Traditional Greek Dishes You Must Eat While in Greece

Greece, often referred to as the cradle of Western civilization, is rich in history and stunning ancient architecture, and is also known for its beautiful beaches.

But Greece is also home to some of the finest ingredients in the world. So as you can imagine, the food is amazing, and eating is a large part of the culture. To really experience Greece, you should try as many different types of Greek food as possible.

To help you eat your way through Greece, here is a list of top foods that you must try while visiting this beautiful country.

Gyros

You have likely had this popular Greek food, no matter if you’ve been to Greece before or not, but it’s worth it to have an authentic one (or two, or three!). You can find this handheld pita sandwich with a variety of different meats, topped with tomatoes, onions, lettuce, and tzatziki. In Greece, they’re also often served with french fries packed inside, as well.

Greek Salad

Greek salad is another typical Greek food that you’ve likely had before, but you absolutely need to have the authentic when visiting Greece. A traditional Greek salad is also called Horiatiki. It includes cucumber, tomato, green pepper, red onion, Kalamata olives, and of course a bunch of feta cheese. It’s fresh, light, and so delicious.

Tzatziki

This isn’t necessarily a dish itself, but you have to have it anyway. You can’t go to Greece without eating tzatziki sauce. It is made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon, and dill, and you’re going to find yourself eating it on meat, vegetables, pita, or even by itself by the spoonful.

Keftedes

These are fried meatballs, kind of like the Greek version of a falafel. They’re usually served with tomato sauce as a starter, but there are different versions made with different ingredients, like Revithiakefedes, which are fried chickpea balls, and Tomatokeftedes, which are made with tomatoes.

Dolmades

You have got to try dolmades, and try them everywhere you go. Every region in Greece has its own version. Essentially it is a stuffed grape leaf, filled with fresh herbs, minced meat and long-grain rice, sometimes pine nuts as well. Handmade dolmades are one of those typical greek foods that is always going to better in Greece than anywhere else.

Saganaki

If you love cheese, you absolutely have to try saganaki. And trust me when I say that once you try it, you’re going to want to order it as an appetizer before every meal. It’s essentially just fried cheese, and is named for the type of pan it’s made in. It can be made from halloumi, kasseri, or graviera, which are all different types of Greek cheese that can withstand high heat without melting.

Loukoumades

Do you love donuts? Because I love donuts, and I can’t suggest this popular greek food enough. They’re little bite-sized puffs that are fried until golden, but still fluffy inside. They’re typically topped with a sweet syrup and cinnamon, sometimes walnuts or other nuts. Be prepared to eat a bunch because it’s hard to eat just one!

Tyropita

Another great Greek dessert that you must try while in Greece. These are savory hand pies made from filo dough, and they’re stuffed with feta or other savory fillings, and are a typical Greek food to find in a cafe or bakery.

Baklava

This traditional Greek food is so popular that it’s known all over the world. It’s a classic! You can’t visit Greece without having baklava. Between the crispy layers of filo and sticky, sweet syrup, it is easy to see why it is such a popular dessert.

Moussaka

This traditional Greek dish will give you a taste of a big Greek family gathering meal. It’s a casserole-like dish made with minced beef, sweet eggplants, and tomato sauce, topped with a creamy bechamel sauce. While in Greece, you’re likely to find many different variations of this dish because most families have their own distinct recipes.