Santorini: Cooking Class in Megalochori Cave House & Local Lunch

Summary

Traditional Santorini recipes in a historic cave house with local wine and laughter

You’ll step into a real Santorini cave house kitchen in Megalochori, learn to cook five traditional dishes side by side with a local chef, and share stories over lunch under blooming bougainvillea. Expect laughter, new flavors (and probably some wine refills), plus recipes you’ll want to try again at home—even if they never taste quite the same.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to cook in a stone cave house in Megalochori, with the walls cool even when the sun’s out? I didn’t expect the first thing I’d notice was the smell—fresh tomatoes, olive oil, and something sweet I couldn’t place at first. Our host, Maria, greeted us with that easy island warmth (and a glass of Assyrtiko that went straight to my head before noon). She showed us around her kitchen—tiny windows, old wooden spoons, flour dust on the counter. It felt like stepping into someone’s family memory.

We started chopping Santorini tomatoes for salad while Maria told us about her grandmother’s recipe for tomato fritters—she laughed when I tried to say “domatokeftedes” (my accent is hopeless). The fava beans were simmering already; she let me stir them, and honestly, I was nervous about burning it but she just winked and said “slowly.” There was music from somewhere outside—maybe another house?—and the sound of someone sweeping. The air smelled like oregano and garlic. We made pasta too, with so much garlic I thought it would be too much but it worked somehow.

I loved sitting under the bougainvillea after we finished cooking—plates everywhere, crumbs on the tablecloth, everyone passing bread and pouring more wine. The halva came out last, warm with cinnamon and dried grapes. Someone asked if we could get the recipes (Maria said yes but “you have to come back to perfect them”). It wasn’t fancy or formal; just good food and people who seemed happy you were there. I still think about that first bite of tomato fritter—crispy edges, soft inside—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Traditional Santorini cooking class and lunch

• Join cooking class in cave house
• Prepare Santorini Salad, Tomato Fritters, and Fava
• Cook Santorini Garlic Pasta main course
• Bake Santorini Halva dessert
• Enjoy lunch with local Assyrtiko wine

Top questions

Where does the Santorini cooking class take place?

The cooking class is held in one of the oldest stone cave houses in Megalochori village on Santorini.

What dishes are included in the cooking class menu?

The menu features Santorini salad, tomato fritters (domatokeftedes), fava bean spread, garlic pasta in red sauce, and halva dessert.

Is lunch included after the cooking class?

Yes, after preparing the dishes together you’ll enjoy a full lunch either inside the traditional dining room or outside under bougainvillea.

Is wine served during the Santorini cooking class?

Local Assyrtiko wine is served throughout both preparation and lunch.

Are all ingredients provided for the cooking class?

Yes—all fresh locally sourced products and equipment needed are included in your booking.

How long does the Santorini cooking class last?

The exact duration isn’t specified but includes time for preparation of five courses plus enjoying lunch together.

Can I reach Megalochori by public transportation?

Yes, there are public transportation options available nearby Megalochori village.

What’s included

Your day includes all fresh ingredients for five traditional Santorini dishes plus dessert, use of all kitchen equipment during your hands-on cooking lesson in a Megalochori cave house, plenty of local Assyrtiko wine throughout both prep and lunch—and time to relax under bougainvillea or inside afterward sharing what you’ve cooked together.