Greece is a country that is rich in delicious, unique foods. Not to mention, food and eating is a huge part of the culture. So, if you’re opting out on trying different Greek foods while you’re in Greece, I’d say you’re also missing out on a big chunk of Greek culture. And if you’re like me, I’ve had my fair share of Greek food even prior to going to Greece—I’ve always enjoyed it. But BOY, when I tell you the difference in quality and taste when you’re actually there!? It’s tremendous. So let me show you my list of the best foods in Greece!
1. Moussaka
Though not exclusive to Greece, moussaka is a notoriously delicious and satisfying dish that is well-associated with traditional Greek dishes. It’s basically a ground meat and eggplant/potato-based casserole, topped with a thick, generous layer of creamy bechamel sauce. A local told us that it used to be considered a lunch dish, however because of its popularity, you can now find it at most Greek restaurants or taverns. I’d also like to point out that there are slight variations of moussaka across Greece—usually just differences in unique family recipes—and out of the 3 places we tried it, there was one that stood out the most. It was from a restaurant called, “Krasopoulio tou Kokkora” and from the first bite, my husband and I both fell in love. We loved it so much, in fact, that we decided to make one last stop there on our second stay in Athens.
2. Greek Salad
Yes, yes–I’m sure you’ve had a Greek salad before. We all have. But probably not a “proper” Greek salad, as in, the way the Greek prepare it. Also called Horiatiki, Greek salad is probably the most common starter for a meal, and the most delicious, refreshing accompaniment to a meal. Unlike a lot of Greek restaurants you’ll find in the U.S., a true Greek salad does not come with lettuce. Instead, crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, red onions, olives, and a big chunk of fresh feta cheese on top make it complete. Sometimes pepperoncinis make an appearance, too. Dressed with just olive oil, vinegar, fresh lemon juice and seasoned with oregano, salt, and pepper, this is the perfect beginning to any meal in Greece.
Side note: I used to hate tomatoes as a child, and as an adult, I’ve always bought tomatoes with my groceries purely because of the health benefits. But for the first time in my life, I have actually ENJOYED tomatoes. Sweet, juicy, and aromatic, these tomatoes are a major agricultural crop grown in Greece. And the quality and taste can attest to that. Makes me wonder how delicious Italian tomatoes are!
3. Gyros
A popular dish all around the world, and given multiple names respectively, I’m sure any one of you would tell me you’ve had a gyro before. A gyro is when the meat is roasted on a vertical, rotating rotisserie. They’re found all over the world, but in Greece, it is typically made with pork or chicken. You can, however, find it made with beef or lamb, as well as even falafel (SO GOOD). In Greece, this handheld pita is usually served with french fries, tomatoes, and red onions packed inside with a big dollop of tzatziki sauce. I’ve been a huge fan of gyros for as long as I can remember. But the best part about gyros besides being delicious, is that it is a great option if you’re in a hurry and looking for something cheap and fast. You can usually find street food stalls that have this and other scrumptious treats!
4. Dolmadakia (dolmades)
Dolmadakia, Greek for stuffed grape leaves, are an iconic Greek recipe served as an appetizer or part of a mezze platter. Stuffed with rice and herbs and often served with a side or topping of tzatziki sauce, they are the perfect traditional finger food to start off your meal with. It is important to note that there are other variations of this dish that can be found throughout the country. They can also be served both cold and warm. I personally prefer them served warm, but it’s honestly tasty either way!
5. Saganaki
If you’re a cheese lover like my husband and I, you’re sure to be happy with this dish! I mean, it’s really just fried cheese—but what’s not to love about that!? The cheese is melted in the pan until it gets bubbly and is usually served with lemon juice and eaten with bread. The term saganaki actually refers to the frying pan in which it is prepared. And while saganaki is simply a square-ish piece of perfectly fried cheese, there are other versions that are prepared differently, including shrimp saganaki and mussels saganaki. Pictured below is a shrimp saganaki we had while in Paros—it was so yummy!
6. Spanakopita
Another Greek classic: spanakopita or spinach pie. I’ve always enjoyed spanakopita from the local Greek restaurants found in NY, but it has taken on a new meaning for me in Greece. Made with flaky and crunchy phyllo dough and filled with spinach, herbs, feta cheese, and onions, I could honestly eat this every day. My husband and I loved the buttery, flaky crust and the richness coming from the spicy feta cheese and herb mixture. Plus, it’s a spinach pie—you can eat as many as you want!! And we did, hehe. The irresistible flaky crust does leave a mess, so be prepared for that. But it’s worth the crumbs, I promise. (;
7. Kataifi
Okay, so when we think of Greek desserts, baklava always comes to mind, right? And for good reason—made correctly, it is bomb!! But have you ever heard of kataifi?? Like baklava, kataifi is a very well-loved dessert among Greek and middle eastern nations—only instead of layered phyllo pastry, it’s made with shredded phyllo dough. Filled with rich nuts and covered in honey, the sweet, delicate pastry just melts in your mouth. And you can find these and other similar desserts in any pâtisserie.
Pro tip: If you want to try multiple desserts, do not get the full-sized versions of them because it will be way too sweet and you’re not going to want to finish it all, let alone get a chance to really enjoy it. Go to a patisserie and get a few different desserts to try because you can usually find them pretty small (1-2 bite pieces) and the cost is calculated by weight. That way, you won’t have to spend a lot to see which desserts you love and which ones you only like. (:
8. Greek Coffee
Greek coffee is just one of those things you’ve got to try while in Greece, whether you’re a coffee lover or not. Similar to Turkish coffee, if you’ve had that, it’s rich and has a thicker consistency than what you’re probably used to. It’s served with foam at the top and a layer of unincorporated coffee grounds at the bottom. If you are not a coffee lover or if you don’t like the bitterness of black coffee, it will be bitter. So, if they ask if you want sugar in it, say yes. I said no to our server at a café in Mykonos and he gave me a concerned look and asked me if I was sure. I told him yes, because I don’t usually put sugar in my coffee. And when he brought it out to me, I understood why he gave me that look. It wasn’t undrinkable, but very bitter and a little too thick for me. So, I added sugar to it and wow, that made a huge difference. I actually loved it after I added sugar, so every time I ordered it since then, I asked for sugar with it.
9. Seafood
Seafood is delicious and fresh pretty much no matter where you go in Greece. But if you’re on one of the 220 islands of the Cyclades, just get it and you won’t be disappointed. It’s about as fresh as you can get—you’re literally on an island and surrounded by the Aegean sea. Prices do get up there though, especially if you’re on one of the more expensive islands, like Mykonos or Santorini. Enjoy this photo of a delicious seafood platter from a restaurant in Mykonos!!
10. Halvas (halvah)
When you’re dining in at a Greek restaurant or tavern, don’t be surprised when after you’ve finished your food and have asked for the check, that it takes a while for them to bring it to you. This happened a lot while we were in Greece and we found out that more often than not, it’s because they’re preparing a tasty treat for you to finish a proper Greek meal. And no, we were never charged for it. We’ve had a variety of desserts brought to us at the end of our meals like Greek yogurt or fruit or ice cream, but halvas was the most common. It’s a traditional no egg, dairy free, perfectly spiced semolina pudding sweetened with syrup, and often topped with coconut. Perfect for all you vegans out there. (: I probably couldn’t finish a whole serving of it myself because of the soft texture and because it was so sweet, but I’d say one piece is the perfect portion for sharing with a loved one!
