The “Cook of the Heart” in Santa Maria of Paros

At the edge of Paros, on the east of the island, is Santa Maria beach. There, by the sea, a courtyard that became a tavern three decades ago has become a reference point, not only for its flavors but also for the love it scatters. Ms. Maria Anagnostopoulou-Katsouna, known to her patrons as “The Cook of the Heart”, set up her family restaurant to study her children, as she was told in the show “Where Greece”.

Thirty -one years later, she still welcomes her visitors not as customers, but as members of her family. With dishes that “smell” Paros, sea and family warmth, it continues to keep the original Greek hospitality alive.

Mrs Efi and “Sweet Smelling Kitchen” in the poplars of Paros

In the heart of the traditional settlement of Lefkes, in Paros, a kitchenette full of aromas has stolen the hearts of visitors. There, Mrs. Efi, the soul of the “Sweet Smelling Kitchen”, a mouth -known and viral on social media, cooks there daily.

@Dvirshastyl this place felt like a fairy tale, and we discovered it Completely by Accident. When I was in the Center of Paros, I Took a Day Trip to Lefkes, A Nearby Village. While Strolling Through George’s Stairs and the Narrow Paths, I Smeled Something Baking. Following the Aroma, I Discovered This Beautiful Tiny Place, Aptly Called The “Sweet Smelling Kitchen.” It has been owned by three Generations of Amazing Women since 1994. Today, it is run by effie and her daughter Paulina. Effie and Paulina Were so Kind – They Invited US in, Showed Us Around, and Served Us the Wonderful Greek Yogurt Pie that Effie is Famous for. We Formed a Great Bond, and they didn’t Want US to Pay, Even After We Begged. Effie Said it was from Her Heart, and if we paid, it would be an insult. Greeks are amazing. If you are ever in the area, go there –you’s regret it 🫶🏼 #paros #parosisland #parosgreece #Greecetiktok #Greece🇬🇷 #Greektiktok #greekfood #lefkes #greekislands #greekpie #greekfoodood #greekyogurt #yogurt ♬ Original Sound – Dvir Shastel

Ms Efi welcomes the visitors to her home, cooks traditional Parisian recipes with her hands and serves them with a smile, as if she was kissing them at her family table. Many tourists come back every year to see her, creating with her a bond that goes beyond the boundaries of a simple gastronomic experience.