Popular Greek Drinks (What to Try in Greece)
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Greek culture isn’t just about food—drinks are a huge part of daily life. Whether it’s sitting at a café for hours or sharing small plates with friends, drinks go hand in hand with the slow, social lifestyle in Greece.
From strong spirits to refreshing iced coffees, here are the most popular Greek drinks you should try.
This post is all about popular Greek drinks.
Popular Greek Drinks
Traditional Greek Alcoholic Drinks
Ouzo – Greece’s Most Famous Spirit
I like to think of ouzo as Greek vodka—but with a twist. It has a distinct licorice (anise) flavor and is usually served over ice in a small glass.
When you add water or ice, it turns cloudy, which is part of the experience. It’s often enjoyed slowly alongside small plates (meze), not rushed.
It can be drunk year-round—it really comes down to personal preference. My great aunt only served it in the winter, while my grandfather brings it out every summer.
Tsipouro (or Raki in Crete) – The Local Favorite
I think of tsipouro as Greek tequila. It’s strong, simple, and deeply tied to tradition.
In Crete, it’s called raki and is often homemade. No matter what you call it, it’s usually offered with or after meals—sometimes even for free as a gesture of hospitality.
This is one of those drinks that feels very “local,” and trying it is more about the experience than just the taste.
Metaxa – A Smooth Greek Classic
If ouzo is like vodka and tsipouro is like tequila, I think of Metaxa as Greek whiskey. It’s actually a blend of brandy and wine, with a smoother, slightly sweeter flavor.
My favorite way to drink it is in a cocktail called “Pappou’s Old Fashioned” at Trela Greek Kitchen + Taverna in PDX. It’s a Greek twist on the classic Old Fashioned and such a fun way to experience this spirit.
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Greek Wine – Ancient Tradition, Modern Quality
Wine has been made in Greece for thousands of years, and it’s still a huge part of everyday life.
Some popular varieties include:
- Assyrtiko (especially from Santorini) – similar to Chablis or Riesling
- Agiorgitiko – similar to Merlot or Pinot Noir
- Xinomavro – similar to Nebbiolo
Greek wine is often underrated, but once you try it locally, you’ll understand why it’s such a staple.
Greek Beer – Light and Refreshing
Greek beer is perfect for hot days and warm nights. It’s typically light, crisp, and easy to drink.
Local craft beer has been picking up popularity in recent years, but there are also classic favorites like Mythos and Fix Hellas.
My personal favorite is Kaiser (I’m a fan of pilsners). These hit especially well on hot summer nights.
Famous Greek Coffee Drinks
Freddo Cappuccino – The Summer Staple
This is my favorite Greek coffee drink. It’s a refreshing iced coffee topped with creamy foam, and you’ll see locals drinking it everywhere in the summer.
I like mine sweet, but you can order it:
- Sketo (no sugar)
- Metrio (medium sweetness)
- Gliko (sweet)
Frappé – The Original Greek Iced Coffee
The frappé is a classic. It’s made with instant coffee, sugar, and sometimes milk, shaken or whipped until it’s frothy.
You might recognize it from TikTok as “whipped coffee,” but it actually originated in Greece.
I love ordering these from my favorite food cart in Portland, Yanni’s Greek Donuts.
Greek Coffee – A Cultural Experience
Greek coffee is less about speed and more about tradition.
It’s similar to Turkish coffee—strong, rich, and served in a small cup with the grounds settled at the bottom. It’s meant to be sipped slowly.
Like other Greek coffees, you order it based on sweetness:
- Sketo (plain)
- Metrio (medium)
- Gliko (sweet)
It’s a simple drink, but the experience around it is what makes it special.
Non-Alcoholic & Traditional Refreshments
Fresh Orange Juice
Freshly squeezed orange juice is incredibly common in Greece and tastes noticeably better than what you might be used to.
Greek Mountain Tea (Tsai Tou Vounou)
This herbal tea is made from wild mountain plants and is known for its health benefits. It’s often enjoyed in the winter or when you’re feeling under the weather.
Mastiha Drinks
Mastiha is a unique flavor from the island of Chios, slightly sweet and pine-like. You’ll find it in liqueurs, sodas, and even desserts.
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Skip the overwhelm — I pulled together the must-knows so you don’t have to dig through a million sites.
When & How Greeks Drink
Drinking in Greece is all about slowing down.
- Coffee is a daily ritual, often stretched over hours
- Alcohol is usually paired with food, not consumed quickly
- It’s more about conversation and connection than just the drink itself
Final Thoughts
Trying Greek drinks is about more than just taste—it’s about experiencing the culture.
Whether you’re sipping a freddo cappuccino in the summer heat or sharing tsipouro over a long meal, each drink tells a story about life in Greece.
If you had to pick one—what Greek drink would you try first?
