7 Best Restaurants and 5 Local Foods to Try in Santorini 🍽️🍷

Santorini isn’t just about jaw-dropping sunsets and whitewashed buildings—it’s also a paradise for local food lovers. Thanks to its volcanic soil and rich Mediterranean influences, the island serves up incredibly fresh seafood, unique local dishes, and some of the best wines in Greece. From sun-ripened cherry tomatoes and fava beans to freshly caught octopus and flavorful white eggplant, every bite tells a story of the island’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re looking for a fine-dining experience with breathtaking caldera views or a cozy, family-run taverna serving up traditional Greek comfort food, I’ve got you covered.

🌿 Must-Try Local Dishes in Santorini

1️⃣ Fava Santorinis (Not Your Typical Fava Bean Dish!)

If you’re a fan of beans, you might be surprised by Santorini’s version of fava. Unlike the green fava beans you may be familiar with, Santorini’s fava is made from yellow split peas, which are cooked slowly until they become creamy and velvety. This simple yet flavorful dish is a staple on the island and a must-try for anyone looking to dive deeper into the local cuisine.

Santorini’s fava is usually served as a starter or appetizer, often topped with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of capers, and some caramelized onions, which bring a wonderful balance of sweetness and tang to the dish. The texture is smooth and rich, and the flavors are deep, making it an incredibly satisfying dish that you can enjoy on its own or as part of a larger meal. It’s perfect for soaking up with a warm pita or enjoying alongside fresh seafood.

👉 Where to Try It: Metaxi Mas, Roka, To Psaraki

You’ll find fava served at nearly every taverna in Santorini, but the best versions are typically found at smaller, traditional spots, where the dish is made with love and care. These tavernas often use local ingredients, giving the fava an authentic, island-inspired flavor. It’s the perfect way to taste a bit of Santorini’s culinary tradition—simple, wholesome, and absolutely delicious.

2️⃣ Tomatokeftedes (Santorini Tomato Fritters) 🍅

Tomatokeftedes, or Santorini tomato fritters, are a deliciously crispy and flavorful treat you absolutely can’t miss when visiting the island. Made with the island’s famous cherry tomatoes, these fritters are packed with vibrant, intense flavor, thanks to Santorini’s volcanic soil, which imparts a unique sweetness and richness to the tomatoes. The small, sun-drenched tomatoes are the heart of this dish, combined with herbs like oregano and mint, and then lightly battered before being fried to golden perfection.

These fritters are typically served as a meze, or appetizer, and are perfect for sharing with friends or family. The crispy exterior contrasts wonderfully with the tender, juicy interior of the tomatoes, making each bite a delightful experience. Often paired with a refreshing side of tzatziki, the cool, tangy yogurt-based dip complements the warm fritters beautifully, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

👉 Where to Try It: Metaxi Mas, Taverna Katina, Naoussa

Tomatokeftedes can be found in many tavernas around Santorini, but the best versions often come from the smaller, family-run spots that focus on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. These little fritters are a great way to experience Santorini’s culinary roots while enjoying the island’s unique agricultural bounty. Whether you’re a fan of tomatoes or just love a crispy, savory appetizer, Tomatokeftedes are sure to be a standout dish during your visit.

3️⃣ Chloro Cheese (local food)🧀

Chloro cheese is a rare and delightful local specialty from Santorini, made from fresh goat’s milk. With its soft, creamy texture and slightly tangy flavor, it’s a unique treat for cheese lovers. The taste is mild yet distinct, offering a delicate balance of richness and acidity.

Traditionally, Chloro is enjoyed fresh, often paired with a drizzle of honey to enhance its natural sweetness. This simple combination creates a perfect contrast between the tangy cheese and the sweetness of the honey. It’s also commonly included in fresh salads, where it adds a creamy, savory note to the crisp vegetables.

👉 Where to Try It: Selene, Argo, local markets

Because it’s made with locally sourced goat’s milk, Chloro embodies the flavors of Santorini’s landscape, offering a taste of the island’s agricultural heritage. If you find yourself on the island, Chloro is a must-try—simple yet absolutely delicious.

4️⃣ Apochti (Santorini’s Version of Prosciutto)

Apochti is Santorini’s take on prosciutto, but with a distinct island twist. This air-dried pork is salted and cured with a unique blend of vinegar and spices, giving it a rich, savory flavor that’s both salty and tangy. The curing process results in a firm texture that’s perfect for slicing thin and enjoying on its own or as part of a larger meal.

Traditionally, Apochti is served as part of a meze platter, often paired with local cheeses, olives, and fresh bread. Its bold flavor makes it a perfect match for a glass of Assyrtiko, Santorini’s signature white wine. The crisp, citrusy notes of the wine complement the saltiness of the Apochti, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

👉 Where to Try It: Selene, The Good Heart

If you’re looking to savor authentic island flavors, Apochti is a must-try—simple, delicious, and a true taste of Santorini’s culinary traditions.

5️⃣ Seafood Straight from the Aegean 🦑🐟

Santorini is a paradise for seafood lovers, surrounded by some of the freshest catches in the Mediterranean. The island’s location in the Aegean Sea means that local seafood is always incredibly fresh and packed with flavor. One of the must-try dishes is grilled octopus, which is tender and smoky, often served with a sprinkle of lemon and olive oil—simple yet full of flavor.

Another popular dish is shrimp saganaki, where juicy shrimp are cooked in a savory tomato sauce with feta cheese, creating a deliciously tangy and creamy dish that pairs perfectly with crusty bread. For those who love whole fish, Santorini’s tavernas often serve freshly caught fish grilled to perfection, seasoned with herbs and olive oil, and served with a side of vegetables.

👉 Where to Try It: Ammoudi Fish Tavern, To Psaraki, Dimitris Ammoudi Taverna

Whether you’re sitting by the sea or in a cozy taverna, Santorini’s seafood offers an unforgettable taste of the Mediterranean that’s not to be missed.

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🍷 Best Restaurants in Santorini

🔥 1. Metaxi Mas (Best for Traditional Greek Local Food)

📍 Pyrgos | 💰 Moderate | 🌟 Local Favorite

If you ask a local where to eat local food, they’ll probably say Metaxi Mas. Hidden in the village of Pyrgos, this cozy taverna serves incredible meze and homemade Greek dishes with an amazing sunset view.

⭐ Must-Try: Tomatokeftedes, fava, grilled lamb chops
✅ Best for: Authentic Greek experience, off-the-beaten-path dining

🍷 2. Santo Wines (Best for Wine Tasting & Sunset Views)

📍 Pyrgos | 💰💰 | 🌟 Stunning Caldera Views

Santorini’s Assyrtiko wine is world-famous, and Santo Wines is the best place to sip it while watching the sunset. The wine flights come with local cheeses, olives, and a breathtaking view of the caldera.

⭐ Must-Try: Assyrtiko wine flight, cheese platter
✅ Best for: Romantic sunset dinners, wine lovers

🌊 3. Ammoudi Fish Tavern (Best for Fresh Seafood by the Water)

📍 Ammoudi Bay | 💰💰💰 | 🌟 Seafood Heaven

If you want the best seafood in Santorini, take the 300-step descent from Oia to Ammoudi Bay, a picturesque fishing village known for its incredible waterfront tavernas. Here, restaurants serve fish straight from the Aegean, grilled to perfection and bursting with fresh, natural flavors. You’ll find everything from succulent octopus and juicy shrimp to perfectly cooked sea bass, all complemented by stunning views of the caldera. Pair your meal with a crisp Assyrtiko wine, a local favorite, to elevate the experience of local food.

The setting is just as unforgettable as the food—colorful boats bob on the water, and the cliffs glow at sunset, creating a magical atmosphere. Whether you’re indulging in a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner by the sea, Ammoudi Bay is the perfect place to savor Santorini’s finest seafood while soaking in the island’s breathtaking beauty.

⭐ Must-Try: Grilled octopus, lobster pasta, shrimp saganaki
✅ Best for: Seafood lovers, sunset by the sea

🛶 4. To Psaraki (Best for Hidden-Gem Seafood)

📍 Vlychada | 💰 Moderate | 🌟 Local Favorite

This small, unpretentious taverna is where the locals go for seafood. Located in Vlychada Marina, it serves some of the freshest fish on the island with simple yet delicious flavors.

⭐ Must-Try: Whole grilled fish, seafood pasta
✅ Best for: Laid-back seafood lovers, avoiding the crowds

🏰 5. Selene (Best for Fine Dining & Local Ingredients)

📍 Fira | 💰💰💰💰 | 🌟 Michelin-Star Level

For a high-end dining experience, Selene is THE place for local food. It specializes in modern takes on traditional Santorinian cuisine and offers an elevated wine pairing menu.

⭐ Must-Try: Chloro cheese with honey, Apochti pork, wine pairing. Real local Food.
✅ Best for: Foodies, anniversary dinners

🍷 6. Roka (Best for Cozy, Hidden-Gem Dining in Oia)

📍 Oia | 💰 Moderate | 🌟 Underrated Local Food Gem

Oia has plenty of touristy restaurants, but Roka is a local food hidden gem tucked away from the crowds. The charming courtyard setting and delicious homemade Greek dishes make it a must-visit.

⭐ Must-Try: Fava Santorinis, stuffed peppers, lamb stew
✅ Best for: Quiet, relaxed meals in Oia

🏡 7. The Good Heart (Best for Home-Style Greek Local Food & Local Products)

📍 Akrotiri | 💰 Affordable | 🌟 Family-Run Taverna

This small, family-run taverna in Akrotiri serves simple, authentic Greek Local food with fresh, local ingredients. They also sell homemade jams, olive oil, and honey—perfect souvenirs!

⭐ Must-Try: Apochti (Santorini’s prosciutto), homemade yogurt with honey, a real local food.
✅ Best for: Traditional Greek flavors, budget-friendly dining

🍇 Bonus: Santorini Wine You HAVE to Try

Santorini produces some of the best white wines in Greece, thanks to its volcanic soil. Here are three wines you should order at dinner or bring home:

🥂 Assyrtiko – Santorini’s signature crisp, dry white wine
🍷 Nykteri – A full-bodied, aged white wine
🍷 Vinsanto – A sweet dessert wine made from sun-dried grapes

🥗 Final Thoughts: What’s on Your Santorini Local Food Bucket List?

Santorini’s local food scene is just as incredible as its views. From family-run tavernas to elegant fine dining, you can find something for every taste and budget. Whether you’re sipping wine at sunset or biting into the best tomato fritter of your life, every meal here feels like an experience.

👉 Which dish or local food restaurant are you most excited to try? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your Santorini foodie plans! 🍽️✨