If you’re visiting Rhodes and want to truly experience Greek culture, there’s no better way than tasting and taking home some of the finest Greek PDO products. PDO stands for Protected Designation of Origin, and it means that these items are authentically produced in specific regions of Greece, using traditional methods passed down for generations.
From sweet and savory flavors to natural beauty products, here are the top 10 Greek PDO products you absolutely must try — and buy — before you leave Rhodes.
1. Ouzo – Greece's Signature Spirit
You haven’t truly visited Greece if you haven’t tried ouzo. This iconic anise-flavored spirit is a PDO product made in several parts of Greece, including Lesvos and Chios.
Traditionally enjoyed with meze (Greek appetizers) and always with water or ice (which turns it milky white), ouzo captures the essence of Greek hospitality.
✅ Where to Buy in Rhodes: Local liquor shops, traditional delis like Explore Rhodes, and souvenir stores in Rhodes Old Town.
✅ How to Enjoy: Pair it with grilled octopus, olives, or feta cheese for a true Greek experience.
2. Greek Honey – Nature’s Liquid Gold
Greek honey is considered some of the finest in the world, and Rhodes has a long-standing tradition of honey production, particularly thyme honey.
Greek PDO honey is collected from areas like Crete, Evia, and the Peloponnese, offering a rich, floral taste and high nutritional value. It’s perfect on yogurt, in tea, or simply by the spoon.
✅ Local Tip: Look for small-batch producers in villages like Apollona and Salakos.
✅ Where to Buy: Explore Rhodes shop, local food markets, and specialty stores.
✅ Don’t Miss: Honey with sesame bars (pasteli) or honey-infused raki.
3. Greek Olive Oil – Liquid Gold of the Mediterranean
No trip to Greece is complete without tasting extra virgin olive oil, the backbone of the Mediterranean diet. Many regions in Greece have PDO-certified olive oils, including Kalamata, Sitia (Crete), and Laconia.
Rhodes itself is surrounded by ancient olive groves, and many local producers press high-quality oils using traditional methods.
✅ How to Taste: Try olive oil tastings at local markets or pair it with bread, oregano, and sea salt.
✅ Buy it as a Gift: Explore Rhodes shop offers a curated selection of premium PDO oils in dark glass bottles.
4. Pistachio Cream – A Sweet Spread from Aegina
The island of Aegina, near Athens, is famous for its PDO-certified pistachios, and one of the most delicious products you can try is pistachio cream.
Rich, nutty, and naturally sweet, this spread is perfect for breakfast or dessert. While not local to Rhodes, many gourmet shops on the island stock it thanks to its growing popularity.
✅ Try This: Spread it on a slice of sourdough or drizzle over vanilla ice cream.
✅ Where to Find: Explore Rhodes shop, gourmet stores in Rhodes Town.
5. Mastic from Chios – The Original Mediterranean Superfood
Produced only on the island of Chios, mastic (or mastiha) is a resin extracted from the mastic tree, used for cooking, drinks, and cosmetics.
This PDO product is known for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties, and its unique pine-like taste. It’s used in liqueurs, chewing gum, and even ice cream.
✅ Must-Try: Mastiha liqueur as a digestif after your meal.
✅ Where to Buy: Explore Rhodes shop, as well as other specialty stores in the Old Town.
6. Vinsanto – The Dessert Wine of Santorini
One of Greece’s most renowned wines, Vinsanto is a sweet dessert wine made from sun-dried grapes on the volcanic island of Santorini. It holds PDO status due to its distinctive flavor and regional production.
Expect notes of dried fruits, honey, and caramel — a perfect end to a Greek meal.
✅ Best Paired With: Greek desserts like baklava or almond cookies.
✅ Find It In Rhodes: Explore Rhodes shop and local wine boutiques.
7. Capers – Small But Mighty
Though small, Greek capers pack a punch. The PDO-certified capers of Santorini and Tinos grow in volcanic soils, giving them a bold, tangy flavor.
They’re a key ingredient in Greek salads, sauces, and seafood dishes.
✅ Try This: Sprinkle over grilled fish or traditional dakos (barley rusk salad).
✅ Shop Local: Explore Rhodes shop and organic food stores throughout the island.
8. Organic Olive Oil Soaps
Greece is famous not just for olive oil as food, but also as a natural skincare product. Many small producers, especially in Crete and the Peloponnese, make PDO-quality soaps using extra virgin olive oil.
These soaps are eco-friendly, gentle on the skin, and infused with herbs like lavender or rosemary.
✅ Why Buy: Natural, plastic-free souvenirs that reflect Greek wellness traditions.
✅ Where to Find in Rhodes: Explore Rhodes shop, wellness boutiques, and traditional markets.
9. Kumquat Products from Corfu
Though native to Asia, the kumquat fruit has become a signature of Corfu, where it is grown and processed under PDO protection.
You’ll find kumquat liqueurs, spoon sweets, jams, and even candied peel — a citrusy delight to take home.
✅ Taste Tip: Try kumquat jam with Greek yogurt for a refreshing treat.
✅ Available in Rhodes? Yes — especially at Explore Rhodes shop and selected gourmet food stores.
10. Mushrooms from Meteora
The region of Meteora, known for its towering monasteries, is also home to a thriving wild mushroom scene. Locally foraged and produced mushrooms have earned PDO recognition for their quality and unique taste.
They’re often preserved in olive oil, dried, or made into spreads and sauces.
✅ How to Eat: Add to pasta, omelets, or enjoy as a meze with local wine.
✅ Where to Find: Explore Rhodes shop and selected artisan food stalls in the Old Town.
Final Thoughts
Exploring Greece through its PDO products is a journey into the country’s culinary, agricultural, and cultural identity. While Rhodes has its own local specialties, it also gives you access to the best of Greece, from the hills of Meteora to the vineyards of Santorini.
Whether you’re sipping ouzo by the sea or spreading pistachio cream on warm bread, these authentic Greek PDO products offer a true taste of the nation’s rich heritage. Don’t leave Rhodes without adding a few of these to your suitcase!
