What is it like to eat and drink in a Greek Ouzeri?  I share photos of both the food and of course the ouzo itself.  The establishment I visit is the Ouzeri Nikos and Louli.  This is on Lipsi Island which is part of the Dodecanese island group.

What is an Ouzeri?

Greek Ouzeri Restaurant Experience + Photos - Location

An Ouzeri is a Greek bar / tavern which serves ouzo as well as small plates of finger foods.  Ouzo is an aniseed flavored Greek liquor which you must try.  The plates of food are called meze and range from fresh salad to fresh fish.

Ouzo

Greek Ouzeri Restaurant Experience + Photos - Ouzo

The history of ouzo dates back to 14th century.  As a matter of fact, it was created by a group of monks on Mount Athos.  Originally an aniseed flavored tsipouro, it became known as Ouzo.  In the 19th century, the ouzo you can buy today was established.

Ouzo with a View

Greek Ouzeri Restaurant Experience + Photos - Ouzo with a View

There is no better place to enjoy an ouzo than in an Ouzeri.  If you choose Ouzeri Nikos and Louli you’ll witness stunning Lipsi harbor views as you enjoy the ouzo and meze.  Many locals frequent this Ouzeri, as a result you’ll have an authentic Greek experience.  That’s not to mention the locally sourced freshly prepared food.

Lipsi Wine

Greek Ouzeri Restaurant Experience + Photos - Lipsi Wine

Ouzo is a strong drink, perhaps a little too strong to drink a whole bottle!.  For this reason, there is also wine on the menu.  May I recommend the local Lipsi wine?  Alternatively, you can enjoy a Greek beer, soft drink, tea or coffee.

Octopus

Greek Ouzeri Restaurant Experience + Photos - Finger Food - Octopus

Have you tried Octopus before?  Octopus is abundant in the surrounding seas of Lipsi Island.  For this reason, it’s very fresh and also fairly priced.  In my opinion, this should be the first plate you order.

Marinated Anchovies

Greek Ouzeri Restaurant Experience + Photos - Marinated Anchovies

As with the octopus, anchovies are freshly sourced each day.  As a result, you receive fresh marinated anchovies.


Greek Greens

Greek Ouzeri Restaurant Experience + Photos - Finger Food - Greek Greens

Boiled greens make up the traditional Greek dish called Horta.  On Lipsi island all the greens are sourced locally.

Greek Salad

Greek Ouzeri Restaurant Experience + Photos - Finger Food - Greek Salad

Perhaps one of the most famous Greek dishes is the salad.  Delicious feta cheese is the highlight of the salad.  Most importantly, all the ingredients are sourced locally.

Fried Feta – Peppers

Greek Ouzeri Restaurant Experience + Photos - Fried Feta, Red Peppers, Green Peppers

Have you tried fried feta cheese before?  It’s another delicious way to enjoy this locally sourced cheese.  Additionally, small plates of fried peppers are on the menu.

Chickpea Puree and Caramelized Onion

Greek Ouzeri Restaurant Experience + Photos - Chickpea Puree and Caramelized Onion

The caramelized onion brings the flavor of the chickpea puree to life.  Of course, a little olive oil also complements this plate.


Fresh Calamari

Greek Ouzeri Restaurant Experience + Photos - Fresh Calamari

Enjoy a plate of well prepared calamari.  In addition, you may order a simple plate of french fries to complement your Ouzeri experience if you wish.

Aubergine Caviar with Red Pepper

Greek Ouzeri Restaurant Experience + Photos - Aubergine Caviar with Red Pepper

Aubergine caviar is a popular mediterranean cuisine.  With the local Lipsi aubergines, it would be a shame not to try this dish.

Fried Zucchini Flowers and Feta with Cream Cheese

Greek Ouzeri Restaurant Experience + Photos - Fried Zucchini Flowers and Feta with Cream Cheese

Firstly, I’d never eaten fried zucchini flowers before but this became one of my favorite dishes.  Feta cheese complements the fried zucchini and truly enhances the flavor.  Additionally, the cream cheese is very refreshing with a touch of local herbs.

Fried Zucchini / Tomato Balls

Greek Ouzeri Restaurant Experience + Photos - Fried Zucchini / Tomato Balls

There are several types of fried balls available which make for excellent snacks as you enjoy your ouzo.

Enjoy your Greek Ouzeri Experience on Lipsi Island

Nikos and Louli Ouzeri guarantees an authentic Greek experience whether you visit for a drink, a snack or for even a full meal.  Visit the Nikos and Louli Facebook page for more pictures of the food, restaurant and most importantly, the ouzo.

Read about a fine dining experience on Lipsi Island with fresh Greek food at Yiannis Restaurant.