Halkidiki also known as 'Chalkidiki' is a large peninsula shaped like three fingers, found in Northern Greece. The region may be very popular with tourists but it boasts some of the most untouched and beautiful scenery in the whole of the country.
Whether you want to sample some authentic Greek mezze, freshly caught seafood, Spanish tapas, or maybe just tuck into a belly busting full English breakfast, Halkidiki has it covered.
There are a wide range of eateries dotted all over Halkidiki, if you want to try some traditional Greek food by the ocean head over to Afitos or Polichrono. Or if you would rather spend the evening dining in the main square of a charming little village you must go to Hanioti.
On the other hand you'll feel more at home in Polichrono or Peftkohori where you will find a couple of eateries which serve good old bacon butties, fish and chips and a delicious mixed grill, so don't worry you will never go hungry in Halkidiki.
Greek
A majority of the restaurants in Halkidiki serve traditional Greek cuisine, so whilst you are here it is highly advised to try some of the local speciality dishes as you will definitely not be disappointed. Seafood plays a main ingredient in many Greek dishes. The most common are squid, octopus and sea bass. However, if you are more into meat try some 'Gyros' which is meat roasted vertically on a spit and served with pita bread, tomato, onions and often 'tzatziki' a dip made of yogurt mixed with cucumbers, garlic, olive oil and salt. Whilst if you have a sweet tooth try some 'bougatsa' a filo pastry filled with custard and white cheese.
Ouzeri is a fabulous restaurant found inside the Sani resort which offers many authentic Greek dishes with a contemporary twist. Also, you may choose to eat al fresco during the evenings and watch the amazing sunset over the Aegean Sea whilst sipping on one of the fine Greek wines of offer. Thalassa is another highly recommended Greek restaurant located in Paralia Fourkas which serves fresh shrimps, octopus and lobster right by the sea. This is the perfect place to dine at if you are here with your partner.
If you're staying in the area of Gerakini then you must try some of the exquisite fresh seafood on offer at Mouragio. Tuck into some fried squid or some steamed mussels and wash it down with some red wine. However, if you're staying in Sarti then you must head over to the Maistrali Bar Restaurant. Whilst you enjoy some traditional Greek food here you will notice the stunning panoramic views over Mount Athos and the ocean.
Situated on the beach of Polichrono is the Avra restaurant which serves local homemade favourites such as stuffed peppers and sweet pancakes for desert. Whilst for guaranteed great service and delicious lamb chops look no further than Taverna Esteki in Afitos. Another restaurant to try in this charming authentic Greek village is Christos which serves tasty dishes such as chicken souvlaki and beef stifado. Or there's the highly recommended Thea Thalassa which offers fresh seafood, breath taking views over the ocean and fantastic customer service.
If you're spending your holiday in Hanioti then you could try the Pallini restaurant found in the village centre. Tuck into some delicious fried calamari or try some of the mouth-watering antipasti on offer in this authentic Greek tavern. However, if you're staying in Afitos then you must head to Rementzo Taverna and enjoy a traditional meal on the outside terrace. Try a selection of different Greek salads or the homemade dolmades (stuffed vegetables).
Mediterranean
You will not just find Greek cuisine in Halkidiki, there are also many restaurants serving authentic Mediterranean cuisine including fresh sea food and Italian favourites such as pasta and pizza.
Da Leonardo Restaurant in Polichrono is a great place to enjoy some tasty spaghetti alla carbonara or a traditional Sicilian pizza in a typical Italian setting. Whilst if you're spending your holiday in the ancient Greek city of Ouranoupoli you must try some of the delicious Mediterranean cuisine on offer at Kritikos Restaurant. Enjoy a generous portion of fresh stuffed squid with chicken puree or try some mouth-watering lobster, and to wash it all down try one of the many local wines on offer.
Massalia is an authentic Greek tavern found in the Main Square of Nea Fokaia. This cosy little restaurant combines Greek and Mediterranean cuisine in a beautiful setting by the local church. You must try falafel (a deep fried patty made of ground chickpeas and fava beans rolled into a ball) or some of the Talagani Cheese. However if you want a romantic setting by the beach look no further than the Sparos Meze Bar at Afitos Beach. Tuck into some delicious freshly caught seafood or try some of the Greek tapas served here.
British
If you are missing some of the food you find back home in Britain you will be pleased to know there are a few restaurants in Halkidiki serving traditional British cuisine.
If you are staying in Polichrono you must visit the Cockney Café for a belly busting full English breakfast and mixed grill. They also serve British favourites such as fish and chips, beef burgers and a pint of John Smith's. However if you happen to be near the old square in Peftkohori try Paul's Place restaurant which serves tasty British and Greek cuisine. Dive into a mixed grill with fresh homemade chips or try Paul's famous house salad. If this is not enough to whet your appetite then you must try one of the enormous burgers on offer. Another place to try in Kriopigi is the Casablanca Bar located on the Main Street. Tuck into a bacon butty whilst watching some of the top sporting events on Sky Sports at the bar.