| The Greeks love to eat. (Who doesn't?) Many Americans have a fear of coming to Greece because they are afraid of the food. There's nothing to be afraid of. It's not like Mexican or food from the far-east. Nothing is so spicy you can't eat it and the seasonings they use are the very same ones you have on the spice shelf in your Kitchen. And unlike the crappy oil that terrorizes the hearts of many Americans, Olive oil is good for you and will keep you alive long after many of your friends have taken the next step in their spiritual evolution | . |
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What usually happens when you walk into a restaurant is after finding a table (almost always outdoors between the months of May and October), you will be permitted or encouraged to go to the kitchen to see what they have to offer. There will be a large steam table full of pots with different dishes in them. Pick out what looks good and don't be afraid to ask your cook, waiter or host "Tea eeneh aftoe?". You have just asked "What is this?" Not all restaurants are the kinds that display their food in the kitchen, but you are welcome in just about any kitchen to pick out your fish or look at the meat to see if it is fresh. | |
| Try to remember what it's called until you get back to the table or else you can tell the guy right there "Thelo aftoe." It will magically appear on your table. They will also show you their assortment of meats and fishes for grilling. It's usually all pretty fresh. Some of the fish may have been frozen and the squid generally comes from the Atlantic or Monterey California in the summer months. If you see fried squid on a tray don't order it. You don't want anything fried unless it is cooked to order which is generally the case. If I am beginning to intimidate you remember that 90% of the people in restaurants speak English. |
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You will notice that in Greece the waiter will not come up to your table every three minutes to ask how you are doing or if he can get you anything else or fill your glass with every sip you take like they do in restaurants in America. If you want something else it is your job do get his attention and anything goes within reason. And unlike in America where you get your meal and eat it and that's the end, in Greece it is OK to keep ordering. If something delivered to another table looks good, ask what it is and get it. Nobody is going to think you are greedy or a slob. Eating is meant to be enjoyed and restaurant food is cheap (except for some fish). Eating in a Greek restaurant is pretty informal and meant to be relaxing and enjoyable. So relax and enjoy it like the Greeks do. | |
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Tipping They say a 15% gratuity is included in the bill but I leave some extra for the guys who clear the tables who are usually refugees and can really use the money because they are paid practically nothing or else they are the children of the owners who are being paid little or working for free. If the owner serves, for example in a one man operation, then you don't have to tip. |
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