Rhodes offers a rich gastronomic experience for tourists. Here are some suggestions on where to go, what to visit, and what local foods and wines to taste:
- Old Town of Rhodes: Start your gastronomic journey by exploring the Old Town of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can find charming tavernas and restaurants serving authentic Greek cuisine.
In addition, an extraordinary experience would be to choose a gastronomy e-bike tour by night, where you will have the opportunity to uncover the hidden gems of this ancient city after dark and enjoy Greek food, as well as varieties of local wines. - Lindos: Visit the picturesque village of Lindos, known for its stunning Acropolis and narrow streets lined with traditional tavernas. Enjoy fresh seafood dishes while taking in breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.
- Local Food: Indulge in traditional Greek dishes such as moussaka (a layered dish with eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce), souvlaki (grilled meat skewers), tzatziki (yogurt and cucumber dip), dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), and spanakopita (spinach pie).
- Seafood: Being an island, Rhodes offers an abundance of fresh seafood. Don’t miss trying dishes like grilled octopus, fried calamari, and psarosoupa (fish soup).
- Local Wines: Rhodes has a burgeoning wine scene, with several wineries producing high-quality wines. Look out for local grape varieties such as Athiri, Mandilaria, and Moschofilero. Visit wineries like Emery and Kounakis to taste and learn about the island’s wines.
- Rhodian Honey: Rhodes is also known for its delicious honey, particularly thyme honey. Visit local markets to purchase jars of this golden nectar, perfect for pairing with Greek yogurt or drizzling over pastries.
- Greek Pastries: Satisfy your sweet tooth with traditional Greek pastries like baklava (layers of phyllo pastry filled with nuts and honey), loukoumades (deep-fried dough balls soaked in honey and sprinkled with cinnamon), and galaktoboureko (custard-filled pastry topped with syrup).
- Cooking Classes: Immerse yourself in the island’s culinary culture by participating in a cooking class. Learn how to prepare traditional Greek dishes using fresh, local ingredients under the guidance of experienced chefs.
- Olive Oil Tasting: Rhodes produces excellent olive oil, known for its fruity flavor and rich aroma. Visit olive groves and olive oil mills to learn about the production process and sample different varieties of olive oil.
Remember to embrace the slow-paced Mediterranean lifestyle, savoring each bite and enjoying the warm hospitality of the locals as you explore the gastronomic delights of Rhodes.
