Matt Damon Falls in Love with Greek Cuisine in Messinia – The Dish That Won Him Over

Hollywood stars currently in Messinia for the filming of The Odyssey have been indulging in a variety of Greek dishes, placing a special emphasis on local ingredients and the region’s renowned olive oil. Among them is Matt Damon, who has been captivated by the flavors of Greek cuisine.

Greek food is celebrated worldwide, with its appetizers, salads, main courses, and desserts delighting food lovers across the globe. Many international celebrities have expressed their admiration for Greek gastronomy, and Matt Damon is no exception.

The Dish That Stole Matt Damon’s Heart

A few days ago, Damon, along with director Christopher Nolan and fellow actors Tom Holland and Anthony Molinari, dined at a local restaurant in Messinia, eager to sample authentic Greek flavors. While they enjoyed several dishes, the one that left the biggest impression on Damon was none other than fava—a traditional Greek dish made from yellow split peas.

Speaking on the TV show Pame Danai on Thursday, March 21, the restaurant owner revealed that the actors had a keen interest in local products, particularly Greek olive oil.

A Love at First Bite

Damon didn’t hold back when it came to trying different dishes. He opted for grilled octopus and cumin-spiced lamb, but it was the fava that truly won him over.

"Matt Damon ordered the lamb with cumin and tried the fava, which completely fascinated him—he kept asking how we make it! He also really enjoyed the grilled octopus. The rest of the group sampled traditional dishes, ordering a variety to share among themselves," the restaurant owner said.

A Simple Yet Enthusiastic Cast

The restaurant owner also spoke about the cast’s visit, highlighting their down-to-earth nature and appreciation for Greek ingredients.

"The lead actors and the director came in for a meal. They were very humble and genuinely interested in local products like olives and olive oil. Here, they tried taramosalata (fish roe dip) and fresh seafood. Christopher Nolan was there with Matt Damon, and we also had Tom Holland, Anthony Molinari, and others dining with us."