Mezes is usually translated
from Greek to English as "appetizers ", but this translation does not
do justice to the fundamental role Mezes plays in Greek tradition. Mezes are served
on small plates so the whole group can share and enjoy something as humble as
a few olives, a small piece of cheese all the way through platters laden with
different dips, tiny skewers of grilled meat, deep-fried calamari, little tasty
filo triangles, and endless delightful treats. Most important Mezes captures the
zest of life, gathering of friends and family, and the simple appreciation of
delicious food and wine. Mezes means to share, enjoy, and live life to
its fullest!
Zorba the Greek sums up the essence of Mezes the best -- "On this coast I felt for the first lime what a pleasant thing it could be
to have a meal. We started eating and drinking, the conversation became animated.
I at last realized that eating was a spiritual function and that meat, bread,
and wine were the raw materials from which the soul is made. "