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

Greece Famous for its rich history and stunning vistas, this place is also a must-visit for gastronomes. Spanning from the glittering shores of the Aegean Sea to the quaint white-washed hamlets nestled in the hills, different areas present their distinctive gourmet specialties, brimming with regional tastes. Rooted deeply in genuine flavors and freshly harvested ingredients, Greek fare mirrors its extensive legacy and hospitable spirit. Delectable meals crafted with zeal and passed through generations can be found at nearly every turn, tucked away in scenic taverns and mom-and-pop eateries.

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

• Greece: 30 Essential 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 attractions

Moussaka

Moussaka is a signature dish from Greek culinary tradition. This layered casserole features eggplants, ground mutton, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and various spices, topped with a delectable Béchamel sauce and baked to perfection until it’s golden brown and wonderfully creamy.

Souvláki

Souvlaki is an essential part of Greek street cuisine. Typically made from chunks of meat such as pork, chicken, or lamb that have been 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, tomato, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce.

Tarama

A delectable appetizer, tarama is crafted using fish roe (typically from cod), blended with olive oil, lemon juice, onions, and occasionally potatoes. This dish is commonly enjoyed alongside fresh bread.

Horiatiki (Greek salad)

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

Dolmadakia

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

Gyros

Gyro dishes resemble Souvlaki but feature meat (such as pork, chicken, or lamb) roasted on a vertical spit. Once cooked, the meat is shaved off thinly and wrapped in pita bread along with vegetables and condiments, including tzatziki.

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

The dish consists of a spinach and feta pie prepared with multiple sheets of flaky phyllo pastry enclosing a blend of fresh spinach, onions, crumbled feta cheese, eggs, and aromatic herbs. It offers a delightful vegetarian choice.

Baklava

Why not indulge in baklava for dessert? This delectable treat features crisp layers of phyllo dough filled with crushed nuts and soaked in a sweet syrup infused with hints of cinnamon and orange blossom water.

Loukoumades

Loukoumades are petite spheres of fried batter akin to doughnut holes, subsequently soaked in honey and dusted with cinnamon. It’s a delectable indulgence you should not miss out on.