Xanthi City, nestled in northeastern Greece, offers more than just ancient ruins and cobblestone streets. Its food scene is a vibrant tapestry woven from Thracian traditions, Ottoman influences, and modern Greek flavors. In 2026, travelers can embark on a gastronomic journey through this multicultural hub, where street food stalls serve up flaky börek alongside meze plates in centuries-old tavernas.
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Must-Try Dishes for First-Time Visitors
Xanthi's cuisine is defined by its simplicity and bold flavors. Key experiences include:
Meze platters featuring grilled octopus, fava puree, and house-made tzatziki
Grilled kebabs from family-run shacks with smoky lamb or beef skewers
Börek pastries filled with cheese, spinach, or minced meat, sold by street vendors
Ouzo cocktails served in traditional ouzeris with small plates of fried calamari or olives
Sweet treats like kourabiedes (almond cookies) and baklava from centuries-old confectioneries
Mezedopoleio Παλιά Πόλη: A Taste of Old Town
Tucked into the heart of Xanthi's historic district, this meze spot offers a modern take on traditional Thracian fare. Sample saganaki (flambéed cheese) or dolmades (stuffed grape leaves) while sipping local wine. The open-air seating overlooks the ancient fortress walls, making it ideal for sunset dining.
Kebab House: Smoke and Fire
For hearty comfort food, head to this bustling grill house. The kebabos (grilled meat skewers) are seasoned with a secret blend of herbs and served with warm pita bread. Pair your meal with tzatziki or the house-made ketchup—a sweet-and-savory condiment unique to the region.
Bourektzidiko: Street Food at Its Best
No visit is complete without trying Xanthi's iconic börek. This tiny shop sells paper-thin pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat, often enjoyed as a quick snack between sightseeing stops. The tavli (cheese-filled börek) is particularly popular among locals.
Ouzeri: A Taste of Tradition
Step into this centuries-old ouzeri for a true Greek experience. Sip ouzo, an anise-flavored spirit, as it's diluted with water to create a cloudy drink known as loukoumades. The menu includes skordalia (garlic dip) and spanakopita (spinach pie), all served in a rustic setting.
Traditional Sweets Shop: Sweet Endings
Xanthi's confectionery scene is a revelation. Look for kourabiedes (powdered sugar-coated almond cookies) or melomakarona (honey-soaked gingerbread). Some shops specialize in galaktoboureko, a custard-filled pastry drenched in syrup.
Tips for Food Tourists in Xanthi
Visit early: Street food vendors close by mid-afternoon, and meze spots fill up quickly during peak hours.
Ask about local specialties: Many menus are handwritten or have limited English, so don't hesitate to point at what others are ordering.
Pack cash: While some restaurants accept cards, smaller stalls often only take coins.
Try the kleftiko: A slow-roasted lamb dish that's a regional specialty, often found on lunch menus.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time to visit Xanthi for food?
Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds at restaurants.
Are there vegetarian options in Xanthi?
Yes—meze platters often include grilled vegetables, fava puree, and salads. Check with vendors about meat-free alternatives.
Can I find gluten-free food here?
Most traditional dishes are naturally gluten-free, but be cautious with bread-based items like pita or paximadi (dried bread).
What's the local drink to pair with meals?
Ouzo is a staple, but local red wines from Thrace are also worth trying.
Are there food festivals in Xanthi?
Yes—look for seasonal events celebrating koulouri (sesame bread rings) or tsoureki (sweet Easter bread) in April and December.
How to navigate the menu if you don't speak Greek?
Point at dishes others are eating, use a translation app, or ask for the house special (to kouzina)—a popular option.
