Santorini is more than stunning cliff-hugging villages and sunsets, it’s also a food lover’s paradise. Whether you want to enjoy simple local lunches at tavernas or fancy a gourmet dinner, we have some great recommendations for you.
A romantic spot whose menu balances Greek traditional cuisine with modern fusion tastes. Pair it with their excellent wines from Karamolegos Vineyard. Reservations recommended.
Avocado
Avocado, in Imerovigli, offers a menu of Mediterranean traditional cuisine with dishes from Crete, Mytilene and Santorini. Their food is fresh from the garden and paired with local wines.
The volcanic soil here is ideal for growing fava (yellow split peas), domatinia (cherry tomatoes) and white eggplants. It also produces grapes that are used to make Santorini’s famous wine.
Among the many restaurants with breathtaking views along Oia’s main pedestrian road, 1800 is a standout for its creative spin on Greek classics. Its grilled lamb chops and tender fillet of white grouper are especially memorable.
While it’s a little pricier than other options, this spot in Thirassia, the splinter islet that breaks away from Santorini, delivers on flavor. Located right on the beach, this restaurant offers cheap, delicious gyros and grilled fish served with salad and fries. It’s one of the most popular places to eat on the island and it’s worth the short journey from Oia.
Metaxi Mas
The Metaxi Mas is the best place in Santorini for a classic meze dinner. It is located in the heart of Chora inside a labyrinth of whitewashed alleys and serves both tourists and locals alike. The menu is full of traditional Greek dishes at very reasonable prices.
It is also the perfect spot for a quick lunch or snack with its fresh, delicious and affordable options. The menu has all the famous Greek specialties like gyro and saganaki plus Greek wines and cocktails.
Situated inside a cliff-hugging village, this gorgeous restaurant offers a gourmet menu that celebrates local culinary traditions and ingredients, including the famed Santorini tomatoes, fava beans and capers. You’ll find dishes that evoke both Santorini and Crete, such as cooling Cretan salads with dakos (barley rusk) and kokkinistiki pork from the island of Crete. Its rustic, converted yposkafo setting makes it a favorite among travelers and locals alike. Book months in advance to secure a table with the best caldera and sunset views.
Penelope’s
If you are a food lover and looking for a place to eat while in Santorini, then this is the right spot for you. The restaurant has an amazing menu that includes many local Grecian dishes, comfort foods, and even vegan options. It is also a great choice for families.
Located in the center of Fira, Penelope’s offers delicious gourmet Greek cuisine with stunning views. The best part is that their prices are reasonable. They are a perfect option for anyone who is on a budget and wants to enjoy the best food in Santorini.
While most restaurants in Santorini are known for their sunsets and views, one of the lesser-known places to visit is Metaxi Mas. This tavern in Exo Gonia village serves authentic dishes from Santorini and Greece including oven-baked briam (ratatouille-like dish with zucchini, eggplants, and tomatoes). The staff at the restaurant are friendly and welcoming. They also offer a variety of wines.
Taverna Geromanolis
If you’re looking for a restaurant that provides delicious cuisine and amazing caldera and sunset views, check out Taverna Geromanolis. The menu includes a wide variety of traditional Greek dishes and wine. It is also family-owned and offers a cozy atmosphere. It is located in Emporio and is near the museum Symposion.
It’s a bit more expensive than some other restaurants on the island, but it’s worth it for the excellent service and delicious food. The restaurant’s menu features a wide range of dishes, including local seafood and fresh vegetables. It is also known for its desserts and wine.
This is a classic family taverna in the heart of Megalochori. It serves a variety of local favorites, such as tomato bites, Santorini fava, and stuffed tomatoes. Its great value makes it a popular choice among locals. You can also try their grilled meats and fish. The menu is also complemented by Karamolegos’ varieties of wines.