Experience the Authentic Taste of Greece Beyond Tzatziki and Gyros
Embark on a journey through Greece’s lesser-known dishes with Sharon Brenner, whose love for the country is reflected in every recipe she creates.
A Love Affair With Athens: From Immigrant to Advocate
In 2014, Sharon Brenner arrived in Athens under unexpected circumstances—her relationship had ended just as her belongings were en route—but instead of returning home, she embraced the city. By day, she worked remotely as an immigration attorney; by night, she explored its food scene, forming deep connections with locals and discovering hidden gems. This immersion sparked her desire to share the authentic essence of Greek culture through food.
Brenner found herself captivated not only by iconic dishes like dolmadakia and soutzoukakia but also by everyday staples such as horta (boiled greens) and revithia (chickpea stew). These experiences fueled her ambition to create cookbooks that would serve as both a tribute to Greece and an invitation for others to explore its culinary treasures.
From Blogging to Publishing: Turning Passion Into Purpose
Initially sharing her recipes online, Brenner quickly realized the potential impact of compiling them into physical form. Her first cookbook, "Athena," published in 2020, became a testament to her time in Greece. It wasn’t meant to encapsulate the entirety of Greek cuisine but rather to offer readers a glimpse into her personal adventures and favorite dishes. The book featured photographs capturing the essence of Athens, including its streets and people, creating an immersive experience.
This approach resonated deeply with audiences, leading to a second print run in 2022. Encouraged by its success, Brenner expanded her repertoire with "A Pie Project," focusing on phyllo dough creations, and "Fry Day," celebrating fried delicacies—a nod to her fondness for crispy textures reminiscent of her days in Athens.
Redefining Greek Cuisine: Beyond Stereotypes
One of Brenner’s primary goals is challenging preconceived notions about Greek food. Many associate it solely with tzatziki, gyros, and souvlaki, overlooking regional specialties and everyday meals cherished by Greeks themselves. For instance, Cretan pasta with farmer’s cheese or pantzaria (roasted beets with garlic) might not appear on tourist menus, yet they embody the soul of Greek cooking.
Through her work, Brenner strives to introduce these overlooked dishes to a broader audience while emphasizing their cultural significance. Each recipe tells a story, whether it’s about family gatherings around a pot of chickpea stew or friends enjoying fried snacks at a local taverna.
The Athena Dinners Phenomenon: Bridging Cultures Over Food
Upon returning to Los Angeles in 2017, Brenner initiated Athena Dinners, a series of intimate Greek feasts held in unconventional venues across the city. These events brought together strangers and acquaintances alike, fostering community and understanding through shared meals. Collaborations with local chefs added another layer of depth, blending traditional Greek techniques with contemporary influences.
Though paused temporarily due to unforeseen challenges, including displacement caused by the Altadena Fire, Brenner remains optimistic about reviving the dinner series. She envisions incorporating more partnerships with local talent and experimenting with new formats to keep the spirit of Athena Dinners alive.
Hands-On Learning: Mastering the Art of Phyllo Dough
Brenner’s dedication extends beyond publishing cookbooks and hosting dinners; she actively engages with her community through interactive workshops. Her pie-making classes focus on perfecting the delicate art of stretching fresh phyllo dough, offering participants insight into the craft’s nuances. Participants often describe the process as meditative, echoing Brenner’s sentiment that making spinach pie has been a lifelong pursuit of mastery.
Despite recent disruptions, Brenner continues to share her creations, such as signature chocolate chip cookies and spinach pies, at neighborhood establishments like Altadena Bev. Her presence there serves as a reminder of her commitment to preserving and promoting Greek culinary traditions.
Recipes That Define Her Legacy
Among Brenner’s standout recipes are sesame-crusted feta and taverna-style gigantes. The former transforms a humble block of cheese into a golden masterpiece, drizzled with honey for a sweet-savory balance. Meanwhile, her gigantes recipe elevates canned white beans into a hearty dish packed with flavor from aromatic vegetables and herbs. Both exemplify Brenner’s ability to honor tradition while infusing it with her unique perspective.
These recipes, along with countless others, reflect Brenner’s unwavering dedication to showcasing the diversity and richness of Greek cuisine. They invite cooks worldwide to step into her kitchen, where every meal becomes an opportunity to connect with the heart and soul of Greece.