'First Lady Of Greek Cuisine' Demonstrates Skills In Troy

TROY (WWJ) - Internationally renowned author and "Grande Dame" of Greek Cuisine, Vefa Alexiadou, is traveling from Athens, Greece to Troy to present her Greek Cuisine Traditions.

Often referred to as the "Martha Stewart of Greece," Vefa will be the honored guest at a benefit luncheon sponsored by the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Detroit Philoptochos Ladies Society.    

The luncheon, An Afternoon with Vefa Alexiadou, will take place Saturday, April 2 at Noon at the Somerset Inn (2601 West Big Beaver Road). Doors will open at 11 am.

Prolific author, scholar as well as charming television personality, Vefa Alexiadou, received her degree in chemistry from the Aristotle University in Thessaloniki. She combined her culinary talents with scientific principles to modernize Greek Cooking without sacrificing authentic character and flavor of the traditional cuisine.

For the past 30 years, no kitchen in Greece was considered complete without a cookbook by the country's most loved and respected culinary expert. Her 14 cookbooks have sold more than five million copies in over 35 countries.    

Vefa appears frequently with her daughter, Alexia, who will join her for the benefit.

Following a short period in the field of finance, Alexia decided to follow her family's shared passion for cooking, and also joined the world of gastronomy. She is the author of the successful trilogy: "Cooking: A Love affair," "Wedding Days" and "Cooking A Fairytale."  Her bestseller "Christmas Dreams" has sold 25,000 copies to date.  She, too, is a popular contributor to several Greek magazines and newspapers and frequently appears on TV shows, hosting the cooking segment or sharing her insights in the art of cooking.    

Earlier this month Vefa and Alexia attended the Gourmand International Cookbook Fair in Paris where they received the "world best cooking series" award for their 24-volume publication, The ALPHA BETA OF COOKING by Alexia and Vefa. Prolific writers, dynamic culinary personalities, mother and daughter focus on the Greek kitchen where recipes are handed down from generation to generation.    

Donation for the luncheon is $65 per person with proceeds earmarked for the National Philoptochos Center of Philanthropy. A book signing and prize drawing will also take place at the event.

For reservations and additional information, call Harriet Stoukas at the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Detroit, 248-823-2400.