Kalamata restaurants: where to eat and what to taste
Kalamata is famous for its olives, but there is much more: tavernas with mezedes, local pastries, honey and olive oil. Here is what to taste and where.
- According to Fodor's, Kardamo is one of the city's best-known restaurants, with mezedes, meatballs and dishes from the Mani.
- Local foods worth knowing: lalagia (fried dough), diples (pastry with honey), Kalamata olives, olive oil and honey.
- Kalamata has guided food tours, for example a roughly 4-hour tour costing about €150 according to Red White Adventures.
If you have a day or two in Kalamata, try at least one meze meal at a taverna and a stop at a local bakery. Kosher-keeping visitors need to plan food in advance.
What to eat in Kalamata
Kalamata is the capital of Messinia in the southern Peloponnese. According to Red White Adventures, these are the region's signature foods:
| Food | What it is |
|---|---|
| Kalamata olives | Dark purple olives, the region's most famous product |
| Olive oil | Messinia is a major olive-growing region |
| Lalagia | Strips of fried dough, a traditional dish |
| Diples | Thin fried pastry with honey and nuts |
| Honey | Local honey from the Taygetos mountains |
| Corinthian raisins | Small dark raisins |
Well-known restaurants and cafés
According to Fodor's, some well-known places in town:
- Kardamo (Sidirodromikou Stathmou Street): mezedes, meatballs and Mani dishes such as "tsouchti".
- Blossom Owl (Valaoritou Street): a café.
- An old town café-ouzeri (Ipapantis 3): known for roast suckling pig, so not suitable for kosher-keepers. Closed on Mondays.
Restaurants open and close, and hours change. Check before you go.
Where to eat
- Old town: small tavernas and cafés near the castle and the main church.
- Waterfront: many fish restaurants and cafés along the beach. Easy for dinner by the sea.
- Marina: cafés and restaurants with a relaxed feel.
Food tour
To get to know the local cuisine in depth, take a guided food tour. According to Red White Adventures, the Mama's Flavours tour lasts about 4 hours and costs about €150 per person, with tastings of olive oil, olives and local foods. Check the current price before booking.
Kosher and Shabbat
As of October 2026, Kalamata has no kosher restaurant, Chabad house or active synagogue. The nearest Chabad is in Athens, about three hours away, and kosher food can be delivered from there. Details in kosher food and Shabbat in Kalamata. Kosher-keepers can still enjoy products like olive oil, olives and honey after checking the certification.
Food souvenirs from Kalamata
Jarred olives, bottled olive oil and honey are the most popular souvenirs. Pack them in your checked bag, since hand luggage has liquid limits.
More on Kalamata
FAQ
What is the most recommended restaurant in Kalamata? According to Fodor's, Kardamo is one of the best known in town, with mezedes and local dishes. Check it's open before you go.
What is Kalamata's local food? Kalamata olives, olive oil, lalagia and diples with honey.
Is there kosher food in Kalamata? No. As of October 2026 Kalamata has no kosher restaurant or Chabad house. You can order kosher food delivery from Athens or stock up on the way.
How much is a food tour in Kalamata? According to Red White Adventures, a tour of about 4 hours costs about €150 per person. Check the current price.
