One experience we thoroughly enjoy in Greece is trying new foods and one of our favorites is Moussaka which we first tried in the little village of Plaka, Milos. Up until our first trip to Greece our only experience with Greek food was a very occasional gyro or baklava here in the States. Very different than in Greece.
On this particular day we were in Milos having a beach day. After having rented a quad, with Steve driving and me hanging on tight, we drove around checking out various beaches. It was a beautiful day as the sun shone brightly in the clear blue sky! Of course we built up an appetite, so we drove to the lovely village of Plaka. This village built upon a hill, is typical Cycladic with blue and white buildings, narrow colorful streets, and pretty doors and windows. After parking the quad we set out on foot eagerly looking for a perfect place to eat.
We came across a small yellow Taverna brightly decorated and with patio seating. The smell of Greek spices was heavenly and allured us in. A gentleman took us to our seats, at a typical Greek taverna table, handed us menus and introduced himself as Papa.
I ordered a coke and Steve ordered a lemonade. He was served his first ever Lemon Fanta. This was new to us. We did not know lemon Fanta existed as we have never seen it in the United States. Steve found it so refreshing that it’s fresh lemon taste instantly became his go to drink in Greece.
Wanting to try new food experiences, Steve was interested in the Moussaka. I was not an adventurous eater back then so I was all about the meatballs. Papa came to take our food order, Steve pointed to the moussaka (as at that time we had no idea how to pronounce anything Greek). Papa replied apologetically, “Sorry, no moussaka today “. The words were barely out of his mouth when we heard someone holler in Greek from the kitchen. Papa then turned to us with a big smile and said, “Mama says she make you moussaka. Ready in 10 minutes.”
It was a very long 10 minutes but we didn’t mind. We were taking it all in, the tavern’s lovely ambiance, the wonderful Greek spices coming from the kitchen, and a bit of people watching. The food came out smelling and looking wonderful. I of course tried my husband’s moussaka. My first taste was amazing and love at first bite! My meatballs were amazing as well. I had never had meatballs served on rice but I loved it! We marveled at the mingling of flavors as I tried discerning what spices mixed together made up the distinct Greek flavor. We lingered over our meal, exchanging conversation with Papa, he was so nice.
This may sound like an ordinary lunch to anyone else but to me it was memorable. I will never forget Papa who was so kind and informative and Mama, who went out of her way to make us our first taste of moussaka. The spell of Greece was upon us, already we were learning to take our time, relax and enjoy. We also had experienced our first of many shows of xenia and philoxenia. Greece hospitality and show of friendship to strangers. I will never forget how much we loved that moussaka and also loved the little village of Plaka on the island of Milos.
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If you want to read more detail about this trip and read more of my short stories, you can click on the following links!!
First Taste of Greek Wine – A Short Story
What’s Souvlaki?- A Greek Travel Short Story