Food Guide For Expats In Greece

Published on October 2, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Greece, the cradle of Mediterranean civilization, is renowned for its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and exceptional cuisine. For expatriates settling in this sunny country, discovering Greek food is an exciting culinary adventure that allows for full immersion in the local culture. This comprehensive guide will help you explore Greece’s unique flavors, from traditional markets to iconic restaurants, while familiarizing yourself with customs and table etiquette.

The Foundations of Greek Cuisine

Greek gastronomy reflects millennia of history and diverse influences, particularly Mediterranean and Eastern. It’s characterized by the use of fresh, quality ingredients and simple preparation techniques that highlight the natural flavors of food.

The pillars of Greek cuisine are olive oil, aromatic herbs (oregano, thyme, mint), fresh vegetables, cheeses (particularly feta), grilled meats, and seafood. Greek cooking also places great importance on legumes, grains, and fruits, offering a balanced and flavorful diet.

Iconic dishes every expatriate should discover include:

• Moussaka: a layered dish with eggplant, ground meat, and béchamel sauce
• Souvlaki: skewers of marinated grilled meat
• Greek salad (horiatiki): a refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, olives, and feta
• Tzatziki: a sauce made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, and garlic
• Dolmades: stuffed grape leaves with rice and herbs

These specialties are just a glimpse of the Greek culinary richness you’ll enjoy exploring throughout your stay.

Traditional Markets: Immersion in Greek Food Culture

To truly understand and appreciate Greek gastronomy, nothing beats visiting local markets. These lively, colorful places are the beating heart of Greek food culture, where local producers sell their fresh, seasonal products.

In major cities like Athens or Thessaloniki, you’ll find iconic markets such as:

• Varvakios Central Market in Athens: a true temple of gastronomy where you can discover an impressive variety of local products, from fruits and vegetables to cheeses, meats, and fresh fish.
• Modiano Market in Thessaloniki: a historic covered market offering an authentic experience and a wide range of regional products.

At these markets, don’t hesitate to strike up conversations with vendors. Greeks are generally very proud of their products and will be delighted to share their knowledge and culinary advice. It’s also an opportunity to discover lesser-known ingredients and familiarize yourself with seasonal products.

Some tips to make the most of your market visit:

• Go early in the morning to get the freshest products and avoid crowds
• Don’t hesitate to taste the samples offered – it’s a great way to discover new flavors
• Learn a few Greek words to communicate with vendors – they’ll appreciate your effort
• Ask about local specialties and seasonal products

Visiting markets is not only an enriching culinary experience but also a cultural immersion that will help you better understand the Greek way of life and the importance of food in society.

Iconic Restaurants: From Traditional Tavernas to Starred Tables

Greece offers an impressive variety of culinary experiences, from family-run tavernas to gourmet restaurants. For expatriates, exploring this diversity is an excellent way to immerse yourself in local culture and discover all facets of Greek cuisine.

Traditional tavernas, called “tavernas” in Greek, are the heart of social and culinary life in Greece. These friendly establishments offer authentic, generous cuisine, often at affordable prices. In a typical taverna, you can enjoy mezzes (small shared plates), grilled meats, stewed dishes, and fresh salads, all accompanied by local wine or ouzo.

Some iconic tavernas to discover:

• In Athens: Ouzeri Lesvos, known for its seafood and authentic atmosphere
• In Thessaloniki: Rouga, a local institution offering traditional Macedonian dishes
• On Crete: Ntounias, a mountain taverna famous for its organic cuisine and wood-fired dishes

For a more refined experience, Greece also has many gourmet restaurants, some of which are Michelin-starred. These establishments offer modern Greek cuisine, reinventing traditional dishes with creativity and sophistication.

Some gourmet tables not to miss:

• Funky Gourmet in Athens: avant-garde cuisine awarded two Michelin stars
• Etrusco on Corfu: a starred restaurant blending Greek and Italian influences
• Selene in Santorini: a gastronomic institution with stunning views of the caldera

Don’t forget to explore “ouzeries” too – these meze bars specialize in ouzo, Greece’s iconic anise-flavored alcohol. These establishments offer a relaxed atmosphere and are perfect for discovering the sharing culture so dear to Greeks.

For a successful culinary experience, here are some tips:

• Choose restaurants frequented by locals – they’re often a guarantee of quality and authenticity
• Don’t hesitate to ask for the chef’s or server’s recommendations
• Try the daily special (“piato tis imeras”), often a local specialty prepared with seasonal ingredients
• Finish your meal with a frappé coffee, a typically Greek refreshing drink

Table Etiquette: Navigating Greek Dining Customs

Understanding table etiquette in Greece is essential for expatriates wanting to integrate and avoid cultural faux pas. Meals in Greece are much more than mere sustenance – they’re moments of sharing, conviviality, and celebration of life.

In family or friendly contexts:

• Meals are generally relaxed and friendly occasions
• Sharing dishes is common, so don’t be surprised if your host serves you directly
• Greeks eat late – dinner rarely starts before 9 PM
• It’s polite to taste all dishes offered, even in small quantities
• Compliment your host’s cooking – it’s much appreciated

In professional or formal contexts:

• Business meals are common and can last several hours
• Wait for your host to indicate where to sit
• Don’t start eating until everyone is served and the host gives the signal
• Avoid discussing business immediately – let your host bring up the subject
• It’s common for the host to insist on paying the bill

Some general rules to remember:

• Keep your hands visible on the table, but not your elbows
• Use your bread to clean your plate – it’s a compliment to the cook
• Don’t refuse a glass of ouzo or raki if offered – it’s considered impolite
• It’s common to toast by saying “Yamas!” (To your health!)
• Leave a tip of about 10% in restaurants, unless service is already included

In Greece, meals are often occasions for long conversations. Don’t be surprised if the meal extends over several hours – taking time to eat and socialize is an integral part of Greek culture.

Contemporary Culinary Trends in Greece

While deeply rooted in its traditions, the Greek culinary scene is undergoing exciting evolution, influenced by global trends while remaining faithful to its gastronomic heritage. For expatriates, understanding these trends not only helps with integration into contemporary culture but also reveals new ways to appreciate Greek cuisine.

Here are some current culinary trends in Greece:

• Fusion cuisine: Many Greek chefs are innovating by mixing traditional techniques and ingredients with international influences, creating unique and surprising dishes.
• Back to roots: There’s growing interest in local ingredients and ancient recipes, with emphasis on sustainability and organic products.
• Revisited Greek street food: Street food classics like souvlaki or gyros are being reinvented with higher quality ingredients and innovative presentations.
• Greek wines: The Greek wine scene is experiencing a revival, with particular attention to native grape varieties and traditional winemaking methods.
• Vegetarian and vegan cuisine: Although traditional Greek cuisine is rich in vegetarian options, there’s an increase in restaurants offering entirely vegan menus.

To explore these trends, expatriates can:

• Visit modern gourmet restaurants in major cities like Athens or Thessaloniki
• Participate in Greek wine tastings to discover the diversity of local grape varieties
• Visit organic markets developing in many Greek cities
• Try new street food concepts that combine tradition and innovation

These contemporary trends offer a new perspective on Greek gastronomy, allowing expatriates to discover how culinary tradition adapts and evolves in the modern world.

Finding International Ingredients in Greece

Although Greek cuisine is delicious and varied, it’s natural for expatriates to sometimes crave cooking dishes from their home country or exploring other international cuisines. Fortunately, with globalization and the growing expatriate population, it’s increasingly easy to find international ingredients in Greece.

Here are some tips for finding international ingredients:

• International supermarkets: In major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, you’ll find supermarkets specializing in international products. For example, “Carrefour” or “AB Vassilopoulos” often have sections dedicated to foreign products.
• Ethnic grocery stores: Many specialized stores offer Asian, Latin American, or Middle Eastern products.
• Markets: Some markets, particularly in Athens, have stands specializing in international products.
• Online shops: Many websites deliver international products throughout Greece.
• Expatriate communities: Joining expat groups on social media can help you find addresses for specific ingredients.

Some useful addresses for expatriates:

• In Athens: “Pantopolion” in the Kolonaki neighborhood offers a wide range of international products.
• In Thessaloniki: “The Carob Mill” offers a selection of organic and international products.
• Online: “Greek Bio Store” delivers throughout Greece and offers many international products.

Remember that some ingredients may be difficult to find or more expensive than elsewhere. In that case, don’t hesitate to ask locals for advice on finding Greek alternatives that might work for your recipes.

Conclusion: Embracing Greek Culinary Culture

Expatriating to Greece offers a unique opportunity to dive into one of the world’s richest and oldest gastronomic cultures. From discovering traditional markets to exploring iconic restaurants, learning table etiquette, and adapting to contemporary culinary trends, every aspect of this culinary adventure contributes to better understanding and integration into Greek society.

Greek cuisine, much more than mere sustenance, is a true way of life. It embodies values of sharing, conviviality, and respect for products that resonate well beyond the country’s borders. For expatriates, embracing this culinary culture is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a privileged path to building connections with locals and absorbing the Greek joy of living.

Remember that culinary discovery is an ongoing process. Every region, every Greek island has its unique specialties and culinary traditions. Enjoy your stay to explore this diversity, whether by traveling through the country or frequenting neighborhood tavernas.

Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment and mix flavors from your home country with those of your new home. It’s often from these culinary encounters that the most memorable and enriching experiences are born.

Kalí órexi! (Enjoy your meal!)