Tsiknopempti, also known as ‘Smokey Thursday’, is coming up on the 7th March, so let’s dive into the Greek Carnival season together by indulging in our delicious Grilled Meat Platter once again!
This year’s platter is brimming with all our Greek grilled favourites: Lamb Skewer, Loukaniko Beef & Pork Greek Sausage, Pork Belly, Chicken Skewer, Chicken Wings, Lamb Kefte, Chips, Tzatziki and Mustard Sauce, priced at £35 for two to share.
Tsiknopempti is a big deal for us Greeks worldwide. It’s a day when the air is literally filled with the enticing smell of barbecues firing up in every Greek neighbourhood! Restaurants and tavernas are buzzing with the joyous and festive vibe of families and friends gathering to enjoy an array of grilled, succulent meats together.
But what exactly is Tsiknopempti? Well, it’s known by various English translations as Smelly Thursday, Charred Thursday or Barbeque Thursday. It’s a key part of the traditional Carnival celebrations in Greece and Cyprus, called the Apokries. Think of it as our version of Mardi Gras or Pancake Day—it kicks off the festive season with a bang!
Tsiknopempti falls on the Thursday of the second week of Apokries, known as the week of ‘Kreatini’. It’s a time to feast on meat before the solemn Easter Lent begins—a 40-day fasting period leading up to Easter where meat is mostly off the – almost entirely vegan – menu. Tsiknopempti is our last chance to indulge in carnivore fare before the fasting begins.
Our Grilled Meat Platter perfectly captures the spirit of this carnivalesque tradition. Don’t miss out on experiencing the flavours of Greek carnival season BBQ—come join us for Tsiknopempti!
