Article by Giorgos, the creator of Thessaloniki Free Walks
The most people that come to Greece know unfortunately only the basic dishes of the Greek cuisine like gyros, mousaka and the greek salad and miss other equally or more fascinating dishes that of course are also difficult to pronounce. Dishes that are especially tasty in Thessaloniki that is considered the gastronomical capital of Greece.
Before to get started, a basic info! What is the difference between a restaurant and tavern? Because abroad they are considered the same but not in Greece!
In a taverna you'll find usually grilled or fried food while in a restaurant you'll find usually food cooked in the oven. So don´t be surprised if you don´t find a mousaka in a taverna. Of course there are always exceptions.
So let’s get started!
Extra suggestion. Trigona panoramatos. This is a sweet you can find only in Thessaloniki! It is basically a pastry in the shape of a triangle filled with fresh cream and syrup. Warning, the greek sweets, usually they are too sweet!
Of course the list of dishes you can eat in Thessaloniki doesn’t end here but you have an idea! Only have an empty stomach and big appetite and you'll be paid off well!
A last tip for vegans and vegetarians! Even though in Greece, unfortunately, we consume a lot of meat this doesn’t mean we don’t have vegan or vegetarian dishes. Quite the opposite! Many main dishes in the restaurants are vegan or vegetarian and many appetizers in the tavernas also, in a very decent portion!
Bon appétit!!
Giorgos
Hi 🙂 I understood that you give out free tours in Thessaloniki. Is there a free tour tomorrow that I can join? Where do we meet and at what time? Thank you very much