What’s a Master Chef Doing in Sitia?

Author Discover Crete

Gastronomy

One more reason to visit Sitia is its exceptional local products and the culinary delights you can savor in the area’s tavernas.

In the autumn of 2024, a film crew, led by acclaimed chef Sotiris Kontizas, a judge on Greek MasterChef, arrived in Sitia to showcase the region’s Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) products. Supported by the Municipality of Sitia, this initiative highlights the rich culinary tradition of the area.

The focus is on Sitia’s star products: Sitia Extra Virgin Olive Oil PDO, Sitia Wines PDO, and Xygalo Sitia PDO. A standout moment was the presentation of Sitia’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil PDO while preparing the traditional dish sofagada under the shade of the ancient olive tree in Maronia.

This effort is part of a larger project by the Ministry of Rural Development and Food to promote Greek traditional products. The initiative combines stunning visuals of Greece with a showcase of PDO and PGI products, aiming to boost international awareness and demand for these treasures of Greek agriculture.

The Vision

The goal is to globally promote Greek agricultural products, with a special emphasis on PDO, PGI, traditional, and innovative goods. The videos, along with recipes, articles, and other materials, will be hosted on the Ministry’s digital platform Greek Farms.

Additionally, the content will be distributed through digital campaigns on selected international platforms and markets, including the US, UK, Scandinavia, Germany, Qatar, India, and more.