Meet Souvlaki, Greece's food superstar! As one of the most popular Greek street foods, souvlaki has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts around the world. Essentially, it's skewered and grilled meat, usually served with a side of pita bread and fresh veggies.

Picture this: succulent pieces of meat—often pork, chicken, or lamb—marinated in a flavorful mix of olive oil, garlic, oregano, and lemon juice. These marinated meat chunks are then threaded onto skewers and expertly grilled to perfection. The result is a charred, juicy goodness that's nothing short of a culinary masterpiece.

Now, the presentation is as crucial as the preparation. People often served souvlaki in a warm pita, creating a handheld delight. It's common to find it paired with sliced tomatoes, crisp onions, and a dollop of creamy Tzatziki sauce. The combination of tender meat, warm pita, and refreshing veggies creates a symphony of textures and tastes.

Whether you're strolling through Athens or chilling on a beautiful Greek island, souvlaki is there, ready to make your day better. It's the kind of food that brings people together—at festivals, family gatherings, or just a casual night out. So, the next time you crave a taste of Greece, seek out the nearest souvlaki stand and treat your taste buds to an authentic Greek experience.

Main ingredients: pork, lemon, onion, peppers, paprika, oregano, garlic, olive oil

Recommended place: Pane e Souvlaki in Corfu City, Greece

Price range: $5 to $10

Gyros is a tasty Greek dish that embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. From the bustling cities to the charming coastal town, the irresistible aroma of Gyros is bound to lure you in.

Gyros is a savory delight featuring slices of meat, commonly a blend of pork and chicken in Greece or lamb and veal in other regions. They slow-cooked this meat on a vertical spit for that perfect combo of crispy and juicy.

But here's where it gets awesome – they snugly tucked the flavorful, thin slices of meat into a soft pita, along with fresh veggies like tomatoes, onions, lettuce, and cucumbers. And let's not forget the creamy tzatziki sauce that adds a zing to every bite. Creamy, garlicky, and refreshing, it's the finishing touch that ties everything together.

Gyros, found everywhere in Greece, from city streets to coastal towns, is a go-to comfort food that Greeks and visitors alike can't resist. Affordable, convenient, and undeniably delicious, gyros is one of the most popular Greek street foods. So, if you're in Greece and want a delicious treat, grab a gyro, take a big bite, and enjoy the awesome taste of Greek street food!

Main ingredients: pork, beef, chicken, lamb, pita bread, tzatziki, tomato, onion

Recommended place: Pitogyros in Oia, Greece

Price range: approximately $3 to $6

The name "Spanakopita" might sound fancy, but it's basically a spinach pie, and it's a big deal in Greece. It's the kind of dish that graces family gatherings, picnics, and any occasion worth celebrating. Imagine a golden phyllo pastry with layers so thin they're practically a crispy hug for the spinach nestled inside.

Spanakopita is a savory pie, and the star of the show is the filling—a glorious mix of spinach, feta cheese, onions, and herbs. The spinach brings a freshness that pairs beautifully with the salty tang of feta. The onions add a subtle bite, and the herbs, oh, they tie it all together with a Mediterranean melody. Whether picnicking on a sunny Greek island or grabbing a quick bite in the heart of Athens, Spanakopita is there to satisfy your cravings.

Spanakopita often served in a triangular slice or a square piece, is a celebration of Greek flavors. When you come to Greece, don't miss the chance to savor a piece of Spanakopita. It's comfort food at its finest—warm, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. Your taste buds will thank you, and you might just find a new love in the world of Greek comfort food!

Main ingredients: spinach, feta, wheat flour, olive oil, dill, onion, mint, parsley

Recommended place: Pnyka in Athens, Greece

Price range: around $2.5 to $10

Let's talk about Loukoumades, a sugar-packed dessert that holds a special place in Greek hearts and stomachs! This dish is said to have originated in ancient Greece and is one of the oldest Greek desserts. Greek people often enjoy Loukoumades during festivals, holidays, or just because they're in the mood for a dose of sugary joy.

They are golden, fluffy dough balls, crispy on the outside and pillowy soft on the inside. Imagine them bathed in sweet, sticky honey and sprinkled with a touch of cinnamon or crushed nuts—that's Loukoumades for you! The magic of loukoumades lies in their simplicity and versatility. The dough, a mix of flour, water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar, is deep-fried to golden perfection. And the toppings—oh, the toppings! Some go for a classic sprinkle of cinnamon, while others might opt for a shower of crushed nuts like walnuts or almonds.

In Greece, enjoying loukoumades isn't just a snack; it's a cultural experience. It's about savoring the moment, sharing laughs with friends, and embracing the sweetness of life. So, next time you find yourself in Greece, follow your nose to the nearest loukoumades vendor and treat yourself to a taste of pure joy!

Main ingredients: wheat flour, yeast, sugar, salt, vegetable oil

Recommended place: Krinos in Athens, Greece

Price range: about $3.5 to $7

Bougatsa is a traditional Greek pie consisting of a crispy phyllo dough, buttery and thin, cradled with various fillings, from sweet custard to savory cheese blends or minced meat. Originating from Northern Greece, particularly Thessaloniki, Bougatsa has grown to become a beloved meal throughout the country. It has also become one of the most popular Greek street foods.

This delightful pastry is a popular breakfast choice in Greece, offering a warm and comforting start to the day. The process of making Bougatsa is an art in itself. It involves layering that delicate phyllo dough, buttering it up carefully, and then patiently adding the chosen filling. The result is a golden, delectable outer layer that gives way to a gooey, flavorful center.

What's fascinating about Bougatsa are its regional twists. In Thessaloniki, the sweet version with creamy custard is a local favorite. On the other hand, in regions like Serres and Drama, savory variations with feta or local cheeses take center stage. You can find Bougatsa in street stalls, local bakeries, or specialty shops across Greece. It's a snack that brings joy, whether enjoyed on the go or savored in a cozy café.

Main ingredients: wheat flour, olive oil, eggs, butter, vanilla, milk, sugar, powdered sugar

Recommended place: Bougatsa Iordanis in Chania City, Greece

Price range: around $3 to $6 for a serving

Koulouri Thessalonikis, a staple of Greek street food, is a perfectly baked ring of bread, boasting a crunchy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. This popular snack traces its roots to Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city. Often enjoyed as a quick breakfast or snack, Koulouri Thessalonikis has become a symbol of the city's culinary.

At first glance, Koulouri Thessalonikis is a feast for the eyes. It is unique for its sesame-seed-covered surface, giving it an interesting crunch with every bite. The combination of the slightly sweet, doughy center and the nutty sesame coating creates a flavor profile that's both comforting and satisfying. Locals sometimes enjoyed Koulouri with accompaniments like cheese, olives, or even a cup of Greek coffee.

This yummy street food shows us Thessaloniki's colorful culinary spirit. It's the kind of dish you can enjoy while strolling along the waterfront or exploring the vibrant markets of the city. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a charming taste of Thessaloniki, Koulouri is ready to make your taste buds dance. The friendly snack is like a little round burst of joy in your day!

Main ingredients: wheat flour, water, yeast, sugar, sesame seeds

Recommended place: Koukos in Thessaloniki, Greece; To Koulouri tou Psyrri in Athens, Greece

Price range: about $1 to $3

Kokoretsi, a culinary gem hailing from Greece, is a dish that turns offal into a tasty masterpiece. They are skewers of offal (lamb or goat) seasoned and marinated, wrapped with intestines, and then grilled over charcoal. Kokoretsi is a beloved part of Greek gastronomy, particularly during festive occasions and outdoor celebrations.

The preparation of Kokoretsi involves a meticulous process. First, the chefs clean the offal, which can include organs like the liver, heart, and lungs. After that, they season them with herbs and spices and often marinate them in olive oil and lemon juice. The seasoned offal is then carefully arranged and wrapped with layers of intestines, forming a cylindrical shape on a skewer. The entire assembly is then skewered onto a rotisserie and slow-cooked over an open flame or on a grill.

As Kokoretsi roasts, the juices from the organ meats blend with the herbs and spices, creating a delectable and aromatic dish. The outer layer of the intestines becomes crispy, while the inner meats remain tender. The skewered Kokoretsi is often turned on the rotisserie to ensure even cooking and to achieve the desired level of char on the exterior.

Kokoretsi is particularly popular during Easter celebrations in Greece, where it is a star of the festive feast. It might be a bit adventurous for some taste buds, but Kokoretsi is a cool friend you never knew you needed. So, when you're in Greece, dive into the Kokoretsi excitement, where offal becomes the unexpected hero of the party!

Main ingredients: lamb or goat offal, intestines, herbs and spices, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper

Recommended place: Ziogas in Athens, Greece

Price range: about $6 to $15 or more

Dakos is one of the most popular Greek street foods, originating from the island of Crete. It is a type of meze or appetizer that features a base of dried bread or barley rusk topped with tomatoes, feta cheese, olives, and various seasonings. But the real magic happens with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. It's the Greek way of saying, "Let's make this a flavor fiesta!”. And last but not least, a sprinkle of oregano finishes this dish, adding that aromatic touch that screams Mediterranean bliss.

Dakos is enjoyed as a light and refreshing snack, particularly during warm weather. It is also a popular choice in Greek tavernas and restaurants. The blend of the crispness of the rusk, the juiciness of the tomatoes, the creaminess of the feta, and the brininess of the olives creates a toothsome and well-balanced taste.

Dakos highlights the Greek's love for simple, fresh ingredients. It is a delicious ode to the Mediterranean lifestyle, reminding us that good food is often about letting nature's flavors shine. It is also a versatile street food, with variations that may include additional ingredients like cucumbers, onions, or green peppers, depending on regional preferences.

Main ingredients: kritiko paximadi (dried barley rusk), tomatoes, myzithra, olive oil, oregano, capers, salt, olives

Recommended place: Peskesi in Heraklion, Greece

Price range: $6 to $12

Kreatopita is a traditional Greek dish that translates to "meat pie." It's a savory pie made with layers of flaky phyllo dough, typically brushed with olive oil or butter, creating a golden and crispy crust. The filling of Kreatopita consists of seasoned ground meat, often beef or lamb, mixed with aromatic herbs, onions, and occasionally rice or potatoes.

The beauty of Kreatopita lies in the art of layering. Every sheet of phyllo dough gets a loving brush of olive oil or butter, creating a crispy crust that's a perfect dance of textures. The choice of herbs, such as oregano and mint, gives the dish a distinctly Mediterranean touch.

Kreatopita is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors and a symbol of Greek hospitality. You might find it served up as a main course or sliced into smaller pieces for snacking—either way, it's a winner. Pair it with a side of Greek salad or a dollop of tzatziki, and you've got a taste of Greece that's simple, wholesome, and downright delicious.

This savory pie is a popular choice at Greek gatherings, from festive occasions to casual family dinners. Baking to golden perfection, Kreatopita fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma that's basically an open invitation to indulge. It's not just a meal; it's a symbol of Greek hospitality and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones.

Main ingredients: phyllo dough, ground meat (beef or lamb), herbs, onions, olive oil or butter, rice, leeks, cheese, béchamel sauce

Recommended place: Enastron, Trapezaki in Mousata, Greece

Price range: from $3 to $6 for a single serving, $10 to $20 for a whole pie

Tiropita is a famous Greek pastry known for its delightful combination of flaky phyllo dough and savory cheese stuffing. The name "Tiropita" translates to "cheese pie" in English. This delicious pastry is a staple in Greek cuisine, and locals usually enjoy it as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal.

They use thin layers of phyllo dough to create the pastry's flaky and crispy texture. Phyllo dough is brushed with olive oil or melted butter between the layers to achieve the desired crispiness. The stuffing typically consists of a mixture of various cheeses, such as feta, ricotta, or a combination of local Greek cheeses. The chef often blends the cheeses with eggs and sometimes with herbs, aiming for a creamy and flavorful interior. Before baking, they brush Tiropita with egg wash, giving the dish a golden-brown color and a shiny finish.

Tiropita comes in various shapes and sizes, ranging from individual hand-sized triangles to larger pies that can be sliced into portions. It is a flexible meal that can be served warm or at room temperature. Found in bakeries, cafes, and home kitchens across Greece, tiropita has become one of the most popular Greek street foods. It's the flaky, cheesy friend that you'll want by your side for every meal and every celebration. Dive in and let the cheesy happiness begin!

Main ingredients: wheat flour, feta, cottage cheese, olive oil, eggs, butter, salt, vinegar

Recommended place: Ariston Bakery in Athens, Greece

Price range: $3 to $10 or more