The first bartender I spoke to in Greece asked me where I was from. When I told him I was American he said, “so let me guess: vodka cranberry?” I was outraged. How dare he assume all Americans are the same! That we can be boiled down to a single alcoholic drink order, as if the simple blend of clear liquid and sugary syrup defined a nation. What most enraged me though, was that he was right. Of course I ordered a vodka cranberry, are you kidding me? I didn’t even start drinking until I was 20, and since then I’ve stuck to the first drink order I ever learned, too scared to branch out and mispronounce a liquor to the bartender. Ya, my tit may be out at the bar, but getting the wrong drink order? No class. From that night on, though, I swore I would be more than the basic girl at the bar. I would learn to live, eat, and most importantly, drink like a Greek.

Sure, Greeks enjoy the occasional Heineken beer, and maybe you’ll find them with a glass of wine every now and then, but if you really want to drink like a Greek, you’ll have to go beyond the cocktails and tequila with these three staples of the Greek bar scene. Say “Yamas!” and cheer with one of these popular greek drinks to replace your vodka cranberry.

Ouzo

The first alcohol most tourists are introduced to during their visit is Ouzo. Considered the national drink of Greece, this is by far the most popular Greek drink. This clear liquid resembles a shot of vodka, however this drink is meant to be enjoyed slowly and with a meal. Ouzo is offered at every restaurant and may seem like harmless fun, but be warned, this little drink is dangerous. One glass of Ouzo, and you’ll be leaving the bar lightheaded due to its high alcohol content. Its strong taste and licorice flavor can be difficult to adjust to, but you can dilute the taste by adding a cube of ice or a splash of lemonade. Part of the magic of ouzo is the color change from clear to milky white.

Type: Liquor

Alcohol: 37.5% (75 proof) - 50% (100 proof)

Calories (1floz): 100

Price: 5.00€ - 7.00€

tsipouro

Tsipouro, another popular greek drink, is most popular in the Cycladic islands and the central Thessaly region, especially in the city of Volos. Tsipouro is a common drink in the fall and has a similar look to ouzo, however it does not turn white when ice is added. The best way to enjoy this drink is over ice and with a fresh seafood meal. Like ouzo, this popular drink isn’t meant to be shot back or on an empty stomach. Enjoy this drink slowly and with friends for a relaxed and carefree night. The mini bottles that tsipouro comes to your table in also makes a great souvenir. I keep all my bottles and use them as decorations and subtle reminders to guests that I’m better traveled than them.

Type: Spirit

Alcohol: 40% (80 proof) - 45% (90 proof)

Calories (1floz): 70

Price: 5.00€ - 8.00€

raki

Here’s where popular greek drinks get confusing. Raki, the final greek alcohol to make this list, and tsipouro are actually the same drink. So why do both get their own space on this list? Because in Greece you’ll hear the two terms used interchangeably, with one name being favored over the other depending on the region. For example, in Athens you’ll find ouzo and tsipouro listed on drink menus, but if you move further north into Macedonia, where Turkish influence was greater, raki is more likely to be listed in lieu or tsipouro. This is because raki is a Turkish word that refers to the distillation process used. In Crete, there is a third term to describe raki and tsipouro: tsikoudia.

Want a fun drinking game? Take a shot for every time you’re confused by the name of a Greek drink!

Type: Spirit

Alcohol: 40% (80 proof) - 45% (90 proof)

Calories (1floz): 70

Price: 5.00€ - 8.00€

Rakomelo

My favorite greek drink by far is the winter classic, Rakomelo. A mix of raki, honey, and cinnamon, this popular greek drink adopts a warm honey color and is usually served heated. Because of the honey, the taste is the most subdued so far on this list, which means you’ll be able to consume more quicker. This is a great option if you’re looking for a drink for the table since it can be ordered in larger quantities. Order a pitcher and leave it at the center of the table. The waiter will bring you small shot glasses to use, and it’s a lovely drink on its own or with your dessert. It also acts as a home remedy for a sore throat.

Type: Digestive Spirit

Alcohol: 20% (40 proof)

Calories (1floz): 150

Price: 4.00€ - 6.00€

bonus drinks

Let’s admit it. Some of us are just lightweights. We’d love to lie and say that we can drink till dawn bar hopping along the beaches of Greece, but that’s just not the reality. For some of us, people like me, we can happily call it a night after two drinks, three if we had a big dinner. And that’s okay, we should celebrate this biological gift! We save money, we’re cheap dates, and we never wake up the next morning with a hangover. Think the only Greek drinks worth trying are too strong for you? Don’t worry, there’s a drink for that.

alφα

Alfa (Αλφα) beer is the local brew of choice in Greece. This popular Greek drink is produced by the Athenian Brewery, but is actually owned by Heineken International. However, there’s no hint on the labeling to give that little fact away, as long as you ignore the general design and color. But it’s written in Greek, so it must be local! Despite its international ownership, you’re guaranteed to find this greek drink in any bar or restaurant, lining the grocery stores, and can even be found in the kiosks along the street.

Type: Blonde lager

Alcohol: 5%

Calories per bottle: 43

Price (250ml): Available in the grocery store for 1.08€. Sold at restaurants and bars for 3.00€ - 5.00€.

mythos

The most famous Greek beer worldwide, Mythos has an international market spanning 30 countries. The Olympic Brewery only began production of the beer in 1997, but in just over 20 years Mythos has certainly earned its international following, and has maintained itself as one of the most popular beers within Greece. Looks for its unique unicorn label next time you’re searching the alcohol section of the grocery store.

Type: Blonde lager

Alcohol: 5%

Calories per bottle: 38

Price (250ml): 1.08€. Sold at restaurants and bars for 3.00€ - 5.00€.

Μηλοκλεφτισ

Usually called by its shorthand, Milo (ΜΗΛΟ), this is a cider native to Greece. This apple cider is named from the Greek word meaning apple, and is the most popular local cider available in the country. While ciders are not as widely sold as beers, most bars and restaurants will have this light greek drink available. Only in clubs will it be difficult to find this cider. While there are plenty of greek drinks to choose from, this sweet cider is a great way to unwind and relax, without the morning hangover from the greek liquors.

Type: Cider

Alcohol: 4.5%

Calories per bottle: 135