Catering and Hospitality Industry in Greece

Catering and hospitality industry in Greece is one of the most significant contributors to the country’s economy, offering a broad range of career opportunities across various job roles, from kitchen staff to hotel management and event coordination. The industry is heavily reliant on tourism, which has seen steady growth over the years. Greece’s rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and world-renowned cuisine make it a prime destination for tourists. As a result, the hospitality sector in Greece employs hundreds of thousands of individuals and offers both seasonal and permanent roles.

In 2023, reports suggested that Greece’s hospitality and catering sector had approximately 400,000 employees, including full-time, part-time, and seasonal workers.

Key Areas of the Catering and Hospitality Industry in Greece

The catering and hospitality sector in Greece is dynamic, with job opportunities spread across various regions and catering services. Here are some of the key areas where employment opportunities are abundant:

Restaurants and Cafés – Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete

Greece’s restaurant scene is offering everything from upscale Michelin-starred restaurants to traditional taverna-style eateries. The areas of Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete are especially popular, with a large number of dining options for both locals and tourists. Athens, as the capital, boasts a variety of dining experiences, from fine dining to casual eateries. Santorini and Mykonos, known for their breathtaking views and upscale resorts, are home to many world-class restaurants offering Mediterranean and international cuisine. In these regions, the demand for skilled kitchen staff, waiters, bartenders, and restaurant managers is high, catering to both international and local guests.

Hotels and Resorts – Mykonos, Rhodes, Thessaloniki, and Crete

The hotel and resort industry is a major employer in Greece. Key tourist destinations such as Mykonos, Rhodes, Thessaloniki, and Crete feature luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and family-friendly accommodations. Mykonos and Rhodes, in particular, have become synonymous with high-end tourism, attracting celebrities, business travelers, and luxury holidaymakers. Thessaloniki offers a blend of cultural tourism and business travel, while Crete provides a variety of tourist experiences from resorts to more tranquil boutique stays. The demand for staff in these areas includes hotel receptionists, housekeeping teams, chefs, wait staff, and food and beverage attendants.

Catering Services – Athens, Thessaloniki, and Thessalian Region

Catering services are essential for events, weddings, corporate functions, and other celebrations. In Athens, Thessaloniki, and the Thessalian region, catering companies are in high demand, especially during the peak tourism season. These areas host corporate events, destination weddings, and private gatherings that require skilled event planners, catering chefs, wait staff, and logistical support teams. In regions like Thessaloniki, which has a vibrant cultural scene, catering for festivals and large-scale events also contributes to the employment landscape.

Bars and Nightclubs – Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, and Thessaloniki

Greek nightlife is world-famous, with a large concentration of bars, nightclubs, and beach clubs in areas like Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, and Thessaloniki. The islands of Mykonos and Santorini, known for their nightlife, attract both locals and international tourists, particularly in the summer months. The demand for bartenders, baristas, nightclub servers, and entertainers is high in these areas, where the nightlife scene plays a significant role in tourism. Athens, with its combination of trendy bars, rooftop lounges, and traditional tavernas, also provides many opportunities for those looking to work in the nightlife and hospitality sectors.

Tourism and Events – Athens, Thessaloniki, Rhodes, and Crete

Tourism and event staff are vital in regions that host large-scale festivals, conferences, and cultural events. Athens, being the capital, is a hub for international conferences and cultural festivals such as the Athens and Epidaurus Festival. The islands of Rhodes and Crete, with their historical significance and beach tourism, are often the locations of large-scale events, weddings, and conventions. Staff in demand for these events include event coordinators, guest services teams, catering staff, and logistical support.

Industry Standards and Requirements

The catering and hospitality industry in Greece requires certain skills and qualifications, especially for higher-end establishments or Michelin-recommended restaurants. Some of the key requirements include:

Food and Beverage Knowledge

Having a good understanding of food and drink, especially Greek cuisine, is essential for kitchen and front-of-house staff. Chefs should be skilled in various cooking techniques, from traditional Mediterranean dishes to international cuisines. Front-of-house staff should know the menu and be familiar with local wines and spirits.

Qualifications

While not all positions require formal qualifications, having a degree or certification in hospitality management, culinary arts, or hotel management can provide a competitive advantage, particularly for senior roles in high-end hotels or restaurants.

Language Skills

Given Greece’s diverse tourist base, knowledge of multiple languages is a significant advantage. While English is widely spoken, proficiency in other languages such as German, French, and Italian is highly sought after, particularly in high-end tourist destinations.

Hourly Rates and Pay

Hourly rates in Greece’s catering and hospitality industry vary depending on experience, location, and type of establishment. Here are some general estimates:

• Waitstaff: The average hourly rate for waiters and waitresses in Greece ranges from €6 to €8 per hour. Tips can add a significant amount to the overall salary.
• Chefs and Kitchen Staff: Entry-level chefs earn between €8 and €12 per hour, while experienced chefs, such as sous chefs or head chefs, can earn between €15 and €20 per hour in high-end establishments.
• Bartenders: Bartenders typically earn between €7 and €10 per hour, with tips further boosting their income.
• Hotel Staff: Employees working in hotels, including receptionists, housekeepers, and food & beverage attendants, generally earn between €8 and €12 per hour.

Demand for Catering and Hospitality Workers

The demand for workers within catering and hospitality industry in Greece peaks during the summer months, as tourists flock to the islands and mainland for vacations. With Greece being a year-round tourist destination, there is also consistent demand for skilled professionals. The workforce is diverse, with many seasonal workers coming from other European countries to fill roles during the busy season.

With its diverse culinary scene, thriving tourism industry, and growing hospitality sector, Greece remains a prime destination for those seeking careers in catering, hotel management, and food services. Whether it’s working in a Michelin-starred restaurant in Athens or serving cocktails on the beach in Mykonos, Greece offers a wealth of opportunities for aspiring hospitality professionals.