What Food To Try in Thessaloniki and Food Prices

Gyro - Γύρος (pita wrap) - Succulent slices of marinated pork or chicken stacked on a vertical rotisserie, served in a warm pita with tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce. A typical street food option enjoyed on the go, often consumed late at night after a night out.

Fasolada - Φασολάδα (bean soup) - A hearty bean soup made with tomatoes, celery, and herbs, often enjoyed during the colder months. It's a staple for lunch in many households, served with bread and feta cheese on the side.

Bakaliaros - Μπακαλιάρος (fried cod) - Salted cod fillet, battered and fried until crispy, often served with skordalia (a garlic potato dip). Locals enjoy this dish primarily on the celebration of the Annunciation on March 25th, combining tradition with flavor.

Giouvetsi - Γιουβέτσι (baked pasta) - A comforting dish of slow-cooked beef or lamb with orzo pasta, baked in a rich tomato sauce and topped with cheese. It’s a common choice for family dinners, especially during Sunday gatherings, bringing everyone to the table.

Revithosalata - Ρεβιθοσαλάτα (chickpea salad) - Creamy chickpea salad blended with tahini, lemon, and garlic, reminiscent of hummus yet heartier. Perfect as a light lunch or appetizer, you'll often spot locals munching on it during warmer weather, particularly at picnics or tavernas.

Soutzouk Loukou - Σουτζούκ Λουκού (traditional delight) - A surprising combination of nuts and starch, this sweet delicacy is made from grape must and often served with a selection of nuts sprinkled on top. Though less common, it's specially prepared during local festivals and enjoyed leisurely after meals.

Choriatiki - Χωριάτικη (Greek salad) - A vibrant mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta, drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with oregano. Locals typically enjoy this during the summer months, as ingredients are best sourced fresh from local markets.

Kolokithokeftedes - Κολοκυθοκεφτέδες (zucchini fritters) - Crispy fritters made from grated zucchini and herbs, usually served with yogurt for dipping. A favorite summer dish, these are often shared among family during open-air meals, bringing a taste of the season to the table.

Greek Coffee - Ελληνικός καφές (strong brewed coffee) - A thick, strong coffee made by boiling finely ground coffee with water and sugar in a special pot called a briki. Locals typically enjoy it slowly, often while chatting at cafes, especially in the morning or mid-afternoon, making it a social ritual that can last for hours.

Frappé - Φραπέ (icy coffee treat) - This popular cold drink combines instant coffee, water, sugar, and ice, vigorously shaken to create a frothy top. Best enjoyed during the hot summer months, it's common to see locals sipping frappés at seaside cafes while catching up with friends (don't forget the straw!).

Ouzo - Ούζο (anise-flavored spirit) - A transparent, anise-flavored aperitif typically served chilled, either straight or over ice with a splash of water, turning it milky white. It's a quintessential part of a local meze experience during leisurely afternoon gatherings, often accompanied by salted snacks.

Baklava - Μπακλαβάς (sweet pastry) - Layers of flaky phyllo dough filled with nuts and soaked in honey syrup, creating a rich, indulgent dessert. Perfect for celebrations and often made during religious holidays, it's usually served at room temperature, and it’s easy to end up devouring too many pieces with how delicious they are!

Loukoum - Λουκούμι (Turkish delight) - A chewy, sweet gelatin-based treat often flavored with rose or mastic, dusted with powdered sugar or cornstarch. Commonly served during special occasions and after meals, it's often paired with coffee, making it a traditional gesture of hospitality (just be prepared for the sugary bliss!).

By the way, don’t confuse loukoum with the gelatin-like dessert; the local variety is a bit firmer and packs a great flavor punch!