Greek name and pronunciation: λουΐζα, pronounced loo-WEE-zah Therapeutic uses: Louisa is believed to have a stimulative effect on the digestive tract; thus, the belief that it aids in slimming. It is also used to aid in digestion, and is believed to have a calming effect on the nerves. At the market: Louisa is sold under […]

Some people say that Retsina, the resinated wine produced in Greece since ancient times, is an acquired taste. I’ll agree – I acquired it immediately. Not everyone agrees – the Epicurious Dictionary describes the flavor as “sappy and turpentinelike”. But cooking expert Sheila Lukinsbreaks ranks and calls it the “quintessential Mediterranean wine”, applauding it as an accompaniment […]

An ouzeri is an eating and drinking establishment that specializes in the serving of ouzo and the delectable mezethes (small dishes of foods) that go with it, and you can turn your home into an authentic Greek ouzeri in a few easy steps. A Word About Ouzo Ouzo is a delightful anise-flavored spirit with a licorice […]

Ouzo, the national drink of Greece, is an anise flavored liqueur that packs a powerful punch behind a delightful licorice taste. Ouzo also brings a hint of that licorice taste, in a light and supporting role, to many recipes, adding a surprising freshness that enhances rather than overwhelms. Ouzo has a strong taste and high alcohol […]

There is an old Greek saying that “ouzo makes the spirit” and this is especially true in Greece. The Greek spirit or kefi (KEH-fee) is found in hearty food, soulful music, and the love of lively conversation. A glass of chilled ouzo is the perfect companion to all of these things. Most people would agree that ouzo […]

Ingredients: 1/3 oz Ouzo 1/3 oz Vodka 1/3 oz Chambord raspberry liqueur (Cr.de Cassis) Mixing instructions: Pour into mixing cup with 2 or 3 ice cubes, and chill to make shooter. Strain into shot glass or test tube… Creator/contributor’s comments: When chilled, the Ouzo will turn milky white allowing the Chambord to turn the shooter purple. Very similar to […]

Zorbatini Greek Lightning Mussaka

More than a Greek drink, it’s a Greek philosophy Ah, ouzo – clear, cool, fragrant, powerful. My first experience with ouzo or oyzo was not in Greece. A friend of mine had a taste for it and proudly introduced me to ouzo over ice, demonstrating its ability to turn cloudy with the cold. I was […]

Learn about traditional thick Greek coffee, aromatic (and therapeutic) herbal teas, and the wide selection of Greek aperitifs, wines, and spirits. Spirits: Ouzo:Greek philosophy Greece’s favorite anise flavored drink is potent and fiery and distinctly Greek. More than just an aperitif, ouzo is a social phenomenon and a cultural mainstay of Greece. Retsina: Greek Wine […]

Moussaka is a casserole made by layering eggplant with a spiced meat filling then topping it off with a creamy bechamel sauce that is baked to golden perfection. It is perhaps the most widely recognized of all Greek dishes and was made famous by the legendary Greek chef, Nicholas Tselementes. This eggplant version is the traditional […]