One of the pleasures of visiting Greece is deciding what to order. Something familiar, like souvlaki and a Greek salad? Or the dish at the next table that looks too good not to ask about?
Greek food gives you plenty of reasons to linger over a meal, from flaky savory pies to slow-cooked favorites and something sweet to finish. Here, we share dishes and drinks to look out for on your travels, along with recipes for the flavors you’ll want to bring home. There’s always room for another favorite.
A dessert lover’s dream, baklava is made with layers of delicate filo pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup. Its crunchy, sticky sweetness is pure bliss.
This savory pastry combines buttery layers of phyllo dough with a rich egg-and-cheese filling. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or any time you crave something cheesy!
The ultimate comfort food, moussaka is a classic dish made with layers of aubergines, savory lamb mince, and creamy béchamel sauce. Every bite is a warm, hearty embrace. Try our authentic Moussaka recipe!
Think of mezedes as the Greek answer to Spanish tapas—a tray of bite-sized delights like fish, pork, and vegetable dishes, perfect for sharing and pairing with a drink.
Greece’s fisherman’s soup, kakavia, is a flavorful medley of fish, onions, potatoes, olive oil, and seasonings. Variations might include shellfish, carrots, celery, or crustaceans, making each bowl unique.
This vegetarian favorite features giant white beans baked in a rich tomato sauce with herbs like oregano, parsley, and mint. Served as a meze or a main dish, it’s perfect with a side of crusty bread.
A street food staple, gyros feature thinly sliced chicken, lamb, or veal wrapped in pita with veggies and sauce. You’ll also find it served as a plated dish at restaurants—a versatile favorite for every foodie.
For the best souvlaki in the world, head to Skiathos! These skewers of grilled meat (often chicken, pork, or lamb) are a must-try, whether you grab them on the go or enjoy them as part of a sit-down meal. Make souvlaki at home with this easy recipe.
Greece’s liquid gold! Authentic Kalamata Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a fantastic gift or souvenir. Look for the “Messinia Union – Kalamata” label for a bright green to yellowish-green oil with exceptional flavor.
While feta is Greece’s most famous export, don’t miss out on Kefalotyri, a delicious cheese made from sheep’s or goat’s milk. It’s perfect for grating over pasta, salads, pizzas, or stews.
This simple yet divine dessert pairs thick Greek yogurt with a generous drizzle of honey and toasted walnuts. Whether enjoyed as a refreshing dessert or a light breakfast, it’s a true taste of Greece!
If by any unfortunate reason you missed out on Travel and Home’s top traditional Greek meals and drinks that are must-haves, then we have Plan B. Put on your Greek apron and surprise family and friends with delicious Greek cuisine.
A meal in Greece often ends with a sip of Ouzo, a fiery, anise-flavored spirit that’s sure to awaken your senses. With its bold, spicy kick, Ouzo is a quintessential Greek experience—though it’s definitely not for the faint-hearted!
When indulging in Greek meze (a selection of small dishes), don’t be surprised if a glass of Tsipouro accompanies your spread. This strong, grape-based spirit is not only a popular pairing for food but also a warm and traditional way to welcome guests in Greece.
Known elsewhere as Turkish coffee, Greek coffee is a rich, bold brew made with finely ground, roasted coffee beans. Tradition dictates using a cezve (or ibrik), a small coffee pot, to simmer the coffee in cold water over low heat. The result? A frothy, aromatic coffee that’s steeped in culture and perfect for savoring slowly.
>> There’s more of Greece to fall in love with. Explore our Greece guide for your next stop—and a few flavors to bring home.
