What To Eat And Drink In Santorini

Ah, Greece. A glutton’s dream destination and a place where the words “Mediterranean diet” somehow translate into an all-you-can-eat affair. The country is obsessed with food: I’m talking non-stop feasting. Thankfully, the ingredients used in Greek cuisine are incredibly fresh and usually pretty healthy — which is why I don’t look like a blimp after my annual visits! I recently had a chance to eat my way around Santorini, one of the country’s most recognized islands (there are 6000 islands and islets in Greece – 227 are inhabited). The Cycladic jewel boasts fresh seafood, beautiful wines (which are highly underrated) and the most delicious tomatoes I have EVER tasted. Don’t get me wrong: as with any popular tourist hub, there are plenty of restaurants that the island could do without. But I’m here to share the good stuff – cuz, well, life is too short and you need to know where to get your dine on. Here’s my list of what to eat and drink in Santorini:

The Food…

Metaxi Mas – Whatever you do, do NOT leave the island without eating here. The journey to the restaurant (which is definitely off the beaten path if you decide to walk like we did) is worth every ounce of satisfaction you’ll get when you taste the symphony of flavours that chef Chris whips up. His dishes are infused with both Santorini and Cretan influences and literally put a smile on my face. The taverna is set inside a traditional cave so you won’t get caldera views here, but don’t you worry: the food will have you thinking of nothing else.

Argo by Constantine Restaurant – Okay, so you’ll obviously need to pick a restaurant or two with sweeping vistas to dine at — you are in Santorini after all! For this, I recommend heading to Argo and enjoying dinner and vino as the sun sets. The portions here are generally smaller than other places on the island, but the cuisine does have more finesse. If you want an unblocked view of the caldera (who doesn’t?!), make sure you book a table in advance. Oh, and it gets a bit chilly/windy at nights so take a jacket!

The Santorini Tomato – You’ll likely get a taste of it in many salads and dishes on the island, but make sure you enjoy a few on their own to really appreciate how beautiful the tomato really is. I’ve had my share of tomatoes during our travels, but none compare to the Santorini variety: the flavour is so concentrated and sweet. Whether fresh, dried or in a paste form (which you should definitely bring home), I am convinced that these are some of the best — if not, the best — tomatoes in the world.

To Psaraki – If you’re on the hunt for the freshest seafood on the island, look no further. This resto served up my favourite dishes in Santorini. Make sure you go inside and check out the fresh catches of the day (they can also weigh your pick and tell you the cost right away). All the dishes we ordered were incredible – perfectly cooked, well-seasoned and fresh. There are also non-seafood items on the menu (which are also divine), but go here for the seafood. The ceviche is to die for…

Cherries – Sold at roadside stands around the island, these cherries are some of the best I’ve ever had. Although they come from the mainland (as far as I could tell, there were no local cherry farms), they are definitely worth trying. You can – and should – ask for a taste before purchasing these beauts.

Nick The Grill – Head here for a quick, cheap bite. The chicken souvlaki really hits the spot – especially after a long night out. Greeks -young and old – flock here in the evenings to feed their inner beasts so it does get really busy, BUT the service is fast. Oh, and there’s no place to sit so expect to stuff your face standing up.

Shrimp Saganaki – While had this dish on several occasions in Santorini, none really compared to captain Ted’s recipe onboard Triton (the largest private charter catamaran on the island). If you’re looking for a fab feast and a day out on the water, I highly recommend taking a tour with Santorini Sailing. You’ll get an incredible view of the island and will have great company, a full belly and plenty of wine…

Tiropita – If you’re looking for a quick breakfast or mid-morning snack, try this baked cheese pie. It comes in all shapes (from circles and triangles to half-moons and squares) and is usually stuffed with feta. When made right, it is delightfully flaky and buttery. Although many restaurants have tiropita on their menus, I’d recommend grabbing them at the local bakeries.

The Good Heart – So, as you drive to Faros (a popular lighthouse in Akrotiri that is worth a visit), you’ll likely see a woman run up to your car waving frantically with a huge smile on her face. Do not fear: it is most definitely Anna, one of the most hospitable and genuine people on the island. She also happens to make some amazing treats! If you’re looking to buy Santorini tomato paste, olive tapenade, capers, jams, spices etc. this is the place to head.

Ginger Sushi Lounge – Greek sushi you ask? Why not! You are on an island surrounded by fish after all. Using locally-caught fish and fresh ingredients, the sushi at Ginger is a welcomed break from all the traditional Greek food you’ll be devouring. While it’s owned by Greek-Americans (the same amazing couple who run Santorini Sailing), the sushi is made by a Japanese chef who expertly prepares the velvety fish. The lounge also serves up some fab cocktails and has a nice, relaxed vibe.

Selene Restaurant: Nestled in the village of Pyrgos, Selene is a food-lover’s paradise. Since 1986 they’ve been sharing Santorini’s unique flavours with locals and visitors alike through their fine dining restaurant, wine and cheese tastings, catering services and cooking classes. If you’re looking for elevated cuisine at the finest restaurant on the island, this is the place to book your dinner.

The Booze…

Bar at Altana Hotel – You’d probably walk right past this gem if you didn’t know about it. Tucked inside a breathtaking boutique hotel in Imerovigli (which has an infinity pool with a phenomenal view of the caldera), the cozy bar is one of those places I could spend hours in (and I did). Why? I am convinced that the owners are the kindest people on the island. They’re also incredibly creative and talented when it comes to mixology — ask the twins to whip you up a special drink and I promise you will not be disappointed. They named this beaut after me!

Wineries – Although Santorini isn’t really known for its wines, the Nykteri (a medium-bodied white with a hint of pear and peach on the nose), Assyrtiko (a crisp, dry and acidic white), and Vinsanto (a sweet, sun-dried white) varietals are delicious! Perhaps this is due to their unique cultivation method: vines are woven in circles to form baskets that protect grapes from strong winds and the blazing sun. Or perhaps it’s because most crops on the island are farmed with very little irrigation (which results in concentrated and intense flavours). Whatever the reason, the wines are definitely worth a try! Make sure to visit one or two of the island’s 13 wineries (or rent a car and visit them all) – Gavalas and Venetsanos were my personal favourites.

Beer – While the Greek market is dominated by Mythos and Fix, there is a local brewing company on the island that is making some fantastic beer (along with brilliant marketing — I mean, who doesn’t love the donkey on the label?!). Santorini Brewing Company produces three distinct brews: Yellow, Red and Crazy Donkey. I personally prefer the full-bodied Red Donkey. Make sure to tour the microbrewery and taste their beers — knock on the door (the owners are super friendly and will open up shop if they’re around). It’s a great pit stop on the way to/from Kamari beach.

Mastiha – If you’re looking to try a spirit, it doesn’t get more Greek than mastiha. Made with a resinous sap (produced by mastic trees that only grow in Chios), it has a unique herbal aroma with a hint of pine. The liqueur is great on its own or blended into cocktails.

Wet Stories – Head to Perivolos beach if you’re looking for a chilled party scene. This beach bar has a great vibe, attracts talented DJs and has a nice stretch of sand where you can unwind while sipping on cocktails. Locals have a lot of love for this place and usually visit with friends in the afternoons. I highly recommend a sunset swim if you go!

That wraps up my recos. Do let me know your favourite spots so I can check them out on our next visit. Kali orexi!