Feta Late Than Never: My Athens Cooking Odyssey with EatWith
Picture this: the scent of fresh herbs wafting through the air, the sizzle of olive oil in a pan, and new friends surrounding me with good conversation. That's exactly what I experienced during my recent culinary adventure in the heart of Greece's capital. As a travel enthusiast always seeking authentic experiences, I've discovered that there's no better way to immerse yourself in a culture than through its food. That's why when EatWith reached out about partnering for a Greek cooking class in Athens, I couldn't say yes fast enough!
Join me as I take you on a mouthwatering journey through the flavors of Athens, where ancient history meets modern gastronomy in the most delicious way possible.
Phyllo dough finesse—I learned getting that perfect paper-thin stretch is an art form.
A Hidden Oasis in the Heart of Athens
Our host, Dionysia, welcomed us into her cooking studio, just a stone's throw from Omonoia Square. A hidden paradise right in the middle of this bustling city, where up to 45 lucky guests can come together to celebrate food, culture, and community.
Meet Dionysia, the wizard behind our Greek culinary adventure! Making phyllo from scratch is a labor of love, and she shared all her knowledge.
Dionysia's not just teaching us recipes, she's dishing out slices of Greek life with every roll. Who knew making tzatziki could be a cultural deep dive?
More Than Just a Cooking Class
Okay, let's talk about the experience itself. As a solo traveler, I'm always looking for ways to connect with locals and other adventurers. This cooking class? Absolute perfection.
Dionysia isn't just an amazing cook - she's an inspiration. After feeling burnt out in her 9-to-5, she took a leap of faith and started teaching cooking classes from her home. Fast forward to today, and she's living her dream with her very own cooking studio in Athens, selling out classes daily. Her success is a quiet nudge to all of us sitting on the fence about our own dreams.
These were not your average supermarket vegetables—I'm talking FRESH off the farm.
The star of our show is ready for its close-up! 🌟 Our patsavouropita is golden, crispy, and begging to be devoured.
From Market to Table
Under Dionysia's expert guidance, we whipped up some Greek classics:
Patsavouropita (a mouthwatering cheese pie)
Feta spread that'll make you weak in the knees
The freshest Greek salad you've ever tasted
Tzatziki that puts store-bought to shame
Dionysia shared little secrets that only locals know - like using olive oil straight from the farm (trust me, you can taste the difference) and the genius hack of grating garlic with the skin on. Mind. Blown. 🤯
Peruse some drool-worthy pics I captured throughout our time together:
Why EatWith is a Game-Changer
Here's the thing, my fellow explorers - experiences like this are exactly why I partnered with EatWith. They're all about creating those magical, joy-filled moments that connect us to the world around us.
Whether you're a solo traveler like me or exploring with friends, EatWith offers:
Unique culinary adventures that go beyond the typical tourist experience
A chance to meet locals and hear their stories
Opportunities to connect with other travelers who share your passion for authentic experiences
A deep dive into culture through the universal language of food
As EatWith says, it's about savoring food with joy, people, and the world. And let me tell you, that's exactly what we did on that beautiful terrace in Athens.
This is what happens when strangers become family over a Greek feast! Nothing brings people together quite like food.
The spread that dreams are made of! Meatballs, fresh bread, and feta spread - it's all coming together for a feast fit for the gods.
This olive oil was LIQUID. GOLD.
Dionysia inspired me to bring Greek food to my own kitchen. Dinner party anyone?
Bringing Greece Home
The best part? I left with more than just a full belly and new friends. I've got the skills to bring a taste of Greece back home with me. Movie night with homemade tzatziki, anyone?
So, my adventure-seeking, culture-loving friends, if you find yourself in Athens (or any city around the world), do yourself a favor and book an EatWith experience. It's not just a meal - it's a memory that'll last a lifetime.
Until our next culinary adventure,
Laura 💖🌍🍽️
P.S. Ready to embark on your own EatWith adventure? Check out Dionysia's amazing cooking class, and get ready for a taste of authentic Athens!
P.P.S. Want to experience Greece together? Check out my upcoming trips across the pond!
