On the Peloponnese you taste olive oil, fresh vegetables, herbs and often fish straight from the coast. The cuisine is mostly simply prepared and strongly seasonal: what reaches the table follows market and season, not fixed tourist menu cycles.
What should you try culinarily on the Peloponnese?
Core elements include good native olive oil, feta or shepherd's cheese, regional vegetables and grilled fish on the coast. A horiatiki (Greek village salad) and homemade bread often go well. Sweets and pastries vary with season and region.
Typical elements
- Olive oil as the base of almost every meal
- Fresh fish and seafood on the coast
- Seasonal vegetables, bean dishes, oven bakes
- Local wine, matched moderately to the meal
Taverna rhythm
Busier at lunch, longer at the table in the evening: reservations help at popular places. Allowing time between courses is usual.
Enjoy in moderation
Herb liqueur or dessert wine closes many meals. Those hiking or driving long distances the next day drink accordingly less.
