Go Greek!

Ask anyone who’s traveled to Greece about his or her favorite dining experience and the answer will probably be a meal in a taverna, the Greek equivalent of a pub or bistro. The dishes are usually served family style, which gives taverna meals a festive feel even though both the cooking and the decor are fairly simple. (Who needs fancy sauces or expensive linens when you’re sitting on a terrace with a view of the Aegean?)

At home, taverna cuisine is ideal for casual entertaining. Simply cover the table with a cotton cloth, set out bowls of hummus and baba ghanoush, then serve the following recipes with chilled white wine, and piles of warmed pitas. Take the party outside if it’s warm enough, but if you can’t, the dining room will do. With food this good, guests won’t even miss the view.