Astypalaia is all about Greek summer vibes without the tourist masses from Santorini and Mykonos. The food is excellent and the beaches are magical.
Most of the restaurants are located in Chora and Pera Gialos along the waterfront but you will also find a couple of nice spots in Livadia and Analipsi. Seafood is the king on local menus.
Akti
Located in the heart of Astypalaia, Akti is by far the best restaurant on the island. It serves authentic Greek cuisine with fresh seafood in a breathtaking scenic location that will take your breath away. It is the perfect place to enjoy a meal with friends or family and experience a taste of magic.
This beautiful island is the ideal destination for anyone who wants to get away from it all and relax. It is a non-touristy Greek island that offers authentic culture and beautiful untouched beaches. There are several things to do in Astypalaia, from eating delicious food to exploring the charming streets of the capital.
There are many places to eat in Astypalaia, but some of them stand out more than others. For example, Akti is a restaurant that is located right next to the windmills and serves traditional dishes. The owner is a very friendly person who will make sure you have an unforgettable meal.
The menu at Akti is full of classic Greek dishes like moussaka, saganaki, and feta cheese. It also has an excellent variety of seafood including lobsters and prawns. The prices are a bit higher than other restaurants, but the food is worth it.
Another great option is Mestani, a Greek taverna that is located by the windmills. It is a great spot to get a bite to eat and watch the sunset. They serve traditional dishes and drinks. The atmosphere is very cozy and welcoming.
Lastly, Butterfly Bar is another great place to stop at while in Astypalaia. It is a great bar that has amazing views of the Chora. They serve both coffee and cocktails. They are open until midnight so it is a good place to go if you want to stay out late.
There are so many things to do in Astypalaia, but the most important thing is to relax and enjoy the island’s natural beauty. The beaches are clean and pristine, and the island’s streets are full of bougainvillea and white and blue houses. The best time to visit Astypalaia is during summer, when the weather is hot but not too hot and there are fewer tourists.
Mestani
The town of Astypalaia is incredibly charming with quaint buildings and colourful bougainvillea-covered houses. Its streets are a labyrinth and you’ll have fun getting lost among the narrow alleyways, soaking up the quaint atmosphere and checking out the many cafes and restaurants. There are also beautiful beaches where you can take a refreshing dip. The beach at Pera Gialos (near the main port) is a gorgeous protected bay with fantastic views of the castle and some small tavernas, while Livadi beach is another lovely option. Both beaches are partly organised with sun umbrellas and there are plenty of bars around to keep you hydrated.
If you’re looking for a place to have a cocktail and a light meal, Mestani is the place to go. It’s a small but chic restaurant located on the main street just in front of the windmills and it’s one of the best places to sit outside and enjoy the view. It’s also a great spot to have lunch, as they serve classic Greek dishes.
Astypalaia has a lot of local produce and you’ll see it in many of the restaurants on the island. For example, the saffron grown on the island has a huge impact on the cuisine. You’ll find it in everything from desserts to savory dishes, so be sure to try some of the local delicacies while you’re there!
Some of the highlights include the saffron ravioli (pastafota) and the stuffed cheese pies called polugia. They’re filled with a variety of soft, locally-made cheeses and drizzled with honey. Another must-try is the local honey, which has a very unique flavour and can be enjoyed on its own or in many of the desserts like melomakarona or loukoumades.
Other must-try dishes are the grilled goat meat with potatoes and the lamb shank. The cheese from the island is also fantastic and there’s a wide selection of it to choose from including halloumi, graviera and more. You can’t leave the island without trying some of the local wine as well. It’s not as strong as other Greek wines but it has a delicious, fruity flavour.
Butterfly Bar
The quiet Greek island of Astypalaia or Aegean Butterfly as it’s known for its unique butterfly shape welcomes anyone who seeks alternative holidays away from the crowds of mainland Greece with open wings. This small island is the perfect mix of beautiful architecture, pristine beaches, and authentic cuisine. It may not be as famous as the other islands in the Aegean but it’s definitely worth a visit.
The main highlight of Astypalaia is its beautiful town called Chora. The white cubic houses with blue colored window frames perched on the rocky landscape give it a very Cycladic feel. The best way to experience the Greek island is to stroll around its streets and enjoy a glass of wine at one of its many cafes and restaurants.
Karai is a great spot to enjoy sunset drinks and affordable classic mezze options. It’s also located right on the cliff overlooking the sea so you can see the ships come in and out of port. The outdoor terrace is lovely and it’s often filled with locals and tourists chatting and sipping on a drink or two.
Another popular place to stop at is Mestani which has a really nice view of the bay and Chora. It’s also a good spot for dinner. The food is a bit pricier than other places but still not too much. I really enjoyed their grilled squid and octopus.
Lastly, I’d recommend stopping at Kapheneio tou Mouggou or the Butterfly bar which is one of the oldest cafes in Astypalaia. It has a very mismatched interior and it’s filled with hundreds of photos from past events. It’s a very friendly place and I enjoyed sitting in the back drinking my glass of wine and watching the people stroll by.
I hope this Astypalaia Travel Guide will help you plan your next vacation to the quiet Greek island. Let me know in the comments if you have any questions and be sure to share this travel guide with anyone who’s interested in visiting Astypalaia!
Archipelago Cafe
Unlike other islands in the Dodecanese, Astypalaia feels more like the Cyclades than anything else. Its bridal-white town and beaches are energising and calming at once, while the island’s cuisine is among the best in Greece. A visit to Astypalaia is a must, especially for those looking for a break from the everyday.
While you’re visiting Astypalaia, there are several restaurants you must try. These include Ouzeri Anastasia, which has a unique seating situation – diners can sink their feet in the sand as they enjoy small meze dishes and direct views of the town’s castle and Chora hill. This restaurant is also known for its fresh fish.
Another great option is Butterfly Bar, which serves amazing Greek deserts and refined cocktails. The view is fantastic, but be sure to come early to avoid the crowds.
Agoni Grammi is a traditional Greek restaurant in the heart of Chora, just next to the windmills. It is a good choice for meat lovers, but it also offers a nice selection of vegetarian dishes. The atmosphere is very cozy and the staff is helpful. The prices are reasonable.
If you’re looking for a place to eat in Astypalaia that’s a little different from the rest, Archipelago Cafe is a great choice. This confectionary restaurant serves tasty cheesecakes and pies, along with delicious coffee. Its guests give it a 4.9 rating on Google.
The restaurant offers great service, and it’s a pleasant place to enjoy your meal with friends or family. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a quick bite before going out to party.
The cosy atmosphere and the delicious food make this restaurant one of the best places to eat in Astypalaia. The owner is very friendly and attentive, and the menu is full of classics. The prices are also very reasonable, and the food is excellent. The only drawback is that it’s not very open to tourists. However, the food is still worth trying. The service is exceptional, and the staff will help you choose the right dish for your taste.