Traditional Ionian Polenta from Ithaca Poulenta is a classic dish from Ithaca and the Ionian Islands, reflecting the Venetian influence on local cuisine after centuries of Venetian rule. It is essentially a Greek version of polenta, made from coarse stone-ground yellow cornmeal cooked slowly in water to create a creamy, hearty base. Ingredients and Preparation [...]
A Traditional Island Sweet Ithacan Rovani is a distinctive and cherished dessert from the island of Ithaca, known for its unique preparation using rice instead of the more typical semolina found in other Greek revani recipes. This sweet treat is celebrated for its rich honey flavor, aromatic spices, and caramelized texture. Ingredients and Preparation The [...]
Ithacan Shrimp Pie: A Local Delicacy Shrimp pie is one of Ithaca’s most distinctive local dishes, reflecting the island’s close relationship with the sea and its tradition of savory pies. This specialty stands out for its flavorful blend of fresh seafood and classic Greek ingredients, all encased in crisp phyllo pastry. Ingredients and Preparation For [...]
Ithaca’s Classic Summer Bruschetta Riganada is a beloved traditional dish from Ithaca and the wider Ionian Islands, closely related to the rustic flavors of Greek island cooking. This simple yet vibrant recipe is often compared to Italian bruschetta, but its Greek character shines through with the use of local ingredients and the unmistakable aroma of wild [...]
A Tangy Taste of Ithaca’s Venetian Legacy" Savoro Fish is a traditional Ithacan recipe that dates back to Venetian times. It features fried fish—commonly white bait, red mullet or sea bass—preserved in a tangy, aromatic marinade made with vinegar, garlic, rosemary, and sometimes raisins. The term "savoro" comes from the Italian word sapore (flavor), reflecting [...]
It is an easy, tasteful sweet for the Lent. It doesn’t contain eggs, butter, not even oil, so it’s health and you may eat it during a lent when you cannot consume oil. It doesn’t have cholesterol and is beneficiary for those with constipation problems”. Ingredients: 3 strings of dried figs from. ½ cup [...]
The Most Famous Ithacan Food Tserepa is a casserole made of clay. The chicken is prepared and put into a metal pan which is covered by the tsereoa and then surrounded by charcoal for a uniform baking. What we need: 1 chicken (or 2 depending on the size of the pan) potatoes so that it fills the space in the pan 2-3 fresh tomatoes 1 tbsp tomato paste 2 green peppers salt, [...]
The island has many traditions and customs that are revived every year by the locals. In honor of the patron saints of the island, the locals organize local festivals with food, drinks and dancing till morning. This feasts are organized throughout the summer with August being the month with the most of this religious celebrations [...]
Ithaca quickly works its magic on all who arrive here, The pace of life is slow and laidback, visitors cannot help but be drawn into the relaxing ambience of this beautiful island. The days you spend here enjoying the sheer beauty of this island are best not planned but spent relaxing, sipping a frappe in [...]
Wit and Self-Reflection The Ithacan sayings are a good example of the local dialect, sense of humor, and quite often are self-sarcastic. The popular philosophy, the daily problems and the way of thinking of the island are also included within the small phrases. Some people love the priest, but others his wife. It’s more difficult [...]