Best restaurants to try in Santorini

In this guide, we’ll explore the best restaurants to try in Santorini to help you savor the full spectrum of Santorini’s flavors.

Santorini, renowned for its stunning sunsets and whitewashed villages, is also home to a thriving culinary scene. Whether you’re craving authentic Greek dishes in a cozy taverna or a luxurious fine dining experience with a view of the caldera, Santorini’s restaurants offer something for every palate.

Dimitris Ammoudi Taverna

Cuisine: Seafood, Traditional Greek
Location: Ammoudi Bay, Oia

Nestled in the charming fishing port of Ammoudi Bay, Dimitris Ammoudi Taverna is a must-visit for seafood lovers. With tables just steps from the water, this taverna offers fresh catches of the day, including grilled octopus, lobster, and a variety of locally sourced fish. The atmosphere is laid-back yet scenic, making it perfect for a sunset dinner after exploring Oia.

Why visit: Authentic Greek seafood with unbeatable views of the sea and cliffs of Oia.

Selene

Cuisine: Fine Dining, Greek-inspired modern cuisine
Location: Pyrgos Village

For those looking to indulge in a refined culinary experience, Selene has long been a favorite among food connoisseurs. Set in the picturesque village of Pyrgos, Selene blends the best of Santorini’s local ingredients with contemporary techniques. The restaurant is known for its tasting menus, which showcase flavors from the island’s volcanic soil and rich agricultural heritage, including dishes featuring fava beans, cherry tomatoes, and capers.

Why visit: One of Santorini’s top fine dining restaurants, blending tradition with innovation.

Metaxi Mas

Cuisine: Traditional Greek, Mediterranean
Location: Exo Gonia Village

Considered a hidden gem by many, Metaxi Mas offers an authentic Greek dining experience that is off the beaten path. The menu is inspired by both Cretan and Santorinian flavors, with standout dishes like lamb in parchment and fava bean dip. The restaurant’s casual yet welcoming atmosphere, coupled with a scenic view of the island’s southeast coast, makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Why visit: Authentic, home-style cooking in a cozy setting with exceptional views.

La Maison Restaurant

Cuisine: Mediterranean, French Fusion
Location: Imerovigli

For those seeking a romantic dinner with a view, La Maison in Imerovigli offers a dining experience like no other. Overlooking the caldera, this restaurant serves a fusion of Mediterranean and French cuisine. Dishes like seared foie gras with fig chutney and Santorinian lamb with vegetables highlight the chef’s creativity and use of fresh, local ingredients. The impeccable service and stunning sunset views make La Maison perfect for a special occasion.

Why visit: Upscale dining with innovative dishes and breathtaking caldera views.

Kastro Oia Restaurant

Cuisine: Mediterranean, Greek Fusion
Location: Oia

Perched high above Oia, Kastro Oia Restaurant offers a front-row seat to Santorini’s famous sunsets. The restaurant specializes in Greek fusion cuisine, with a menu featuring gourmet dishes like calamari stuffed with Greek herbs, slow-cooked lamb, and their signature seafood risotto. Whether you’re there for lunch or dinner, dining at Kastro is a feast for the eyes as much as it is for the taste buds.

Why visit: Dine while enjoying one of the best sunset views in Santorini.

Argo Restaurant

Cuisine: Seafood, Mediterranean
Location: Fira

Located in the heart of Fira, Argo is a popular choice for those seeking a mix of casual elegance and delicious seafood. The restaurant’s terrace offers sweeping views of the caldera, making it a fantastic spot for both lunch and dinner. Signature dishes include seafood pasta, grilled calamari, and lobster with Santorini’s famed Vinsanto sauce. Argo’s laid-back vibe and stunning views make it a great stop while exploring Fira.

Why visit: A relaxed atmosphere with fantastic views and fresh seafood dishes.

Avocado

Cuisine: Mediterranean, Vegetarian-Friendly
Location: Imerovigli

A more casual option in the picturesque village of Imerovigli, Avocado caters to both Mediterranean cuisine lovers and vegetarians. The menu focuses on healthy, fresh dishes like quinoa salads, grilled vegetables, and seafood options. Their terrace offers an intimate dining experience with views of the caldera, making it a great spot for a laid-back lunch or dinner.

Why visit: Health-conscious Mediterranean cuisine in a relaxed setting with scenic views.

Floga

Cuisine: Mediterranean, Modern Greek
Location: Oia

Floga, located in the heart of Oia, offers a modern take on traditional Greek cuisine. The restaurant’s creative dishes, such as shrimp in ouzo sauce and Santorinian fava, reflect a balance between innovation and tradition. With an elegant ambiance and a terrace offering stunning views of the caldera, Floga is ideal for a romantic evening or special celebration.

Why visit: Modern Greek cuisine with fresh flavors and a spectacular view of Oia.

Ambrosia Restaurant

Cuisine: Fine Dining, Mediterranean
Location: Oia

Known for its romantic ambiance, Ambrosia offers fine dining in one of the most beautiful settings in Oia. The restaurant features a cozy, candlelit terrace overlooking the caldera, where diners can enjoy Mediterranean-inspired dishes such as grilled octopus, slow-cooked lamb, and fresh seafood. Ambrosia is the perfect spot for a special evening, with impeccable service and an unforgettable view.

Why visit: A romantic fine dining experience with a prime view of Oia’s caldera.

To Psaraki

Cuisine: Seafood, Traditional Greek
Location: Vlychada

For a truly authentic Greek seafood experience, head to To Psaraki in the small port of Vlychada. This no-frills taverna focuses on serving the freshest seafood, from grilled fish to octopus and shrimp. The restaurant overlooks the quiet marina, offering a peaceful and relaxing dining experience away from the more tourist-heavy areas.

Why visit: Fresh, simple seafood dishes in a relaxed, authentic setting.

Conclusion

Santorini is not only a feast for the eyes but also a paradise for food lovers. Whether you’re indulging in fresh seafood by the sea, savoring a gourmet meal with a caldera view, or experiencing the warmth of a traditional Greek taverna, the island offers a diverse range of dining experiences that will satisfy any culinary craving. From casual eateries to upscale restaurants, the rich flavors of Santorini will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.