Northern Greece, Greece
Preveza's culinary identity forms from its location on the Ionian Sea and at the mouth of the Ambracian Gulf. This means seafood is a staple, with daily catches influencing local menus. The region also shares characteristics with broader Epirus cuisine, which features hearty meat dishes, rich cheeses, and savory pies (pites). Subtle influences from centuries of Venetian and Ottoman rule appear in certain dishes and preparation methods. Olive oil, produced abundantly, is a very important ingredient.
Regional variations exist; fresh seafood dominates coastal areas and Preveza city, while inland Epirus (a short drive) has cuisine leaning towards robust meat dishes, hearty cheeses, and substantial pies. The unique ecosystem of the Ambracian Gulf has specific shellfish and fish species not found elsewhere.
Fresh fish is a major feature, including sea bream (tsipoura), sea bass (lavraki), sardines (sardeles), shrimp (garides), octopus (oktapodi), and squid (kalamaria), all sourced from the Ionian Sea and the Ambracian Gulf.
Lamb (arni), goat (katsiki), and pork (hirino) are commonly used, often slow-cooked, roasted, or grilled. Creamy Feta, firm Graviera, sharp Kefalotyri, and various local Epirus cheeses are here, often in pies or as appetizers.
Seasonal vegetables are plentiful. Fresh herbs like oregano, mint, parsley, and dill are used generously. High-quality olive oil from local production is used for cooking, dressings, and as a finishing touch, forming the foundation of Greek cuisine.
A signature dish in Preveza, given its abundance of fresh sardines from the Ionian Sea. These are simply grilled with olive oil, lemon, and oregano. Find them at almost any psarotaverna (fish taverna) along the waterfront. Try Local food tours to taste this.
A must-try fresh local delicacy.
Plump shrimp cooked in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce, often with ouzo, garlic, and herbs, topped with crumbled feta cheese and then baked. Find this at seafood restaurants.
A savory and cheesy seafood delight.
Epirus is famous for its pies. You will find various savory pies, especially those with local greens (hortopita) or cheese. Look for mpatzo, a local cheese pie specific to the region. Bakeries and traditional tavernas serve these.
Hearty, traditional savory pastries.
Ouzo (anise-flavored alcoholic aperitif), Tsipouro (strong pomace brandy), Local Wine (dry white wines from Epirus vineyards). Frappé (iced instant coffee) and Greek Coffee (strong, unfiltered) are also here.
Loukoumades (fried dough balls with honey and cinnamon), Baklava (filo pastry with nuts and syrup), Greek Yogurt with Honey and Walnuts (simple, refreshing), Halva (a dense, sweet confection).
Preveza is more known for its authentic, casual tavernas, but a few upscale restaurants provide a refined dining experience. These establishments often focus on modern Greek or Mediterranean cuisine, adding a contemporary twist to traditional flavors. Look for gastronomiko estiatorio.
This category represents the most common and popular dining options. Numerous mid-range tavernas and restaurants have a wide selection of traditional Greek dishes, grilled meats, fresh seafood, and salads. These places offer a comfortable setting, good service, and excellent value for money.
The go-to option for a quick, cheap, and delicious meal. You will find gyro/souvlaki stands throughout Preveza city center, in lively squares and near the port. Smaller, traditional psarotavernes (fish tavernas) can offer excellent value for incredibly fresh seafood, often off main tourist paths.
The main municipal market in Preveza city is a hub for fresh produce, fish caught that morning, local cheeses, olives, olive oil, and other regional products. This is an excellent place for self-catering if your accommodation has kitchen facilities, or simply for an immersive experience of local life and flavors.
The market operates daily except Sundays, with mornings being the busiest.
While Greek cuisine rightfully dominates, a few establishments offer international cuisine, mainly Italian restaurants or pizzerias. Large international fast-food chains or diverse ethnic restaurants are generally not present, which maintains the local character and focus on traditional Greek flavors. Embrace the local food as much as possible.
Focus on local flavors for a true taste of Preveza.
If visiting during Orthodox Easter, look for arni souvlas (lamb on the spit) and tsoureki (a sweet, braided bread).
Traditional sweets include melomakarona (honey cookies) and kourabiedes (butter cookies dusted with powdered sugar).
The peak season for fresh fruits and vegetables. Seafood is at its most abundant and fresh.
The Sardine Festival in Preveza (usually August) is a major feature, celebrating the local sardine catch.
Halal and kosher options are extremely limited, given the predominantly Orthodox Christian population. Travelers with these specific dietary requirements should plan to self-cater as much as possible, focusing on vegetarian or fish dishes and carefully checking ingredients at restaurants.
Bring any specific packaged foods you need.
Carry an allergy card translated into Greek for common allergens. This visual aid is very helpful for communication.
Research restaurants online for reviews or menus that might indicate allergen information or vegetarian/vegan friendliness. Large supermarkets have a wider selection of packaged goods, including some gluten-free or dairy-free items, for self-catering.
Formal cooking classes for tourists are limited. Some local operators or boutique hotels may have informal cooking demonstrations focusing on Epirus or Ionian cuisine.
Food tours may be on offer in Preveza city. These tours often focus on local tavernas, mezedopolia, bakeries, and markets.
Opportunities exist to visit olive oil presses, especially during autumn. Inquire about visits to local cheese producers and vineyards.
Held annually in August, this festival celebrates the local sardine catch with large communal grilling of sardines, local wine, traditional music, and dancing. It is a lively and delicious event.
A major local celebration.
Check local event calendars or with the tourism office for other seasonal food festivals, like olive oil, honey, or wine festivals, which occur throughout the year in Preveza and nearby villages.
Discover more local events.
Preveza's food scene offers a journey through fresh flavors and traditions.
