Located in the Aegean Sea, Santorini is one of about 220 Greek islands that make up the Cyclades. It is a special place known for its beautiful sunsets, volcanic-sand beaches, whitewashed buildings, friendly locals and, of course, delicious food. Traditional Greek cuisine goes back thousands of years with many dishes originating from ancient times. Greek dishes are known for using fresh vegetables, flavorful herbs and high-quality olive oil. From seafood to lamb, many Greek meals are prepared on the grill and served with a salad and a glass of locally-produced wine. Food in Santorini is commonly enjoyed family-style with plenty of small dishes and appetizers to go around. To learn more about Greek food culture, Aristotle, founder of Eat & Walk Santorini Food Tour, shares his thoughts on what to eat in Santorini, travel tips and more.
Aristotle, Founder of Eat and Walk Santorini Food Tour
How long have you been giving food tours in Santorini?
I have been offering food tours in Santorini for 2.5 years now and hope to continue for many more!
Photo by Dan Wechter
What are some common flavors and ingredients found in Greek cuisine?
Greeks love their veggies, so you will find many amazing dishes based on vegetables – eggplants, zucchinis and the queen of vegetables – tomato! Every meal is always accompanied with a fresh salad – not only the famous Greek Salad, but also greens, cabbage and carrot in winter. Herbs, fresh and dried, are used widely to give flavor, like oregano, mint, basil and parsley. Since the country is surrounded by sea, fish and seafood is a really big part of the Greek diet. And of course, grilled meat, especially lamb. (Don’t miss a chance to try roasted lamb on a spit, if you visit Greece during the Greek Easter!) Probably lesser known, but legumes are eaten in every house at least once a week, either as soup/stew or salad.
Courtesy of Eat & Walk Santorini Food Tour
Is there one dish that every visitor should try while in Santorini?
I believe that Ntomatokeftedes (Tomato fritters or Tomato balls) is the ultimate Santorini dish: juicy cherry tomatoes minced with fresh herbs and onions, fried in aromatic olive oil. Usually served with some tzatziki dip on the side and some capers. And a glass of cold local white Assyrtiko wine.
Courtesy of Eat & Walk Santorini Food Tour
What might surprise travelers about the food culture in Santorini?
Most taverns will offer a complimentary sweet (such as Greek yoghurt with “sweet on the spoon” (fruit, like fig, cherry, prickly pear in syrup) or a small serving of Greek pastry) at the end of your meal. If you have chosen to order a dessert, you will probably be offered a complimentary glass of dessert wine or a shot of raki, which works as a digestive!
What are some of your favorite wines produced in Santorini?
Santorini is famous for its whites, especially the Assyrtiko variety. It is very fresh, acidic and fruity, perfect for the hot summer weather, when served chilled. The volcanic soil contributes to the unique flavor profile. Vinsanto is a dessert wine, made from sundried grapes, but Mavrotragano is a rare variety of red, which is my favorite!
Courtesy of Eat & Walk Santorini Food Tour
What other local drinks are popular in Santorini?
Raki, a distilled spirit made from grapes, is at the same time an apperitif and a digestive, and everything in between, especially when served with seafood.
Do you have any tips for eating or ordering at local restaurants in Santorini?
Santorinians (and Greeks in general) eat family style, shared meals, even when eating out. When visiting a tavern, you will see tables full of small meze plates and platters of fish and meat, which are all being shared by everyone at the table. So go ahead and order a variety of appetizers and salads, they are all served to share with your company!
Courtesy of Eat & Walk Santorini Food Tour
Can you name a few of your favorite places to eat in Santorini?
Sorry, there are too many! To name a few would mean disservice to the others! Contact us over email for recommendations!
Have you noticed any recent food trends in Santorini?
Greeks know what’s good and worth keeping, so you can always count on getting high quality, fresh food and classic dishes when visiting a tavern. The higher-end restaurants are putting a lot of emphasis on sourcing out local products and using seasonal ingredients, which are typical for the island. This has brought about a greater appreciation of the local produce, which is quite scarce in Santorini.
Courtesy of Eat & Walk Santorini Food Tour
In addition to the food, what do you enjoy most about living in Santorini?
Santorini has become really cosmopolitan and you can meet people from all over the world, who have chosen this island for their home. So there is always great energy and lots of new ideas among people, which all serve to make the island a better place for everyone – locals and visitors!
Thank you, Aristotle!
Eat & Walk Santorini Food Tour
Website: https://santorinifoodtour.com
Phone: +30 6942549601
Email: [email protected]
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