The 9 Best Tavernas In Santorini For Your Hit Of Greek Food

When you visit Santorini, you expect breathtaking views, stunning sunsets, and unforgettable cuisine. The island’s tavernas offer more than just meals—they provide authentic Greek experiences where family recipes and local ingredients transform into culinary masterpieces. From the century-old Aktaion overlooking the Caldera to the beachfront grills of Savvas Popeye, these nine establishments represent the heart and soul of Santorinian dining culture. What makes each taverna special goes beyond their menus, and you’ll want to discover why locals treasure them.

Key Points

• Aktaion Restaurant, established in 1922, offers panoramic Caldera views and award-winning wines alongside traditional Greek flavors.
• Taverna Tzanakis serves authentic Santorinian cuisine with specialties like ntomatokeftedes (tomato fritters) at reasonable prices with generous portions.
• Ammoudi Fish Tavern specializes in fresh seafood in a stunning seaside location with views of volcanic red rocks.
• The Good Heart (Kali Kardia) emphasizes local, organic ingredients and offers homemade products like capers and tomato paste.
• Metaxi Mas in Fira provides outdoor seating with local wine and caldera views, while The Athenian House offers fine dining with sunset vistas.

Aktaion Taverna: A Century of Traditional Greek Flavors

When stepping into Aktaion Restaurant in Firostefani village, you’re entering a century-old legacy of authentic Greek cuisine. As Santorini’s oldest restaurant, established in 1922 by Lefteris Roussos, Aktaion has remained in the same family for three generations.

The taverna perfectly balances tradition and innovation, serving family recipes with modern flair while using the finest local ingredients from Santorini’s land and sea. The unique flavors in their dishes showcase the exceptional quality of produce grown in Santorini’s volcanic soil. You’ll dine amid enchanting Cycladic décor with panoramic views of the Caldera and Aegean Sea—an ideal spot for sunset watching.

Current owner Vangelis Roussos, who took over in 1984, maintains the authentic Greek hospitality established by his grandparents. While Santorini offers magnificent cuisine, those seeking to explore more of Greek gastronomy might consider visiting Crete for an expanded culinary adventure.

Don’t miss sampling their curated wine list featuring awarded Santorinian varieties from the family’s own production.

Taverna Tzanakis: Family Recipes With Homemade Wine

Hidden in the charming village of Megalochori, Taverna Tzanakis has been serving authentic Santorinian cuisine for over 26 years. This family-run hotel offers classic island dishes in a setting draped with the blue and white colors of the Greek flag.

You’ll find their fried saganaki and ntomatokeftedes (cherry tomato fritters) among the standouts, while their fried eggplant with capers at €5.50 delivers exceptional value. Don’t miss the opportunity to pair your meal with their praised homemade wine.

Unlike tourist-focused restaurants, Tzanakis maintains reasonable prices with generous portions. Located just five minutes from the village center, this taverna provides a quiet, authentic environment away from the crowded tourist spots. The bright, airy space with large windows creates a welcoming atmosphere where you’ll feel like you’re dining with family.

It’s the perfect spot to experience hyperlocal ingredients like Santorini’s famous cherry tomatoes without the tourist markup. Visitors seeking a similar authentic Greek island experience might also consider exploring the natural allure of Paros, known for its traditional villages and local cuisine.

Ammoudi Fish Tavern: Seaside Dining With Fresh Catch

Perched at the water’s edge in Ammoudi Bay below Oia village, Ammoudi Fish Tavern offers one of Santorini’s most authentic seaside dining experiences. With breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and volcanic red rocks, you’ll dine amid a truly spectacular setting as waves gently crash nearby.

The menu showcases the freshest seafood—choose your fish directly from their daily catch or try the crispy fried calamari with aioli. Don’t miss Santorini’s traditional fava or the indulgent pasta with lobster, both consistently praised by diners. Open daily from April to October, the tavern welcomes guests during the island’s prime tourist season.

The tavern’s wooden decor and earthy tones perfectly complement its natural surroundings, while sunset views transform your meal into an unforgettable experience. Many visitors make the journey from Fira to Oia specifically to experience this hidden culinary gem.

With friendly staff ready to explain ingredients and preparation methods, you’ll understand why this spot consistently ranks among Santorini’s best seafood establishments.

Savvas Popeye Tavern: The Beachfront Grill Experience

Savvas Popeye Tavern stands directly on Agios Georgios beach in Perivolos, offering a completely different but equally enthralling Santorini dining experience. With stunning sea views and a casual atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy traditional homestyle Greek cuisine with your toes nearly in the sand.

The menu focuses on fresh seafood (which you can select yourself from the display), grilled meats, and vegetarian options including local favorites like fava and taramosalata. Their commitment to seasonal produce guarantees authentic flavors that capture the essence of Greek summers. For travelers on an island hopping adventure through Greece, this taverna makes an essential culinary stop in Santorini. The hotel’s fascinating history dates back to 1956 when Grandpa Haralambos first opened a tavern for fishermen at Perissa Beach docks.

Open daily from noon to 11pm during peak season (May to mid-October), it’s easily accessible by bus or car with free parking nearby. While reservations aren’t always necessary, they’re recommended for larger groups.

The Good Heart: Authentic Santorinian Cuisine With Sunset Views

Nestled along the road to Faros Lighthouse in Akrotiri, The Good Heart (Kali Kardia) invites visitors to experience authentic Santorinian cuisine while enjoying some of the island’s most spectacular sunset views.

Discover authentic Santorinian flavors at The Good Heart while watching breathtaking sunsets over Akrotiri’s coastline.

This family-run taverna, a recent addition to their 15-year-old shop, serves Mediterranean dishes made exclusively with local, organic ingredients grown by the family themselves.

You’ll find traditional Santorinian recipes alongside homemade products like capers, tomato paste, and local cheeses.

The tavern operates from 11 AM to midnight, making it perfect for sunset dining.

Customers consistently praise both the warm service and fair pricing.

The shop itself is open daily from 9am to 10pm, offering visitors an opportunity to purchase famous Santorini products including wines, jams, pickles, and honey to take home.

While enjoying your meal at The Good Heart, you might find yourself planning your next Greek adventure to Ios island, known for its alluring beaches and captivating views just a short distance from Santorini.

For the full experience, reserve a table during sunset hours by calling +30 22860 82247 or sending a DM through their Instagram account.

Salt & Pepper: Greek Hospitality and Generous Portions

While exploring Fira’s vibrant culinary scene, you’ll find Salt & Pepper standing out as a beloved hotel on the main road from Fira to Firostefani. Ranked #5 among Fira’s 157 restaurants and boasting a 4.6/5 rating, this husband-and-wife operation delivers authentic Greek and Mediterranean cuisine that’s earned a 2024 Travelers’ Choice award.

You’ll appreciate their generous portions at reasonable prices, with options spanning lunch (13:30-15:30) and dinner (19:00-23:00). The menu caters to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets while emphasizing local ingredients and seafood specialties. Many guests rave about their delicious homemade desserts like orange cake, often served complimentary at the end of your meal.

For the complete experience, enjoy their outdoor seating with a glass of local wine. After dining, you can easily visit some of Fira’s caldera view hotels known for their stunning panoramic vistas. Reservations are recommended for larger groups—simply call +30 2286 022747 to secure your table at this Santorinian gem.

Ta Tertipia Santorini: Tapas-Style Greek Delights

For a different kind of dining experience in Santorini, head to Ta Tertipia in Kamari, where Greek cuisine takes on a tapas-style approach that’s earned it the #1 spot among 125 local restaurants.

You’ll find a delightful array of meze including Santorini’s tomato balls, feta in filo pastry, and traditional tzatziki. The feta with honey and pork bites consistently receive rave reviews from travelers. While enjoying your meal, you can daydream about visiting historical Athens sites on your next Greek adventure.

The local meze selection shines with authentic Santorini flavors, while honey-drizzled feta and savory pork bites steal the spotlight.

Open until 11 PM daily (from 1 PM on Sundays), this pet-friendly hotel welcomes families and enhances your meal with live music.

Vegetarian and vegan options ensure everyone in your group will find something to enjoy. The owner Nikolas often adds a personal touch to your dining experience, offering complimentary honey wine and desserts.

Located on Epar.Od. Mesarias-Archeas Thiras, Ta Tertipia offers free Wi-Fi, accepts credit cards, and provides street parking—making it both accessible and convenient for your Santorini dining adventure.

Gyros Place: Budget-Friendly Local Favorite in Perissa

Looking for authentic Greek street food without breaking the bank? Gyros Place in Perissa is your answer. This unpretentious eatery offers delicious pita gyros for just €2.80 and hearty souvlaki for €8, making it one of Santorini’s best values.

You’ll find generous portions here – a mixed plate costs about €20 and easily feeds two people. Their signature pork and chicken gyros (€10) come with perfectly prepared tzatziki that locals rave about. The restaurant has earned Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice recognition for its consistently high-quality food.

Located conveniently in Perissa, they offer free delivery and takeout options if you’re staying nearby. While Athens may be the cultural hub of Greece, many travelers find that Santorini’s cuisine offers equally rewarding gastronomic experiences. The welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff enhance your dining experience whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or enjoying a casual dinner with friends.

It’s an essential stop for budget-conscious travelers seeking authentic Greek flavors.

The Athenian House: Elevated Greek Dining With Caldera Vistas

Perched dramatically on the caldera cliffs in Imerovigli, The Athenian House represents Santorini’s pinnacle of fine dining. Chef Dimitris Skarmoutsos reinvents traditional Greek recipes with modern techniques, using seasonal local ingredients for an extraordinary culinary journey. The restaurant features three interconnecting terraces that provide an ideal setting for al fresco dining with spectacular views.

You’ll need to reserve well in advance to secure a sunset table at this internationally acclaimed restaurant.

The tasting menus range from $90 to approximately €180 per person, showcasing signature dishes like lamb moussaka with white aubergine and decadent baklava.

What sets The Athenian House apart is its impressive wine collection – one of Santorini’s largest vintage selections featuring rare local varieties like assyrtico and mavrotragano.

Pair your meal with a wine flight that highlights the island’s unique terroir for a complete gastronomic experience. After dining here, many visitors seek out Milos’ beaches for their next Greek island adventure.

The Sum Up

You’ll never find a bad meal at these nine tavernas in Santorini. From the mind-blowing century-old recipes at Aktaion to the impossibly fresh seafood at Ammoudi Fish Tavern, they’re all worth visiting. Whether you’re craving budget-friendly gyros or elevated caldera-view dining, these family-run spots deliver authentic Greek flavors that’ll transport you straight to culinary heaven. Don’t leave the island without trying at least three!