Getting to know Greek food: 22 dishes that define Greek cuisine

Greeks are known for loving food, loving to eat, and loving to feed others. Greece is one place you are guaranteed to never feel hungry. Greek food traditionaly is packed with flavour and made mainly with fresh local ingredients — such as Mediterranean vegetables, olive oil, and cheeses. If you're planning a trip to the Mediterranean, make sure to try at least a few of these delicious Greek dishes.

What makes Greek food unique?

Greek cuisine is a reflection of the country’s history, geography, and culture. With its emphasis on fresh, local ingredients like olive oil, feta cheese, and Mediterranean vegetables, Greek food is both healthy and flavorful. Did you know that Greece has one of the highest olive oil consumption rates per person in the world? Or that the Mediterranean diet, of which Greek cuisine is a part, has been recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage?

On my recent trip to Greece, I was struck by how food brings people together and is always shared with love and generosity. Here are 22 dishes that capture the essence of Greek cuisine.

1. Moussaka

Probably the most iconic dish in Greek cuisine, moussaka is a hearty comfort food you’ll find on menus nationwide. It’s a layered masterpiece: slices of fried aubergine (eggplant), spiced minced meat — usually lamb or beef — and thinly sliced potatoes form the base. The crowning glory? A generous layer of rich, creamy béchamel sauce, thickly spread and baked to golden perfection. This is the dish that arrives at your table still bubbling in the oven, filling the air with its warm, savory flavor. Although the traditional version of moussaka is meat, many Greek restaurants also offer a vegetarian version, often made with zucchini, lentils or mushrooms. Either way, moussaka is a must-try dish for any food lover.

2. Fasolatha

Greece is not just about souvlaki and moussaka: bean dishes are a cornerstone of traditional Greek cuisine. Often referred to as the country's “national dish,” fasolatha may not be known abroad, but it is a favorite staple. This hearty white bean soup is made with simple ingredients — white beans, crushed tomatoes, onions, carrots, and celery — flavored with thyme, parsley, and bay leaves for a fragrant, home-cooked feel. Drizzle it with olive oil, pair it with crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that’s as satisfying as it is wholesome.

Beans take center stage in other dishes too. Try gigantes plaki, baked giant beans in a rich tomato and herb sauce, or revithada, a slow-cooked chickpea stew from Sifnos, bursting with earthy flavors.

3. Koulouri

Stroll through the streets of Athens or Thessaloniki in the early morning, and you’ll spot locals kicking off their day with a koulouri in hand. These large, soft bread rings, generously coated in sesame seeds, are the ultimate Greek breakfast-on-the-go. Sold from the iconic yellow street carts scattered across the cities, they’re a simple yet satisfying treat. Pair one with a strong Greek coffee or a freddo espresso for the full experience. While koulouri is traditionally plain, some vendors now offer variations filled with cheese, chocolate, or even tahini for a twist on the classic. Affordable, portable, and utterly delicious, it’s no wonder koulouri has been a staple of Greek mornings for generations.

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4. Yemista

Yemista, which means “filled” in Greek, is a classic dish that brings the bright flavors of the Mediterranean right to your plate. Usually made with ripe tomatoes, bell peppers or zucchini, these vegetables are cut into hollows and filled with a flavorful mixture of rice, herbs such as dill and parsley, and sometimes minced meat. 

Baked in the oven until soft, they soak up the juices from the filling, becoming meltingly soft and full of flavor. While the traditional recipe is vegetarian, you’ll also find meat-filled versions in many homes and tavernas. Often served with a drizzle of olive oil and a side of feta cheese, yemista is the perfect showcase of Greece’s love for fresh, seasonal ingredients.

5. Loukoumades (greek doughnuts)

Loved by kids and grown-ups alike, loukoumades are the ultimate Greek treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. These doughnut-like balls are fried until perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, then drenched in sticky honey syrup. 

The finishing touch? A sprinkle of cinnamon, crushed walnuts, or even sesame seeds. While modern joints can incorporate creative twists — such as chocolate frosting or pistachio sprinkles — the classic version remains unrivaled. Loukoumades are typically served as a large, shareable plate, perfect for enjoying with friends or family over coffee or dessert wine.

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6. Souvlaki

Souvlaki is Greece’s most iconic street food — and for good reason. These skewers of grilled meat, usually pork or chicken, are cooked over an open flame until tender and smoky. Fresh off the grill, they’re served with a side of tzatziki (a creamy yogurt and cucumber dip), warm pita bread, crisp salad, and juicy tomato. 

Some places swap out the pita for rice or fries, but either way, it’s delicious. In Athens, you’ll find a local twist called kalamaki, where the meat is marinated overnight in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, giving it a flavorful edge.

7. Dolmades

Dolmades are a staple of Greek cuisine, enjoyed as a flavorful side dish or a light snack. These little parcels are made by stuffing tender vine or grape leaves with a mixture of herby, lemon-infused rice, then folding them into neat rolls and steaming them until perfectly tender. 

The vegetarian version — rice-only — is the most common, but you’ll also find meat-filled variations, usually with minced lamb or beef, for a heartier option. A drizzle of olive oil or a splash of tangy lemon juice enhances their zesty flavor. Whether served warm or cold, dolmades are a must-try example of Greece’s knack for turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Pair them with tzatziki or plain yogurt for an extra hit of flavor.

8. Keftethes

Keftethes are the perfect Greek dish: crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside and full of flavor. These breaded meatballs are usually made with minced lamb or beef mixed with grated potatoes, onions, garlic and some herbs (mint, oregano or parsley) for freshness and flavor. Fried to a golden crust, they are often served with a yogurt sauce that balances their savory richness. 

Keftethes are usually paired with fresh salad, rice, or even French fries, making them versatile enough for a hearty lunch or snack on the go. Simple yet satisfying, keftethes are a must-try when exploring the flavorful world of Greek foods.

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9. Spanakopita (spinach pie)

Pies are the specialty of the Greeks, and spanakopita reigns supreme over them all. Made with layers of buttery, flaky phyllo (or filo) pastry, it’s filled with a savory mixture of spinach, tangy feta cheese, and fresh dill. Baked to golden perfection, the result is a crispy, melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s delicious as a snack, appetizer, or light meal. You’ll find spanakopita everywhere — from bakeries to tavernas — served as individual triangles or sliced from a large pan.

Pies don’t stop there in Greece, though. Another favorite is tyropita, filled with creamy cheese, or heartier options like those stuffed with eggplant or meat.

10. Stifado

Stifado is the perfect Greek dish, especially during the cold season. This rich stew is traditionally made over low heat from beef or rabbit and braised in a flavorful tomato sauce until the meat melts in your mouth. The hallmark of stifado is small onions, most often shallots or pearl onions, which lend a natural sweetness to the dish, balancing out its intense flavor. Spices such as cinnamon, cloves and bay leaf add warmth and depth to the stew, making every bite cozy and flavorful.

Served with crusty bread, rice, or buttery mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce, stifado is a must-try dish that showcases Greece’s love for slow-cooked, home-style meals. It’s rustic, satisfying, and unforgettable.

11. Gyros

Gyros is one of the most popular Greek foods among locals and visitors alike. Similar to kebabs, they are succulent slices of spit-roasted meat — usually pork, chicken, lamb or beef — arranged in a warm flatbread or pita. Stuffed with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and a portion of tzatziki or hot sauce, they are a treat packed with flavor. Pita is often grilled and sometimes brushed with olive oil for extra flavor.

Vegetarian options are just as tempting, with toppings such as fried halloumi — Cyprus' iconic salty cheese — or tart feta combined with roasted vegetables.

12. Galaktoboureko

Galaktoboureko is a Greek dessert: a rich, creamy custard layered with puff pastry and drenched in light syrup. Sprinkled with a touch of cinnamon, it’s a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. The custard, made with semolina, is silky and smooth, while the phyllo adds a satisfying crunch with every bite.

This treat is best eaten warm, right out of the oven, when the syrup is fully absorbed into the dough, leaving it irresistibly moist yet crunchy. Galaktoboureko can be found in bakeries and dessert stores throughout Greece, but is often made at home for special occasions. One bite and you'll understand why some people say it's worth visiting Greece just for this.

13. Papoutsakia

Papoutsakia, meaning "little shoes" in Greek, is a beloved dish that’s as hearty as it is flavorful. Halved eggplants are hollowed out and stuffed with a savory mixture of minced meat, tomatoes, and bell peppers, all seasoned with herbs and a touch of lemon for brightness. After being filled, the eggplants are topped with a layer of creamy béchamel sauce or grated local cheese — such as kefalotyri or graviera — and baked until golden and bubbling.

The result? A hearty, comforting dish with the perfect balance of tender eggplant, savory filling, and gooey cheese. Papoutsakia is often served with a crust of bread or a crisp Greek salad, so it's a must-try for fans of bold, homemade flavors.

14. Baklava

While many Greek dishes remain hidden until you visit, baklava is the exception — you’ve likely heard of it or even tried it. This legendary dessert, popular across Greece, Turkey, and the Middle East, is truly special in its Greek form. Made with layers of paper-thin phyllo pastry, it’s generously packed with crushed nuts — walnuts, almonds, or pistachios — then drenched in a fragrant honey syrup infused with citrus and warming spices. The result? A dessert that’s sticky, flaky, and utterly unforgettable.

Regional variations add a twist: in central Greece baklava is usually made with almonds, while walnuts predominate in the east and pistachios in the north. 

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15. Сhoriatiki (Greek salad)

No trip to Greece would be complete without a plate of choriatiki, a classic Greek salad. This simple but iconic dish starts with a colorful mix of fresh cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, crisp bell peppers and sliced red onions. On top sits a block of creamy feta cheese, sprinkled with oregano and drizzled with golden extra virgin olive oil. Plump, briny olives — often kalamata — complete the dish.

Perfectly refreshing on a hot day, choriatiki is more than just a side; it’s a celebration of Greece’s freshest ingredients. Pair it with crusty bread or enjoy it on its own, this salad is a light, flavorful way to begin any Greek meal. Simple, timeless, and delicious.

16. Kleftiko

Kleftiko is a rustic Greek classic that brings slow-cooked perfection to your plate. Tender lamb is combined with potatoes, tomatoes, garlic, and fragrant herbs, all sealed together in parchment paper to lock in the flavors. Traditionally, this dish was cooked in underground fire pits by klephts (bandits), giving it the name "kleftiko," or "hidden meat."

The slow cooking process makes the lamb tender, while the potatoes and vegetables soak up the juices and spices. Unfolding the parchment reveals a fragrant, steaming dish that is as aromatic as it is delicious. Kleftiko is a prime example of Greek cuisine's ability to transform simple local ingredients into a hearty and unforgettable dish.

17. Pastitsio

Think of pastitsio as the Greek answer to lasagna, but with a Mediterranean twist. Instead of pasta sheets, it uses tubular macaroni layered with seasoned ground beef or lamb and a béchamel sauce. Spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg and Greek herbs, this dish has a warm, flavorful depth that sets it apart from its Italian counterpart.

Pastitsio is often topped with a sprinkle of grated cheese—kefalotyri or graviera—and baked until golden and bubbly. Its roots show the Italian influence on Greek cuisine, especially in regions like Kefalonia. Rich, hearty, and satisfying, this is the kind of dish that brings families together around the table, showcasing the cozy side of Greek cooking.

18. Amygdalota

Known as “Greek macaroons,” amygdalota are almond cookies with a balance of crunch and chewiness. Prepared from finely ground almonds, sugar and egg whites, they are lightly sweetened and often infused with fragrant orange blossoms or rose water for a subtle floral touch.

Amigdalota are often served during the holidays or as an afternoon treat with a cup of coffee. In some cases, the cookies are sprinkled with powdered sugar and in others, whole almonds are pressed into the center. Simple yet elegant, these cookies are a delicious way to experience the sweet side of Greek tradition.

19. Giouvetsi

Giouvetsi (or youvetsi, as it’s sometimes spelled) is a classic Greek baked dish that’s all about big, hearty flavors. It features orzo-like kritharaki pasta which is slowly cooked in a clay pot with pieces of lamb, beef or even seafood. The dish is stewed in a tomato-based sauce spiced with cinnamon, bay leaves, and other warming herbs, giving it an irresistible depth of flavor.

Before serving, it’s topped with a generous sprinkling of grated cheese, like kefalotyri or mizithra, which melts into the pasta for a creamy finish. Giouvetsi is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, perfect for sharing around the table with family or friends. Don’t forget a slice of crusty bread to soak up the sauce!

20. Tzatziki

Tzatziki, one of the most beloved and versatile dishes in Greek cuisine, is a creamy yogurt-based sauce that is refreshing and flavorful. Made from thick Greek yogurt, grated cucumber and garlic, it is topped with lemon juice, dill and sometimes olive oil. Ideal as an appetizer or part of a mezedes, tzatziki goes well with warm bread, fried eggplant or crispy zucchini fritters.

It is also a popular condiment for adding coolness and tartness to dishes such as souvlaki, gyros or grilled meats.

21. Soutzoukakia (Izmir kofte)

Soutzoukakia, or Izmir kofte, is a flavorful dish of oblong-shaped meatballs simmered in spiced tomato sauce. Seasoned with cumin and garlic, they have a distinctive warmth and flavor that sets them apart from regular köfte. The tomato sauce, rich with Mediterranean herbs, ties everything together.

In some parts of Greece, soutzoukakia is served over rice, in others, it’s paired with square-shaped egg pasta, making it even heartier. Originating from Asia Minor, this dish combines Greek and Turkish culinary influences to create a comforting, robust meal that’s perfect for lovers of bold, spiced flavors.

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22. Retsina

Retsina is a uniquely Greek wine with thousands of years of history. Its name, meaning “resinous,” comes from the resin of the Aleppo pine tree used during fermentation, which gives the wine its characteristic aromatic, earthy flavor. Traditionally, resin was added to seal ancient amphorae, but over time it has become an integral part of the winemaking process.

Typically white or rosé, retsina wine has slightly grassy flavor that pairs well with classic Greek foods such as grilled fish, calamari or tart feta. Although the taste may surprise you if you're trying it for the first time, retsina is a beloved part of Greece's wine culture and is a part of the traditional Greek food experience.

Editor's tip: Greek cuisine is just one of the many things to try in Greece. Explore our list of the best things to do in Greece and find even more inspiration for your future trip.

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