Greece is famous for its delectable Mediterranean fare, known for blending freshness, flavor, and simplicity. Below is a selection of must-try dishes during your upcoming visit.

Greece
Famous for its rich historical legacy and breathtaking vistas, this place is equally vital for gastronomy enthusiasts. Stretching from the glistening shores of the Aegean Sea to the quaint white-washed hamlets nestled in the hills, various regions present their distinctive gourmet specialties, brimming with regional tastes. The essence of Greek cooking, characterized by genuine flavors and high-quality ingredients, mirrors both its ancient past and welcoming society. Delectable meals crafted with zeal and passed through generations can be found at nearly every turn, whether in cozy taverns or mom-and-pop eateries along scenic streets.

Planning a visit to Greece? Learn more about the destination to get ready for your trip:

• Greece: 30 Key Phrases to Master in Greek for a Smooth Trip
• Greece: Most Stunning Islands to Explore Within Each Archipelago
• Greece: 6 lesser-known spots to explore away from typical tourist haunts

Moussaka

Moussaka is a signature dish from Greek culinary tradition. This casserole-style recipe includes layers of eggplants, ground mutton, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and various seasonings, topped with a delectable Béchamel sauce and cooked until it turns golden and velvety.

Souvláki

Souvlaki is an essential part of Greek street cuisine. Typically made from chunks of meat such as pork, chicken, or lamb, which are seasoned with various spices, threaded onto skewers, and then grilled. This dish is commonly enjoyed wrapped in pita bread along with crisp veggies, slices of onion and tomato, complemented by a dollop of tangy tzatziki sauce.

Tarama

Taramasalata is a delightful appetizer prepared by combining fish roe (typically from cod), olive oil, lemon juice, onions, and occasionally potatoes. This dish is typically enjoyed alongside freshly baked bread.

Horiatiki (Greek salad)

The classic Greek salad known as Horiatiki is a straightforward yet delightful dish. It consists of ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, red onions, green bell peppers, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese, all enhanced with a dressing of olive oil and sprinkled with oregano and various herbs.

Dolmadakia

Dolmades consist of vine leaves filled with a blend of rice, onions, fragrant herbs, and olive oil. These small delights make for an excellent appetizer or starter.

Gyros

Gyro dishes resemble Souvlaki but feature meat (such as pork, chicken, or lamb) that has been rotating on a vertical skewer and subsequently shaved off thin. This sliced meat is then wrapped inside a pita along with various vegetables and condiments, including tzatziki sauce.

Fried squid

Surrounded by the ocean, Greece naturally features plenty of seafood dishes. One widely enjoyed option is fried calamari, which is typically prepared until crisp and paired with wedges of lemon for squeezing over top.

Spanakopita

This recipe features a spinach and feta pie crafted from sheets of flaky filo pastry filled with a blend of fresh spinach, onions, crumbled feta cheese, eggs, and aromatic herbs. It’s a delightful choice for vegetarians.

Baklava

Why not indulge in baklava for dessert? This delightful treat features layers of flaky filo dough filled with finely chopped nuts and drizzled with a sweet syrup infused with hints of cinnamon and orange blossom water, offering both crunch and sweetness.

Loukoumades

Loukoumades are petite spheres of fried batter akin to doughnut holes. After frying, they’re soaked in honey and dusted with cinnamon. It’s a delectable indulgence worth tasting.