Kalamata and the wider region of Messinia were showcased on one of Australia’s most popular channels, Channel 9 (9Now), in the television show “Let’s Eat with George.”
The show “Let’s Eat with George” features Greek-Australian chef George Diakomichalis and his friend Nikos Mavragelos as they explore culinary destinations and cultures both locally and globally. This series presents their gastronomic adventures, including the preparation of dishes with fresh local ingredients, the discovery of local street food, and the showcasing of the flavors and traditions of various regions.
In the 8th episode, which aired on Australian television on Sunday, December 15, 2024, the two hosts, during their journey to Greece, visited and strolled through the city of Kalamata and Ancient Messene and toured the olive groves and vineyards of the surrounding area. They tasted traditional Greek cuisine and Greece’s national street food, souvlaki, grilled over unique innovative charcoal made exclusively in Kalamata from olive residue, which is exported to Australia. They sampled local wines, participated in an olive oil tasting of Messinia’s renowned extra virgin olive oil, and cooked traditional dishes such as diples and kagianas with cured meat.
The episode featured appearances by: Sylvia Athanasopoulou from the traditional eatery “Ta Rolla,” Stavroula Giannouli from the traditional products workshop “Tastes of Mother Earth,” Dimitris Melingakos from “Tzimis’ Souvlakis,” Nasos Makios from the company “KLIMIS,” Psaroulis Konstantinos from “Psaroulis Winery,” George Koutelas from the fine local products store “Trofopoleion 51,” and Kostas Xiarchos, chef of the restaurant “Ithomi” in Ancient Messene.
The Association of Messinia’s Catering (SEM), which provided organizational support for the show’s filming in Kalamata on May 25 and 26, 2024, wishes to warmly thank everyone involved, both in front of and behind the cameras. This includes participating professionals and all who supported this effort. Kalamata combines gastronomy, culture, and natural beauty, making it a comprehensive destination attracting visitors from all over the world. Shows of this kind highlight all these aspects in the best possible way, aiming to establish our region as an international tourist destination.