Top 4 Places to Eat in Thessaloniki

Written by Celine Fournier, Julien Lambert, Maria Gaulto
07/08/2025
View of the iconic White Tower in Thessaloniki, Greece, under clear blue skies with surrounding trees.
Ιωάννα Μεγκενίδου, Pexels

Thessaloniki offers a captivating and diverse culinary landscape, recognized as Greece's food capital, blending traditional flavors with modern influences to delight a wide array of diners.

1. Bougatsa Bantis

Cuisine: Traditional Greek pastries (Bougatsa)

At Bougatsa Bantis, the art of traditional bougatsa comes alive. You will find exceptionally thin, flaky, and crispy pastry layers, crafted daily from recipes passed down through generations. Enjoy both sweet custard fillings, often dusted with icing sugar and cinnamon, and savory options like spinach or feta cheese. This is the quintessential Thessaloniki breakfast or snack, best savored fresh and warm.

Price: €3-€5 / $3-$5 per person

Getting There: Located in the Panagia Faneromeni neighborhood, it is not directly in the city center but can be reached via a short taxi ride (approx. €5-€8 / $5-$9) or local bus.

2. The Rouga

Cuisine: Traditional Greek Meze and Home-Style Cooking

Stepping into The Rouga feels like visiting a cherished Greek home, with its rustic, warm atmosphere. The focus here is on authentic, homemade Greek dishes and meze, ideal for sharing. Expect classics like succulent moussaka, tender grilled lamb chops, and flavorful baked aubergine with feta. The service is attentive, and the portions are generous, offering exceptional value in a traditional setting, often accompanied by live Greek folk music.

Price: €15-€25 / $16-$27 per person

Getting There: Conveniently located in a quiet cul-de-sac just off Tsimiski Street, The Rouga is easily accessible by walking from most central Thessaloniki locations.

3. Nea Folia

Cuisine: Regional Greek with Modern Touches

Nea Folia provides a cozy and authentic Greek dining experience, beloved by locals. The menu showcases regional ingredients with thoughtful modern twists, featuring dishes such as octopus with fava or grilled shrimps with leeks and mushrooms. The selection of cheeses and wines from across Greece complements the meal. It's a place where quality ingredients meet skillful preparation in a welcoming environment.

Price: €15-€20 / $16-$22 per person

Getting There: Situated at Aristomenous 4, it is centrally located and can be reached by walking from the city's main areas.

4. Mourga

Cuisine: Creative Greek Seafood and Vegetarian

Mourga offers a unique and intimate dining experience, where the daily changing menu highlights fresh, seasonal seafood and vegetables. You might discover dishes like shrimp with soft-boiled eggs and galotyri cheese, or steamed mussels with angel hair pasta in a rich avgolemono-like broth. The open kitchen allows a glimpse into the creative process, and the focus on organic produce and small producers ensures exceptional flavors. It is recommended to try their house-made bread to fully enjoy the flavorful broths and sauces.

Price: €17-€22 / $18-$24 per person

Getting There: Located at Athanasiou Christopoulou 12, near the Roman Agora, Mourga is easily reachable by walking from the city center.

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