Must-Try Dishes: Moussaka (layered eggplant and meat sauce with béchamel), Souvlaki (grilled meat skewers), Spanakopita (spinach and feta pie), Saganaki (fried cheese), Grilled Octopus, Gemista (tomato and rice stew), Pastitsio (Greek pasta bake), and Bougatsa (custard pastry).
Seafood Specialties: Thessaloniki's coastal location ensures excellent fresh seafood. Garides Saganaki (fried shrimp), Htapodi Sti Skhara (grilled octopus), Psari Sti Skhara (grilled fish), and Mussels Saganaki are exceptional. Waterfront and Kalamaria restaurants offer the best selections.
Local Wines: Greek wines pair beautifully with Mediterranean cuisine. Try Macedonian white wines (Retsina, Assyrtiko) and reds (Xinomavro). Wine bars and tavernas offer tastings and knowledgeable recommendations.
Dining Customs: Greeks dine late; dinner typically begins at 9-10 PM. Restaurants rarely serve before 7 PM. Tipping 5-10% is customary for good service, though not mandatory. Greeks enjoy leisurely meals with family and friends.
Budget Guide: Inexpensive taverna meal: €8-12. Mid-range restaurant: €15-25. Fine dining: €30+. Coffee at street café: €1.50-3. Greek salad with feta: €4-6. Souvlaki: €3-5.
Cooking Classes: Local cooks offer classes teaching traditional Greek cuisine, providing cultural insights and hands-on culinary experience.