Private cooking classes
in a hidden paradise
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About
Cook
With Me in Crete
Hello, I’m Maria, a passionate food lover, traveler, and proud ambassador of Cretan gastronomy and culture.
I was born and raised on the beautiful island of Crete, where food is at the heart of everyday life. I grew up in my grandparents’ kitchen, learning from an early age that cooking is not just about preparing meals, but about bringing people together and sharing love around the table. Today, I continue this tradition by cooking daily for my family and welcoming guests from around the world into our farmhouse.
As a traveler myself, I always seek meaningful and authentic experiences. This is exactly what I offer to my guests, along with the same high standards and genuine hospitality that I value when I travel.
My background combines a broad academic education, including a BA in Clinical Language Studies and a Master of Science in Public Health, along with my deep passion for wine through professional studies (WSET Level 3 Award in Wines).
Cooking class
FROM 85,00 EUR / per person
Beyond a cooking class, an invitation to slow living.
The cooking classes here stand apart from the usual demonstration-style lesson, where a chef performs and guests simply copy the steps of the recipe. Instead, it’s an invitation to slow down, to cook side by side, share stories, and connect through food.
Our day begins with a warm welcome and a small treat, a sweet way to get to know one another.
From there, we set off together through our bicentennial olive grove and vineyard. As we wander through the Cretan landscape, the richness of nature unfolds around us, and with it, the story of the olive tree, the art of olive oil production, and the traditional spirit of raki, all passed down from ancient times to today. Don’t forget your hat, we sometimes lose track of time as we explore.
Now is time to get back to the kitchen, ready to cook a menu inspired from our meze tradition.
In Cretan and Greek tradition, a meal is never defined by a single dish, but by a variety of small plates, what we call meze. Each small bite adds to the whole, creating a meal that is both complete and deeply nourishing. In these shared moments, recipes, hands in motion, and stories exchanged, conversation flows with ease. Here, since ancient times, food has been the thread that quietly and gently brings people together.
Meze gastronomy reflects the wisdom of earlier generations, who, without the abundance we have today, found creative ways to provide meals for their families. A table of meze is made of many small dishes prepared with love.
This is the kind of meal we will create together in our class, a complete experience of five dishes, inspired by the richness of the season. Fresh local vegetables, extra virgin olive oil, honey and cheeses, homemade bread, meat from Cretan organic farms, and fish from the Aegean Sea come together. Each dish is drawn from old recipes, passed down through generations. As we cook, you will be guided through the anthropological traditions and cultural heritage that shape life on our island.
Round the old farmhouse table, where we cook together, there is no sense of rush and no strict timetable to follow. Greek culture moves at a slower pace, as you may have already experienced, inviting us to enjoy the journey rather than hurry toward the destination, as the great poet Constantine P. Cavafy so beautifully expressed.
When the meal is ready, you will enjoy it on our beautiful terrace, beneath the olive trees and vines. Sharing the meal you have just prepared, outdoors and unhurried, is the true local experience, you might even feel ready for a Greek passport.
Before you leave, any remaining dishes (if there are any) will be lovingly packed for you to enjoy later. You will also take the recipes with you, along with something more lasting, a small piece of Crete to carry in your heart.
Come as a guest leave as a friend
Visitors often ask:
How long does the whole experience take?
The experience usually lasts around three hours, but there is no rush, we move at a relaxed, enjoyable pace.
What is the menu?
The menu is inspired by the meze tradition of Greece. In private sessions, you have the option to fully customize your menu. In group sessions, we shape the menu together, taking into account preferences, allergies, and dietary needs.
How can I book?
You can contact me directly via WhatsApp at +30 690 799 2450 or by email at [email protected] this will save you from extra charging.
What time does it start?
Morning classes begin at 10:30, while afternoon classes usually start around 17:00.
Is it kid-friendly?
More than welcome! Children under 8 join free of charge, and those up to 14 years old enjoy a 50% discount.
Are there private or group sessions?
I offer both options.
Private sessions are reserved just for you and your group, with the added benefit of full menu customization.
Group sessions bring together guests who may not know each other, creating a shared experience, with the menu shaped around everyone’s dietary needs.
Is it close to our accommodation?
You can find our exact location on the map at the bottom of the page. If you’d like any help or advice, I’m always happy to assist.
What is the maximum capacity?
Group sessions host up to 6 participants. For private groups, feel free to ask, I will always do my best to accommodate your needs.
Do you offer gift cards?
Yes — gift cards make a wonderful present for anyone visiting Crete. These days, people love gifting experiences over material items.
Cancellations and No-Shows
No cancellation fee will be charged for cancellations made before the below release periods:
- For cancellations less than 3 days prior to the confirmed date 50% of the amount is charged
- For no-shows, or cancellations less than 24 hours prior to time 100% of the amount is charged
Cancellation penalties will not be applied for cancellations resulting directly or indirectly from nature, delays, cancellations and incidents related to the sea or weather conditions, acts of government or other authorities, de jure or de facto, hostilities, civil disturbances, terrorist attacks, strikes, riots, delays or cancellations or changes in itinerary or schedules, or from any causes beyond the control of the distributor.
Personal cook
at your private place
FROM 180,00 EUR
Let’s work together to create a versatile à la carte menu that caters to casual lunches/dinners, as well as special occasions like birthdays or romantic dinners.
The first step is to contact me in person and discuss together your personal needs, your taste preferences and any restrictions such as food allergies, intolerances, or medical limitations. Then I will craft a customized menu tailored specifically to your needs.
Apart from the food menu I can design a wine/drink list to compliment your meal perfectly.
From this point and beyond you don’t have to worry about anything!
I will provide the best quality of fresh local products for your meal. Upon arrival at your location, I’ll adhere to strict safety and hygiene practices while cooking, ensuring utmost discretion for you and your guests. The dinner will be prepared according to our agreed-upon schedule, with the table beautifully set. Throughout the meal, I’ll be present to serve you, ensuring you fully experience Greek hospitality. Afterward, I’ll leave the area in impeccable condition, with both the dining area and kitchen spotless, and any leftovers neatly stored in the fridge.
FAQ
Cancellations and No-Shows
No cancellation fee will be charged for cancellations made before the below release periods:
- For cancellations less than 3 days prior to the confirmed date 50% of the amount is charged
- For no-shows, or cancellations less than 24 hours prior to time 100% of the amount is charged
Cancellation penalties will not be applied for cancellations resulting directly or indirectly from nature, delays, cancellations and incidents related to the sea or weather conditions, acts of government or other authorities, de jure or de facto, hostilities, civil disturbances, terrorist attacks, strikes, riots, delays or cancellations or changes in itinerary or schedules, or from any causes beyond the control of the distributor.
01.
Picking the best from our local market
02.
Cooking
at your place
03.
Serving
food and wine
04.
Leaving everything clean
Delivery service
FROM 50,00 EUR
Whether you are unwinding at your apartment or picnicking by the beach our delivery service ensures that you can enjoy the authentic tastes of Crete with an ease and convenience.
I created a menu with the most authentic dishes from our local cuisine cooked with love and great care.
Have you been to Greece
and you didn’t try…
- Mousaka
- Lamb from local farms in a rich lemon sauce
- Gemista (tomatoes, green peppers & zucchini stuffed with rice)
- Fresh green beans in the Mediterranean way
- Greek salad
Greek meze
- Dolmadakia
- Fava
- Tzatziki
- Feta in the oven
- Cheese pie
- Spinach & cheese pie
- Greek meze plate for ouzo
For the kids
- Spaghetti Bolognese
- Chicken with potatoes in the oven
For the sweet tooth
- The real Greek orange pie
- The ultimate chocolate cake for the kids…
- A nice cake for breakfast
Simply place your order and let us take care of the rest!
All dishes are made fresh upon receiving your order, therefore, the best time to place your order is one day in advance.
FAQ
Cancellations and No-Shows
No cancellation fee will be charged for cancellations made before the below release periods:
- For cancellations less than 3 days prior to the confirmed date 50% of the amount is charged
- For no-shows, or cancellations less than 24 hours prior to time 100% of the amount is charged
Cancellation penalties will not be applied for cancellations resulting directly or indirectly from nature, delays, cancellations and incidents related to the sea or weather conditions, acts of government or other authorities, de jure or de facto, hostilities, civil disturbances, terrorist attacks, strikes, riots, delays or cancellations or changes in itinerary or schedules, or from any causes beyond the control of the distributor.
Deli
in the box
FROM 120,00 EUR
In case you feel like leaving your place for a day excursion but feeling insecure if you are going to find a nice place to dinner, here we are! We can prepare all the essentials for you to take on your way!
Being on the move means that you need meals that you can eat without the fork and knife etiquette. The ideal meal pack, will include:
· fresh fruits and vegetables that will be packed ready to eat,
· refreshing salads with an extra ingredient, such as meat or fish
· finger foods like pies and meatballs
· variety of delicious sandwiches
· a nice tray of local cheeses and meat assortment
· choices for the sweet tooth…
· and of course nice fresh fruit juices and excellent choices of the best alcoholic prosecco!
Contact us to plan together your on-the-go meal and rest assured that you will enjoy the finest Cretan cuisine while on the move.
FAQ
Cancellations and No-Shows
No cancellation fee will be charged for cancellations made before the below release periods:
- For cancellations less than 3 days prior to the confirmed date 50% of the amount is charged
- For no-shows, or cancellations less than 24 hours prior to time 100% of the amount is charged
Cancellation penalties will not be applied for cancellations resulting directly or indirectly from nature, delays, cancellations and incidents related to the sea or weather conditions, acts of government or other authorities, de jure or de facto, hostilities, civil disturbances, terrorist attacks, strikes, riots, delays or cancellations or changes in itinerary or schedules, or from any causes beyond the control of the distributor.
Contact us, to plan together your on-the-go meal and keep you assured that you will enjoy the best of Cretan food on the go.
Please feel free to contact me on any enquiry you might have,
I am looking forward to meeting you from close and create wonderful Cretan experiences together!
You can find me at
+306907992450 WhatsApp
Address: Kritsa, 72150, Crete, Greece
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