Greek cuisine is built around olive oil, vegetables, grains, herbs, seafood, dairy and regional products. Island and mainland cooking traditions can differ significantly.

20 Foods and Drinks to Know

1. Moussaka
2. Souvlaki
3. Greek salad
4. Tzatziki
5. Spanakopita
6. Dolmades
7. Pastitsio
8. Fasolada
9. Gemista
10. Grilled octopus
11. Grilled sardines
12. Horiatiki
13. Feta
14. Graviera cheese
15. Loukoumades
16. Baklava
17. Galaktoboureko
18. Retsina
19. Greek wines
20. Greek coffee

Regional Food

Crete is known for its local olive oil, vegetables and cheeses; the islands offer seafood and distinctive dishes; northern Greece has strong Balkan and Ottoman culinary influences.

How to Explore

Try local tavernas, markets, bakeries, wineries and regional food festivals. Menus often change according to season and local supply.

Pair this with our Greece regions guide, culture guide and travel guide.

Official resource: Visit Greece.

Imran Siddiqui

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