan diet. This authentic tasting experience will deepen your appreciation for one of Crete's most treasured ingredients.
Stamatia
Hello! My name is Stamatia, and I was born and raised in a traditional village in Crete. Cooking has been part of my life since I was a child, and many of the recipes I use today come from my mother and grandmother. I still cook almost every day using fresh local ingredients, extra virgin olive oil, herbs, and traditional techniques passed down through generations.
I enjoy meeting people from different countries and sharing the authentic culture, hospitality, and flavors of Crete. During our experience, we will cook together, make traditional Cretan cheese, taste local olive oil, and enjoy a homemade meal around the family table. My home is located near Rethymno in the peaceful Cretan countryside, and I am always happy to share local stories, traditions, and recommendations for your stay in Crete.
The closest station
Rethymno
How to get to the station?
From Stavromenos: 0mins
Exact location provided after booking.
Duration of this cooking class is 4 hours.
Yes, The Taste of Crete: Cooking, Cheese Making & Olive Oil Tasting has a vegan option.
It costs 87 per person.
Up to 12 people can join Stamatia's cooking class.
Yes, The Taste of Crete: Cooking, Cheese Making & Olive Oil Tasting has a vegetarian option.
You will receive the confirmation within 24 hours.
We accepts these cards on airKitchen.
Cancellations up to 48 hours prior to the class begins will be fully refunded by the airKitchen cancellation policy.
