Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. But one aspect that often goes overlooked is the city’s mouth-watering cuisine.

In this blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into the culinary delights of Thessaloniki and explore the top dishes you must try when visiting this enchanting city.

Thessaloniki Food: 11 Amazing Dishes and Restaurants To Eat In

1. Bougatsa

Bougatsa is a Greek pastry that originated in Thessaloniki. It’s a flaky phyllo dough filled with a variety of savory or sweet fillings, such as cheese, spinach, or custard. The most popular version of bougatsa is the one filled with cheese, which is called tiropita.

You can find bougatsa in bakeries all over the city! The best place to try it is at Bougatsa Giannis , which has been serving the pastry for over a century.

Souvlaki

Souvlaki is a quintessential Greek dish that consists of grilled meat on a skewer, served with pita bread, tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce.

In Thessaloniki, you’ll find souvlaki stands on almost every corner. But the best place to try it is at Savvikos – which you can find in Aristotelous Square, Ladadika, Toumpa, and the Mall.

Koulouri

Koulouri is a traditional Greek breakfast pastry similar to a bagel. It’s a circular bread covered in sesame seeds and can be enjoyed plain or with toppings like cheese or ham. The best place to try it is at Tragano – which offers a big variety of soft or crunch koulouri with various modern variations!

Galaktoboureko

Galaktoboureko is a Greek dessert that consists of a semolina custard wrapped in phyllo dough and soaked in syrup. It’s a rich and decadent dessert that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

In Thessaloniki, you’ll find galaktoboureko on almost every dessert menu, but I urge you to try it at Galifianakis. Alternatively, go for Elenidis, a popular patisserie that has been serving the dessert since 194

Meze

Meze is a selection of small dishes that are served as appetizers or snacks. The dishes vary from region to region in Greece, and while in Thessaloniki you simply MUST visit the restaurant ”Full Tou Meze” in the Ladadika area, for an authentic Greek dining experience.

The restaurant specializes in meze, and these generous portions are made with the freshest local ingredients. I suggest asking the waiter for recommendations so you can sample a wide variety of flavors.

The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, with many Greek wines to choose from, making it a great spot for wine lovers.

With its lively atmosphere and delicious meze plates, Full Tou Meze is a must-visit for the best of Greek cuisine in Thessaloniki.

Gyros

Pita gyro is another popular street food in Thessaloniki. It is made with grilled pork or chicken that is wrapped in pita bread with onions, tomatoes, and tzatziki sauce.

Pita gyro is a filling meal that is perfect for lunch on the go, especially whilst shopping in Tsimiski area! The best place to try pita gyro in Thessaloniki is at Prassas

Additional scrumptious Thessaloniki Food you need to try

Delicious Brunch at Ergon Agora

Ergon Agora is a bustling marketplace located in the heart of Thessaloniki’s historic district. This vibrant market offers a wide range of locally sourced products, including fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, and baked goods.

The vendors at Ergon Agora are passionate about their craft, and many of them have been selling their goods here for generations. It’s a fantastic place to visit for brunch, lunch, or dinner, and the coffee is great too!

Succulent Steak at Kala Kathoumena

Considered to be one of the best restaurants in western Thessaloniki, Sta Kala Kathoumena restaurant knows how to stand out with excellent high-quality cuisine.

Here, you can take a culinary journey with appetizers such as the famous Hadronikis pie – which is a fresh fried potato with cheese, feta, and egg – which is delicious and unique!

Additionally, you are spoiled for choice with a huge variety of premium meats, excellent tomahawk steaks, and divine USA and Argentinan cuts.

The restaurant is known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly service, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. 10/10 for meat quality, and service!

Custom made Profiterols at Chourreal

For those with a sweet tooth, Chourreal in Thessaloniki is the perfect spot to indulge in some delicious desserts. One of the standout dishes on the menu is the profiteroles, which are light and fluffy pastries filled with cream and drizzled with chocolate sauce.

At Chourreal, you get to custom-make your profiterole – by choosing your filling cream, and toppings. The result? Finger licking good!

Coffee and Cake at Madame Coco Cafe

Madame Coco Cafe in Thessaloniki is a stylish and cozy cafe that’s known for its delicious desserts and coffee. The cafe offers a wide range of sweet treats, such as cakes, pastries, and macarons, all made fresh daily with high-quality ingredients.

Whether you’re in the mood for a classic chocolate cake or a more exotic flavor like passion fruit, Madame Coco Cafe has something to satisfy your sweet tooth. The cafe also offers a variety of coffee drinks, including espresso, cappuccino, and latte, all made with freshly roasted beans.

The friendly and knowledgeable staff at Madame Coco Cafe are happy to recommend the perfect coffee and dessert pairing, making it a great spot to enjoy a relaxing afternoon break.

With its chic ambiance and delectable desserts, Madame Coco Cafe is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in some sweet treats while in Thessaloniki.

Pulp Bar – Thessaloniki

While this is a beverage, I couldn’t resist sharing! If you’re a beer lover, the Pulp Bar in Thessaloniki is a must-visit destination.

With over 200 different types of beer from all over the world, the bar has something for every taste and preference. Whether you’re looking for a classic Belgian wheat beer, a hoppy IPA, or a rich stout, you’ll find it here.

The knowledgeable staff is happy to help you navigate the extensive beer menu and make recommendations based on your preferences.

Don’t worry about dressing up, the atmosphere and crowd are very relaxed. No wonder the Pulp Bar is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

All this talk of food, has made me hungry! This brings us to the end of this blog post 🙂

In conclusion, Thessaloniki food is a feast for the senses. And naturally, these 11 dishes are just the tip of the iceberg. From traditional Greek fare to Ottoman-inspired dishes, the city’s cuisine is a true reflection of its diverse history and cultural influences. And personally, I can’t wait for you all to explore it!

So, when visiting Thessaloniki, be sure to indulge in its culinary delights and savor every bite.

Thanks for reading, and I’ll see you soon! Don’t forget to subscribe below for travel discounts and exclusive offers!

For travel content, please follow my Instagram! And lastly, for travel vlogs and videos, check out my Youtube channel and show your support!

Much Love, Tia

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We Cypriots are known for our delicious food and of course, the Cyprus taverns that serve us the all-mighty Cyprus meze, practically famous all over the world!

Cyprus meze is the equivalent of Spanish tapas…but bigger. This is a set menu, that consists of over 20 Cyprus dishes in smaller plates arriving at your table each one more mouthwatering than the last!

Whilst filming my online travel show Tia Does Agrotourism I got to eat at some of the finest Cyprus taverns in the mountains and villages of the island.

And seeing as it is my most asked question from you guys, I thought id write a post about it!

So without further ado, let’s explore Cyprus Meze, and the best Cyprus taverns on Cyprus’s fascinating agrotourism scene.

Cyprus Meze – Limassol Villages

Symposio Tavern – Pelendri Village

At Symposio you can try 18 hr slow-cooked Kleftiko with koumantaria cooked in the traditional wood-fired oven, ‘’Antikristo’’, smoked ribs, and a lot of locally sourced, organic seasonal produce from the family’s small farm.

Although the traditional meze is the star of the show, a la carte, vegan and vegetarian options are also available.

The seasonal menu changes all the time so be prepared for surprise additions to the menu, like ”Morchelles” – a rare mushroom that grows in the area!

For Bookings, Call +357 99 404348 

Cyprus taverns – Takis Tavern – Vouni Village

Takis Tavern serves delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner! I tried both the Cypriot breakfast and Cyprus meze too, and I totally recommend both!

Takis Tavern: 25 943631

Cyprus Meze -Ampelothea Tavern – Omodos Village

 At Ampelothea, I have to say, I probably ate the best Cyprus meze in a while! The kind of food that even if you have already eaten yourself into a comma, you are sad to stop eating!

It is Cypriot Meze at its finest with well-cooked food, and true Cypriot recipes that go far beyond souvlaki and tzatziki! Arrive, hungry, relax, and enjoy!

Bookings are essential! Book a table at +357 25421366

Cyprus taverns Kafe Arsos – Arsos Village

You probably think I wrote this down by accident… NOP! Don’t be fooled by the sign that says ”cafe”.

Want to eat incredible Cyprus meze? ? Drink cold beer? Then book a table – and thank me later!

Located right in the center of the square, you’ve got lunch with a view too. Yum!

Bookings are essential – call 99 277277

Kyperia Tavern – Kyperounta Village

A tavern and bar, Kyperia serves meze alongside other gorgeous dishes too!

Everything is served fresh out the pan, so it arrives when it’s ready – and not a minute before.

Definitely recommend trying the Pork with apples and koumantaria sauce (sweet port wine) – it was phenomenal!

For Bookings: +357 99 358167

Ouzeri Ayia Marina – Kyperounta

When a man who is born and raised in Paphos moves to Kyperounta village…you get fresh fish in the village!

In fact, he is so commited to providing only the freshest fish, that he drives the 96 km to Paphos four times a week to buy the best, seasonal fresh fish for his restaurant.

The fish is fresh, tender and cooked to perfection! Great salads, fresh Cypriot potatoes, and plenty of ouzo to wash it all down.

Arrive hungry, as the portions are literally huge!

Ouzeri is open 7 days a week, from 12 am to 12 pm. For bookings: Call +357 99 655890

Tia’s Special Addition – Skylight Restaurant – Platres Village

Skylight is not a Cyprus tavern – it is a fine dining restaurant that ALSO offers meze – which I did not personally try.

I had the steak Diane, mussels, pork in koumantaria sauce and they were excellent. So I’m adding it here as I think its worth a mention!

Skylight is located in the heart of Platres Village. For info about the restaurant and all there is to do in Platres, click here

Cypus Meze – Nicosia Villages

Ais Giorkis Tavern – Kakopetria

A beautiful and successful mix of Cyprus and Cretan Cuisine that is worth a visit!

Every mouthful is a culinary journey through Greece’s and Cyprus’s incredibly history and food culture.

The snails, feta saganaki in tomato marmalade, Cretan «antikristo», and the homemade orange pie dessert steal the show.

For bookings: +357 99646310

Stou Zoppi – Kakopetria

A large tavern with a beautiful garden that immediately feels like home!

The food is delicious, with the almighty Cyprus meze being elevated beautifully, and no dish left unserved, from Cyprus souvla, to keftedakia (fried meatballs), vine leaves, and more!

A quick inspection of the inside, reveals treasures from generations past – in the form of a huge collection of Cypriot household vintage memorabilia, that are as good as any museums!

Palio Cinema – Kalopanayiotis

Palio Cinema ( Old Cinema) incredible Cyprus Meze with indoor and outdoor seating. The homemade pastitsio dish is to die for and definitely not a dish you find in all Cyprus meze Cyprus taverns, so it deserves a mention!

For more information call +357 99 130275.

Cyprus taverns – Aristotelio Hotel – Pedoulas

One of my absolute favorites, I have been singing Aristotelio’s praises all over my Instagram, and for good reason too! 

I had breakfast and lunch at Aristotelio, and they were both lavish affairs.

But what impressed me the most was the taste and quality of the food – I am telling you, it is perfection. Such warm hospitality from the hotel’s owners too – which makes everything so much more enjoyable!

Make sure you book ahead at +357 22 953334

Cyprus Meze – Ierampelos – Farmakas Village

Ierampelos Restaurant is a la carte on Fridays and Saturdays, then turns into a Cyprus meze hotspot on Sundays!

The food is definitely delicious – from meze to steaks, fish and so much more. There is a bakery on the premises too, that serves incredible Cypriot desserts – if you have any room left!

Cyprus Tavern – Larnaca Villages

Paliomoucharos – Agios Thedoros

Paliomouxtaros was recommended to me by a few people (you guys are legends!) and now I know why!

The fireplace was burning inside, the staff was super professional but friendly, and the restaurant is spacious and full of light.

They do a lot of their dishes by hand, and are rightly proud to be putting their own traditional spin on the much loved Cyprus Meze!

The macaroni is made by hand, the sausage is marinated in wine, and every item served is freshly cooked and utterly delicious. Nice desserts too, if you can bear to eat another mouthful that is!

10/10 for the food, and the service.

For bookings (essential) +357 24 323323

Cyprus Meze – Paphos Villages

Cyprus taverns – Sofias Traditional House – Letymbou

A must experience for sure! Sofia and Andreas own a traditional home that is a tavern, folklore museum, and Cyprus culture heaven!

They welcome you with open arms – bake their own bread, cook their own halloumi cheese all of which you can observe in the gorgeous courtyard.

Scrumptious meals are prepared fresh on the wood fire oven in the courtyard and served with a smile and the kind of Cypriot hospitality we are known for. Love!

For bookings, call 99 995961

Cyprus Meze – Viklaris – Peyeia (Avakas Gorge)

Not so much a Cyprus meze tavern, but this HAS to be mentioned as it is hands down the best souvla I have ever eaten in Cyprus (Sorry Uncle Takis!).

The food is simple – souvla, potatoes, and Cyprus salad – and my goodness it is a 10/10 for me!

Viklaris is next to the parking for Avakas Trail – so it is definitely convenient and can easily be combined.

You could either hike in the morning or afternoon, but I would suggest trying to catch the sunset at the restaurant – it is truly magical!

Tel: 26 991088

Opening Hours: 11am- 5pm. Closed on Mondays

Address: Avakas Gorge Rd, Peyia

Cyprus taverns – Steratzia – kathikas

A new tavern in the village – with a large outdoor seating area, good prices, and excellent food.

It also boasts one of the best sunset views in the village so do try to catch the sunset if you can!

We opted for the meze – and devoured each freshly made dish as it came! The staff is polite, fast, and welcoming, and the chef and owner came out to greet the customers several times throughout the evening – always a nice touch!

Carry a light cardigan or a pashmina to cover up – it gets a bit windy at night!

For bookings, call +357 99 256469

Other must Cyprus Meze taverns in kathikas

• Giannis Tavern
• To steki tou Panai
• Araouzos Tavern

Cyprus Meze – Larnaca Villages

Cyprus taverns – Retro Tavern – Kalavasos Village

You will find Retro Tavern in the center of Kalavasos village.

It’s a favorite with both visitors and locals alike, primarily because of the quality of the food and the modest prices!

This isn’t just a ”simple” tavern serving meat meze alone. There is also a rather sizeable a-la-carte menu and fish meze too.

Most importantly, I adored their willingness and ability to change dishes on the spot to suit vegetarians and lactose-free eaters! Highly appreciated, as we had celiacs, lactose intolerants, and a vegetarian on our table!

Bookings:  99 649476

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I apologize for making you all hungry and I thank you for reading through my Cyprus meze in the mountains issue!

I will keep updating this, as I visit more Cyprus taverns that I believe deserve a spot in this article!

Love, Tia

Related Cyprus Articles

Tia Does Agrotourism Series – Discovering Cyprus

• 1. Episode 1 Wine Villages in Paphos – Cyprus Agrotourism in Pano Panayia, Letymbou, Lemona and Amargeti (And Video)
• 2. Episode 2 Culture, Nature and Wine in Kathikas, Arodes and Akamas Peninsula in Paphos (And Video_)
• 3. Episode 3 Omodos, Arsos and Ayios Amvrosios – the most picturesque villages in Limassol (And Video)
• 4. Episode 4 Vouni, Lofou and Koilani Villages – exploring Limassol Province (and Video)
• 5. Episode 5 Kalopanayiotis, Kykkos, and Pedoulas – Nicosia’s hidden village gems! (and Video )
• 6. Episode 6 Agrotourism in Cyprus – Farmakas, Palaichori, and Askas – Wine, Safari, and Nature! (and Video )
• 7. Episode 7 Tochni, Choirokitia, and Kalavasos – Basket Weaving, history, and cycling activities! (and Video)
• 8. Episode 8 Lefkara, Kato Drys, and Vavla – Lefkara lace designs, wineries, brunch, and bees! (and Video)
• 9. Season 2 Episode 1 Pelendri and Agros Cyprus – Rose factories, wineries, brunch, and religious tourism ( and Video)
• 10. Season 2 Episode 2 – Platres Cyprus and Pera Pedi – A nature lover’s paradise (and Video)
• 11. Season 2 Episode 3 – Paliometoxo and Nikitari – A gorgeous farm and religious tourism (and video)
• 12. Season 2 Episode 4 – Lympia, Skarinou, and Agios Theodoros – Street Art, donkey farms, and hiking trails (And Video)
• 13. Season 2 Episode 5 – Kakopetria and Galata – Nature, traditional architecture, and fantastic food (And Video)
• 14. Season 2 Episode 6 – Kyperounta – Wineries, hiking and religious tourism in Limassol (and Video)
• 15. Season 2 Episode 7 – Akamas and Paphos – Safari, nature and incredible landscapes ( and Video)
• 16. Season 2 Episode 8 – Phini Village – waterfalls, nature and haunted hotels ( and Video)

Exploring Cyprus Content

• When to Visit Cyprus – A guide to choosing the season to visit Cyprus
• Where to stay in Cyprus – The Best hotels And Cottages In The Villages
• Cyprus Meze – The best Cyprus Taverns in the Villages and Mountains of the island!
• Cyprus Travel Blog – Everything you need to know to visit Cyprus. Start with this first if you are not local!
• A city by city guide to Cyprus. Decide which city in Cyprus suits you best!
• Incredible food in Cyprus to try. You will most likely drool at this article!
• Edem’s Yard – Best Brunch in Cyprus – Larnaca. The best brunch spot in Cyprus- hands down!
• Hamam Omeriye – Stunning Turkish baths in the heart of Nicosia– A Hamam Experience you are unlikely to forget!
• The best beaches in Ayia Napa and Protaras. The best blue flag beaches on the island – say hello to paradise!
• Cyprus Passport Visa Free Countries – Travel to paradise without a visa!

Beautiful Seaside Hotels in Cyprus

• Radisson Blu Larnaca – One of the BEST hotels in Cyprus
• Hotel Napa Suites – Gorgeous, Central, with infinity pools
• Almyra Hotel Paphos – Luxury, elegance, and class.
• King Jason Hotel Protaras – Modern, central, fun, breathtaking!
• Napa Mermaid – The most incredible hotel in Ayia Napa– Looking for a proper hotel in Napa? Say no more!
• Apartment for rent in Protaras – Sofias Seaview review. A gorgeous apartment in the heart of Protaras square!
• Protaras Villas – The Incredible Villa Oniro. A huge and luxurious villa in Protaras!
• Limassol Hotels – A Beautiful stay at The Crowne Plaza Limassol. A modest hotel in Limassol that you will highly appreciate!
• Alasia Boutique Hotel- Luxury and elegance. Elegance and understated luxury in the quiet part of Limassol

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