At Scorpios, food and social life are deeply intertwined. What role does food play in your own community?
Food in Greek society is not just about sustenance, but it is a powerful tool for community, tradition, and celebration. Whether in the context of daily life or special occasions, food serves as a bridge to family, history, and culture. At Scorpios we celebrate each day as a special gathering among friends and happy people who love to enjoy relaxing moments around a table.

What is a dish you remember from your childhood that you still make today?
The first dish that takes me back to my childhood is a dish made by my mother, called “gemista”. This is a traditional Greek dish consisting of vegetables, typically tomatoes and bell peppers, stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes minced meat. Gemista is a beloved comfort food, especially during the summer months when the vegetables are in season. Even though this dish has its roots in my early years as a kid, it continues to be one of my favorite tastes, especially through my wife’s cooking.

In Bodrum, food is also meant to complement a vast wellbeing program rooted in holistic practices and experimental forms of self-care. Which ingredients do you associate with wellbeing and care?
Scorpios focuses on providing meals that nourish the body while celebrating the region’s  rich agricultural and culinary heritage. Of course, we have a lot of fresh seasonal vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplants, peppers, and greens which are central to the dishes. These vegetables are nutrient rich, providing vitamins, minerals, and fiber, supporting a balanced, healthy diet. Additionally, we emphasize the use of herbs like parsley, dill, and basil which are commonly used to add flavor without the need for excess salt or heavy seasoning. These herbs are also known for their digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. Another category is legumes such as beans and lentils, which are high in protein and fiber and are often incorporated into salads. They are excellent for digestive health and help maintain energy levels. We work hard on offering ingredients that align with a nourishing and mindful approach to dining, and we are proud of emphasizing wellness through taste.

Another signature aspect of the Scorpios experience is celebration. Which Scorpios would you recommend for moments of indulgence and festivity?
I truly believe that these moments can be found in every dish in our menu. From starters to main courses, each dish is made to be enjoyed and celebrated. One of the best-selling dishes is the grilled lobster, served with a rich, herb-infused sauce. The sweetness of the lobster and the richness of the sauce make it a decadent choice for special occasions. It pairs wonderfully with crisp white wines or sparkling wines for a festive flair.

Do you have a favorite food ritual?
One of my favorite food rituals involves visiting a local farmer market to explore fresh, seasonal ingredients. There’s something incredibly special about walking through the market, speaking with farmers and producers, and selecting items that will inspire my next dishes. The variety of colors, textures, and smells — from fresh herbs to ripe fruits and vegetables — often sparks new ideas and helps me reconnect with the essence of seasonal eating.

As someone who travels frequently, what is an ingredient or a technique you recently discovered and look forward to experimenting with?
One of my latest additions is the technique of “dry-aging” spices to enhance their flavor complexity. While dry-aging is often associated with meats, I discovered that applying the same technique to spices like cumin, paprika, and turmeric can intensify their aromas and flavors, making them more potent and nuanced. The process involves lightly heating whole spices in a dry pan over low heat for a few minutes, allowing their essential oils to bloom and develop a deeper, richer profile.This technique not only brings out the full depth of the spices’ flavors but also adds a subtle smokiness, which is perfect for our Scorpios style dishes. ■

SCORPIOS RESTAURANTS

As the center stage of the Scorpios agora of social and cultural exchange, our restaurants are the ultimate place of gathering. With their large communal tables, interactive outdoor spaces, and sharing plates, they are places for relaxed long lunches and alfresco dinners with friends and family.

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Plan Your Visit and Discover Scorpios’ Seasonal Menu.