Thessaloniki is a culinary paradise, where history, culture and flavours blend into a tasty tapestry. As the first UNESCO-stamped City of Gastronomy in Greece, this vibrant centre has a whole lot to offer to foodies and we’re here to walk you through its essential menu.

Breakfast bougatsa

Start your day with a burst of flavour at a bakery. Grab a bougatsa, a flaky pastry filled with custard or cheese and savour every bite. It's an undisputed favourite when it comes to Greek breakfast. And pair it with a local coffee, called ellinikos kafes, which is bound to kick-start your morning! A popular place to try these treats is Bougatsa Bantis.

Bubbling bougiourdi

Time for some bougiourdi! It’s a fiery Greek appetiser that’s essential to Thessalonian cuisine and the stomachs of discerning foodies. Feta cheese, tomatoes, peppers and a dash of chilli flakes are baked together in the oven until golden. Then, the spicy dish is served with olives and plenty of bread to soak up every last drop of those cheesy, hot juices. It's an explosion of flavour that'll leave you seeking more.

Meze magic

A classic Greek answer to Spanish tapas, meze is all about sharing. Head to a traditional taverna and order an array of these mouth-watering bites. Tzatziki, fried calamari, dolmades (stuffed vine leaves) and grilled octopus are among the must-eats. Oh, and don't forget the ouzo – an anise-flavoured aperitif that'll get you in the holiday spirit!

Trigona treats

For a Thessaloniki-special dessert, try trigona. These triangular pastries are crafted of crispy filo dough, stuffed with a heavenly mixture of sweet custard, honey and a touch of vanilla. Each bite is a delightful fusion of textures and flavours, and you'll quickly find yourself wanting more of their sugariness.

Coffee culture

If there’s one thing the Greek simply can’t imagine their day without, it has to be a cup of coffee. The Greek stuff is quite strong, so if you’re a milky beverage drinker, aim for a smaller cup. Looking for something refreshing on a hot summer’s day? How about a locally invented frappe? This crushed ice drink is crazy popular in the summertime but not many know that it originates from Thessaloniki.

Soutzoukakia sensations

Craving some hearty Greek meatballs? Head to Diavasi, where they serve up hard-to-beat soutzoukakia. These succulent meatballs are bathed in a rich, aromatic tomato and cumin sauce that's got just the right amount of kick. Grab some crusty bread to mop up every last drop of that savoury goodness.

Marvellous Modiano Market

Modiano Market isn't just a haven for ingredients, it's a slice of Thessaloniki’s history. This is the place for foodies to stock up on vibrant spices and fragrant herbs. Then, bring a piece of Thessaloniki's culinary magic into your kitchen when you experiment with these flavours at home. And remember to pick up the ultimate snack for market exploration – koulouria, a sesame-topped bread ring!

Koulouria crunchiness

As you wander around Thessaloniki, you'll often see street vendors selling koulouria – round, sesame-seed-covered bread rings. They're crispy on the outside, soft on the inside and make the perfect snack to munch on as you explore the city. Grab one, two or a whole bunch and embrace the joy of delicious treats on the go! Prefer to eat in? Some restaurants serve this street treat paired with cream cheese and herbs, or chocolate chips, if you have a sweet tooth.

A toast to Thessaloniki

As your adventure comes to a close, raise a glass to this incredible city. Greece has been synonymous with viniculture since ancient, mythological times, but there are more tipples to be tried here. Ouzo, raki or tsipouro to toast to the flavours you've savoured in Thessaloniki. Opa!