Meet
Defne (Corporate)
Defne is a global traveler with roots in Istanbul and a passion for connecting people through food. Her journeys around the world have shown her the power of the table to build community, empathy, and meaningful connections. In Lisbon, she invites you to experience Portuguese cuisine as a bridge between cultures. With her guidance, your team will cook, taste, and share stories that highlight how food fosters connection across differences. Growing up around long family tables filled with food, laughter, and conversation, Defne learned that meals are about more than eating — they are about belonging.
What to expect
Please note menu might vary. If there are particular dishes you are interested in trying, please include your request in the booking form.
In-home meal:
(8-50 guests)
Discover the flavors of Portugal during a private dining experience in Lisbon, designed for corporate groups, families, and friends traveling together. Hosted by Defne, a global traveler and culinary storyteller, this experience combines authentic Portuguese cuisine with connection and culture.
During this 2.5 hour dining experience at a creative event space (indoors or outdoors, weather permitting), your group will enjoy a multi-course Portuguese meal featuring classic dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Each course is paired with carefully selected Portuguese wines — or local craft beers if you prefer — with four thoughtful pairings that highlight the diversity of Portugal’s vineyards and brewing traditions. Beer or wine are included in the cost of your experience.
Perfect for large groups, this experience is ideal for team building, milestone celebrations, or simply sharing an unforgettable evening together. Defne creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere that encourages conversation, bonding, and cultural discovery. More than just a meal, this dining experience connects people to the stories and traditions behind Portuguese and Mediterranean food and drink.
Cooking experience:
(8-40 guests)
Join a hands-on Lisbon cooking class and learn to prepare authentic Portuguese dishes with Defne, a passionate host and culinary storyteller. You will learn about Portuguese culinary traditions and techniques as you help prepare a meal. Cook with fresh local ingredients, pair your meal with Portuguese wines or craft beers (up to 3 glasses per person), and enjoy a private dining experience. Ideal for corporate team building, families traveling together, or friends looking for a unique cultural activity in Lisbon. Whether timing, menu, activity, this experience can be fully customized to cater to your group's needs.
Market visit:
(10-35 guests)
On your guided Lisbon market tour, Defne invites you to experience the market like a true local. Stroll together through lively, colorful stalls, meet friendly vendors, and discover the freshest seasonal ingredients the region has to offer. From the day’s catch at the fish counter to vibrant, farm-fresh produce and beloved Portuguese specialties, you’ll thoughtfully select the ingredients you’ll later transform into a delicious meal. After shopping, enjoy a short 5–10 minute walk to an art co-working space, Defne’s cooking studio, where your hands-on culinary experience begins. Together, you’ll prepare an authentic Portuguese meal, bringing the flavors of the market to life. An immersive farm-to-table experience that beautifully connects you to Lisbon’s food, culture, and community.
Notes:
1. This experience can be fully customized to suit your group’s schedule, preferred menu, and activities.
2. Because this is a large group and your host needs to prepare in advance, a 1-week cancellation policy applies. The standard 48-hour cancellation policy does not apply.
3. This venue is wheelchair accessible.
4. The experience includes up to three glasses of wine per guest. If your group would like unlimited wine, please let us know in advance, as this can be arranged for an additional charge.
Languages spoken:
English, Turkish
Sample menu
Traveler reviews
Wonderful experience. Defne was the best host, a combination of Portuguese and Turkish hospitality.
We cooked three tasty dishes and tasted original Portuguese delicacies and wines while cooking.
Her apartment, cozy garden area that we ate together the stuff we cooked were very cute.
And then one should not pass without mentioning the beautiful cat of the house Punto.
Highly recommended.
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begum
August 21, 2026
This afternoon was an amazing, intimate, and food-driven cultural experience. We got the opportunity to make several traditional Portuguese dishes with the thoughtful guiding from Defne. We got to enjoy several hours learning about ingredients, preparation, and finally dining/pairing with wines. This is an absolute must for foodies who want hands on experience to learn more about culture and the people behind the culture. Was perfect for our small group. I am sure large groups would enjoy just as much.
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zain
August 21, 2026
I have taken many cooking classes and food tours on my travels. But never have I connected as much as with Defne! She supplies the background and history in conversations while you are cooking and prepping the meal. Her communication before the class, meeting instructions and vibrant personality make this a wonderful evening! And a big plus is that you leave with the recipes to make at home.
The atmosphere is as warm and inviting as Defne herself!
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stephanie
August 12, 2026
Defne is fantastic in every way. Such a warm person and we loved coming to and seeing her home--good to see the real Lisbon rather than just a tourist place. Very knowledgeable about food and we learned more than just the recipes, e.g. how to do quick fermentation of onions, that we can apply to other cooking.
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orry
June 25, 2026
Defne is a fantastic instructor and host. Rather than just teach you specific recipes only she
will also teach you about techniques and different options for different ways to cook the
food and a lot about the culture. Really appreciated it.
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jeffery
June 18, 2026
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