Dodecanese, Greece
Olive oil forms the base of many dishes. Fresh vegetables like tomatoes, eggplant, zucchini, and peppers are common. Pulses like chickpeas and lentils are frequently used. Local cheeses, including Mizithra and Feta, hold prominence. Fresh fish and seafood are staples in coastal areas. Lamb, goat, and pork are popular meat choices.
Oregano, mint, thyme, rosemary, garlic, dill, and parsley add fresh aromas. Cinnamon and cumin are sometimes used, reflecting eastern influences. Look for Pitaroudia (chickpea fritters), Trachanas (a type of sour milk pasta), Melekouni (a sesame-honey bar), local wines, and Souma (a grape distillate).
Lunch typically occurs from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Dinner often starts late, from 8:00 PM onwards, especially during summer evenings. Many restaurants may close between lunch and dinner service.
Meze (small plates) are a popular way to dine. These dishes are for sharing among the table, encouraging a communal eating experience. Bread is usually served with meals; a small charge per person for the bread basket sometimes applies.
Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated. For small bills, rounding up to the nearest Euro is a common practice. Sometimes, a restaurant presents a small complimentary dessert (often fresh fruit or a sweet treat) or a shot of local liquor (like ouzo or Souma) at the meal's end as hospitality.
Iconic Greek fast foods. Gyros: meat (usually pork or chicken) from a vertical rotisserie, sliced thin, served in pita bread. Souvlaki: skewered grilled meat.
Find both widely available at "souvlatzidika" across Rhodes Town.
Moussaka: A classic layered dish with minced meat, sliced eggplant, potatoes, and a creamy béchamel sauce. Lachanonolmades: Cabbage leaves filled with rice and minced meat, cooked in a rich egg-lemon sauce (Avgolemono).
Seek these hearty traditional dishes in local tavernas.
Pitaroudia: Crispy chickpea fritters, a Rhodian specialty, often with onion, mint, and tomato. Symi Shrimps: Tiny, flavorful fried shrimps from nearby Symi, very popular in Rhodes Town seafood tavernas.
Pitaroudia are excellent as Meze. Symi shrimps are typically eaten whole.
A traditional Rhodian sesame-honey bar. This soft, chewy treat is often flavored with orange zest, cinnamon, or nuts. Historically served at weddings, it is widely available in souvenir shops and bakeries.
Loukoumades: Golden fried dough balls, typically drizzled with honey syrup and cinnamon. Baklava: A classic layered pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup.
A few upscale restaurants, some with sea views or located within boutique hotels in the Old Town, present modern Greek cuisine or refined international dishes.
These are plentiful throughout the New Town, Mandraki area, and the more touristy parts of the Old Town. They present a mix of traditional Greek, Italian, and international fare.
Numerous gyros/souvlaki shops, bakeries, and small, inexpensive tavernas exist, especially outside the most central tourist spots in the Old Town and throughout the New Town.
The New Town presents a range of international restaurants, including Italian, Chinese, and Indian cuisine.
These options cater to varied palates.
The New Market (Nea Agora) building near Mandraki Harbor houses various eateries and cafes. Local supermarkets also stock a wide selection of groceries for self-catering needs.
Fresh local ingredients are readily available.
Dine in beautifully restored medieval buildings.
Enjoy panoramic town and harbor vistas from New Town restaurants.
Emphasis on seasonal, high-quality ingredients.
Abundant fresh fish and seafood, especially near the harbor.
Clear communication about allergies is beneficial. Consider using a translation app or a phrasebook with Greek translations of your specific needs.
Online forums and apps for travelers with dietary restrictions identify suitable restaurants.
Awareness about allergies is growing. Many traditional dishes, like grilled fish or meat, salads, and rice dishes, are naturally gluten-free.
Bread is served widely, so explicitly ask for gluten-free alternatives if needed. Dedicated Halal or Kosher restaurants are limited.
Rhodes Town culinary scene suits every budget and occasion, from upscale dining to quick street food.
Beyond dining, Rhodes Town presents various ways to immerse yourself in its food culture.
Several local companies offer cooking classes focusing on traditional Rhodian or broader Greek cuisine.
Food tours explore the Old Town's culinary spots, including hidden tavernas, local delis, and artisan shops.
While less common directly from Rhodes Town without a car, arranging visits to local olive oil presses or wineries on the island is possible.
Dining in a beautifully restored medieval building within the Old Town presents an unique historical atmosphere.
Immersive and memorable experiences are found here.
Some rooftop restaurants in the New Town display panoramic views of the town and harbor.
These settings enrich the dining experience significantly.
Explore the New Market (Nea Agora) building near Mandraki Harbor for various stalls selling local produce, spices, and artisan foods.
Many local shops, especially in the Old Town, sell packaged food items that make for delicious souvenirs or gifts.
Explore cooking classes, food tours, and seek out traditional tavernas for a deep dive into Rhodian cuisine.
Numerous mid-range restaurants and street food spots cater to quick, tasty, and affordable meals.
Street food like gyros, bakeries, and local markets are excellent choices for dining on a budget.
