What is Souvlaki?

Souvlaki is a Greek dish consisting of small pieces of marinated meat (usually pork, chicken, or lamb) skewered and grilled over an open flame. It’s often served with pita bread, salad, and a variety of sides, including fries, rice, or grilled vegetables. The dish can be enjoyed in several ways: on its own as a meat skewer, as part of a platter, or wrapped in pita bread like a sandwich with toppings such as tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce.

One of the reasons Souvlaki is so popular is its simplicity. The meat is typically marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs like oregano, then grilled to perfection. The result is a tasty, juicy skewer that’s both tender and crispy on the outside, making it perfect for enjoying on the go.

The History of Souvlaki

Souvlaki has been a part of Greek cuisine for thousands of years. Its roots go back to ancient Greece, where people cooked meat on skewers over an open flame, a practice that’s mentioned in the works of Homer and other ancient writers. Known as kandaulos in ancient times, this method of cooking was popular because it was simple and effective for preparing meat over a fire.

Over the centuries, this humble method evolved into the modern-day Souvlaki, which is now a beloved street food found in every corner of Greece. While the basic concept of grilling meat on skewers has remained the same, regional variations and modern twists have made Souvlaki one of Greece’s most versatile dishes.

Today, Souvlaki is not only a street food staple but also a common meal in Greek households. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack or as part of a larger meal, Souvlaki holds a special place in Greek food culture.

Types of Souvlaki

While the classic Souvlaki is made with pork or chicken, there are several variations that offer different flavour experiences. Here are the most popular types of Souvlaki you’ll find in Greece:

1. Pork Souvlaki: The traditional version of Souvlaki is made with pork, marinated in olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs. Pork Souvlaki is juicy, tender, and packed with flavour. It’s the most common version of the dish and is widely available at street vendors and tavernas.
   
   

2. Chicken Souvlaki: For a lighter option, chicken Souvlaki is a popular choice. The chicken is marinated similarly to pork but often has a slightly milder flavour. It’s a great alternative for those who prefer white meat.
   
   

3. Lamb Souvlaki: While less common than pork or chicken, lamb Souvlaki is a rich and tasty option, particularly popular in some regions of Greece. Lamb is marinated in the same herbs and spices but offers a deeper, more robust flavour.
   
   

4. Mixed Grill: Many Souvlaki vendors offer mixed grill platters that include a variety of meats, such as pork, chicken, lamb, and sometimes beef. This is a great way to sample different types of Souvlaki in one meal.
   
   

5. Vegetarian Souvlaki: Although Souvlaki is traditionally made with meat, many places now offer vegetarian options. These versions use grilled vegetables, halloumi cheese, or plant-based protein, making Souvlaki accessible to all dietary preferences.
   
   
   

Where to Find the Best Souvlaki in Greece

Souvlaki is a street food favorite across Greece, but certain cities and regions are known for serving some of the best. Here are a few must-visit locations for Souvlaki lovers:

1. Athens: The bustling capital of Greece is filled with street vendors and small eateries serving top-notch Souvlaki. In popular neighborhoods like Monastiraki and Plaka, you’ll find vendors grilling skewers to order, often wrapped in pita with a generous serving of tzatziki. Places like Kostas and O Thanasis are famous for their Souvlaki, offering both traditional and modern takes on the dish.
   
   

2. Thessaloniki: In Northern Greece, Thessaloniki offers its own twist on Souvlaki. The meat is often grilled over a charcoal fire, giving it a smoky flavour that’s hard to resist. The city’s vibrant food scene makes it a hotspot for Souvlaki lovers, with countless street vendors and restaurants serving up this tasty dish.
   
   

3. Crete: On the island of Crete, Souvlaki is often made with locally raised pork or lamb, and the quality of the meat is exceptional. The dish is typically served with local ingredients, including fresh vegetables and herbs, giving it a unique Cretan flavor. In cities like Chania and Heraklion, you’ll find excellent Souvlaki at both street stalls and sit-down restaurants.
   
   
   

How Souvlaki is Served

Souvlaki is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many different ways:

• Souvlaki Skewers: The most traditional way to enjoy Souvlaki is as a simple skewer, served with a side of pita bread, lemon, and sometimes fries or salad. This is a quick, satisfying meal that’s perfect for eating on the go.
  
  

• Souvlaki Pita: For a heartier meal, Souvlaki can be wrapped in warm pita bread and topped with tomatoes, onions, lettuce, and tzatziki sauce. This version is essentially a sandwich and is one of the most popular ways to enjoy Souvlaki, especially as a street food option.
  
  

• Souvlaki Platter: At restaurants or tavernas, Souvlaki is often served as part of a larger platter, which includes several skewers along with sides like rice, fries, Greek salad, and pita bread. This is a great option if you want a more filling meal or if you’re dining with others and want to share.