Culinary Pitfalls
Greece is known for its delicious food and beautiful scenery. While you may want to try everything, some foods can upset your stomach or not be the best choices for your health.
Foods to Avoid When Visiting Greece
1. Fried Foods
In Greece, you’ll find many tasty fried dishes like souvlaki (skewered meat) and moussaka (layered eggplant). However, fried foods can be heavy and greasy, which may upset your stomach. It’s better to choose grilled or baked options, which are lighter and still delicious.
2. Processed Meats
You might see many kinds of sausages and cured meats, like basturma (cured beef) and loukaniko (Greek sausage). These meats are often high in salt and fat, which can be hard on your stomach. If you want to try something different, opt for fresh meats grilled or roasted.
3. Cheese Dishes
Greek cheese, like feta and kefalotyri, is popular in many dishes. While cheese can be tasty, it can also be rich and heavy. Eating too much cheese can lead to discomfort. Instead, try lighter cheese options or have smaller portions.
4. Heavy Sauces
Some traditional Greek dishes come with heavy sauces or creams. Foods with rich sauces can weigh you down and make you feel sluggish. Choose dishes with fresh herbs, lemon and olive oil for a lighter taste that still delivers flavor.
5. Sweet Pastries
Greek desserts, like baklava (sweet pastry with nuts and honey), can be very sweet and rich. While they’re tempting, too much sugar can lead to a sugar crash later. If you want something sweet, try fresh fruit instead.
6. Large Portions
Greek restaurants often serve big portions. While it’s tempting to finish everything, eating too much can cause stomach discomfort. Share dishes with friends or family, so you can try more without overeating.
7. Salty Snacks
Many Greek snacks are high in salt, like taramosalata (fish roe dip) and olives. Eating too much salt can lead to dehydration, especially in the heat. Instead, opt for fresh salads or vegetables to stay refreshed.
Enjoying Food and Wine Tours in Athens
Athens is a fantastic place to enjoy food and wine tours. Here are some tips to make the most of your experience:
1. Try Local Markets
Visit local markets in Athens to see fresh ingredients and traditional foods. You can taste olives, cheeses and fresh bread. This is a great way to learn about Greek cuisine.
2. Join a Food Tour
Consider joining a guided food tour. A knowledgeable guide can take you to the best places to eat, explaining the history and culture behind each dish. You’ll get to taste many different foods while avoiding the ones that may upset your stomach.
3. Wine Tasting
Greece is famous for its wines. On a wine tour, you can try different types of Greek wine, like Assyrtiko and Xinomavro. These tours often include food pairings that go well with the wine, making for a great experience.
4. Small Plates
When dining, look for places that offer meze, which are small plates of various dishes. This way, you can sample a bit of everything without overeating. You can try items like grilled octopus, stuffed grape leaves and hummus.
5. Ask for Recommendations
Don’t be afraid to ask locals or your tour guide for recommendations. They can help you find the best places to eat and the dishes to avoid.
Being Mindful of What You Eat
While Greece has amazing food, it’s essential to be mindful of what you eat. Avoid fried foods, processed meats and heavy sauces to keep your stomach happy. Enjoy local markets, food tours and wine tastings to have a great culinary experience in Athens. By making smart choices, you can savor the flavors of Greece without discomfort.
Take a look at what foods you should avoid in Italy.