Discover the Best Restaurants in Greece for an Unforgettable Culinary Journey

With its rich history and diverse influences, Greece boasts some of the most mouth-watering dishes in the world. From traditional Greek cuisine to international cuisine with a local twist, the country has an impressive culinary scene that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re a foodie looking for a gastronomic adventure or a traveler seeking to explore the best of Greek cuisine, this guide will take you on a journey through the country’s best restaurants.

The Best Restaurants in Athens

🍽️1. Varoulko Seaside

🍽️2. Spondi

🍽️3. Funky Gourmet

🍽️4. Nolan

🍽️5. Aleria

🍽️6. Hytra

🍽️7. Kuzina

Varoulko Seaside

Located in Mikrolimano, Varoulko Seaside is the go-to restaurant for seafood lovers. Chef Lefteris Lazarou, the first Greek chef to be awarded a Michelin star, has created a menu that showcases the freshest local catch. The restaurant’s stunning location on the waterfront and its elegant décor make it a perfect destination for a romantic dinner.

Spondi

If you’re looking for a fine dining experience, look no further than Spondi. The restaurant, situated in a neoclassical building in the heart of Athens, offers a sophisticated menu that combines French and Greek flavors. The restaurant’s wine cellar is a treasure trove of rare vintages, and its sommeliers can help you choose the perfect pairing for your meal.

Funky Gourmet

If you’re in the mood for a culinary adventure, head to Funky Gourmet. The two Michelin-starred restaurant serves avant-garde cuisine that pushes the boundaries of traditional Greek cooking. From octopus with tonka bean to quail with beetroot and orange, the dishes are as innovative as they are delicious.

Nolan

Nolan is the brainchild of Chef Nikos Karathanos, who has brought his creative flair to the restaurant’s menu. The dishes are inspired by Greek tradition but have a modern twist, and the restaurant’s chic décor adds to the overall experience. The rooftop terrace, with panoramic views of Athens, is the perfect spot for a pre-dinner cocktail.

Aleria

Aleria is a hidden gem located in the trendy neighborhood of Kerameikos. The restaurant’s menu is based on the concept of Greek terroir, using locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that reflect the flavors of Greece’s different regions. The restaurant’s intimate atmosphere and cozy interior make it a great spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.

Hytra

Located on the top floor of the Onassis Cultural Centre, Hytra offers stunning views of Athens alongside its sophisticated menu. The restaurant’s dishes are inspired by traditional Greek cuisine but with a contemporary twist, and the wine list boasts an impressive selection of Greek wines. The restaurant also has a private dining room for special occasions.

Kuzina

Kuzina is a casual restaurant located in the heart of Athens. The menu focuses on traditional Greek dishes using high-quality ingredients, and the restaurant’s laid-back atmosphere makes it a great spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family. The outdoor seating area offers views of the bustling streets of Athens.

The Best Restaurants in Santorini

🍽️1. Selene

🍽️2. Lycabettus

🍽️3. Argo

🍽️4. Assyrtico

🍽️5. The Athenian House

Selene

Selene is one of the most famous restaurants in Santorini and has been serving traditional Greek cuisine since 1986. The restaurant’s menu is based on seasonal ingredients and local produce, and the dishes are inspired by the island’s culinary traditions. The restaurant’s wine cellar offers an impressive selection of Greek wines.

Lycabettus

Lycabettus is a fine dining restaurant located in the village of Pyrgos. The restaurant’s menu is a contemporary take on traditional Greek cuisine, and the dishes are made with locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s terrace offers breathtaking views of the island, making it a perfect destination for a romantic dinner.

Argo

Argo is a family-run restaurant located in the picturesque village of Firostefani. The menu is based on traditional Greek cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood and grilled meats. The restaurant’s outdoor seating area offers stunning views of the caldera, and the friendly staff will make you feel right at home.

Assyrtico

Assyrtico is a modern Greek restaurant located in the village of Oia. The restaurant’s menu is inspired by the island’s culinary traditions, with dishes that showcase the freshest local ingredients. The restaurant’s terrace offers panoramic views of the sea and the caldera, making it the perfect spot for a sunset dinner.

The Athenian House

The Athenian House is a chic restaurant located in the heart of Fira. The menu is a fusion of Greek and international cuisine, with dishes that are both innovative and delicious. The restaurant’s interior, with its elegant décor and cozy atmosphere, makes it a great spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.

The Best Restaurants in Crete

🍽️1. Avli

🍽️2. Peskesi

🍽️3. Kariatis

🍽️4. Prassein Aloga

🍽️5. Botargo

Avli

Avli is a traditional Cretan restaurant located in the old town of Rethymno. The menu is based on local ingredients, with dishes that showcase the flavors of Crete. The restaurant’s courtyard, with its lush greenery and cozy atmosphere, offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Peskesi

Peskesi is a farm-to-table restaurant located in the heart of Heraklion. The menu is based on traditional Cretan cuisine, with dishes that are made with organic and locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s cozy interior, with its exposed stone walls and wooden beams, creates a rustic yet sophisticated atmosphere.

Kariatis

Kariatis is a seafood restaurant located in the village of Elounda. The menu is based on fresh local catch, with dishes that are grilled to perfection. The restaurant’s terrace offers stunning views of the sea, and the friendly staff will make you feel right at home.

Prassein Aloga

Prassein Aloga is a cozy restaurant located in the village of Anogia. The menu is based on traditional Cretan cuisine, with dishes that are made with locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s rustic interior, with its stone walls and wooden furniture, creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Botargo

Botargo is a modern Greek restaurant located in the city of Chania. The menu is based on traditional Greek cuisine, with dishes that are made with a contemporary twist. The restaurant’s minimalist interior, with its white walls and wooden accents, creates a chic yet cozy atmosphere.

FAQs

1. What is the best time to visit Greece for a culinary journey?

The best time to visit Greece for a culinary journey is during the summer months, from June to August, when the local produce is at its freshest. However, the shoulder seasons of spring and fall are also great times to visit, as the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.

2. What is the best way to explore the culinary scene in Greece?

The best way to explore the culinary scene in Greece is by trying local dishes at different restaurants and tavernas. Many cities and towns also have food tours that offer a guided exploration of the local cuisine.

3. What are some must-try dishes in Greece?

Some must-try dishes in Greece include moussaka, souvlaki, spanakopita, saganaki, and tzatziki. Seafood lovers should try the grilled octopus, fried calamari, and seafood risotto.

4. What is the traditional Greek way of eating?

The traditional Greek way of eating involves sharing dishes with family and friends. Meze, or small plates, are often served as appetizers, followed by a main course. Greeks also enjoy drinking wine or ouzo with their meals.

5. What is the etiquette for tipping in Greek restaurants?

Tipping is not mandatory in Greece, but it is customary to leave