Private Tea Tasting and Baklava Lesson in Athens

It’s tea time again, but not as you may know it. Greece is a tea-drinking country; however, the teas consumed by Greeks are different in that they’re not simply beverages. Most Greek teas are made from wild plants and are known for their special health properties. These aren’t just teas, they’re delicious remedies and flavorful tonics.

During the tea tasting, try traditional Greek mountain tea, dittany tea, and Greek sage tea. Each of these popular Greek teas are consumed frequently and renowned for their curative powers. For instance, Sage for is used for sore throats, upset stomachs, and headaches, even though it doesn’t really taste like medicine. Dittany tea is made from a plant that only grows on Crete and is said to be an aphrodisiac.

Your hostess will be happy to provide information on these and other herbal teas, including stories regarding both their origins and their uses. As an accompaniment to the teas, enjoy a marvelously delicious selection of Greek sweets including:

• Ravani, a semolina cake with coconut and oranges
• Bougatsa, a phyllo custard pie with sugar and cinnamon
• Amigdalota (almond macaroons)
• Halva, a semolina cake with cinnamon and clove
• Greek fruit preserves
• Mini sandwiches with local cheeses

You’ll also have the opportunity to assist in making baklava, the internationally beloved dessert made with layers of phyllo dough, honey, and nuts. Your hostess will show you how it’s done and let you lend a hand so that you can really learn the recipe for yourself. It's a great way to enjoy true Greek hospitality and get to know more about Greece from a close but cozy encounter in a private Athenian home.