Greek cuisine is a reflection of its rich history and diverse culture, offering a tantalising mix of flavours, aromas, and traditions.
Whether you’re dining in a bustling Athens taverna or enjoying a seaside meal on a tranquil island, Greek food is a feast for both the palate and the soul.
This page will introduce you to the essentials of Greek cuisine, the joy of eating in Greece, and how to navigate ordering in Greek restaurants.
The Essence of Greek Cuisine
Greek food is renowned for its simplicity and reliance on fresh, excellent quality ingredients.
The Mediterranean diet, to which Greek cuisine is central, is considered one of the healthiest in the world. It emphasises:
- Fresh Vegetables: Tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplant, and peppers are prominently featured in many dishes.
- Olive Oil: Often referred to as “liquid gold,” olive oil is a staple in Greek cooking, adding richness to salads, stews, and grilled meats. Not all olive oils are made equal, however. Did you know, an authentic extra virgin olive oil must be less than 0.8% acidity? Most olive oils the world over are in excess of 2% and it makes a huge difference to the taste. [checking this is right?]
- Seafood: With Greece’s extensive coastline, seafood is a natural part of the diet. Fresh fish, octopus, and calamari are commonly enjoyed, often grilled or fried.
- Herbs and Spices: Oregano, thyme, mint, and dill are widely used to enhance the flavours of various dishes.
- Cheese: Feta, Greece’s most famous cheese, is a key ingredient in many recipes, including the iconic Greek salad (Horiatiki – hoh-ree-AH-tee-kee).
The Greek approach to food is communal and celebratory. Meals are often shared with family and friends, and dishes are brought to the table in large quantities for everyone to enjoy. Not forgetting the Ouzo!
When in Greece, these are some dishes you should not miss:
Must-Try Greek Dishes
Moussaka (moo-sah-KAH): A hearty casserole with layers of eggplant (aubergine if you’re in the UK), minced meat, and béchamel sauce.
Souvlaki (soov-LAH-kee): Skewers of marinated meat (often pork or chicken), grilled to perfection and typically served with pita bread, onions, and tzatziki.
Tzatziki (tsaht-ZEE-kee): A refreshing dip made from yoghurt, cucumber, garlic, and olive oil, often served with bread or as an accompaniment to grilled meats.
Dolmades (dohl-MAH-thes): Vine leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, and sometimes meat, served as a cold appetiser.
Baklava (bahk-lah-VAH): A rich, sweet pastry made of many layers of filo pastry interspersed with butter and chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup.
The Greek Dining Experience
Dining in Greece is more than just eating; it’s an experience filled with tradition and hospitality. Here’s what to expect:
- Tavernas (tah-VER-nahs): The most common type of restaurant in Greece, where you can enjoy traditional, home-cooked meals in a relaxed atmosphere. Tavernas often have simple wooden tables and chairs, checkered tablecloths, and a warm, welcoming vibe.
- Mezedes (meh-ZEH-thes): Like Spanish tapas, mezedes are small dishes that accompany drinks. They range from simple olives and cheese to elaborate preparations like grilled octopus or fried zucchini.
- Kafeneio (kah-feh-NEE-oh): A traditional Greek café where you can sip on a coffee (Greek coffee is a must-try) or enjoy a glass of ouzo, a popular anise-flavoured liquor. Kafeneia are also social hubs where locals gather to chat, play cards, or just relax.
Ordering in Greek Restaurants: A Practical Guide
Ordering food in a Greek restaurant can be an adventure. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process:
Understanding the Menu: Menus in Greek restaurants often have English translations, especially in tourist areas. However, it’s helpful to familiarise yourself with some basic Greek food terms. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to ask the waiter for recommendations.
Sharing is Caring: Greek meals are meant to be shared. It’s common to order several dishes for the table and enjoy a bit of everything. This way, you get to taste a variety of flavours without committing to just one dish.
Mealtime Etiquette: Greeks typically enjoy their meals slowly, savouring each bite. Meals are often accompanied by conversation, laughter, and perhaps a few toasts with wine or ouzo (Yamas!). It’s not unusual for meals to last for several hours, especially during social gatherings.
Special Requests: If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, don’t hesitate to mention them. Greek restaurants are usually accommodating and can modify dishes to suit your needs.
The Bill: In Greece, it’s common for the waiter to bring the receipt for each order you make, but they only clear the table or take your money when you ask them to. If you’re in a hurry, request the check; otherwise, feel free to linger and enjoy the atmosphere.
Dining Like a Local
To truly immerse yourself in Greek food culture, follow these local tips:
Seasonality Matters: Greeks take pride in eating seasonally. Visit a local market (laiki – lah-EE-kee) to see what’s fresh, and try dishes made with ingredients that are in season.
Wine and Spirits: Greek wines are gaining international recognition, and a meal is often accompanied by a glass of local wine. Don’t miss trying retsina (ret-SEE-nah), a unique wine flavoured with pine resin, or tsipouro (see-POO-roh), a strong distilled spirit often served with mezedes.
Street Food: For a quick bite, grab a gyro (YEE-roh) or souvlaki from a street vendor. It’s an affordable and delicious way to experience Greek flavours on the go.
Greek cuisine is more than just food; it’s a way of life that reflects the country’s history, geography, and culture. Whether you’re sitting down for a formal meal or grabbing a quick snack, eating in Greece is an experience filled with joy, flavour, and tradition. Enjoy your culinary journey!
