Lemnos Greece

Local food and drink

Food and drink are absolutely central to Lemnos traditions and culture. Since 2017, the island has hosted Lemnos Philema: an annual festival dedicated to its gastronomy and wine, usually taking place in July. 

Don’t worry if your trip doesn’t tie in with the festivities, though—there are plenty of opportunities to sample the local produce at the many fantastic restaurants on the island. Note that not all the best restaurants are located in Myrina (although you’re certainly spoilt for choice here). Many of the picturesque villages have great places to eat and a chance to experience truly authentic Greek cooking. Take, for example, the little village of Kondias, south of Myrina, which is also known for its ouzo. 

More generally, foods to look out for include the island’s delicious fruit (particularly its figs), as well as its cheese (especially its feta and the local salamoura cheese). Halva, a dessert made with syrup nuts and raisins, is also a must-try. 

And of course, with much of life on Lemnos revolving around the coast, its fish is unparalleled. Seafood fans should make a beeline for the freshly-caught lobster on coals and octopus in embers and mussels. 

Meanwhile, Lemnos has a long tradition in wine-making—in fact the exceptional quality of its wine is noted in Homer’s Iliad. There are two main varieties of wine here: Limnio, which is believed to be the most ancient variety of grape, and Muscat of Alexandria, a white grape that was brought to the island from Egypt at the beginning of the 20th century. Enjoy! 

Shopping in Myrina

For the best shopping on Lemnos, head to Myrina, where there are souvenir, artisanal and jewellery shops galore. When in town, make sure you pay a visit to Ochra Blue: an art gallery and boutique in one. Located in the central market of Myrina, one of the town’s main shopping streets, the store hosts fine art exhibitions while selling handcrafted ceramics and jewellery.

For more ceramics, Hephaestia Ceramics Workshop sells a range of handpainted goods by local artisans. Or, if you’re looking to head home with a range of unique gifts, clothing and accessories, Pink Flamingo Concept Store has got you covered. 

After sampling the island’s exceptional produce and local delicacies, you’ll no doubt be eager to purchase some of its gastronomical products too. Valsamo in Myrina has a range of local pasta, honey, wines and herbs, along with products from other areas of Greece. But you’ll find interesting gastronomic shops all over Lemnos. 

For an even better flavour of local life, why not venture to one of Lemnos’ vibrant markets? In Kotsinas, for example, you’ll discover the largest fish market on the island. Watch restaurant and taverna owners come and stock up on fresh produce, before testing it out at one of the villages’ tavernas.