Top 10 Foods to Try In Greece

Aside from its stunning islands, amazing sightseeing and rich history, Greece is also a paradise for food lovers. Greek cuisine is known for its fresh, seasonal ingredients and centuries of culinary traditions. Whether you’re dining by the seaside or grabbing a quick bite from a local bakery, every meal is sure to bring something special to the table. Here are the top 10 foods you have to try during your travels in Greece!

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Moussaka

Although this delicious meal is famously known as a Greek traditional dish, it actually originates from the Levant region. It was in the 1920s that chef Nikolaus Tselementes turned moussaka into the meal we know and love today. It typically features eggplant or potatoes as the base, lamb sauce with hints of oregano and cinnamon, and a creamy béchamel sauce, all layered to make the perfect blend of flavors.

Tzatziki

This classic dip is served along with many meals in Greece, making the perfect side to bring your food a little extra flavor. The refreshing sauce is made from Greek yogurt, fresh cucumbers, garlic, lemon juice, a hint of olive oil, and herbs like dill and mint. Whether paired with meat, vegetables, or simply pita bread, tzatziki is sure to be a crowd-pleaser with any meal it accompanies.

Souvlaki

This popular Greek street food consists of small pieces of meat, and sometimes vegetables, commonly eaten straight off the skewer. It can also be served with a delicious tzatziki sauce and on pita bread. This simple dish is both convenient and delicious, making the perfect on-the-go meal during your travels.

Gyros

Greek Gyros are a traditional meal known and loved across the world. It is typically made with perfectly seasoned pork, cooked on a vertical rotisserie and then thinly sliced. It is then wrapped in pita, often paired with tomatoes, onions, French fries, and of course, tzatziki. The combination of juicy meat with cooling toppings makes the perfect bite of savory and refreshing flavors!

Saganaki

In Greece, “saganaki” refers to dishes prepared in a small frying pan, the most popular one being cheese saganaki. This delicious appetizer is the perfect way to start your meal. This fried cheese, often halloumi or kefalotyri, is know for its crispy exterior and delicious melted cheese interior. Get the full experience by enjoying this appetizer in a traditional taverna, where it is flambéed right by your table for an exiting start to your meal.

Dolmadakia

This stuffed grape leaves are a classic part of Greek cuisine. The small, flavorful bites are made by wrapping grape leaves around a mixture of rice and savory herbs like dill and mint, sometimes also accompanied by ground meat. This appetizer can be served both warm and chilled, often drizzled with olive oil and served with lemon wedges and Tzatziki.

Greek Salad

A fresh, Greek salad is the perfect appetizer for a hot summer day. This signature dish is usually made with tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, olives, and feta, all brought together with a drizzle of olive oil. It is sure to offer a refreshing taste of the Mediterranean and highlight the high-quality ingredients in Greece.

Spanakopita

This Greek spinach pie is made with flaky phyllo dough and filled with a delicious combination of spinach, feta cheese, onions, and fresh herbs. This delicious pastry can be eaten at anytime of the day, so go into any bakery in Greece during your travels and enjoy this delicacy fresh out of the oven.

Grilled Fish

Thanks to Greece’s proximity to the Mediterranean sea, you will find an abundance of locally caught fish like sea bass (lavraki), sea bream (tsipoura), and red porgy (fagri). The preparation is simple yet flavorful. It is typically seasoned with salt, pepper, lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs like thyme or dill. It is then grilled to perfection and served whole. Paired with an ocean view, it makes for the perfect Greek dining experience.

Baklava

No meal is finished without a sweet treat, and no trip to Greece can be complete without trying baklava. This beloved dessert is made with layers of thin, flaky phyllo dough, a chopped nuts filling, and a drizzle of honey or syrup. Chopped pistachios, walnuts, or almonds are common choices for the tasty filling. The golden and crispy dessert offers a perfect blend of flavors. Pair it with a strong Greek coffee for a truly authentic finish to your meal!

Those are just 10 of the delicious reasons to fall in love with Greek cuisine. This country has a meal for every taste, so join ACIS in making the most out of Greek food and culture!