Thesprotia Gastronomy — Local Flavours Worth Trying
Thesprotia Gastronomy — Local Flavours Worth Trying
The gastronomy of Thesprotia and Sivota in particular is a journey in itself. The region skilfully combines Epirus mountain cuisine with Ionian seafood — yielding uniquely aromatic and authentic results.
Seafood — The Heart of the Cuisine
Igoumenitsa Prawns
The most characteristic local ingredient. Large, red prawns with rich aromatic flavour from the Ionian waters. Usually served grilled with olive oil and lemon, or stuffed with feta and tomato. A true delight.
Fresh Fish from the Boats
Every morning fishermen bring in to harbour: sea bream, sea bass, red mullet, swordfish. Tavernas use exclusively that day’s catch. Ask what was caught today.
Mussels and Sea Urchins
Less known to tourists but exceptional. Fresh mussels steamed with red wine and garlic; sea urchins (in season March-May) with lemon.
Epirus Cuisine at the Tavernas
Spanakopita — The Real Thing
Tavernas in Sivota and Paramythia serve spanakopita baked in a traditional oven. Crispy pastry, rich filling of spinach, feta and herbs. Forget everything you thought you knew.
Stewed Cockerel
Local free-range cockerel slow-cooked with tomato, onion and spices. Served with hilopites pasta. Sunday dinner in every local family.
Epirus Cheeses
Farmhouse cheese, kefalotiri, anthotiro and graviera from local flocks. Ideal with tsipouro or wine.
Local Drinks
Thesprotia Tsipouro
The grape spirit accompanies every meal in Epirus. Traditional, with anise aroma or plain. Sipped slowly with meze snacks.
Zitsa Wines
20 km from Ioannina, the famous sparkling white Zitsa wine is produced from debina grapes. Excellent with fish and seafood.
Local Honey
Thesprotia thyme honey is renowned. Buy a jar: produced from wildflowers on mountain meadows.
Tavernas Worth Stopping At
In Sivota:
- Harbour taverna: traditional seafood every evening
- Ammos Beach Restaurant: extensive menu with sea view
- Stavento (Zeri): meat and seafood in a quiet setting
In Paramythia:
- Traditional central square tavernas: authentic Epirus cuisine
Cook at Casa Matina — With a Full Kitchen
The Superior and Deluxe rooms at Casa Matina have a fully equipped kitchen. Buy fresh ingredients from the Igoumenitsa market or Sivota’s local shops and cook an authentic Greek dinner. If you prefer to eat out, you’re just steps from the best tavernas in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q What are the most typical dishes of Thesprotia?
- Fresh fish and seafood, spanakopita, stewed cockerel, pork with herbs and local cheeses.
- Q Are there good tavernas in Sivota?
- Yes — along the harbour and at nearby beaches you'll find excellent tavernas with fresh seafood.
- Q Where can I buy local Thesprotia products?
- Honey, olive oil, cheese and wine can be bought at local shops in Paramythia, Filiates or Igoumenitsa.
- Q What wines does Thesprotia produce?
- Dry whites from local grape varieties, especially from Zitsa near Ioannina (a neighbouring region). Excellent with seafood.
- Q Where is the famous Igoumenitsa market?
- In the centre of Igoumenitsa, 28 km from Sivota. A farmers' market is held every Wednesday and Sunday.
- Q Is Igoumenitsa known for prawns?
- Igoumenitsa is famous for its prawns — large, fresh, with intense flavour. Try them stuffed or grilled.