A charming and friendly local experience that keeps regulars coming back. The food isn’t fancy, but it has a pretense-free freshness that is really appealing.
Sit down in the dining room or the rooftop garden for a romantic dinner or luxurious lunch. Tuck into traditional Greek dishes with a contemporary touch and pair them with award-winning wines from Santorini and beyond.
1. Ammoudi Fish Tavern
For those looking for a unique waterfront setting, this hidden gem located in Ammoudi Bay is the perfect spot. The taverna sits besides the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea and is one of the most picturesque spots on the island. With views out to Thirasia and the famous caldera cliffs, the ambience is secluded, romantic, and powerful – a truly unforgettable experience.
The taverna serves an amazing selection of seafood dishes including fresh lobster, prawns, fish, mussels and much more. They also have a great selection of Greek salads and appetizers to choose from. We would recommend trying their sun dried tomatoes, they are so delicious, crispy on the outside and bursting with sweet juicy flavor on the inside thanks to the unique volcanic soil on Santorini.
This taverna is a popular choice for lunch and dinner and it’s best to make a reservation if you are planning to dine here at night. The ambiance is absolutely beautiful and the food was very good (although the portions are pretty big so you might want to share). The prices were quite reasonable as well.
We would highly recommend dining here if you are staying in Oia and especially if you are visiting during sunset, as it is a great way to experience the best of Santorini in a relaxing setting away from all the crowds.
The views from this taverna are spectacular any time of the day but it is truly magical bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun, especially at sunset when you can see the white sugar cube houses perched above the deep red volcanic cliffs. This is definitely one of our favourite places to eat in Santorini!
2. Blue Note
Blue Note is located at the Imerovigli of world-famous Santorini and has gained a worldwide reputation for such relaxing sunset dinners with a spectacular view. Its dining areas are decorated with style and a homely atmosphere and guests can enjoy the best cuisine, service and a warm welcoming environment. It offers a large choice of traditional Greek as well as international local specialties including seafood.
It also serves traditional sweets and appetizers. Typical fare includes fava dip, Santorinian salad with chloro cheese and capers, baby tomatoes and Katsuni (cucumber) and lettuce as well as tomatokeftedes (tomato rissoles). The Blue Note is one of the top restaurants in Santorini and is the ideal spot to enjoy a delicious meal.
Get here early to be sure you’ll have a seat close to the stage. Be prepared to sit shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers because the seating is cramped and crowded. The music is worth the crowds though and there are some legendary performers in town. I’m a fan and a regular.
3. Ambrosia
Ambrosia is a popular Greek restaurant in Oia, offering a wide range of dishes and a spectacular view of the caldera. Their menu includes dishes like fava beans, oven lamb, and chicken with figs as well as sweet creations like dark chocolate souffle and Greek walnut cake. The restaurant also offers a selection of fine wines.
Ambrosia was a sacred food in ancient Greek mythology, reputed to bestow immortality and eternal youth upon those who consumed it. It was served at the heavenly feasts on Mount Olympus, often brought to the gods by Hebe or Ganymede. Modern versions of ambrosia are a refreshing and creamy dessert, typically made with a variety of fruit, marshmallows, and shredded coconut. It is a great dessert to serve at holidays or potlucks, and it can be easily made ahead of time.
It’s quick and easy to make, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or sudden dessert cravings. It’s kid-friendly and versatile, too. While the traditional version of this dish calls for a certain set of ingredients, you can use whatever is available and in season. Just remember to drain the pineapple tidbits and mandarin oranges very well so that your ambrosia doesn’t become watery from excess juice.
This ambrosia salad is a light and delicious treat that’s full of fresh, crunchy fruits and whipped cream. It’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, and picnics. It’s also a good choice for a light and refreshing end to a heavy meal. It’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. You can even make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Enjoy!
4. Misteli
When visiting Santorini, you must try a few of the incredible Greek foods. These include tzatziki, hummus, olives and olive oil, grilled octopus, fish, and many other delicious dishes. Many of these dishes can be found at restaurants like Misteli. This restaurant is located in the center of Santorini and offers many incredible dishes for a reasonable price.
This is the perfect place to eat in Santorini for anyone looking for a great meal at a good price. This restaurant is also conveniently located near the Akrotiri Archaeological Site and the White Beach. The restaurant offers a variety of different cuisines, so everyone will find something they love here.
Another great option for dining in Santorini is Rymidi. This restaurant looks unassuming from the outside, but it is filled with wonderful dishes and drinks. The menu includes everything from tzatziki and pita to burgers, salads, and halloumi. The restaurant also has a variety of draft and bottled beers. Rymidi is a great place to go for lunch or dinner with family or friends.
If you are looking for a more exotic experience, check out Jaipur Palace. This restaurant offers Indian and Asian food. They serve their meals on beautiful gold plates and have a luxurious atmosphere. The food is also very affordable, so you can eat here often if you want.
If you’re staying at a hotel in Santorini, make sure to visit one of these restaurants for a delicious dinner. You can also book a food tour with a guide to help you discover more of the best restaurants in Santorini. You’ll be able to try lots of different dishes and learn about the history of the island.
5. Lucky’s
A taverna with one of the best views in Santorini, Lucky’s serves seafood and Greek classics. The food here is fresh, the portions are generous and the prices are very affordable (especially if you order drinks). It’s an excellent spot to come with friends and enjoy a meal with a view in the heart of Fira.
Located in the port of Oia, Ammoudi Fish Tavern is another great restaurant with super-fresh seafood. The seafood here is grilled and served with a side of rice, potatoes or veggies. This is a popular spot so reservations are recommended.
The first fine dining restaurant in Santorini to spotlight local culinary traditions and ingredients, this place is still a favorite. Dine inside a former Catholic monastery in the heart of Fira and try dishes like Cycladic Spinialo with fava, capers and white aubergines, or baked monkfish with beetroot puree, smoked feta mousse and yellow pepper sauce. There’s also a degustation menu that highlights the best of the island’s produce and wines, curated by Master of Wine Yiannis Karakasis.
The wine here is superb – it’s grown on the volcanic soil of the islands, which gives it an unique flavor. Sip on a glass of the island’s famous Assyrtiko or a bottle of Nykteri, a medium-bodied white with notes of pear and peach. A trip to Santorini wouldn’t be complete without trying their signature sweet, syrup-soaked baklava as well! It’s the perfect way to end your meal. It might seem touristy, but this is a must-do for any foodie visiting Santorini.