Greek Islands’ signature dishes include Moussaka, Souvlaki, Greek Salad, and Grilled Octopus, showcasing the region’s rich culinary heritage.
The 8 Dishes You Must Try Before You Leave
We fell in love with the local cuisine, and here are the top dishes to try:
- Moussaka (Μουσακά, Moo-sah-kah): layered eggplant, ground meat, and béchamel sauce, found at Taverna tou Psarra in Mykonos, costing 15€ ($17 USD)
- Souvlaki (Σουβλάκι, Soo-vlah-kee): skewered pork or chicken, served at Souvlaki tou Kostas in Athens, priced at 5€ ($5.50 USD)
- Greek Salad (Ελληνικό Σαλάτι, Eh-lah-NEE-koh sah-LAH-tee): tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, feta, and olives, available at The Greek Kitchen in Santorini, costing 12€ ($13.50 USD)
- Grilled Octopus (Χταπόδι Στιφάδο, Khtah-POH-dee Stee-FAH-tho): char-grilled octopus, typically found at Octopus Restaurant in Crete, priced at 20€ ($22 USD)
- Stifado (Στιφάδο, Stee-FAH-tho): beef stew with onions and garlic, served at Taverna tou Lakis in Rhodes, costing 18€ ($20 USD)
- Dolmades (Δολμάδες, Thol-MAH-thehs): stuffed grape leaves, available at Dolmades Restaurant in Corfu, priced at 10€ ($11 USD)
- Galaktoboureko (Γαλακτομπούρεκο, Gah-lahk-toh-BOO-reh-koh): semolina custard pie, found at Patisserie Papagiannis in Athens, costing 8€ ($9 USD)
- Baklava (Μπακλαβά, Bahk-lah-VAH): layered phyllo, nuts, and honey, available at Baklava Shop in Mykonos, priced at 12€ ($13.50 USD)
Street Food Guide: Where, What & How Much
Here’s what surprised us most: the street food scene is thriving in the Greek Islands. The top 3 street food areas are:
- Monastiraki Flea Market in Athens (Sunday, 7am-3pm): try the souvlaki and gyro, priced at 5€ ($5.50 USD)
- Mykonos Waterfront (daily, 10am-10pm): enjoy the seafood and Greek salad, costing 15€ ($17 USD)
- Chania Old Town in Crete (daily, 10am-10pm): sample the dolmades and stifado, priced at 10€ ($11 USD)
Pro Tip: Always check the food stalls’ hygiene and handling practices before ordering.
Where to Eat: By Budget
Street Food & Markets
For a budget-friendly option, head to the street food stalls and markets, where meals start from 5€ ($5.50 USD). Try the souvlaki, gyro, and Greek salad.
Local Neighborhood Spots
For a mid-range option, visit the local tavernas, where meals cost between 15€ ($17 USD) and 25€ ($28 USD). Enjoy the moussaka, stifado, and grilled octopus.
Tourist-Friendly Mid-Range
For a slightly higher budget, try the tourist-friendly restaurants, where meals range from 25€ ($28 USD) to 40€ ($45 USD). Savor the seafood, Greek salad, and baklava.
Worth-the-Splurge Restaurants
For a luxurious dining experience, visit the high-end restaurants, where meals cost upwards of 50€ ($56 USD). Indulge in the fine wine, fresh seafood, and traditional Greek cuisine.
Vegetarian, Vegan & Allergy-Friendly Options
If we’re being honest, finding vegetarian and vegan options can be moderate to difficult in the Greek Islands. However, many restaurants now offer plant-based dishes, and some popular options include:
- Vegetarian moussaka: a variation of the classic dish, made with eggplant and tomatoes
- Grilled portobello mushrooms: a flavorful and filling option, often served with a side of roasted vegetables
- Stuffed bell peppers: a colorful and nutritious dish, filled with rice, herbs, and spices
Pro Tip: Learn some basic Greek phrases, such as “Είμαι χορτοφάγος” (Eemai hortofagos), meaning “I am a vegetarian”, to help you navigate the menu.
What Locals Actually Drink
When it comes to drinks, the locals prefer:
- Ouzo: a strong anise-flavored spirit, often enjoyed as an aperitif or digestif, priced at 5€ ($5.50 USD) per shot
- Metaxa: a Greek brandy, smooth and rich, priced at 10€ ($11 USD) per shot
- Frappe: a cold coffee drink, made with instant coffee, sugar, and water, costing 3€ ($3.30 USD) per cup
Pro Tip: Avoid drinking tap water, and opt for bottled or filtered water instead.
Food Etiquette & Practical Tips
Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
- Tipping: 5-10% of the total bill is customary, but not mandatory
- Dining hours: lunch is typically served between 12pm and 3pm, while dinner is served between 7pm and 10pm
- Reservations: not always necessary, but recommended for popular restaurants during peak season
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit the Greek Islands for food?
The best time to visit is during the summer months, when the produce is fresh and the seafood is plentiful.
Are there any food festivals in the Greek Islands?
Yes, there are several food festivals throughout the year, celebrating the local cuisine and traditions.
Can I find vegetarian and vegan options in the Greek Islands?
Yes, many restaurants now offer plant-based dishes, and some popular options include vegetarian moussaka and grilled portobello mushrooms.
How much should I tip in restaurants and bars?
5-10% of the total bill is customary, but not mandatory.
Plan a Foodie Trip to the Greek Islands
Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Use our free AI trip planner to plan your itinerary and make the most of your trip. Don’t forget to link your plans to our AI trip planner for a personalized experience.