Local Produce

Greek cuisine is known as some of the best food in the world. Greeks don’t eat to live but rather live to eat. On the island of Kos you can taste local produce and cuisine that has its own distinct identity. The island is rich in gastronomic tradition and due to its rich soil and microclimate, its products are unique.

Kos was well known for its rich tomato agriculture and the abundance gave rise to a production of the sweet cherry tomatoes. Glyka tou koutaliou, a.k.a. spoon sweets, are handmade sweet preserves and have traditionally been served as a gesture of hospitality. They can be made from any fruit and vegetable. Try your sweet cherry tomato with ice cream, yoghurt or alone!

Greek cuisine is known as some of the best food in the world. Greeks don’t eat to live but rather live to eat. On the island of Kos you can taste local produce and cuisine that has its own distinct identity. The island is rich in gastronomic tradition and due to its rich soil and microclimate, its products are unique.

Kos was well known for its rich tomato agriculture and the abundance gave rise to a production of the sweet cherry tomatoes. Glyka tou koutaliou, a.k.a. spoon sweets, are handmade sweet preserves and have traditionally been served as a gesture of hospitality. They can be made from any fruit and vegetable. Try your sweet cherry tomato with ice cream, yoghurt or alone!

For all the cheese fans out there the Krasotiri or Posa Cheese is a must. Krasi meaning wine in Greek & Tiri meaning cheese, this local cheese is a trademark of the island. It is prepared by allowing local goat cheese to mature submerged in red wine. You can order a portion next time you’re at a taverna and in some places you might find it served in a Greek salad alongside the traditional feta. Tip of the day..it goes great with watermelon or with sweet cherry tomato. While we are still on the topic of cheeses, it is worth mentioning the Katimeri. This delicious sweet/savory dessert is a fried cheese pie served with honey and sprinkled roasted sesame seeds. Absolutely recommend it!

Another unique product of Kos is the traditional beverage Kanelada. It’s made of cinnamon (kanela) and alefaskia, a local tea like herb. You can find a big variety of local and traditional products at the Municipal Market which is located in the middle of the main Square in Kos town as well as in the small village of Zia in the mountains and in many other stores and local supermarkets.

Kos is also a fine producer of local wine, thyme honey and olive oil. Keep your eyes open for our piece on local vineyards.