Hydra has minimal natural resources and thus, historically, all edible products (and not only) typically come from the neighbouring Peloponnese. The locals engaged in fishing and commerce, and their extensive maritime culture led to the creation of the legendary Hydriot war fleet that greatly contributed to the revolution of 1821.
Today, the island’s traditional cuisine is characterised by fish and seafood – a distinctive dish is red mullets on toast – wine-braised octopus, stuffed squid, cuttlefish with pilaf using their ink, and fish soup. Additionally, ‘gogges’, short handmade pasta of the Arvanitiko cuisine, hortopita pie with greens, and snail stew are commonly served.
On the local meat menu, the most popular dishes are the arnaki kapamas (lamb with cinnamon and cloves), or roast lamb with beef with quinces (during winter). The Hydriot almond sweets with flower water, in the shape of a small pear, are well known. Lesser known but still popular are the Lalaggites (fried dough), which are served with honey and, in the old days, grape molasses.
Wine
On the island, only a minimal number of vineyards are cultivated, and winemaking is carried out only on an amateur level for self-consumption.
Top Restaurants in Hydra
Téchne Restaurant & Social
An interesting menu featuring inventively delicious dishes that fall within the Greek-Mediterranean cuisine line. A designed and aesthetically pleasing environment, an idyllic seaside location, enchanting sunset views.
Address: Avlaki beach, on the road to Kamini, Phone: +30 2298052500, Website: techne-hydra.com
Plakostroto
An all-day bar restaurant in a lush courtyard with beautiful decor. It operates from breakfast time until evening, serving Greek and Mediterranean dishes as well as several vegan options.
Address: Miaouli, Phone: +30 2298 054039, Website: www.plakostrotohydra.com
Omilos (Yacht Club)
Situated where Babis More’s “Lagouderia” used to be, a historical cosmopolitan spot between the ’60s and ’80s, the restaurant serves a carefully curated menu with gourmet tones and a wonderful sea view.
Address: On the road to Spilia, Phone: +30 2298053800, Website: www.omiloshydra.com
Oraia Hydra
Greek cuisine with a refreshing disposition such as savoury fish with vegetable briam (a type of ratatouille) as well as Mediterranean recipes like puttanesca-style tuna with sea samphire. The menu is enriched by succulent raw seafood, with dishes like red mullet ceviche. A well-curated wine menu.
Address: Hydra Harbour, Phone: +30 2298052556, Website: www.facebook.com
Douskos Xeri Elia
A historic tavern just above the harbour that has linked its name with Leonard Cohen, having given its name to one of his (unpublished) songs. You will try home-cooked meals, the meat dish of the day, fresh fish and seafood, seated on the shady veranda under a mulberry tree.
Address: Hydra Harbour, Phone: +30 2298052886, Website: www.facebook.com
Psaropoula
A classic, renowned tavern with super fresh fish as its forte, but also home-cooked meals, the meat of the day and plenty of pasta dishes. A few years ago, it changed location and is now situated on a balcony with a wonderful sea view.
Address: Hydra Chora, Phone: +30 2298052573, Website: psaropoula.org
Read also:
24 hours on Hydra, the Charm of Greece’s Saronic Gulf
Hydra, Spetses, Poros: Island winter getaways close to the capital
