Since my appetite for Greek Food is shooting up, here I am with an article celebrating Greek style Food, their Unique traditions including the significance behind it.
My taste buds tingled the very first time I savored Falafels paired with Tzatziki, Pita & Tabbouleh(Salad)
Up until now, I had been to multiple greek restaurants, of all shapes and sizes, in my neighborhood.
But there’s one Greek style eatery that I’d like to tell you more about-
So, one fine evening, I popped into this Greek Taverna called Acropolis located in Downtown St. Petersburg.
Taverna is basically a Small Cafe or restaurant.
Upon entering, I observed something I couldn’t really buy all through my dining experience. A pause following a prolonged gaze I stepped forward striving to comprehend what I was looking at.
Paper Napkins scattered everywhere on the floor. Meanwhile, we were escorted to a table, later a server explained to us all about the Menu. I still couldn’t ignore the sight around me.
Moments after the food was served, a Damsel Belly dancing & a gentleman playing guitar started performing beside our table. “Wow”! I exclaimed.
I had never encountered such a fiesta of appetizing Greek food including Souvlaki Chicken, Falafel Platter accompanied with Tabbouleh, Hummus & Pita.
Thanking the facilities for such great food and hospitality, I came home.
Unanswered.
I then ran an extensive search regarding the sight I experienced.
Turned out its a Napkin Tossing Greek Tradition. However, What for?
I found out it was a part of Ancient Greek, where people would toss money in the air to flaunt their wealth, whereas, in Modern times, the paper napkins have taken its place.
This tradition is basically related to prosperity, so, instead of tossing the money, napkins are tossed in the air signaling wealth.
The fact that napkins can be purchased at a cheaper price and thus tossed in the air make more sense.
However, many other people subscribe to the fact that tossing the napkins in the air symbolizes being free as birds.
Irrespective of why they do it, I’m gonna keep coming back to devour Tzatziki, Hummus.
Amazing Greek delicacies served in Tavernas.
Another weird & rare Tradition, Greek Tavernas & people in general follow is the Plate Smashing Culture.
How so unbelievable as it may sound but plate breaking was an integral part of Ancient Greek & was once banned because of its fairly horrendous repercussions, should the broken chunks hurt someone accidentally.
The plate smashing tradition is still on however nowadays, Plaster Plates are tossed keeping safety in mind.
Fun fact - Modern Greek love dining outside in fast-food restaurants, certainly not at McDonald’s, as McDonald’s are on the verge of shutting down for another Local fast-food chain called Goody’s is stealing all the business.
Tough Competition!
Greek Guides what do you have to say about it?
Any recommendations?
Anything to add on?
Any suggestions?
Do not hesitate to share your views.
