Thessaloniki’s Food Scene Stars in ‘DobbernationLoves’ Lifestyle e-Magazine
Toronto-based writer and photographer Andrew John Virtue Dobson recently got the word out on Thessaloniki’s food scene through his award-winning lifestyle e-magazine “DobbernationLoves”.
Dobson, a passionate advocate for travel experiences centered around food, recently visited the Greek northern city during a trip organized by the Thessaloniki Tourism Organization (TTO) in collaboration with the US branch of the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO).
While in Thessaloniki, the Canadian writer explored the city’s diverse gastronomy, venturing into local restaurants, patisseries, wineries, bakeries and popular street food spots.
In his article, Dobson describes Thessaloniki as a city influenced by many cultures – a fact that that has contributed to the city’s addition to UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network for offering a creative gastronomy scene.

Andrew John Virtue Dobson (photo left) in Thessaloniki. Photo source: Thessaloniki Tourism Organization
The writer also encourages travelers to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Thessaloniki’s food markets, specifically mentioning Modiano and Kapani, where they can savor the flavors of Northern Greece. The two food markets offer an array of products that are included to Greek, Jewish, Balkan, Asia Minor, and Turkish-influenced recipes.
Dobson also gives a special mention to the city’s traditional taverns, highlighting them as a must-visit for visitors. In Thessaloniki’s taverns, guests can enjoy a glass of tsipouro (a potent distilled spirit) and wine, while listening to Greek rebetika — an urban Greek music genre that originated in the 19th century and gained popularity from the 1960s onwards.
Referring to Thessaloniki’s vibrant nightlife, Dobson points out that the city, which has a significant student population, has become famous for its late-night club scene.
Since its inception in 2006, “DobbernationLoves” has garnered widespread acclaim as a culinary tourism diary, chronicling Dobson’s three-year global expedition.
The e-magazine features content on lifestyle, international cuisine, art, fashion, beauty, entertainment and LGBT community news.
The publication today attracts over 210,000 monthly visitors and boasts an annual readership of approximately 2 million. With a significant following from countries such as the United States, Canada, and the UK, its largest audience base is situated in Toronto.