THESSALONIKI | When brothers Thomas and George Douzis founded Ergon Foods in 2008, little did they know that it would grow into what it is today. The third generation of a Thessaloniki family involved in championing local produce, the brothers’ founded expanded on the idea.
Ergon was founded as a purveyor of artisan Greek products sourced from small, independent producers, presented in a fresh, modern way. Today, Ergon have delis, restaurants, markets and “foodie hotels” throughout Greece, along with outposts in Cyprus, London, Doha, and Abu Dhabi.
Each location has its own feel, and one of the best is the Ergon Agora concept store in the heart of Thessaloniki. It’s a large, indoor market space that hosts a restaurant and cafe, greengrocer, butcher, fishmonger, and bakery. Walking through the market, I was impressed by the quality of produce and range of products. I would have loved to have had a few days in a kitchen to cook with some of it.
In line with Ergon’s philosophy, their restaurant is one of the best spots in town to enjoy contemporary Greek cuisine made using the best quality produce available. Squid ink taramosalata is served with fluffy, warm, wood-fired pita, while a medley of grilled seasonal vegetables is topped with a sweet carob dressing and herbs. Zucchini fritters with feta, fresh herbs, and tzatziki are another great starter.
For larger dishes, it’s things like orzo is mixed with seafood, fresh tomatoes, and herbs; smoked sardine gyro in ladopita with spicy herbed tomato sauce; and a catch of the day section. The latter lets you choose from around 12 different fish that you can have grilled, steamed, or fried.
To drink, there’s a small but diverse selection of wines from some of Greece’s top winemakers, long with house ouzo, tsipouro, and beers. Word on the street is that the brunch game here is strong, too.
Ergon Agora
P. Mela 42
Thessaloniki 546 22
Greece
Telephone: 2310 288 008
E-mail: [email protected]
Website
Open
Mon – Sun: 9:00am to 1:00am