Greece › Santorini › Best Restaurants
Updated: May 16, 2026 • By Santorini Dave
Questions? dave@santorinidave.com
See Also
• Where to Stay in Santorini
• Best Hotels in Santorini
• Best Wine Tours in Santorini
• Best Boat Tours in Santorini
• Best Beaches in Santorini
Cheap and delicious! Lucky’s in Fira has the best gyros in Santorini.
Santorini Food & Wine – My Advice
- Santorini has some of the most scenic restaurants in Greece, but the best meals aren’t always the ones with the biggest views. I have spent decades eating my way across the island to find the spots that offer genuine hospitality and incredible flavors. Beyond just booking a table, I think taking a food tour or a local cooking class is an awesome introduction to the island; it is the best way to learn the stories behind Santorini favorites like Tomatokeftedes (tomato fritters) and Fava while discovering exactly how the volcanic soil shapes the local flavor. Here is how I approach dining in Santorini.
- 4-Hour Walking Food Tour: This remains the gold standard for orienting yourself. You walk from Firostefani to Fira, stopping for meze, souvlaki, and local spirits while hitting the best caldera viewpoints.
- Cooking Classes: Learning to cook with local ingredients is a highlight. I highly recommend the classes at Artemis Karamolegos Winery or the unique Greek Cooking Class with a Local Grandmother in Oia for a truly authentic family-style experience.
- Santorini Beer Tasting & Pairing: This is a fantastic change of pace from the wine scene. Located in a modern, impressive space in Fira, it features local craft beers paired perfectly with traditional Greek bites.
- Three Wineries and One Brewery Tour: A great 2026 addition for those who want to mix it up. You visit the Santorini Brewing Company alongside traditional wine cellars, which gives a broader perspective on the island’s modern craft scene.
Table with a view: My wife and I at a restaurant in Santorini.
- Reservations & Timing: From mid-June to mid-September, book 1 week in advance. For elite spots like Athenian House or Selene, book 1 month ahead. Pro Tip: Many restaurants now prefer WhatsApp or Instagram DMs for bookings. On heavy cruise ship days – typically from late morning through late afternoon – the inland villages are the best places to escape the crowds and enjoy a long, quiet lunch.
- Tipping & Pricing: A service charge is usually included in the bill, so there is no need to double-tip. However, rounding up or leaving €2 to €5 (in cash) is customary at tavernas. For fine dining, 5 to 10% is standard.
- Seafood Tip: At waterfront spots like Ammoudi, fresh fish is priced per kilo. Prices can range €70 to €120 per kilo depending on the fish; always confirm the weight and price before they take it to the kitchen.
- “No-View, All Flavor”: Some of the best food is found inland in Pyrgos, Exo Gonia, and Megalochori. You trade the caldera view for better value, quieter atmosphere, and superior quality.
- Dietary Notes: Santorini is excellent for vegetarians and generally very accommodating for vegans. Focus on Fava (yellow split pea puree), Gigantes (giant beans), and White Eggplant dishes. I also recommend seeking out Melitzanosalata (smoky eggplant dip – usually vegan, but occasionally made with yogurt, so it is worth confirming) and Tomatokeftedes (Tomato Fritters) – though fritters are vegetarian but not vegan as they typically contain flour and egg. For Dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), always ask for the rice-only version to ensure they don’t contain meat. Gemista (peppers or tomatoes stuffed with spiced rice) is a vegan staple. Vegans can order a Horiatiki (Greek Salad) and simply ask them to leave off the feta. For Skordalia (garlic dip), ask whether it’s made with a bread or potato base and whether it contains egg yolk, though most versions are plant-based. Gluten-Free diners have plenty of naturally GF options like Grilled Octopus or Lamb Kleftiko, but be cautious with fried items as they may share oil with breaded foods, and check if flour was used to thicken any sauces or gravies.
Santorini is packed with excellent restaurants. Hunting down new places and returning to classic favorites never gets old.
Recommended Restaurants by Area
- Oia: Candouni • €€ • Hidden garden setting; traditional family recipes; live music.
- Oia: Roka • €€ • Exceptional food away from the main Oia crowds; cozy and authentic.
- Imerovigli: Athenian House • €€€€ • Best for a romantic sunset splurge; Michelin-level execution; strong plant-based options.
- Imerovigli: Avocado • €€ • Healthy, fresh Mediterranean; very vegetarian-friendly; friendly service.
- Fira: Ouzeri • € • Best for traditional small plates (meze); great for families; no view but consistently good food.
- Fira: Naoussa • €€ • Excellent traditional Greek food with great caldera views; legendary for its lively atmosphere.
- Exo Gonia: Metaxi Mas • €€ • Best overall food on the island; traditional Cretan-leaning; reservations essential, and cash is preferred.
- Pyrgos: Cava Alta • €€ • Great rooftop views (weather permitting); creative Mediterranean; excellent village vibe.
My two sons at a restaurant in Ammoudi Bay. The top spot for fresh seafood by the water.
- Best Good Restaurants for Families: Ouzeri (Fira) • Roka (Oia) • Avocado (Imerovigli)
- Best for Sunset Views: Athenian House (Imerovigli) • Naoussa (Fira) • Elinikon (Oia)
- The Wind Factor: Sunset terraces are beautiful but can be very windy (due to the meltemi). Even in July or August, bring a light layer if you are dining on the caldera edge.
- Lunch Strategy: You get the same world-class caldera views at lunch for less money, and reservations are much easier to secure than at sunset.
- Water: Tap water is safe for brushing teeth but unpleasant to drink. Stick to bottled water for hydration.
- A Note on My Recommendations: If you visit and enjoy one of these spots, feel free to mention that you heard about them on Santorini Dave. It helps me keep these relationships strong and the information accurate for everyone!
Most Romantic Restaurants in Santorini
The Panorama Balcony at Canaves Oia Suites. (Only one table and one seating per night.)
Lycabettus restaurant at Andronis Luxury Suites in Oia.
Cava Alta restaurant in Pyrgos.
Athenian House restaurant in Imerovigli.
Aktaion restaurant in Firostefani.
Hotel Restaurants with Great Views
The caldera view from Mavro restaurant at Kivotos Hotel in Imerovigli.
Many of the top Santorini hotels have restaurants with great food and fantastic views. These spots offer some of the most refined dining and dramatic sunset perspectives on the island. Because they are located within small boutique hotels, space is extremely limited – always book your table at least a few weeks in advance. These are my favorites:
- Kivotos Hotel in Imerovigli (Mavro) – High-end Mediterranean with a focus on dark, volcanic aesthetics and local ingredients. The Imerovigli terrace offers one of the most private sunset views on the caldera.
- Grace in Imerovigli (Varoulko) – Michelin-starred chef Lefteris Lazarou brings his celebrated seafood to this iconic hotel. The view of Skaros Rock is incredible.
- Canaves Oia Suites (Petra) – Fantastic caldera views from the main seating area. The Panorama Balcony is the most exclusive dining experience in Oia with just one table available for a private dinner.
- Mystique Hotel in Oia (Lure) – Creative Mediterranean cuisine in a sophisticated cliffside setting. It is one of the more serene spots in Oia for a high-end dinner.
- Andronis Luxury Suites in Oia (Lycabettus) – Widely considered one of the most romantic dining spots in the world, with tables set on a narrow rock point jutting out over the water.
- Charisma in Oia – Primarily known for their sunset champagne events at the bar, which is a fantastic way to enjoy the Oia sunset away from the pedestrian crowds.
- Cavo Tagoo near Imerovigli (Vezené) – An open-fire kitchen by chef Ari Vezené. It has a high-energy vibe and is the best choice on the island for premium meats and wood-fired dishes.
- Andronis Boutique Hotel in Oia (Lauda) – Modern Greek fine dining in a spectacular cliffside setting. The focus here is on traditional techniques with highly refined execution.
- Astra Suites in Imerovigli (Five Senses) – An intimate terrace with a creative take on Greek classics and a perfectly centered sunset view.
- Athina Luxury Suites in Fira (Esperisma) – A refined Fira option looking directly out at the volcano, perfect for watching the cruise ships depart as the sun goes down.
The Best Restaurants in Santorini
Metaxi Mas – $$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 31323
Metaxi Mas is the best restaurant on Santorini. While the caldera-view spots are great for scenery, this is where you go for the best food on the island. The menu focuses on Cretan and Santorinian specialties, and the quality is consistently higher than what you’ll find in the more touristy areas.
• Make a reservation. This is non-negotiable. You need to book at least a week in advance during the summer months. If you show up without one, you won’t get a table.
• The setting. It’s located in the quiet village of Exo Gonia, tucked behind the massive Agios Charalambos church. The terrace overlooks the vineyards and the airport rather than the volcano, which keeps the vibe relaxed and authentic.
• The plan. For a perfect evening away from the crowds, have an early dinner here and then drive 5 minutes down to the open-air cinema in Kamari for a late-night movie.
• Parking. There are two easy-to-find parking lots on either side of the church, making it a very convenient stop if you have a rental car.
• Standout dishes: The portions here are very generous and sharing is highly recommended. For appetizers, the Kataifi Cheese Rolls (four cheeses wrapped in shredded pastry with a blackberry sauce) are a must. For mains, try the Beef Fillet in Vinsanto (Santorini’s sweet dessert wine) and the Slow-cooked Lamb, which is incredibly tender. The Seafood Giouvetsi (shrimp and mussels with saffron orzo) is also excellent. For a vegetarian option, the Pomegranate Salad and Baked White Eggplant are consistently excellent. For vegans, the Santorinian Fava is a flavorful staple – and ask about seasonal grilled mushrooms or vegetable specials to round out the meal.Best Restaurants in Fira
Selene – $$$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 22249
Fine dining located inside of a converted monastery within Fira’s only 5 star hotel, Katikies Garden. In its 40th year in operation, now newly led by the Michelin-starred chef Ettore Botrini.Naoussa – $$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 21277
Wonderful traditional food and wide caldera views at the north end of pedestrian Fira. Reservations recommended.Ouzeri – $$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 21566
Good food in a relaxed setting. The big bright sign makes it look very touristy (almost questionable) but I love the food and moderate prices. Reservations recommended for dinner but not necessary for lunch.Cacio e Pepe – $$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 24971
My favorite Italian restaurant in Santorini. Good Italian wines. Fun and friendly.Lucky’s Souvlaki – $
Phone: +30 22860 22003
One of my favorite things to eat on Santorini is a gyro from Lucky’s. Cheap and delicious. Perfect for lunch. You order at the cash register then place your receipt on the bar near the cook. Seating is very limited in the restaurant itself, but right across the street there is a public seating area with a little shade, perfect for people-watching. Don’t miss this!Ftelos Brewery – $$
Website • Phone: +30 22861 86627
Cutting-edge brewery with a rooftop garden (seen above) serving a beer-themed, modern Mediterranean menu and a playful range of craft beers made with local, seasonal, and unorthodox ingredients. Offering tours, tastings, pairings, cooking classes, and a course in home brewing, a visit to Ftelos in any capacity is a fun way to spend an afternoon. Located in Karterados, about a 15-minute walk south of the main square in Fira.Santorinia Tavern – $$
A traditional Greek restaurant near the cable car with an excellent menu curated by Michelin-starred chef Panagiotis Giakalis, and great views of the caldera. Santorinia occasionally hosts immersive Greek feasts featuring live music, dancing, and plate smashing.Best Restaurants in Oia
Candouni – $$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 71616
Warm and romantic vibe with traditional Greek food and live music most nights. I love the atmosphere here. Reservations recommended.Roka – $$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 71896
My favorite restaurant in Oia. Charming, quiet location. Wonderful food. No caldera view. Reservations recommended.Elinikon – $$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 71994
My favorite restaurant in Oia that has sunset views. Delicious food. Specializes in meze, small dishes ideal for sharing. Reservations recommended.Karma – $$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 71404
Charming restaurant with some of the best dishes in Oia. Reservations recommended.Ambrosia – $$$$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 71413
A top-tier Oia dining experience with intimate caldera-edge seating and high-end Mediterranean cuisine. It is a premier choice for a special occasion or a quiet, candlelit dinner. Make reservations far in advance.Panorama Balcony – $$$$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 71453
The ultimate private dining experience in Oia. Located at Canaves Oia Suites, there is only one table and one seating per night, making it the most exclusive spot on the island. It is perfect for a proposal or a milestone anniversary. Reservations are essential and should be made months in advance at dine@canaves.com.Lotza – $$
Phone: +30 22860 71357
A small cafe with good food (the Oia Spaghetti is delicious), reasonable prices, and a patio with spectacular views. The baklava is great. Most of the Oia restaurants I mention here are only open for dinner making Lotza a good option for lunch. But don’t order the souvlaki (always get souvlaki or gyro from a specialized gyro/souvlaki shop, never at a sit-down restaurant). Reservations not required.Ammoudi Fish Tavern – $$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 72298
Ammoudi is the port below Oia and there are four restaurants here, all with super fresh seafood. The Ammoudi Fish Tavern is the best of them but they’re all good choices with wonderful seafront views. Walk down to the waterfront, and have the restaurant call you a taxi to avoid the climb back up. Reservations aren’t needed for lunch but a good idea for dinner.Oia Oenosart (formerly Oia Vineyart) – $$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 72046
Romantic restaurant serving seasonal, fresh dishes using products almost entirely sourced locally in Santorini and the Cyclades. Their impressive wine cellar boasts bottles from every vineyard on the island. Reservations recommended.Pitogyros – $
Website • Phone: +30 22860 71119
The best place in Oia for gyros, souvlaki, and kebabs, along with their house-made pork sausage. A small, covered seating area is across the lane from the restaurant.Dimitris Taverna – $$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 71606
Amazing seaside taverna in Ammoudi Bay serving a simple menu of fresh-caught fish alongside local delicacies, including fava (a grass pea dip) and tomatokeftedes (fried tomato fritters). Reservations recommended for dinner. For lunch, just walk in (though there may be a little wait).Best Restaurants in Imerovigli
Athenian House – $$$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 36420
The best caldera and sunset views of any restaurant in Santorini. The gourmet menu features contemporary takes on regional Greek cuisine with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Beverage offerings highlight the best Santorinian and Greek wines along with creative cocktails. Book months in advance.Avocado – $$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 36183
Along with the Athenian House, this is my favorite restaurant in Imerovigli. Delightful food and people, but no view. Reservations usually not required for lunch but a good idea for dinner. (The chocolate soufflé is amazing!)Anogi – $$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 21285
Wonderful restaurant with a trendy yet casual vibe and an authentic menu of local Santorinian dishes and Greek comfort classics.Best Restaurants in Firostefani
Aktaion – $$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 22336
The best restaurant in Firostefani and the oldest in Santorini, owned and operated by the same family since 1922. Charming atmosphere with tables spilling out onto the sidewalk when it gets busy. Reservations recommended.To Briki – $$
Wonderful spot on the main caldera path offering breakfasts in their cozy cafe, and dinner and cocktails on their expansive rooftop view terrace. The elevated Greek menu is top-notch and views are divine.Remvi – $$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 28200
There are several restaurants with breathtaking views in Firostefani. Remvi has some of the tastiest food. Reservations recommended if you want a table along the edge.Da Vinci – $$
Phone: +30 69460 03463
Very good Italian food. Views look east, not into the caldera. Reservations usually not required. Good for last minute seating and large groups.Best Restaurants in Pyrgos
Cava Alta – $$
Phone: +30 22860 33932
Hidden in the lanes below the castle in Pyrgos, this restaurant has some of my favorite dishes in Santorini. Reservations usually not required for lunch but best to reserve for dinner.Kantouni – $$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 33474
Kantouni is the best traditional restaurant on the main square in Pyrgos. Its open air seating, convenient location next to the bus stop, and excellent food make it very popular.Rosemary – $$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 31262
Elegant yet relaxed Mediterranean restaurant focusing on Cycladic dishes and Santorinian wine. Beautiful panoramic sunsets from the terrace. Reservations recommended for tables with the best views.Best Restaurants in Akrotiri
Misteli – $$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 27515
This boho-chic family-run restaurant serves delicious yet inexpensive food using ingredients grown in their own garden and restaurant. The decor, open layout, convenient location, and amiable staff make this an ideal place to wine and dine. Reservations recommended.The Cave of Nikolas – $$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 82303
Fantastic family-run taverna serving homestyle Greek food on Akrotiri Beach, just minutes from Red Beach. The restaurant uses fresh vegetables, dairy, and meat from its own farm and only fresh seafood caught in the morning in its delicious dishes. The affordable rates, large portions, open layout, and beautiful views of the water and sunset make this an excellent stop for lunch or dinner.Best Beach Restaurants on Santorini
Yalos – Exo Gialos Beach • $$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 25816
Fresh seafood and Santorinian flavors at an idyllic beach location about a 10 minute drive directly east of Fira. Trendy but friendly. I love hanging out here for an afternoon.Seaside by Notos – Agios Georgios Beach • $$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 82801
Luxury beach club with a gourmet Mediterranean restaurant, sushi bar, and cocktail lounge. Eat in the breezy, open-air restaurant or opt for a VIP cabana or sunbed sets and dine with toes in the sand. Reservations recommended, especially for sunbeds and cabanas.Savvas Popeye – Agios Georgios • $
Website • Phone: +30 22860 81332
Savvas Popeye features a casual atmosphere, traditional food, water views, and a very welcoming staff. Open for lunch and dinner through the week.More Great Santorini Restaurants
Sanafi – Exo Gonia • $$
Sanafi is a charming hilltop restaurant offering a modern twist on traditional Cycladic cuisine. The menu focuses on Mediterranean dishes, emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients paired with a carefully-curated selection of local wines and drinks. Indoor and outdoor seating, with their rustic terrace providing expansive views over the island to the east. Reservations recommended.Pentozali – Mesaria • $
Phone: +30 22860 37383
A favorite among locals, this restaurant was opened by two friends from Crete and features a menu of authentic hot and cold mezedes (small dishes), along with raki, cheap house wine, and cold beer. Wonderful shaded patio, friendly staff. Reservations not necessary, though there may be a short wait for a table.To Psaraki – Vlychada • $
Website • Phone: +30 22860 82783
Rustic seafood restaurant with a heavenly view over the marina in Vlychada. All fish is freshly-caught just off the coast, simply prepared, and offered alongside locally-sourced produce.Aroma Avlis – Exo Gonia • $$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 33395
Upscale farm-to-table restaurant attached to Artemis Karamolegos Winery. Almost all produced served in the restaurant is grown in the field surrounding it. Pair a meal here with a winery tour, wine tasting, or cooking class. The wine list includes not only Karamolegos’ varieties but also other Santorinian labels and Greek regional wines.Taverna Gero-Manolis – Megalochori • $
Phone: +30 22860 82892
Wonderful traditional food in the charming village of Megalochori. Popular with locals. Open lunch and dinner. Reservations usually not required.Roza’s – Vourvoulos • $$
Website • Phone: +30 22860 24378
The family-run Roza’s in Vourvoulos features a traditional Greek menu with homestyle cooking. Options range from meat, seafood, and vegetarian dishes, with a wide selection of wine. The restaurant is located a couple of minutes from the bus stop on the main square. The food is delicious and the hosts are extremely hospitable.Kiria Roula’s – Vlychada • $
Phone: +30 22860 82774
This is the best seafood restaurant in Santorini – but I don’t want it to be overrun by masses of tourists, so I put it at the end. It goes by a few different names (the sign says To Steki Tou Psara, Fisherman’s House). It’s right at the Vlychada port and you’ll see the fish being unloaded from the fishing boats. This is an old school Greek taverna. Expect slow, friendly service. Cash only.
Santorini Dave was started in 2011 when I posted a short guide to visiting Santorini with kids. Now, my site publishes regularly updated guides to 
We just booked a 7 day self catering trip to Santorini (Perissa) in October.
Do we still need to book tables in restaurants for an evening meal in advance?
We were hoping to not have to be so committed
thanks
If there’s a must-do restaurant on your list or a special night you want to be certain about, then make a reservation. But otherwise you should be fine without reservations.
Hi, we are going to be staying in Oia at the Adronis and have a day trip planned to do a cooking class at Artemis Winery. Do you have any ideas of what we can do after and maybe where to go to dinner, maybe some fun nightlife before getting a taxi back to Oia?
That is a fantastic day trip, as Artemis Karamolegos is one of the best wineries on the island and their cooking class is excellent. After your class in Exo Gonia, you are in a great central spot to explore. My top recommendation is to head to the village of Pyrgos. It is the highest village in Santorini and arguably the most beautiful of the traditional inland settlements. You can spend an hour or two wandering the maze of winding paths up to the ruins of a Venetian castle, which offers spectacular 360-degree views of the entire island. It is much quieter than Oia and a perfect place to relax, perhaps with a drink at Franco’s Cafe near the top to take in the view.
For dinner, you have several excellent choices. The best option, and one my favorite restaurants in Santorini, is Metaxi Mas, located right in Exo Gonia not far from the winery (but not walking distance either). It serves incredible traditional food, but you must book reservations weeks, if not months, in advance. If you cannot get a reservation there, a wonderful alternative is Cava Alta in Pyrgos, a fantastic Mediterranean restaurant with a nice courtyard.
Oia is very quiet at night, so for any kind of fun nightlife you must go to Fira. For jaw-dropping caldera views, go to PK Cocktail Bar, the most famous spot in town. Another favorite of mine is Kira Thira Jazz Bar, the oldest bar in Fira, which offers a cozy atmosphere down a winding alley and sometimes has live music.
A perfect plan would be to finish your cooking class, explore Pyrgos until sunset, have dinner at Metaxi Mas or Cava Alta, and then head to Fira for a few cocktails. From there, you can get a taxi for the ride back to Oia. Be aware that a late-night taxi from Fira back to Oia will be expensive.
Hi Dave,
I’m taking my wife out to Santorini for her Birthday in August, would love to find a nice restaurant with a sunset view but also serves nice food. I’ve booked Santo Wines restaurant but well…they mainly do winery so something tells me the food may not be the best? Keen to know your thoughts if you’ve ate there.
If not that, would you suggest anything from the list that is a close drive from Kamari at all?
Santo has fantastic views and a relaxing vibe but I wouldn’t recommend it for an especially romantic or special dinner. It can be busy and the setting is more functional (large tables for tour groups) than charming. My favorite restaurant on Santorini, Metaxi Mas, is just a 10-minute drive from Kamari, so that would be my first recommendation. Good luck.
This is such a useful website! I noticed you don’t have Kastro Restaurant on your list for sunset views in Oia.
We are coming in late July with a family group (7 people), and a sunset dinner in Oia with views of the buildings as well will be our big treat. I had read somewhere that Kastro has be best views – so I’d be interested in your thoughts.
Thank you!
Kastro restaurant is legendary precisely for its location and the sunset views it offers.
The View: Kastro is situated right next to the ruins of the old Byzantine Castle (the Kastro), which is the most famous public spot in Oia for watching the sunset. You get stunning views looking out towards the sunset over the caldera and that iconic postcard view looking towards the windmills and the white-washed buildings of Oia. For capturing both elements, its location is one of the best.
The Food: While the food at Kastro is generally good, solid Mediterranean cuisine, it’s fair to say that the view and location are the main reasons people book here. The food is good but not outstanding.
Reservations: Book as far in advance as possible. There’s no such thing as “too early” – especially for a group of seven.
Hello, thank you for a fabulous and extremely useful website. We are a family of four staying in Perissa this August, and we are hoping you might have some restaurant/cafe /bar restaurant recommendations for this area. We enjoy traditional foodie places, most of all, fresh local ingredients. Many thanks; we are so looking forward to our stay!
Helen
Savvas Popeye is my favorite restaurant in the area. It’s fantastic and has lots of fresh seafood options. It’s a bit south of Perissa, but it’s a pleasant 30-minute walk along the beachfront road (pedestrian-friendly).
I am looking for a bar or restaurant where we can sit and have a beer with sweeping views down over white roofs and blue domes. Does it exist?
For the quintessential blue domes, Oia has the best viewpoints, but you’ll need to arrive early if you’re trying to see them at sunset. I’d recommend checking out Vitrin Cafe Creperie (great breakfasts, coffee, sweets, and a bar at night – the best sunset spot it Oia if you manage to snag a seat), Lotza (amazing views and traditional food), Mes Amis (awesome breakfast and sweets, views are toward the domes rather than over them), and Meteor Cafe (cafe by day, low key bar at night). Another option is Volkan on the Rocks between Fira and Firostefani, a casual brewery with an awesome menu of light bites, stellar views, and an outdoor cinema. Volkan offers views over the caldera and toward the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral in Fira, so the domes are white not blue
Which has better sunset/caldera views between Athenian House and Naoussa?
Both are great but I’d go with Athenian House.
What is the “best” time to have a dinner reservation at the restaurants with a view? We will be visiting at the end of September so sunset will be ~7:10pm.
For the view, I’d recommend 6 or 6:30. That’s an early dinner but there are many early eaters in Santorini.
Hi Dave!
Your recommendations were great! We mentioned your name to the managers in these restaurants – Lucky’s Souvlaki, Ouzeri, Elinikon, Lotza, and Argo.
Thank you!
Shiela
I love hearing that. All great restaurants. Thanks!
Thanks, Dave. I name-dropped your site at Oia Castle and the manager knew of you and your visit. Like Steve above, we also ate at Lucky’s and other recs like Naoussa and Ouzeri in Fira. Enjoyed fresh octopus, lamb kleftika, and of course 1.60 beef skewers at Lucky’s for late night noshing.
Got really lost trying to find our hotel, Oia Castle, which was distressing, but we made it. Stayed in the cave pool suite there. I would stress to people that the steps to Oia Castle are extremely steep, more so than other hotels there, and I actually slipped and fell pretty hard on the way down. Just FYI to those with mobility issues (which I don’t have). Beautiful views and lovely breakfasts. We took public buses from the airport to Fira and then on to Oia. That became one of our fun and adventurous memories…highly recommend for the adventurous and you can pay on the bus.
Back to restaurants though, the waiters at Ouzeri were fantastic..the brothers remembered us and called out to us as we passed by the next day. We took photos with them before we left. The staff at Naoussa were not what you would call friendly whatsoever, but the food was fantastic and they comped us a liter of wine. Very nice. I was surprised that the alleged complimentary Ouzo shots were never offered in Santorini, and a strange, sweet “ouzo” was given to us in Mykonos which was definitely not the real thing.
In Mykonos, we stayed at Platis Gialos which was fantastic at Thallasa, the last resort on the far end of the beach…quiet and lovely pool. We ate at Yialo-Yialo on the beach twice and every dish was fantastic. We had the monkfish and mussels, lambchops, pizza, Greek salad, and wine there…perfection! We also went to the Blue Myth at the very start of the beach because they promised us Greek dancing at 9 which must have been a ruse to get us to come in, but sadly there was no Greek dancing to be found. We had the Kleftiko and lambchops which were a bit better than at Yialo’s. We also visited Hippie Fish at Agios Ionnis to see the Shirley Valentine spot, and though we didn’t eat there, we saw the most beautiful platters of prawns and giant crab legs and were salivating!
For those who like beer and inexpensive wine, there are mini markets everywhere that sell cans of beers for under two euros and white wine for around six. Fabulous and cheap!
Probably TMI already, but we also stayed in Athens in Artemis at a VRBO and ate at the Island Basket right on the beach. Enjoyed eating a massive platter of prawns, mussels, fish, salad, bread at nearly midnight with our toes in the softest sand right on the beach. Fantastic! Anyway, I’m still dreaming of the fabulous food from Greece and cannot wait to return.
Thank you so very much for your recommendations, Dave! You really made my trip!
Chris
That’s wonderful. Thanks for the feedback. Always great to hear.
Hi Dave, what are your thoughts on the Lycabettus restaurant? Thanks!
Incredible views, good food (modern/trendy), expensive, reservations essential.
Hey Dave! Fantastic site – thank you. Heading to Santorini late June for a couple of nights, staying in Imerovigli. Planning on walking into Oia and then hoping to have dinner at Ammoudi Fish Tavern one night. Preferred times are already booked up, so would you suggest a 7pm seating, or a later one around 9.15pm. I understand sunset is around 8.30pm. Thanks so much!
I would do the earlier time as it’s a beautiful spot when the sun is still out.
Hi Dave,
How far in advance is too far to make dinner reservations? We will be there from May 29-June 4 and would like to nail down where we are eating for dinner ahead of time and then base our day planning around that.
Thanks in advance for the help! Love your website!
Best,
Rob
I recommend sooner rather than later. A month or two in advance is not unreasonable for the top smaller restaurants.
Hi Dave – firstly, love this site, been really helpful in honeymoon planning. Two questions if you don’t mind.
Would appreciate suggestions for dinner before getting the 22:20 ferry to Ios. We land around 2pm on a Sunday so will have the whole afternoon to kill. We’re then at Sun Rocks later in the week – first night is my birthday, so will need somewhere nice to eat within staggering distance.
Cheers
On your ferry-day you’ll want to stay close to Fira (where the bus to the port leaves from). So do Ouzeri for the best food or Naoussa for the best view (and good food). For a good restaurant near Sun Rocks try Aktaion which has a lively atmosphere and tables that spill out onto the sidewalk. Though if you want something that stays busy later into the night and a bit more of a bar vibe you’ll want to head into Fira (about a 10 minute walk).
Hi Dave,
I’m going with my family to Santorini and Mykonos at the end of May. I have 1.5 year old toddler and was wondering if you know if the restaurants are child friendly as in do they have high chairs available?
High chairs are common in Greece but not universal. You’ll just have to ask before you enter to be sure. Of course, will depend on the restaurant and its typical clientele.
We are going to be visiting the week of Christmas. Do you know if restaurants are open on Christmas day and the week of Christmas? And would we have to make dinner reservations during Christmas week? I’m not sure how busy the holidays get.
Stephanie
There will be a few restaurants open in Fira and Oia, for sure. But which ones change every year so I’ve given up trying to predict. Yes, I would make a reservation once you find one open. Probably unnecessary but with only a handful of places open the most popular could fill up.
Hi Dave
Great website! Thanks for taking time out to answer.
I’m looking to book a hotel in Santorini for next April with my girlfriend to propose to her. Are there any hotels in Oia you would recommend that aren’t ludicrously expensive? Also what is the weather like end of April?
Onar Villas are very nice and have reasonable rates. Not all rooms/suites are right on the caldera.
Thank you!! You’re spot on when it comes to Ouzeri. Wonderful spot!
Yes, my favorite restaurant in Fira.
Hey Santorini Dave! Hope you are well. Any recommendations for a restaurant for dinner near Santo Winery please? Much appreciated, Caroline
Cava Alta is the best restaurant nearby. In Pyrgos, about a mile away, though a tricky walk since there aren’t sidewalks for much of the route.
Hi Dave, myself and my partner are arriving in Santorini on 1st October and staying at the Fishermans House in Akrotiri. Could you give us some advice about transfers from the airport please? Is it best to prebook or should we just grab a taxi when we arrive? Great website, by the way!
As long as you’re arriving before 10pm you should be fine walking out the door and getting a taxi (though a queue can develop especially if you’re not the first ones to grab your bags and get out the door). The taxi queue is right out the door from arrivals – you can’t miss it. If you’re going to rent a car you can pick up at the airport and get that out of the way. But I wouldn’t do this if you’re not arriving in daylight as Akrotiri (and hotels) can be hard to find in the dark.
Hi Dave,
I’m celebrating my 40th in Santorini, staying in Oia. However would love to travel out for the day and eat at Metaxy Mas. Have had a look online but still can’t figure it out how to get there except from a taxi?? How easy is it to get to from Oia? Is the taxi a reasonable price or is public transport an easy enough option?
L :-)
By bus it’s tricky but doable. Take a bus from Fira and get off in Pyrgos. Then it’s a 1km walk (you’ll need to map it). On the way back it’s easier to walk down to the Fira-Kamari road (which is busy with no sidewalk, I wouldn’t do it myself, but it is possible). Then you have to worry about not missing the last bus back to Fira (and then Oia) depending on what time finish dinner. You could bus to Fira and then taxi as a compromise but if you’re getting in a taxi you might as well go all the way. You can get Metaxy to order you a taxi for the trip back but do expect a bit of a wait. You could go for lunch instead of dinner and that makes catching the bus much easier.
Hi Dave,
May I know if there’s a fresh market for fruits, vegetables and meat in Santorini? I reckon that I have to be there early as well?
There is a very small street market (usually fish and a few fruits and vegetables) opposite McDonald’s in Fira. There are also a few people selling fruit along the caldera path – often in Firostefani and Oia.
Staying at the Xenones Filotera in Imerovigli for 3 nights mid October. Wonder if car rental is essential; plan on some walking but at 74 not super energetic. Any island transport? Will we be able to see sunset caldera views without taxi hire; or if needed how expensive?
Thanks
Gale Hamilton
Xenones Filotera is located in a quiet stretch of caldera north of Imerovigli. Great caldera and sunset views from the hotel without going anywhere. There’s a bus stop a short walk from the hotel with buses to Oia and Fira. Buses run about every half-hour (in October).
Hi Dave, been reading a lot of the post on your blog in planning a trip later this month and must say I am really impressed by your efforts in providing incredibly useful information. I have after two attempts booked a table for two at Ambrosia however I have only just now read through reviews on tripadvisor and am a bit concerned about how many bad reviews they have received, mostly on service but also on the food. Was wondering if you were caught up on this and know anything either by own experience or from others about how likely it is that we would have the same struggle as many guests have claimed to have?
Sissel Melberg
Ambrosia has good food and incredible views. It’s not one of my very very favorites but it’s good, for sure. Yeah, service is not top notch but it’s Greece – relax, enjoy the view, take things at Greek speed.
Thank you Dave, for recommending Metaxy Mas. It is an ideal location to stop off between the airport and the port.
The food was superb and the location stunning. It was so good that we visited the restaurant on our return journey between the port and the airport.
Thank you once again.
Stewart Finkle
Yes, great place isn’t it.
Hi Dave
I wanted to know of any good restaurants in Oia that are good for solo travellers?
Hema
The cheaper the place the more single-traveler friendly they feel. Both the gyro places in Oia feel comfortable for solo travelers: Pito Gyros and Nikos Place. Lotza would be good (for caldera views). And Sunsets Cafe (for sunset views).