The second largest city of this Mediterranean country, Thessaloniki is a paradise for foodies. While displaying its historical landmarks, the sundrenched, charming and eastern-flavored Salonica (as the city was previously known as) offers its visitors the opport unity to discover the Greek cuisine with all its original dishes and culinary influences.
Thessaloniki’s Street Food
You can have the first taste of Thessaloniki through its street food, delighting yourself with dishes like koulouri (a sort of bagles, perfect to enjoy your coffee with), gyros (roasted meat served in a pita), and mpougatsa (pastries filled with cheese, cream or meat).
Street markets are a big part of the Greek culture, and Modiano, located in the proximity of Tsimiski Street is a great place to start your day, especially if you are a fish or olives lover.
Chaotic and colorful, Kapani Market is a joy for all senses. It has been operating since 1889, and now a part of it is covered, while the other part stretches under the torrid Greek sun.
Thessaloniki’s Dining Scene
The local food culture in Thessaloniki combines the essential feautures of the Greek cuisine with an oriental flavor legacy of spices and herbs.
There is no shortage of dining options in Thessaloniki: the city’s taverns and restaurants offer old recipes from Constantinople, buy also traditional plates like the musakas (a pie of minced meat potatoes and eggplants), the roast lamb, and the souvlaki (the Greek version of the Turkish kebab), which make the delight of meat lovers.
Vegetarians have their slice of paradise as well since the Greek cuisine includes many salads, and delicious spinach pie.
A true institution in Thessaloniki located next to Venizelou St, the restaurant Rouga has been serving for more than two decades traditional Greek, Mediaterranean dishes and other local delicacies. Their wine list is impressive.
Another reputable name on Thessaloniki’s dining scene, Clochard has long history of creating amazing dishes inspired by the Greek and French cuisines. Krassodikio with its two locations in Filipou and Venizelou Street is a not-to-miss place for foodies offering a less formal atmosphere and friendly prices!
If you love seafood you should definitely consider visiting Kalamaria (Aretsou) area and discover some of the best historic taverns of the city! You’ll have the chance to taste some delicious fish recipes by the sea.
- Don’t forget to visit Athonos Plaza for its taverns next to Aristotelous Square, the all popular Ladadika, the arcades of Venizelou St. and Bit Bazaar (especially if you love tsipouro and retsina along with delicious small plates of mezedes). Each of these destinations will make your food loving experience more rich and interesting!
- If you are interested in exploring the city’s food culture, flavors and local cuisine, click here to have a look!
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