What to Eat in Symi: A Local Food Guide

The Culinary Identity of Symi

The island of Symi, with its stunning neoclassical harbour of Gialos, offers a dining experience that feels distinct from the larger Dodecanese islands. While the island is a popular destination for day-trippers from Rhodes, its food culture is best appreciated when the evening light hits the pastel-colored mansions and the day-trip crowds have departed. The cuisine here is deeply tied to the sea and the island’s history as a hub for sponge diving and maritime trade.

The Symi Shrimp: A Must-Try Specialty

It is impossible to visit Symi without sampling the island’s namesake dish: the Symi shrimp (simiako garidaki). These tiny, translucent crustaceans are found in the deep waters around the island. Unlike larger prawns, they are typically served whole, lightly fried in olive oil with a touch of flour, salt, and perhaps a squeeze of lemon. Because they are so small, the shells are incredibly thin and crispy, meaning the entire shrimp is eaten in one bite. They are sweet, earthy, and addictive, often served as a meze alongside a glass of chilled ouzo or white wine. You will find these on almost every tavern menu in Gialos and the upper village of Chorio.

Fresh Aegean Seafood

Beyond the signature shrimp, Symi is a paradise for seafood lovers. The local tavernas prioritize the daily catch, which often includes sea bream, red mullet, and octopus. Octopus is a staple, frequently served grilled over charcoal to achieve a smoky, tender texture, or sun-dried and seasoned with local herbs. Another local favorite is the 'kakavia,' a traditional fishermen's soup made with a variety of fresh fish, potatoes, and seasonal vegetables, which captures the essence of the island's maritime traditions.

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Traditional Dodecanese Flavors

While seafood is the star, the land-based dishes of Symi are equally compelling. Look for 'giaprakia'—small cabbage or vine leaf rolls stuffed with a mix of rice, herbs, and sometimes minced meat. These reflect the broader culinary influences found across the Dodecanese. You will also encounter excellent local cheeses, often served with honey or as part of a classic Greek salad made with tomatoes that have been ripened under the intense Aegean sun.

Dining Locations: Gialos to Chorio

The dining scene is primarily split between the bustling waterfront of Gialos and the quieter, more traditional atmosphere of Chorio. In Gialos, you can sit right by the water, watching the boats arrive and depart while enjoying your meal. For a different experience, climb the Kali Strata—the long, iconic staircase connecting the harbour to the upper village—to dine in the more residential Chorio. Here, the tavernas often feature beautiful terraces overlooking the harbour, providing a panoramic view of the neoclassical architecture illuminated at night.

Sweets and Local Treats

No meal in Symi is complete without a sweet finish. Look for 'akoumia,' a local type of doughnut made with rice and cinnamon, which is a traditional treat often prepared during local festivals. Additionally, the island’s proximity to Rhodes means you will find high-quality local honey, which is frequently used in desserts or drizzled over Greek yogurt for a simple, refreshing breakfast.

Practical Tips for Dining in Symi

• Check locally for the daily catch, as menus change depending on what the local fishing boats bring in each morning.
• Reservations are recommended for popular tavernas in Gialos, especially during the peak summer months.
• If you are visiting the Panormitis Monastery, there are small cafes nearby, but for a wider variety of dining, plan to eat back in Gialos or Chorio.
• Take advantage of the local ouzo; it pairs perfectly with the salty, crispy nature of the Symi shrimp.
• If you are traveling from Rhodes, consider arriving early to enjoy lunch in the harbor before exploring the island’s interior.
• Check locally for seasonal festivals, as these are the best times to taste authentic, homemade versions of traditional recipes.