Cuisine around the world: Greek food

Few cuisines capture the spirit of a country like Greece’s does. Rooted in fresh ingredients, simple preparation and bold, sun-soaked flavours, Greek food is a true celebration of land and sea. From hearty classics baked with love to light street food enjoyed on the go, every dish tells a story of tradition, community and a passion for good living.

In this guide, we explore some of Greece’s most iconic dishes and discover why they’re an essential part of any visit to this beautiful country. 

No cruise to Greece would be complete without trying a gyro (pronounced yee-rohs), one of the country’s most beloved dishes. Traditionally made with pork or chicken that’s been slowly roasted on a vertical spit, the meat is sliced thin and tucked into warm pita bread alongside tomato, onion, creamy tzatziki and a handful of golden fries. Simple yet irresistible, gyros are a staple of Greek street food, though you’ll also find them served in tavernas and restaurants, sometimes plated with fried potatoes and fresh vegetables. 

Few dishes capture the essence of Greek cuisine like horiatiki, or Greek salad. Celebrated for its simplicity, it brings together sun-ripened tomatoes, crisp cucumber, onion, briny Kalamata olives and tangy capers, all crowned with a generous slab of creamy feta, usually made from sheep’s milk. A drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of oregano, and a touch of salt and pepper complete the dish, creating a feast of fresh flavours and colours. On Santorini, the island’s famous cherry tomatoes and local capers give the salad a unique twist. 

Rich, hearty and endlessly comforting, moussaka is often considered the national dish of Greece. Traditionally made with lamb, this classic bake is built in layers: tender slices of aubergine from the base, spiced minced meat makes up the middle, and a velvety béchamel sauce is spread generously on top. Each element is cooked separately before being assembled and baked until golden and bubbling. The result is a dish that feels cosy and satisfying - the very definition of Greek comfort food, and one that’s cherished in kitchens and tavernas across the country. 

One of Greece’s most beloved street foods, souvlaki takes its name from the word for “small skewer.” Marinated simply in olive oil, lemon and herbs, pieces of pork, chicken or lamb are grilled to perfection and served either wrapped in warm pita or plated alongside a crisp Greek salad, tzatziki and golden fries. At first glance, it may look similar to gyros, but the difference lies in the preparation - souvlaki is always made from skewered grilled meat. Found on street corners and in tavernas across the country, each vendor puts their own spin on this simple yet flavourful dish. 

Beloved across Greece, spanakopita - literally “spinach pie” - is a vegetarian classic that showcases the magic of simple ingredients. Flaky layers of phyllo pastry are filled with a mixture of spinach, feta cheese and dill, brushed with butter or olive oil, and then baked until golden. Depending on the baker, spanakopita may be prepared as crisp triangles or as a large, layered pie cut into slices, with some versions opting for delicate pastry that shatters at the first bite and others for a denser, heartier crust.