The Best Greek Islands for Foodie Travelers
Greece is known for its delectable cuisines, making it an ideal destination for food lovers. You’ll find great food with fascinating influences throughout the Greek islands, from Mediterranean specialties made from fresh organic produce to local fares like moussaka and gyros. The best way to savor an island’s gastronomic scene is to go where the locals go.
Below, check out the best Greek islands for foodie travelers.
- Naxos
Only a four-hour ferry ride from Athens, Naxos offers a calming escape from the bustling streets of the Greek capital. It’s the largest of the Cyclades islands, offering everything you need for a relaxing Greek getaway, including delectable local delicacies. The best part about visiting here is you’ll find plenty of accommodation options in Naxos, making it an ideal base for island-hopping holidays in the Cyclades.
Since Naxos has a long agricultural history, the island’s local restaurants are happy to showcase locally grown produce, from fresh veggies and fruits to meats and plenty of cheeses.
Between the Old Town’s narrow lanes and the main port on the south are numerous decent restaurants, bars, and cafes. Check out Doukato Restaurant, Oniro Wine Bar Restaurant, and To Elliniko Restaurant. These are some of the well-known establishments in the main town. Of course, you don’t need to limit yourself to Chora to find great food since the best restaurants are all over the island, so don’t hesitate to venture outside the town.
While you can find the best restaurants in Naxos with just a few clicks around the Internet, asking locals will uncover some of the island’s hidden gems. Locals will be happy to refer you to their favorite local taverna – something you may not find online.
Santorini
Famous for its romantic sunsets and fantastic views of the caldera, Santorini is one of those Greek islands that are a must-visit for foodies. Although the restaurants of Santorini can become unbearably packed with tourists in the summer, you can have the island to yourself if you time your trip right. Try to visit Santorini slightly earlier than the peak season or wait until after the rush, around the end of summer.
When eating out in Santorini, avoid the tourist traps, especially in the main towns of Fira and Oia. You will find some real gems outside the main tourist spots. Although the island’s touristy areas have the most jaw-dropping views, traveling to the outskirts to enjoy a more authentic meal without paying the premium price.
As the most famous Greek island, you’ll find restaurants serving all cuisines in Santorini. But if you want to indulge in the local gastronomic scene, be sure to try some of the mouth-watering specialties like Fava me Koukia (mashed fava beans), Kofta (ground meat), Tomato Gefthedes (tomato fritters), and delightful Greek salads.
Corfu
Conquered by the French, English, and Venetians, Corfu has incredibly diverse gastronomic offerings, making it a fantastic place for food lovers. While it’s famous for its vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and rich history, it also offers numerous excellent eateries showcasing the best of its local gastronomy. From fresh local fish to olive oil and exotic spices, Corfu’s cuisine dishes are a feast for the senses.
The best way to savor Corfu’s culinary offerings is to visit out-of-town restaurants where locals hang out. Therefore, getting a car rental is a great idea, allowing you to travel around the island and visit eateries outside the tourist trap.
But if you prefer to dine in the Old Town, head to Corfu Sailing Restaurant, a chic restaurant housed in an old fortress. It’s in a quiet corner of the town, along the harbor edge. Dine al fresco, and grab a chair at one of the outdoor tables. Tuck into fresh seafood, cheese pies, and pasta while soaking up the waterfront views. Finish off with delightful cheesecakes and mouth-watering local wine.
Sofrito is one of those local dishes you should try. It consists of thin slices of beef cooked in white wine, pepper, garlic, vinegar, and parsley, served with mashed potatoes. Of course, it goes well with the local Greek wine.
Mykonos
For foodies looking for a relaxing break under the Greek sun, there’s no better place than Mykonos. The picturesque island offers everything you could ever wish for in a holiday, including fantastic places to dine and drink. When dining out in Mykonos, you will be in awe of the culinary offerings, especially if you’re searching for luxury food spots. The island is famous for its outstanding culinary scene, luring jet setters and wealthy travelers looking to splurge on fancy dinners.
If you want to easily explore Greece, check out the local dining scene in Mykonos, where you’ll find many authentic restaurants serving dishes that reflect the island’s rich culinary heritage. Be sure to try the local plates, including freshly caught seafood like succulent shrimp, grilled octopus, and fried calamari – cooked and seasoned to perfection!
Another classic dish every foodie must try in Mykonos is Horiatiki, which is ideal for those looking for something light to eat before exploring the island. It’s a Greek salad rich in local flavor, consisting of cucumbers, fresh tomatoes, olive oil, and feta cheese.
Crete
Dining in Crete is a culinary delight and a foodie experience you will not forget. The island has an incredible gastronomic scene and will delight you with fresh seafood, delicious local dishes, and mouth-watering local wine. One of Crete’s best things to do is join wine tours.
Crete’s dining scene includes influences from various regional cuisines and a naturally fertile landscape. Most cuisines are organic, based wholly on seasons, often with plenty of veggies like wild greens. Simple dishes are the norm, produced using fresh local ingredients.
Most restaurants in Crete offer a diverse menu, but the most common are seafood dishes. Aside from the grilled fish, the octopus salad and squid ink risotto are worth a try. And whether you’re a wine lover or not, a wine tour in Crete is a must. It takes you into the island’s most stunning vineyards, where you can savor exquisite wines and learn about the local wine-making traditions.
