Polina Nazarova   

IGCAT Regional Chef Ambassador from
South Aegean, European Region of Gastronomy awarded 2019

“My journey in the culinary arts has allowed me to explore the rich tapestry of flavors and traditions that define my identity.” — Polina Nazarova

A Cultural Journey to the Kitchen

At 25 years old, Polina Nazarova lives on the island of Rhodes, where she blends heritage, identity, and innovation through food. Originally from Russia, she moved to Greece as a child and was warmly welcomed by her new community. Over time, Greek cuisine became a deep part of her identity.

Today, Polina sees gastronomy as more than a career. To her, it’s a fusion of flavors, aromas, and cultural stories—each dish a reflection of both past and present.

Honoring Rhodes Through Food

For the past four years, Polina has been fully immersed in the culinary arts. Her mission is to create dishes that reflect the essence of Rhodes. Inspired by guest feedback, she constantly refines her technique while celebrating the traditions of her island home.

Looking forward, she hopes to merge the culinary practices of her Russian roots with contemporary Greek techniques. She sees cooking as a creative celebration of cultural diversity, one that builds memories and connects people.

Her Dish: Salmos

At the European Young Chef Award 2024, Polina presented Salmos, her innovative version of the traditional Salmos Plaki.

This dish captures the rich maritime heritage of Rhodes, combining the island’s fishing and farming traditions. Ingredients like wheat, olive oil, seafood, and vegetables form the base of this rustic, community-rooted recipe.

Historically, Salmos Plaki was prepared in the evening after a day of fieldwork. Families would gather around the koumelo (fire stove) or tsimnia (fireplace), slowly cooking a stew of potatoes, tomatoes, and fresh greens. To deepen the flavors, they often added local touches like tsikna-simvrasi (fried onions) or xerohimisi (goat’s cheese or onions slow-cooked in olive oil).

In her reinterpretation, Polina preserves these traditional elements while bringing new life to the dish through thoughtful presentation and modern technique.

A Culinary Tribute to Rhodes

Through Salmos, Polina honors the island’s connection to land and sea. Her dish is a tribute to local heritage, a celebration of simplicity, and a reminder of the joy of shared meals.