Rick Stein: From Venice to Istanbul

S01E04 Northern Greece

Rick crosses over from Albania into northern Greece, specifically the Epirus region, known for its literary heritage and abundant fishing lakes that are a culinary treasure. He retraces the path of the romantic poet and ally of the independence movement, Lord Byron. His journey takes him to the stronghold of a merciless pasha, who even the Ottoman sultans deemed too dangerous, as well as to a secluded monastery that inspired one of Rick’s favorite poems. He also visits Mesalonghi port, named by a Venetian, which is where Byron met his end. The local cuisine remains simple, highlighting a few fresh ingredients and spices.