Thessaloniki is widely considered to be the gastronomic capital of Greece, celebrated for a culinary identity that blends traditional Greek flavors with rich Ottoman, Jewish, and Armenian influences. This "melting pot" heritage is most evident in the city's obsession with mezes (small plates), grilled meats, fresh breads, abundant pastries and strong coffee.
Additionally, it stands out for a more liberal use of spices compared to much of the Mediterranean as a result of historical occupations and proximity to trade routes. Get ready to soak up the vibes of Spring in Thessaloniki! This in-person event is all about enjoying the beautiful season with great company, tasty treats, and loads of fun. The true taste of Greece is finally here, opa!
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Mezedes
The meal begins with some meze of Kalamata olives, Zesty Feta dip with Pita bread and Phyllo pies (stuffed phyllo pastries with cheese and spinach varieties).
Salata
Greeks always have a salad at the table and a Spring Salad of Romaine hearts, scallions, dill and tangy vinaigrette will refresh your palate and whet your appetite for the next course.
Soutzoukakia Smyrneika with Rice Pilaf
Thessaloniki's food culture is greatly influenced by the Greeks of Asia-Minor who resettled in the region. Soutzoukakia Smyrneika are an expression of this influence. Oval-shaped beef meatballs simmered in an aromatic tomato sauce spiked with cumin and cinnamon, then served on top of a savoury pilaf of herbed rice.
Feta Cheesecake with Sour Cherry 'Spoon Sweet'
Thessaloniki also boasts pastry shops on nearly every block to satiate the collective love of sweets. One will find a combination of traditional pastries as well as some with modern twists. Dinner will end with a cheesecake spiked with feta cheese and topped with sour cherry spoon sweet (a range of fruit preserves symbolizing hospitality throughout Greece, Cyprus and the Balkans).
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Peter Minaki is a proud Greek Canadian and the creator of the popular Kalofagas – Greek Food & Beyond food blog. Kalofagas is the Greek word for “gourmet”.
Peter started the Kalofagas blog because he wanted to introduce the world to the delicious depths of Greek cuisine. Known for adding twists to his recipes, Peter balances his posts between traditional, modernized and his own unique recipes. Gathering inspiration from his yearly trips to Greece, Peter endlessly promotes the diversity of Greek cuisine. Living in Toronto and having a curious spirit, he refers to himself as “a tourist in his own town”. He welcomes every opportunity to try new foods and different cuisines.
Andania Imported Greek Goods is the proud sponsor of this event. Every dish features products that the company imports from Greece for all Canadians to enjoy. We will have some of these products available for purchase at the event!
