Ep 8. Greece

In Season 6, Episode 8 of Bizarre Foods, host Andrew Zimmern travels to Greece to explore the country's unique and often overlooked cuisine. Known for its Mediterranean flavors and fresh ingredients, Greek cuisine represents a blend of history, culture, and tradition.

In this episode, Zimmern visits the bustling city of Athens and meets with local chefs, food producers, and restaurateurs who are keeping ancient culinary traditions alive while infusing modern techniques and global influences. From the traditional Greek salad made with ripe tomatoes, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives to spicy cheese dips, tangy tzatziki, and crispy phyllo pastries stuffed with spinach and feta, Zimmern discovers the many flavors and textures that define Greek cuisine.

One of the highlights of the episode is Zimmern's visit to a fish market in Athens, where he chats with local fishmongers and tries fresh seafood dishes, such as grilled octopus, squid, and sardines. He also explores the diverse range of feta cheeses produced in Greece, each with its unique flavor profile and texture.

Throughout the episode, Zimmern highlights the significance and symbolism behind many Greek dishes, exploring the cultural and religious traditions associated with them. For example, he visits a monastery where monks have been making honey for centuries, and tries unique dishes like honey-soaked pastries and honey-glazed meats.

Another standout moment in the episode is Zimmern's visit to a family-owned winery in the Peloponnese region, where he learns about the long history of Greek winemaking and tastes varietals like Moschofilero, Agiorgitiko, and Malvasia. In addition to wine, Zimmern also explores other Greek beverages like ouzo, a traditional anise-flavored spirit, and frappe, a popular iced coffee drink that is enjoyed throughout Greece.

Throughout his travels in Greece, Zimmern discovers the many nuances and complexities that make up the country's vibrant culinary landscape. He also touches on the challenges facing Greek cuisine today, including economic pressures that threaten traditional agriculture and the rise of mass-produced foods.

Overall, Season 6, Episode 8 of Bizarre Foods offers a tantalizing glimpse into the delicious and diverse world of Greek cuisine, showcasing the country's proud culinary heritage and the modern innovations that are pushing Greek gastronomy forward.