As you’ve probably put together, everything can seem a little over the top here in Greece. However, it’s all in good reason! One of the biggest differences between the culture here and in the U.S. is the dining experience.
I’m sure you’ve heard that lunch is often a big meal but sometimes it seems as though the courses are endless! Yesterday we went to a typical Greek Taverna. Here’s our experience:
The taverna was on a mountain overlooking the water. It was absolutely beautiful. To start, as usual, the waiter brought over some water and bread for all.
My family then ordered tsipouro, a Greek brandy. Now, whenever a table orders tsipouro the restaurant brings over some appetizers. At this taverna we got mixed vegetables (potatoes, carrots, etc.), sardines, seaweed, mussels and eggplant with feta cheese. Mind you this is all BEFORE we placed our order.
Now we placed our order. Since we’re familiar with the culture we ordered different plates and shared them all together. In the States, usually everyone orders their own dish. That would be way too much food in this case. First came the salads. My favorite is the traditional village salad, also known as horiatiki. It is typically made is cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, onions, and feta cheese dressed with lemon and olive oil. Unfortunately, on this day we were all so hungry that we ate the salad before I could capture a picture. I’ve inserted one from another day below.
Next came the calamari, beeftaiki (beef patties), french fries, and probably (definitely) more that I’m forgetting. These calamari were to die for! They were of course fresh and very large in size.
Luckily, all the courses are spread out and a meal usually lasts a couple of hours allowing you to digest. But of course it doesn’t end here. After a big meal, along with the check, the server will bring assorted desserts for the table on the house. Free dessert… who could say no?!
Ok, now do you understand the idea of an afternoon nap? It’s nearly impossible to stay awake after all of this! Of course no one eats like this every single day but as we’re on vacation it’s not uncommon.
Eating in Greece is an experience for sure. No one is in a rush for the check, or stingy about sharing their food at all. It is a laid-back family experience meant to be enjoyed by all. I hope you are enjoying my Greece posts. I only have a couple of days left in this beautiful country before its back to reality for me.
As always, thanks for reading!
xo Rickie