A Taste for Home: Finding Authentic Indian Cuisine in Greece

For many Pakistani and Indian immigrants, expats, and international students living in Greece, the thought of missing the rich, flavorful dishes from home is all too familiar. Whether it’s a spicy curry, a plate of biryani, or a warm naan, finding authentic Indian and Pakistani food abroad can be challenging. However, with its growing multicultural atmosphere, Greece is home to several Indian restaurants and eateries that bring a taste of home to the Mediterranean country.

In this article, we'll explore the best places to find authentic Indian cuisine in Greece, how to stay connected with your roots, and how services like ACE Money Transfer can help you send money online to India from Greece to support your family while you indulge in your favorite dishes.

Why Is Indian Cuisine Popular Among Expats in Greece?

Indian cuisine has earned a global reputation for its rich flavors, aromatic spices, and diverse cooking techniques. Whether you’re from Pakistan, India, or another South Asian country, the familiarity of Indian dishes can provide a comforting taste of home, helping you feel more connected to your roots even when you're far away.

Here are some reasons why Indian food is so popular among expats in Greece:

• Spices and Flavors: Indian food is known for its complex flavors, combining cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Finding similar flavors abroad can be a priority for those accustomed to these tastes.
• Diverse Options: From street food to hearty curries, vegetarian options to meat-based dishes, Indian cuisine offers a vast array of choices to suit every dietary preference.
• Cultural Connection: For many expats, Indian food isn’t just about eating; it’s an artistic experience. The meals often evoke memories of family gatherings, festivals, and celebrations.

Best Places to Find Authentic Indian Cuisine in Greece

If you’re craving a taste of home, you’ll be pleased to know that several Indian restaurants in Greece offer authentic dishes that remind you of your hometown. Here are a few places in major cities where you can enjoy Indian food:

1. Athens: The Capital’s Spice Scene

Athens, the capital of Greece, has a growing number of Indian restaurants catering to locals and expats. Some popular spots include:

• Indian Chef: Known for its authentic flavors and friendly atmosphere, it serves various traditional dishes, including biryanis, tandoori specials, and vegetarian delights like palak paneer.
• Royal Indian Chef: Located near the city center, this restaurant is celebrated for its rich curries and perfect naans. It’s a favorite among expats and locals alike.
• Masala Indian Restaurant: Offering an extensive menu of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, Masala is known for its welcoming vibe and high-quality ingredients.

2. Thessaloniki: A Flavorful Experience in Northern Greece

Thessaloniki, the second-largest city in Greece, also has a few standout Indian restaurants. For an authentic taste of Indian cuisine in this bustling city, consider visiting:

• Indigo Indian Restaurant: A popular choice among locals and tourists, Indigo is known for its fusion of traditional Indian recipes with a modern twist. Whether you’re in the mood for some tandoori or a flavorful curry, this restaurant won’t disappoint.
• Curry House: Serving authentic Indian food in a cozy setting, Curry House is perfect for those seeking comfort food from home. Try their chicken tikka masala or lamb curry.

3. Crete: Indian Flavors in the Mediterranean

Crete, a beautiful island in Greece, is home to several Indian restaurants, offering a peaceful, relaxed dining experience combined with the best flavors of India:

• Buddha Bar Beach: A trendy spot with a beautiful sea view, Buddha-Bar Beach serves Indian-inspired dishes alongside Mediterranean cuisine. It’s an excellent choice for expats looking to enjoy Indian food in a lovely atmosphere.
• Indian Restaurant Zorba: A cozy restaurant in Chania, Zorba serves classic Indian dishes like dal tadka, butter chicken, and masala dosa, offering an authentic taste of India in the heart of Crete.

Exploring Indian Street Food in Greece

In addition to sit-down restaurants, you can also find Indian street food in Greece, which provides an excellent option for a quick, tasty meal. Many food trucks and smaller eateries serve delicious Indian street food items like:

• Samosas: Deep-fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes or meat.
• Chaat: A variety of savory snacks made with chickpeas, potatoes, yogurt, and tamarind chutney.
• Pani Puri: A popular street snack consisting of hollow, crispy puris filled with spicy water, tamarind chutney, and chickpeas.

These street food items are delicious and affordable, making them a popular choice for expats and locals who want a quick taste of India on the go.

Remitting Money to India from Greece

As an expat or international student, you might want to send money back to your family in India, whether for personal support or business purposes. Fortunately, sending money to India online has never been easier with services like ACE Money Transfer. Here's how ACE can help you manage your remittance needs:

• Fast Transfers: Sending money from Greece to India with ACE is quick and efficient. Transfers are processed in real-time, meaning your family in India can access the funds immediately.
• Affordable: ACE offers competitive exchange rates and low transfer fees, ensuring you get the best value for your money. You can send money without worrying about excessive charges.
• Easy Process: ACE allows you to send money to India from Greece with just a few clicks. You can complete your transaction from home, avoiding the hassle of visiting a physical store.
• Reliable: Your money transfer with ACE is secure. The company uses advanced encryption to ensure your funds are sent safely and received by the intended recipient in India.

Savor the Flavors of Home: Enjoy Authentic Indian Cuisine and Send Love Back to India from Greece!

Living in Greece as a Pakistani or Indian expat doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the flavors of home. From Athens to Crete, you can find numerous restaurants that offer authentic Indian cuisine, allowing you to enjoy your favorite dishes no matter how far away you are from India. Whether you're craving a comforting curry or a delicious street snack, Greece has plenty of options to satisfy your taste for home.

Moreover, with services like ACE Money Transfer, you can easily make a money transfer from Greece to India to support your loved ones while enjoying the rich flavors of your heritage. So, the next time you’re in Greece, indulge in authentic Indian cuisine and send love back home with a secure, affordable money transfer.

FAQs

Where can I find authentic Indian food in Athens, Greece? 

In Athens, you can visit the Indian Chef, the Royal Indian Chef, and the Masala Indian Restaurant to taste India truly. These places serve various traditional Indian dishes, from biryanis to curries.

How can I send money to India online from Greece?

You can easily send money to India online through ACE Money Transfer. The process is quick and secure and offers competitive exchange rates and low fees. You can complete your transfer from the comfort of your home.

Are there any Indian restaurants in Thessaloniki? 

Yes, Thessaloniki has several Indian restaurants, such as Indigo Indian Restaurant and Curry House, where you can enjoy authentic Indian dishes such as chicken tikka masala and lamb curry.

How fast are money transfers to India with ACE Money Transfer? 

With ACE Money Transfer, money transfers are typically fast and often completed within a few hours. This ensures that your family in India receives the funds quickly when needed.

What makes ACE Money Transfer a reliable service for sending money to India? 

ACE Money Transfer is reliable due to its secure platform, competitive rates, and fast processing times. The company uses advanced encryption technology to ensure your funds are sent safely and securely.