Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands in Greece's South Aegean, with Rhodes Town as its capital. Its UNESCO-listed medieval Old Town, the Lindos Acropolis and long Aegean beaches make it one of Greece's busiest summer destinations.
Rhodes cooking blends Greek island and Dodecanese traditions: fresh fish and grilled meats, wild greens, chickpea fritters (pitaroudia), pork with chestnuts (lakani), and thyme honey from mountain villages such as Siana. Souma, a grape spirit, and wines from the Embonas area are the local drinks. Prices in EUR with USD at 1 EUR = 1.15 USD.
Must-try dishes
Iconic dishes that define Rhodes.
Pitaroudia
Rhodian chickpea fritters flavoured with mint and onion
Where to try: Kerasma, village tavernas
Price: €6-9 (~$7-10)
Fresh grilled fish
Whole fish grilled over charcoal, sold by weight
Where to try: Pizanias, Nireas, Hatzikelis
Price: €18-35 (~$21-40)
Slow-cooked goat
Goat baked slowly, served in Embonas with a pastry crust
Where to try: Savva's Taverna, Embonas
Price: €12-18 (~$14-21)
Melekouni
Sesame and honey bar, a traditional Rhodian sweet
Where to try: Old Town sweet shops
Price: €2-5 (~$2-6)
Souma and thyme honey
Village grape spirit and honey from Siana
Where to try: Siana village
Price: €8-15 per jar of honey (~$9-17)
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
Greek
Indian
Food tours & tastings in Rhodes
Eat your way through Rhodes with a guide.
Browse food experiences in RhodesWe may earn a commission from bookings made through these links.
Street food
Local flavours at affordable prices.
Gyros and souvlaki pita
Pork or chicken wrapped in pita with tomato, onion and tzatziki
Find it at: Old Town lanes and Mandraki
Melekouni and spoon sweets
Sesame-honey bars and preserved fruit sold in Old Town sweet shops
Find it at: Old Town
Food markets
Where locals shop and graze.
Nea Agora (New Market)
Courtyard market by Mandraki Harbour with cafes, takeaway counters and souvenir shops
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
Many Old Town venues close from late November to March
Seafood is priced by weight; confirm the price before ordering
Tavernas in Embonas and Lindos fill early at sunset; book ahead in July and August
Cards are widely accepted, but small village tavernas may prefer cash
Check the printed menu prices against the bill, as some reviewers report differences at tourist-area venues
- Vegetarian
- To Marouli has a vegetarian focus and Romios has a separate vegan menu; most tavernas serve vegetable mezes.
- Halal
- Saffron serves Iranian and Indian dishes and is listed as a halal option; confirm preparation with staff.
- Gluten free
- Mama Sofia is reported to have a dedicated gluten-free fryer and Romios offers gluten-free options; confirm with staff.
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | €8-15 (~$9-17) per meal | Gyros, souvlaki pita and bakery snacks |
| Mid-range | €20-35 (~$23-40) per meal | Old Town and village tavernas such as Savva's Taverna, Mama Sofia or Nireas |
| Upscale | €40+ (~$46+) per meal | Mavrikos in Lindos, where main courses run €25-40 (~$29-46) |