If you’ve ever done any sightseeing in Greece, you know that it can leave you pretty hungry. And who wouldn’t be after spending a day living out myths and time traveling across millennia.
That is what Greece by Travelive’s Director of Sales, Kostas Sourvanos, and his team found out while filming new episodes for their acclaimed Greece in 60 Seconds series, which sees them take a deep dive into Athens’ “hidden sites and bites”.
Luckily, in Greece, there’s never a shortage of either, and when it comes to grabbing something to refuel, few things can get you ready for exploring more ancient treasures than traditional Greek coffee paired with sweet loukoumades.
And, as it happens, that is exactly what we’re having today.
When thinking about foods consumed in antiquity, few picture philosophers enjoying a cup of joe and a bearclaw at the foot of the Acropolis. But as it happens, one of Greece’s most beloved sweet treats actually has its origins in Ancient Olympia.
Loukoumades, Greece’s bite-sized version of donuts, were once considered worthy of Olympic champions. Back then, these golden little treats were referred to as “Honey Tokens,” and were awarded to victors during the very first Olympic Games nearly 2,800 years ago. (If that’s not a reason to get in shape, we don’t know what is.)
And, of course, they naturally pair wonderfully a cup of strong Greek coffee.
Traditionally brewed in a briki, a Greek coffee over chovoli (the closest translation we could muster is coffee over hot embers or ash) is less about the caffeine fix and more about slowing down long enough to savor the moment.
Which is what Kostas and his team invite you to do next time you need a coffee break in the heart of Athens!
A Question of Taste
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Greek Coffee
Strong, earthy, and slightly bitter, traditional Greek coffee is all about the depth of flavor. Slowly brewed in a briki, it’s rich, aromatic, and best enjoyed one small sip at a time.
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Loukoumades
Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, loukoumades are golden bites of fried dough drizzled with honey and cinnamon. Think donuts, if donuts had an ancient history.
Missed the other Greece in 60 Seconds episodes? No worries! Just click below to catch up.