10 Must-Try Foods in Greece: A Traveler's Guide

Greece is a country that tantalizes the senses with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and, of course, its incredible cuisine. Greek food is a celebration of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and time-honored traditions. From creamy tzatziki to flaky baklava, every dish tells a story of the country’s cultural heritage. If you’re planning a trip to Greece, here’s a guide to 10 must-try foods that will make your culinary journey unforgettable.

​1. Moussaka
Moussaka is Greece’s answer to lasagna, but with a Mediterranean twist. This hearty casserole is made with layers of eggplant, ground meat (usually lamb or beef), and a creamy béchamel sauce. The dish is baked until golden and served warm, often with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. Moussaka is a comfort food staple in Greece and a must-try for anyone visiting the country.

Where to Try:

​Taverna Tou Psirri (Athens): A cozy taverna that serves authentic Greek dishes, including a delicious moussaka.
​To Kati Allo (Santorini): A family-run restaurant that offers a traditional moussaka with a view of the Aegean Sea.
​2. Souvlaki
Souvlaki is Greece’s most famous street food, consisting of skewered and grilled meat (usually pork or chicken) served with pita bread, tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki. It’s a quick, affordable, and delicious meal that’s perfect for on-the-go travelers.

Where to Try:

​Kostas (Athens): A legendary souvlaki joint that has been serving mouthwatering skewers since 1950.
​Lucky’s Souvlaki (Mykonos): A popular spot for fresh and flavorful souvlaki in a lively atmosphere.
​3. Tzatziki
Tzatziki is a refreshing yogurt-based dip made with cucumbers, garlic, olive oil, and dill. It’s a staple in Greek cuisine and is often served as an appetizer or accompaniment to grilled meats and bread.

Where to Try:

​Taverna Plaka (Athens): A traditional taverna that serves homemade tzatziki with warm pita bread.
​Mythos Restaurant (Santorini): A seaside restaurant that offers a creamy and flavorful tzatziki.
​4. Spanakopita
Spanakopita is a savory pastry made with layers of phyllo dough filled with spinach, feta cheese, onions, and herbs. It’s a popular snack or light meal in Greece and is perfect for vegetarians.

Where to Try:

​Ariston (Athens): A historic bakery that specializes in traditional Greek pastries, including spanakopita.
​Kritamon (Crete): A charming café that serves a delicious spanakopita made with local ingredients.
​5. Greek Salad (Horiatiki)
Greek salad, or horiatiki, is a simple yet flavorful dish made with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese, dressed with olive oil and oregano. It’s a refreshing and healthy option that showcases the best of Greek produce.

Where to Try:

​Dio Dekares i Oka (Athens): A popular taverna that serves a fresh and vibrant Greek salad.
​Sunset Taverna (Santorini): A seaside restaurant that offers a Greek salad with a view of the sunset.
​6. Dolmades
Dolmades are stuffed grape leaves filled with rice, herbs, and sometimes ground meat. They’re a popular appetizer or side dish in Greece and are often served with a dollop of yogurt or tzatziki.

Where to Try:

​Oineas (Athens): A traditional taverna that serves authentic dolmades made with fresh grape leaves.
​Avli Tou Thodori (Rhodes): A family-run restaurant that offers a delicious version of dolmades.
​7. Pastitsio
Pastitsio is a baked pasta dish similar to moussaka but made with tubular pasta, ground meat, and a creamy béchamel sauce. It’s a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a filling meal.

Where to Try:

​Taverna Tou Psirri (Athens): A cozy taverna that serves a traditional pastitsio.
​To Kati Allo (Santorini): A family-run restaurant that offers a flavorful pastitsio with a view of the sea.
​8. Baklava
Baklava is a sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, nuts (usually walnuts or pistachios), and honey syrup. It’s a rich and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Where to Try:

​Ariston (Athens): A historic bakery that specializes in traditional Greek pastries, including baklava.
​Kritamon (Crete): A charming café that serves a delicious baklava made with local ingredients.
​9. Saganaki
Saganaki is a fried cheese dish made with kefalotyri or halloumi cheese. The cheese is fried until golden and crispy, then served with a squeeze of lemon. It’s a simple yet irresistible appetizer that’s perfect for cheese lovers.

Where to Try:

​Taverna Plaka (Athens): A traditional taverna that serves a delicious saganaki.
​Mythos Restaurant (Santorini): A seaside restaurant that offers a crispy and flavorful saganaki.
​10. Loukoumades
Loukoumades are Greek doughnuts made with deep-fried dough, soaked in honey syrup, and sprinkled with cinnamon and nuts. They’re a sweet and indulgent treat that’s perfect for dessert or a snack.

Where to Try:

​Lukumades (Athens): A popular spot for fresh and fluffy loukoumades with a variety of toppings.
​Kritamon (Crete): A charming café that serves a delicious version of loukoumades.
​Conclusion
Greek cuisine is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and time-honored traditions. From hearty moussaka to sweet baklava, every dish offers a taste of Greece’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Athens or the idyllic islands of the Aegean, these 10 must-try foods will make your culinary journey unforgettable. Kali orexi! (Bon appétit!)