Volos is the ideal destination for a short escape both due to its proximity to Pelion and due to the town itself that offers a variety of experiences. One of the most unique, unforgettable experiences is a visit to one of the celebrated tsipouradika (traditional taverns serving tsipouro -traditional pomace raki- and meze).

A bit of history
The origins of tsipouro production in Thessaly are lost in time, but a more focused vine cultivation in the area occurred in the second half of the 19th century, especially after the cession of Thessaly to Greece in 1881. Tyrnavos held the first place in the production of tsipouro, followed closely by many Pelion villages, Nea Anchialos, and the rest of Thessaly. This fine spirit also appeared in Volos, but the locals would drink it neat or with roasted chickpeas, something that started to change with the coming of the immigrants from Asia Minor in 1922, who settled mostly around the centre of Volos and the Nea Ionia neighbourhood. The immigrants worked at the port, at small factories or opened small neighbourhood shops. After work, in the afternoon, it was their habit to have some tsipouro with fish meze, as a sort of appetizer, before going home for dinner. And thus, the first tsipouradika opened in Volos and the immigrants’ habits spread throughout the town. At first, the meze was simple and frugal, consisting of small fish that could be grilled over coals. In addition, in the early years, there was no place for women in the tsipouradika not even in their kitchens. When the menu expanded to include dishes from Asia Minor, as well as fried dishes, women started appearing, at least in the kitchen.

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