In Thessaloniki, soutzouk loukou is also known as “bombídia.” The authentic soutzouk loukou is served either with Russian salad or with paprika and is often accompanied by fried potatoes. They stand out because they are small in size and truly addictive. Here in the northern city, they are well-respected, and you can find them in many restaurants. As part of our report in Thessaloniki, we walked many kilometers through various neighborhoods to discover where you can find the tastiest varieties.

Thessalonians, known for their love of food, often arrange lunch gatherings at the usually small places that serve soutzouk loukou to enjoy them with friends and a glass of retsina. This is the case at the legendary Bombídia (Vasileos Irakleiou 35-37, tel. 2310281939) located inside Modiano Market, where their tables are never empty. Their soutzouk loukou is fragrant with spices, paired with handmade Russian salad, and serves as a clever excuse for meet-ups. The same is true at Kameni Gonia (Vasilissis Olgas 72, tel. 2310835870), which has been grilling bombídia since 1960.

In Ano Ladadika, you’ll find Soutzouk Loukou of Lampros (Olympiou Diamanti 23, tel. 2310533249), a historic tavern that has now passed into the hands of his son Panagiotis, who continues to grill his father’s famous soutzouk loukou with the same recipe. The Russian salad they make is a must-have side, and ordering a second portion is quite normal since by the time the first one reaches the table, you will have already finished it. At Diavasi (Pavlou Melas 13, tel. 2310220596), which has been operating since 1977, you’ll see all of Thessaloniki passing through, and the portions are served with plenty of smoked paprika on the side. Another establishment of the same age is Diagonios (Pedestrian Street Stratigou Kallari 13, tel. 2310260958), which has a more cosmopolitan character but serves equally delicious bombídia. A bit further out in Peraia, at the butcher tavern Anestis (Leof. Thessalonikis – Michanionas, tel. 23920202820), the soutzouk loukou is one of the reasons to venture outside the city.