Rick Stein: From Venice to Istanbul (2015)

S1E4 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.