For those who love Greek food, the debate often rages: what makes the perfect Greek pita? Is it just the meat and the bread, or does it include that secret, comforting ingredient?
At Souvlaki Authentique, we don’t debate authenticity; we serve it. We introduce the Pita Onassis, our signature sandwich that delivers the complete, classic Greek street food experience, just like it’s served in Greece!
Every bite of the Onassis is packed with savory tzatziki, your choice of perfectly roasted chicken or pork gyro, fresh tomato, onion, and yes, a handful of Fries right inside the pita.
What is the Pita Onassis?
The Pita Onassis is a masterclass in balance and simplicity. Every component plays a vital role in creating that unforgettable, authentic flavour profile:
The Bread: We start with a warm, thick, and lightly grilled Greek pita bread, soft enough to wrap, yet sturdy enough to hold the generous filling.
The Gyro Meat: You choose the star of the show: thin, tender slices of chicken gyro or savory pork gyro. The meat is slow-roasted vertically on a spit and shaved thin, ensuring every piece is seasoned and cooked to perfection.
Tzatziki: This cooling dip is essential. The creamy, garlicky, and cucumber-infused tzatziki is spread generously on the pita to cut through the richness of the meat, adding moisture and a refreshing contrast.
The Unexpected Essential (Fries): This is the definitive sign of a traditional Greek gyro. The handful of crispy gyro and fries right inside the pita adds a necessary textural crunch and soaks up the flavorful juices and tzatziki.
Greek Gyro and Fries: An Authentic Combination
To North Americans, putting fries inside the pita might seem unconventional, but in Greece, it is the standard and traditional way to enjoy a Greek gyro.
The reason is simple: it makes the pita a complete, one-handed meal. The fries act as a starch to balance the protein, soaking up the meat drippings and the tzatziki. The combination of the soft pita, savory meat, creamy dip, and crisp fries creates the ultimate satisfying texture and flavour bomb in every single bite. If you’re looking for true street-style Greek food, this is it.
Why It Was Named Onassis: A Nod to History
The Pita Onassis is not just a sandwich; it’s a tribute. It is named after Aristotle Onassis, one of the most famous and successful Greek figures of the 20th century. The name signifies that this pita is a classic, top-tier version, a signature dish served just like they serve them in Greece, representing the pinnacle of Greek quality and tradition. When you order the Pita Onassis, you are ordering a classic that stands for history and excellence.
What to Order Next to the Pita Onassis: Sides and Appetizers
While the Pita Onassis is a complete meal, rounding out your order with a few authentic sides enhances the experience and adds balance:
- Horiatiki Salad: The ultimate palate cleanser. This refreshing, traditional Greek salad provides the sharp, tangy vegetable component needed to balance the rich meat and fries.
- Kalamari or Tiropita: Order a small side of fried Kalamari or a savory tiropita to share. This adds variety in texture and flavour without overly duplicating the main components of your pita.
- Extra Dip: If you enjoy bold flavours, order a side of kopanisti or taramosalata for dipping any extra fries or enjoying with a side of pita bread.
End Up with the Cheesecake Baklava for a Complete Greek Experience
No authentic Greek feast is complete without a rich, sweet ending. After conquering the savory greatness of the Pita Onassis, you deserve a dessert that is just as iconic.
At Souvlaki Authentique, we recommend finishing with our unique fusion: the Cheesecake Baklava. It’s the perfect sweet conclusion, combining the traditional honey and phyllo of Baklava with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake. This dessert embodies the blend of tradition and modern excellence that makes us the best Greek restaurant in Quebec.
Conclusion
The next time you crave authentic Greek food, remember the Pita Onassis. From its savory gyro and fries composition to its name honoring Greek history, it is the perfect representation of traditional Greek street food culture.
Visit Souvlaki Authentique today and discover why the Pita Onassis is our signature, must-try dish!
