Aki Petretzikis Explores the Flavours of Karpathos (Exclusive Photos)

In the midst of a culinary adventure that has captured the hearts and taste buds of locals and visitors alike, renowned TV chef Akis Petretzikis has been sighted on the picturesque island of Karpathos, Greece. Petretzikis, known for his gastronomic expertise and engaging cooking shows, has embarked on a culinary journey through the villages of Karpathos, documenting the island's rich traditional cuisine. The timing of his visit coincides with the island's inaugural gastronomy food festival, making it a momentous occasion for both food enthusiasts and the local community.

Akis Petretzikis, a household name in Greece and beyond, is celebrated for his culinary skills and charismatic television presence. His popular show, "Kitchen Lab," has made him a beloved figure in the world of cooking. With a team of eleven collaborators from the show, Petretzikis has spent the past few days immersing himself in the culinary traditions of Karpathos, particularly in the villages of Olympos and Spoa.

During his stay in Olympos, from August 28th to 30th, Petretzikis and his team diligently recorded the island's cherished traditional recipes. At the traditional cafe "Parthenon," owned by Nikos Fil. Philippaki, they captured the essence of the "Olympic feast," complete with local musicians and community leaders extolling its significance. The gastronomic adventure extended to Agios Nikolaos Spoa, where the team learned the art of preparing specific local delicacies. These culinary treasures will be showcased in a forthcoming episode of Petretzikis' show, expected to air in April 2024.

The collaboration between Akis Petretzikis and the island of Karpathos is more than a mere TV project; it is a celebration of the island's culinary heritage and an opportunity to boost tourism. The hope is that Petretzikis' exploration will not only educate viewers about Karpathian cuisine but also entice travellers to experience the island's rich gastronomy in person.

The First Gastronomic Festival of Karpathos – 1^st September 2023

Coinciding with Akis Petretzikis' visit, Karpathos is hosting its first-ever gastronomic festival on September 1st. The Municipality of Karpathos and the Tourism Committee are thrilled to invite locals and visitors to savour unique traditional flavours that define the essence of the island. Alongside the gastronomic festivities, the #Basket 3x3 streetball Tournament will be held, adding an extra layer of excitement to the day.

Aki’s visit comes just days after Hollywood power couple Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson graced Karpathos with their presence. The acclaimed actor and his wife arrived on August 26th and immediately embarked on a cultural exploration of Olympos, the island's cultural capital. They arrived on two yachts, Libra and Margarita, making quite the impression as they strolled through the island's main port, engaging with the local priest of Olympos, Father Giannis Diakogeorgiou and the locals.

Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson's visit to Karpathos included a visit to the windmills to witness the unique sunset and a delightful dinner at the Mylos restaurant, where they indulged in traditional Karpathian recipes. In addition to their cultural exploration, the couple enjoyed the crystal-clear waters of Karpathos' beaches, particularly near Agios Nikolaos Spoa, where they went for a swim.

Local entrepreneur Steve Kapetanakis, who provided transportation for the couple, expressed his admiration for Tom Hanks and described him as a great yet down-to-earth person. Kapetanakis, reflecting the island's hospitality, emphasised that every celebrity's visit to Karpathos is a blessing for the island's reputation and should be cherished.

The recent visits of Aki Petretzikis, Tom Hanks, and Rita Wilson have undoubtedly placed Karpathos in the spotlight, highlighting the island's cultural richness, natural beauty, and culinary excellence. Karpathos continues to be a must-visit destination for those seeking a blend of tradition, charm, and celebrity encounters on the Aegean Sea.

Photos with thanks to Maria N. Kostis.

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