Greek food for picky eaters: traveling with kids who only eat pasta/pizza

Destinations Greece
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Hi everyone, I would need some help from some Greece experts.
I’ve booked a trip to Greece for later in the year in august with my family (2 adults and 2 kids). This is our second time in Greece and the first time we were there we stayed at an all inclusive hotel and unfortunately did not explore as much as we’d liked. This time we are determined to eat at actual local tavernas and avoid the “touristy spots”, but I am stressing about my kids. They are 7 and 9 and honestly they are super picky eaters - basically only pasta, pizza and chicken nuggets.

I’m worried that authentic Greek places won’t have anything they will touch. Do tavernas generally offer simple pasta dishes or anything kid friendly? Or is there a Greek dish that is similar enough to what they know that I can trick them into eating? I really don’t want to offend anyone by asking for special modifications but I also don’t want a meltdown at dinner every night lol.

Has anyone traveled there with picky eaters who can give some tips on what to order? Thanks!

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@suzanne Hi Suzanne,
you’re definitely not alone in this — Greek food is actually much more kid-friendly than it looks at first glance :slightly_smiling_face:

From my experience, most traditional tavernas are very used to families and picky eaters. Even if they don’t have a “kids menu,” you’ll almost always find simple options that work well for children:

  • Souvlaki (chicken skewers) – plain grilled chicken is a lifesaver

  • Chicken schnitzel / breaded chicken (often listed as kotopoulo)

  • Plain pasta with tomato sauce – many places will happily do this even if it’s not on the menu

  • Fries – available everywhere

  • Grilled meatballs (keftedes) – very familiar flavors for kids

Another easy win is spanakopita or cheese pie — flaky pastry, mild flavors, and usually a hit with children.

Greek tavernas are generally very relaxed, and asking for simple dishes or small adjustments is totally normal, especially with kids. You won’t offend anyone — family culture is huge in Greece.

One more tip: if you go a bit earlier in the evening, places are calmer and staff are even more accommodating.

Honestly, Greece is one of the easiest countries to travel with picky eaters — you’ll be surprised how smoothly dinners go :blush:

Enjoy your trip!

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I can only second this. I was traveling with my sister and her kids and they are also super picky but basic fried chicken schnitzels and pasta as well as fries and rice (if you just want something plain) is pretty much available anywhere. They do tend to have kids’ menus, and the Greeks are so friendly and accommodating that they most likely will whip something for the kids even if not on the menu.