5 Popular Greek Spirits You Should Try

Greek spirits are a great place to start when seeking something new! It can be challenging to know where to begin with various items to choose from. Fortunately, there is a handful of considered “must-try” items. These popular Greek spirits are some of the country’s most well-known and appreciated. 

Kitro

Kitro is a traditional Greek liqueur that is made from a citron tree. The process begins by softening the leaves in alcohol, distilling them, and combining them with a sugar-water mixture. The beverage is clear with a yellow-green tint and a citrus flavor. It is frequently enjoyed on the rocks but can also create tasty cocktails. A fun note to consider is that the beverage’s color can indicate its sweetness level. When the drink is green, it has a sweeter taste. On the other hand, a yellow Kitro is more potent in alcohol – typically around 36% ABV.

Rakomelo

For honey lovers, rakomelo is a must-try Greek spirit! Rakomelo differs from other spirits in its consistency, as the honey creates a thicker beverage. Because of the viscosity, it is best served warm and is commonly consumed in the colder months. Rakomelo is made by infusing Raki with honey and spices. Raki is another spirit distilled from the grape remnants after pressing for wine. The drink is sweet on the tongue and can be easily made at home with the right ingredients. 

Metaxa

Although the exact ingredients of Metaxa are unknown, it is a brand with brandy, wine, and different herbs. This Greek spirit has been around for over a century and is well-known worldwide. People describe the taste as rich, sweet, fruity, floral, and spicy. Metaxa achieves its taste with a particular mix of ingredients and barrel aging. Its flavor is popular for those who wish to drink it straight, but it also creates tasty cocktails.

Ouzo

Ouzo may be the solution if you seek one of the most well-known and ancient Greek spirits. It tracks as far back as the 19th century and can only be produced in Greece. Ouzo is made from distilled grapes with aniseed, fennel, coriander, and licorice. Greeks pair Ouzo with appetizers like olives, feta cheese, and seafood. It is most commonly served on the rocks or neat. 

Visit Committee in the Seaport

If you would like to try one of the spirits above but aren’t making a trip to Greece anytime soon, visit Committee in the Seaport of Boston, MA! We have a variety of different craft cocktails and wine options for you to indulge in while taking in the beautiful sight of Boston Harbor.

Why You Should Visit Seaport in Boston, MA

Boston is one of the best destinations in America, striking a balance between a rich historical heritage and modern fun and amenities. It is where you can meet various people and enjoy a mish-mash of cultures and identities. Here are some things you can expect to enjoy on a trip to seaport Boston.

Boston Harbor Islands

The Boston Harbor Islands are 34 islands with a wealth of everything, including civil war-era forts, tide pools, nature trails, and activities such as swimming and camping, all within reach of the sprawling downtown metropolis. The islands are an excellent way to get up close and personal with nature without leaving the comfort of modern-day conveniences.

Rose Kennedy Greenway

Located right in the middle of a steel jungle, the Rose Kennedy Greenway is a striking change of pace with its vibrant greenery and beauty. It stretches over a mile, cuts across many neighborhoods, and contains plazas, art, fountains, and special lighting.

Boston Children’s Museum

The children’s museum answers those worried about their children lacking things to do in seaport Boston. The museum provides an excellent opportunity to learn about science, culture, art, health and fitness, and environmental awareness. There’s a little something for every child to discover in this museum.

New England Aquarium

The New England Aquarium gives its visitors the proper perspective on marine life and biology. In a reasonably natural habitat, you can see sharks, seals, whales, turtles, and more. It also provides an excellent learning opportunity for kids and adults alike on aspects of the ocean and aquatic life.

Freedom Trail

If you are a history buff, the Freedom Trail is your tea. It has everything from revolutionary-era museums to burial grounds. There’s a lot of heritage to be unearthed on this trail. You can also use it to instill knowledge in your children, although it might not be on the same level of coolness as the aquarium or parks.

Visit Committee in the Seaport

There are many places to visit in seaport Boston, and it would be impossible to see them all on an itinerary. However, the best thing about it is that there is something for everyone, and you are destined to find something that will make you fall in love with Boston. For a fun Greek meal, join us at Committee for delightful craft cocktails and delicious Greek cuisine.

The History of the Gyro

The gyro is a well-known Greek meal eaten for many years worldwide. It is often served in pita bread or platter and is a delectable combination of meat, vegetables, and spices. Gyros are an excellent and gratifying dish that has endured the test of time, despite some controversy about their origin. This blog post will discuss the gyro’s history and how it became the famous dish it is today.

Origin of the Gyro

While the gyro is frequently attributed to Greece, its origins are hazy. Some people think it was created in Greece, while others believe it was invented in Turkey. One of the most well-liked ideas is that Greek immigrants to America in the 1920s were responsible for its creation. Regardless of where it came from, the gyro is a typical dish in Greek cooking and is loved by people worldwide.

Ingredients and Preparation

Gyros are traditionally made with lamb but can also be made with chicken or beef. The meat is slow-roasted on a vertical spit after being marinated in a mixture of herbs and spices, including oregano, garlic, and lemon juice. The meat is shaved off the spit and served with lettuce, tomato, onion, and tzatziki, a yogurt-based sauce, as it cooks. In addition to rice or fries, the gyro can be done on pita bread or a plate.

Popularity and Evolution

In the 1920s, the gyro initially gained popularity in Greece, swiftly spreading to other countries. The dish became more well-known when Greek immigrants established eateries and food carts in the 1970s in the United States. The gyro has changed over time to incorporate new flavors and ingredients. For instance, some people now substitute pork or tofu for lamb, and some restaurants offer it with various sauces or garnishes.

Why Visit Commitee?

Visit Committee if you enjoy Greek food or want to learn more about the gyro’s past. The spinner is one of the many traditional Greek dishes we provide at our restaurant. Our gyros are slowly cooked to perfection on a vertical spit using fresh ingredients. We provide choices of toppings and sauces so that you may personalize it to your tastes. Visit us and sample the gyro’s history for yourself.

Enhance Your Dining Experience with These 9 Tips

A meal can be so much more than just delicious cuisine. The environment, service, and ambiance may make your lunch memorable. There are methods to improve your dining experience, whether eating out or having a dinner party at home. This blog post will review nine suggestions for making a memorable dining experience.

Choose the Right Lighting

The ideal mood for your meal can be achieved with just enough illumination. Brighter lighting can make a space feel more dynamic and active, while soft, warm lighting can produce a pleasant, intimate ambiance.

Set the Table Properly

Set your table appropriately using the proper china, glassware, and silverware. A tablecloth or placemat can offer an additional touch of elegance.

Music Selection

Your dining experience might be influenced by music. Select music that enhances the mood you wish to set. Upbeat music can create a livelier atmosphere, while soft jazz or classical music produces a relaxing one.

Attention to Detail

A great dining experience can be created by paying close attention to detail. This might be as simple as placing fresh flowers on the table or as elaborate as creating custom menus or place cards.

Timing is Key

A smooth dining experience requires careful timing. To ensure the meal flows smoothly, be aware of how long each course takes.

Pair the Right Wine

The appropriate wine can enrich your dining experience by enhancing the flavors of your meal. To select the ideal wine pairing for your meal, consider researching it or speaking with a sommelier.

Offer Variety

A fascinating dining experience can be achieved by including variety. This can range from various courses to various flavors and textures.

Professional Service

Professional service can improve your dining experience whether you’re eating out or hosting guests at home. Ensure the waitstaff is competent, observant, and offers top-notch customer service.

Cleanliness

An excellent dining experience is mainly dependent on cleanliness. To create a cozy and delightful ambiance, ensure your eating space is tidy and uncluttered.

Greek Dishes To Enjoy This Spring in Boston MA

Food is one of the basic human necessities. Everyone has a specific type of food they like, and many of us discover new delicacies by trying out different options. One spectacular variety of dishes to try is found in Greek culture. Greek words are known to be quite tasty and unique in composition. Lucky for you, here in Boston, we have restaurants that prepare some of the most excellent Greek dishes.

Baked Moussaka

This is one of the most famous Greek dishes. This delicious masterpiece typically has three layers: minced meat, sweet potatoes, and aubergine. A special cream sauce is used to top it off and then baked until a golden brown color is obtained. Moussaka can be made for vegetarians, too, where the minced meat is removed and replaced with a non-meat-based option.

Fasolatha

Another very popular delicacy from Greece is the Fasolatha. Translated to English, it means White Bean Soup. It is prepared with beans, mashed fresh tomatoes, carrots, celery, garlic, and onions. Other vegetables can also be added based on the discretion of the customer. Parsley leaves are typically used at the end to flavor the soup.

Loukoumades

This trendy Greek food is popular amongst children and older people. Loukoumades are small fried balls that have a doughnut-like appearance. The balls are also dipped in honey, and various toppings such as cinnamon, sprinkles, and crushed cashew nuts are also used. It is common in our restaurants for people to come and order several packs for friends and family members.

Keftethes

These are Greek-breaded meatballs. They are usually made with lamb meat and sliced potatoes and served alongside a creamy yogurt sauce. When prepared right, they are crispy and delicious and can be served as side dishes for salads and rice.

Spanakopita

Greeks are known for their love for pie, so it should be no surprise that a pie-based dish is on our list. This dish can be made in a variety of ways and with a variety of ingredients. A phyllo pastry layered with cheese, spinach, and flavored dill is the most common.

How to do Brunch Like a Pro in Boston

Brunch has become one of the most popular meals served in restaurants throughout the United States, especially on weekends. First off, eating brunch most likely means you missed breakfast. Breakfast is regarded as the most important meal of the day, so one will likely want to go big on brunch after cutting it. Our restaurants here in Boston have precisely what you need to eat brunch like a pro.

Go with a friend or family.

Brunch or any event is best enjoyed with a friend or family. If you’re going to a restaurant for brunch, ask a friend or family member to go with you. You can order different dishes and try each other’s words by bringing the entire family along. You can use this method to know what meals are best for when you next order.

Go to the restaurant hungry.

Brunch doesn’t have to be the heaviest meal of the day, but you should also remember that it combines breakfast and lunch, so it should be substantial. You can have a light snack in the morning if you must, but still, ensure you arrive at the restaurant hungry so you can enjoy the savory meals at our restaurants.

Slowly build up the pace.

Typically, proteins and carbohydrates fill us up fast, so start with something lighter, like fruits or vegetables. The best method is to start with something like an apple, then move to a carbohydrate option such as bread or cereal. Hopefully, you won’t have stuffed up too much, so you can add some proteins like beans or egg dishes.

Keep your etiquette.

There are periods in the year when our restaurants in Boston are overflowing with customers. The worst thing you can do during this period will be to place a complicated order which will slow down the rate at which other customers are attended. You can stop this by making a phone call beforehand or visiting our website to place your order. Remember that all the restaurant attendants are humans like you, and they will appreciate being talked to respectfully. After eating in the restaurant, you can be nice enough to dispose of your tissue paper in the bin on your way out.

Finish off your brunch right.

After finishing your meal in the company of your family or friends, you all must be complete and probably exhausted. Sometimes, you might have even had one or more alcoholic beverages. If this is the case, you can order coffee and some excellent desserts.

The History of Craft Cocktails

Craft cocktails are fun, creative, and entertaining for a 21st birthday event, as much as the retired couple on vacation. Trying something new can excite your evening if you enjoy a good cocktail. The history of craft cocktails may entice you to branch out!

Early Cocktails

The original craft cocktail was used as a medication when Sir Francis Drake, commander of a fleet of English ships, fell ill in Havana in the late 1500s. It was called El Draque and made of lime, sugar, mint, and rum-soaked bark at the time. 

Various punches are said to have been crafted and consumed in the 1600s; the mid-1800s boast the creation of sours alongside whiskey and gin fixes. Despite the presence of these beverages, the credit for the first cocktail is not given to any of these. It wasn’t until the mid-1800s that American Aaron Bird created the modern cocktail. Bird mixed cognac with elixirs to develop what’s known as the Sazerac, which is typically considered the first proper cocktail. 

Prohibition

Despite early successes of craft cocktails, the prohibition era began to attempt to stop alcoholism, corruption, and violence. Although many secret locations still served cocktails and other alcoholic beverages, alcohol was outlawed for over a decade. Although alcohol was allowed once more in the early 1930s, cocktails didn’t gain a lot of popularity until the end of World War 2. 

Some popular prohibition-era cocktails include:

1. Sidecar
2. Old Fashioned
3. Highball
4. Gin Rickey

Cocktail Parties

The fifties began a trend of cocktail parties as a social event. The better the cocktail party, the higher an individual moved on the social ladder. New recipes and authentic craft cocktails became widely known and loved during this time. This was the beginning of an era in its own right. 

Some 1950s cocktails include:

1. Pina Colada
2. Mai Tai
3. Martini
4. Gin Punch

The 1990s and Early 2000s

The 90s and 2000s saw traditional cocktails become exceptionally popular once more. The prohibition-era cocktails were gaining popularity, and new, healthier cocktails were also created. These decades provided cocktail lovers with several new beverages, many of which have remained popular ever since. 

Some popular cocktails during this time include:

1. Bloody Mary
2. Cable Car
3. Cosmopolitan
4. Appletini

Try Some Craft Cocktails!

If this brief history lesson has sparked an interest in craft cocktails, it’s time to visit! Committee in the seaport offers tasty and flavorful craft cocktails – whether you’re a newbie to the beverages or an experienced connoisseur. Have a drink with us!

The Best Wines to Pair with Greek Food

If you’re a fan of Greek food and are seeking the perfect wine for your meal, learning about the best wines for pairing can be exciting! While it would be far more adventurous to travel to Greece and determine the best wines for each delicious flavor, not everyone can afford the luxury. Fortunately, you can pair various wines around the world with Greek food. 

Wines to Pair with Tzatziki

If you’ve ever had Greek food, you’ve likely tried tzatziki, a famous and flavorful sauce used in sandwiches or served as a dip with falafel. It is made from cucumber, yogurt, and garlic, presenting a tangy flavor. The sauce’s acidity is best paired with white wine, such as Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc.  

Other dry white wines to consider with tzatziki include a Vermentino or Viognier.  

Fava and Wine

When eating fava, various dry white wines would be suitable for pairing. Fava boasts a nutty, sweet flavor that goes well with wines that offer a crisp acidity. The wine must be subtle enough in flavor not to overpower the fava.

The best white wine options to pair with fava are a Gruner Veltliner or Sauvignon Blanc. A dry rosé, such as one from Grenache, could add a nice acidity and fruity profile.

If you prefer red wine, some light-bodied reds also work well with fava. Pinot Noir is one option that will not overpower the flavor of the fava.

Which Wine Pairs with Spanakopita?

The delicious golden pie layered with phyllo dough, spinach, and feta cheese is a popular Greek dish. When pairing it with wine, red zinfandel may be ideal for you if you prefer light reds. Otherwise, many white wines work well with the pie.

When choosing a white wine to go with spanakopita, Pino Grigio or Vermentino are perfect options to taste alongside the tangy flavor of feta cheese. 

Souvlaki Wine Pairings

One of the most famous Greek dishes is souvlaki. Like most Greek dishes, an excellent white wine would pair well with this meaty meal. Consider wines with a decent acidity and nice crispness. The ideal wine would be assyrtiko, a Greek wine. 

A couple of options can pair well if you prefer a red wine with your souvlaki. Shiraz is a great wine to drink if your souvlaki is made with lamb. Shiraz boasts tannins and acidity that go well with the gamey flavor of lamb.

Why Visit?

A visit to Committee is not only delicious but also educational. Learn about wines and how it pairs with your favorite dishes. When you’re ready for a couple of glasses of wine, Committee is the place to be.

Foods To Eat To Start The New Year Right

At the turn of the year, it can feel like you have a brand-new notebook. That’s why people tend to pop the champagne, sing Auld Lang Syne, and watch the ball drop. Another fun way to start the new year right is by eating the right foods. 

The foods to eat to start the New Year right are those that stem from traditional beliefs. Consider eating one of these New Year’s foods and see how your year improves over the last!

Ring Shaped Food Items

Another trip around the sun is like coming full circle. Because of this, people like to eat circular-shaped foods! Bundt cakes, donuts, and onion rings are just a few examples that fit the description. You might also consider bagels or a jello mold. 

Pork Brings Wealth

If you plan to be far wealthier and prosperous in the coming year, you’ll want to consume pork as a main course this New Year’s. Whether you whip up some decadent pork chops or flavorful carnitas, pork should be on the menu. Fortunately, there are many options to prepare pork – you can be creative and develop a fun and yummy course!

Success Comes with Lentils

Double down on your luck by adding some lentils to your meal on New Year’s. Why? Leave lentils in a bowl of water for a while and observe what happens. They soak up water and expand, showing growth. That growth is a symbol of success and prosperity. 

12 Grapes – and Not One Less

Eating grapes is a fun tradition that comes from Spain. In Spain, exactly 12 grapes are consumed per person to symbolize the 12 months in a year. However, it is crucial that those partaking eat their grapes as the clock dings 12. 

Swim Like a Herring into the New Year

Those near the Baltic Sea find that herring is an abundant fish. Because of the copious amounts of fish, residents on the coast attribute herring to bountiful blessings. Eating herring on New Year’s could only mean that you will find yourself having plenty in the coming year. 

What Makes An Authentic Greek Restaurant?

Authentic Greek restaurants must master a few essential elements to transport customers into a breathtaking Mediterranean experience truly. From the atmosphere to the ingredients and techniques used for preparation, authenticity is critical for an unforgettable flavor experience.

Atmosphere

When it comes to atmosphere, you should expect vibrant decor with rustic accents that embody warmth and hospitality. Not only should a restaurant’s atmosphere be inviting, but the food should also be modernized to make it stand out from other places.

Ingredients

Ingredients are of utmost importance in creating an authentic Greek experience; extra virgin olive oil, oregano, garlic, and feta cheese are some of the key components that give classic dishes their bold flavor. With these carefully selected ingredients, you will get that authentic taste of Greece.

Techniques

The techniques used in preparing traditional dishes are another critical factor; look for slow methods such as baking or roasting, which helps bring out more flavor, giving each word a unique taste. Richness in texture and flavor can not be understated, so authentic Greek restaurants must master this element succinctly.

You can tell an excellent greek restaurant when you see it, and the same can be said for taste. When the bite is perfect, the atmosphere is inviting, and the techniques are sharp, you know you’re in for an authentic Greek experience. Authentic Greek restaurants combine these elements seamlessly to create a unique culinary experience. 

Location

Although it is less important than the other three elements, location also creates a truly authentic Greek experience. Ideally, your restaurant should be located near an active body of water like the Aegean Sea or the Mediterranean Sea, helping to create that overwhelming ambiance of the region’s culture and flavors.

Athens is the culinary center for many of these authentic dishes, so look for a restaurant that uses modern techniques and classic ingredients to pay homage to its roots. With all these elements present, you’ll surely get an unforgettable meal!

Reviews

Finally, reviews are a great way to find out what other customers think about a restaurant’s authenticity. Read reviews from past customers and see how they rate the restaurant’s atmosphere, ingredients, techniques, and location. If an overwhelming majority of them had positive experiences, you know it is worth visiting!

Visit Committee in Boston MA 

Suppose you’re looking for an authentic and true-to-culture experience while enjoying delicious classic Greek food. In that case, Committee in the Seaport can assist by providing delicious meals made with locally sourced ingredients cooked in traditional methods to ensure each bite offers an unforgettable flavor experience.