A Culinary Journey Through Plataria and Epirus

A Culinary Journey Through Plataria and Epirus: Traditional Dishes You Must Try

When visiting Plataria and the Epirus region of Greece, you’ll quickly discover that the local cuisine is as rich and diverse as its landscapes. From fresh seafood caught daily in the Ionian Sea to the hearty dishes served in the mountain villages, the culinary traditions of this area are deeply rooted in history and culture. Whether you are a seasoned foodie or simply looking to experience the authentic flavors of Greece, here are some of the traditional dishes you must try while visiting Plataria and the surrounding region of Epirus.

1. Bakaliaros Skordalia (Fried Cod with Garlic Sauce)

A staple in many coastal villages like Plataria, Bakaliaros Skordalia is a dish made from salted cod, fried to golden perfection, and served with a rich garlic sauce. This dish is a favorite during religious celebrations such as the Annunciation (March 25), but it’s available year-round in local tavernas. The sharpness of the garlic in the sauce perfectly complements the delicate flavors of the cod, offering a balance that’s satisfying and flavorful.

If you're visiting Plataria, you’ll find this dish served in many of the seaside restaurants where fresh fish is a key ingredient in the local food scene. Pair it with a glass of local white wine for a complete dining experience.

2. Batzaria Salata (Beet Salad)

Another local favorite, particularly in the villages of Epirus, is Batzaria Salata. This simple yet delicious salad is made from boiled beets, drizzled with olive oil and vinegar, and often served with a side of garlic sauce. The dish is refreshing and light, making it a great starter or side dish for any meal.

In the cooler months, when root vegetables are in season, this salad becomes even more popular in local homes and restaurants. It’s a perfect reflection of the simple, farm-to-table philosophy that characterizes much of the region’s cuisine.

3. Epirus Pies (Pites)

No visit to Epirus would be complete without trying one of the region’s famous pies, or Pites. Epirus is known across Greece for its skill in pie-making, with recipes passed down through generations. These pies are typically made with handmade filo dough and filled with a variety of ingredients, from wild greens (horta), to cheese (feta or mizithra), to meat or even sweet fillings.

Zagorisio pita, filled with wild greens and herbs, is a must-try for vegetarians. For something heartier, Kreatopita (meat pie) or Kotopita (chicken pie), Galatopita (milk pie), Makaronopitta (pasta pie) and Tyropita (cheese pie) are excellent options, offering a taste of the region's rustic cooking traditions.

4. Souvlaki and Gyro

While these dishes are popular across all of Greece, the version you’ll find in Epirus has its own regional twist. The meat, often pork or chicken, is marinated in local herbs and spices before being grilled on skewers (souvlaki) or shaved from a rotisserie (gyro). What sets Epirus apart is the quality of the meat and the freshness of the ingredients, often sourced from nearby farms and markets.

In Plataria, you’ll find small shops offering freshly made souvlaki and gyro, often wrapped in warm pita with tomatoes, onions, tzatziki, and fries. It’s a quick, flavorful meal that reflects the simplicity and quality of Greek street food.

5. Kleftiko (Slow-Cooked Lamb)

Named after the klephts, bandits who lived in the mountains during the Ottoman occupation, Kleftiko is a traditional dish of slow-cooked lamb wrapped in parchment paper with herbs, potatoes, and vegetables. The cooking method preserves the juices and flavors, resulting in tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat.

This dish is perfect for those looking to experience the heartier side of Greek cuisine. In many local restaurants in Epirus, you can find variations of kleftiko cooked in wood-fired ovens, which add a rich, smoky flavor to the dish.

6. Seafood Specialties in Plataria

Given Plataria’s location by the sea, seafood is an essential part of the local cuisine. Visitors can enjoy fresh fish like sardines, red mullet, and sea bream, all grilled with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon. Other seafood favorites include octopus (often grilled or served in a vinegar marinade) and calamari (fried or grilled).

The seafood served in Plataria is always fresh, caught daily by local fishermen. Whether you’re dining in a taverna overlooking the Ionian Sea or enjoying a meal at a traditional ouzeri, the seafood in Plataria is sure to leave a lasting impression.

7. Tsipouro and Meze

In Epirus, meals are often accompanied by Tsipouro, a traditional Greek spirit made from grape pomace. This potent drink is usually served with small plates of meze, which can include a variety of appetizers like olives, cheeses, grilled vegetables, and small fish.

Plataria is home to several tavernas and bars where you can enjoy tsipouro in a relaxed, social setting. Sharing meze with friends or family while sipping tsipouro is a quintessential Greek experience, offering a taste of local hospitality and culture.

Culinary recommendations from Plataria Houses

If you’re planning a culinary adventure through Plataria and Epirus, Plataria Houses is the ideal accommodation for your stay. This fully furnished traditional family house offers year-round comfort, allowing you to explore the local food scene and nearby attractions with ease. After a day of sampling the region’s best dishes, you can return to the peaceful setting of Plataria Houses to relax and recharge. For more information, or to book your stay, visit Plataria Houses.

Also visit the Plataria Guidebook provided by Plataria Houses, with recommendations on which places to visit for delicious local food.