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There are wonderful places to eat on the small Cycladic island of Antiparos, in Greece. These are some of them. If you are planning a holiday on the paradisiacal island of Antiparos, you have to figure out is what and where to eat in town.

Here we present three dining options on the Cycladic island of Antiparos.

It’s no mystery that one of the main reasons for us to move to Greece is its food. Even living so many years in Italy – also known as a food paradise – we cannot resist the call of moussaka.

There is nothing to do about it… We love Greek traditional food. We love the kind of food that still has the taste of grandma to it.

The food you would seek refuge in, during a rainy day or on a cold winter night. Those wonderful Greek dishes, both great in hot and cold weather, because, you know, good food is always good food, despite the time of the year… Bon appétit!

Pavlo’s Place: Comfort food

The best place to find an authentic tradition of Greek food is Pavlo’s Place.

A family-run taverna that has been open since 1980. Here, dad cooks, kids serve and sweets are mom’s specialties. You will be greeted by the nicest guy in town, Ben, who will open his fridge full of local meat, fish, and sausages and will describe to you the delicious way those can be cooked for you.

He will also provide a gastronomic tour around the menu of the day, making think of impossible strategies to try everything you can.

That’s sadly impossible. So, our suggestion is to share, ask for different dishes and share them with your family so that everyone can taste a bit of all. You won’t regret a bite.  

Our choice in Pavlo’s Place

We fell for the inviting psaromeze, a mix of fresh seafood cooked in a delicious sauce with potatoes and other vegetables.

Our second dish was a homemade goat in a wine sauce and potatoes in the oven. Tender, tasty, and inviting. For the kids loukaniko, the village sausages, a must-go option they loved with fries. Horta, or wild greens, as a side dish. Finally, a dish that has made the place famous over the years is Chicken Pavlo’s.

This is a roll of aubergine, bacon, peppers, and of course, tender chicken bites. A feast.

Pavlo’s Place also serves homemade wine (ask for their sweet wine and be ready to love it) and a very strong tsikoudia.

This last one will come with exquisite freshly baked pastries. Price range: Excellent. Convenient price for outstanding food. Service: Outstandingly friendly, kind, and knowledgeable. Atmosphere: Familiar, cheerful, relaxed.  

Meet Greek meat

We found this place by chance and we liked it very much. Pantelis Grill House specializes in different meat cuts, grilled meat, gyros, souvlaki, and great salads.

It’s almost at the end of the main pedestrian road of Antiparos, where the alley makes a turn to lead you toward the Kastro.

An open dining area in the front of the restaurant is nicely decorated. White tones and inscriptions on the windows describe the advantages of eating meat.  

Our Choice in Pantelis

Being our first night in town and extremely tired after a long day changing ferries, our decision had to be quick, and satisfying, and leave us ready to go to rest.

Regular-sized pork and chicken gyros, full of meat, tzatziki, and fresh vegetables left our kids as happy as they could be…

Kids are always happy when there are gyros involved. For adults, simply souvlakia, tomato, and cucumber salad, regularly soaking in stunning local olive oil, and abundant French fries.

All in all, good quality, regular Greek food, as you might find on any island. Price range: Good. Convenient price for regular food. Service: Friendly and kind. Atmosphere: Relaxed and great for families.  

An exotic touch of Italy

After our previous declaration of unconditional love for Greek cuisine, this recommendation might look like a contradiction. Well, it isn’t.

Sale Rosso is an outstanding Italian restaurant, really run by Italians. This restaurant is in a very central position on the main road of the chora. It’s colorful but the delicate atmosphere proves really inviting.

Sicilian Rossella, the chef, was happy to present us with some of her specialties that recall the Italian tradition with a touch of modern techniques and twists.  

Our choice in Sale Rosso

For the kids, the obvious was pasta al pomodoro (of which they have been in abstinence since we arrived in Greece).

A very simple dished cooked the traditional way. No exotic touches that might scare tiny palates. Smart idea. Adults, instead, were tempted with a variety of creative bruschetta, including Italian cold cuts but also tomatoes and local octopus.

They were followed by their special vitello tonnato: abundant, tender, and delicious.

Finally, it was time to try their Polpo bastardo, octopus served with a cream of Italian taleggio cheese.

A dish that, against all odds, was fantastic. Italian wine, homemade bread sticks. A traditional display of Italian desserts to end, as they say in Italy, in bellezza.  

Service: Very friendly and kind. Atmosphere: Perfect for a romantic night. Price range: Though the food is excellent, prices are a bit over the traditional Greek standards. Well worth it though.  

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Where to Eat in Antiparos

Gabi Ancarola

I have been living in Chania, Crete, since 2016. This has given me an intimate knowledge of Greece. In Crete, I’m a travel writer and also host culinary experiences. I co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete. I write about Crete at Crete Insider and about Greek food at My Cretan Recipe.

This post has affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I might make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

What to Eat on the Greek Islands

If you have visited Greece at least once, you have tasted some of the most delicious and traditional whole-world dishes that have become the most famous recipes from the Greek islands. Even people who haven’t ever been there can pronounce the names of certain dishes, and we instantly know they’re talking about Greek food. 

Every different region, and especially every island in Greece, has its trademark dish, and here we are, ready to show you some of the must-try if you ever visit some of these remarkable islands. 

Spoiler alert: Get ready for an increased appetite! Keep reading to learn about the most famous recipes from the Greek Islands… and everything you must try when you visit!

Crete: Dakos

Crete is the biggest island in Greece, and the local people are all about tradition. If you are reading this blog, you already know this!

If you visit Crete, you will be treated to a shot of tsikoudia or raki (well, more than one!) and most likely invited to try Cretan cuisine. One of the most popular meze (appetizers) on the island is dako (ντακο). 

Sometimes also served in salads, dako is made with fresh local ingredients like tomatoes, feta cheese, oregano, and olive oil. All these spread on a crunchy rusk, known as paximadia, which often undergoes double baking. 

Nothing can smell and taste more Greek than this traditional starter. Want to give it a try? We have published the original dako recipe here.

Skopelos: Fish Stew

If you plan to visit Skopelos and sunbathe on all its exotic beaches, make sure to try some of the island’s popular dishes. One of the greatest recipes from Skopelos that you shouldn’t miss is fish stew. 

Sifnos: Amygdalota

Sifnos Island is popular for two things: Great architecture and great food. And yes, we know that revithada is a staple in Sifnos’ cuisine, but today we want to discuss amygdalota, and you’ll soon understand why.

You don’t have to be a sweet lover to realize that this cookie that locals love to share tastes nothing less than delicious!

These almond pastry sweets made with pure almond flour have a long tradition in Sifnos. If you visit, you cannot leave without trying them.

Corfu: Sofrito

If you ever plan to visit Corfu, you may notice that it is one of the few islands of Greece that never fell under Ottoman oppression. Yet, it was conquered by the British, the French, and the Italians, all of whom left a strong gastronomic influence. 

One of the island’s most classic recipes is sofrito, which has Venetian origins. Sofrito is made of small bites of fried beef meat and onion. 

It might sound so plain, but I bet you will change your mind once you taste the sauce in which the meat is soaked. Crushed garlic, chopped parsley, white wine, and other delicious ingredients make sure to make an explosion of taste in your mouth. 

Naxos: Kalogeros

The largest island of the Cyclades, Naxos, uses 99% of its local food resources. Unlike on many other islands, most of the popular dishes from Naxos contain meat and poultry. 

One of Naxos’ most famous dishes is kalogeros, which takes its name from one of the islands’ mountains… or maybe also from the Castle of Kalogeros, sitting high on the northern coast near the village of Apollonas. 

Although it is often described as a summery food, Kalogeros is a delicious stew traditionally made with fresh halved eggplants, soft beef, a delicious sauce, white cheese, and pure magic!

Santorini: Fava

Santorini island is famous all around the world for its whitewashed landscape sitting on top of the most famous caldera around the world.

Popular like no other Greek destination, with its volcanic soil, the island is rich in minerals and produces some of Greece’s best tomatoes, capers, eggplants, and wines. 

And this is also how Santorini represents Greece to so many foreigners… On the island, locals follow many recipes of the most traditional Greek cuisine and enrich them with some of their best products. 

One of the best things that the island is known for is their fava recipe. Fava is a spread or dip, sometimes served warm, that pairs perfectly well with octopus, rustic bread, and a glass of local Assyrtiko wine.

This mouthwatering appetizer is usually part of a larger meze platter to start your engines.

Fava is a creamy dip made of yellow split peas, lemon juice, onion, and extra virgin olive oil. It is sometimes mixed with aromatic seasonings.

>> Click here to learn how to make fava!

Thassos: Peppered Cabbage

If you want to escape from the hustle and bustle of the big city and its everyday routines, Thassos is the best place to relax and revitalize.

A well-known recipe of the island is peppered cabbage, made traditionally just like old generations did. This dish is usually made in the cold days of winter to help you warm up, although you can find it in the summer, too, as a spicy appetizer to dip your bread or pita in. 

Paros: Karavoli Stew

Paros combines a modern way of life with traditional elements, making the island ideal for tourists who want to relax and experience legendary nightlife.

A famous dish you shouldn’t miss if you visit Paros island is karavoli (meaning of the word: big snails) one of the most famous dishes from the Greek islands. Locals prepare this tasty stew for obvious reasons around autumn when the first rains start.

Even though snails might not be something everyone would eat, I can guarantee having a hot dish of Karavoli will make you change your mind. 

The mixture of local and fresh aromatic ingredients, like red wine, garlic, and cinnamon, can give you a sense of heaven and warm you up on cold days.

There is also a tradition at the end of August where local people have a festival in which the main served dish is karavoli with skordalia, a strong pure with garlic paste that is the end of the world! 

Serifos: Marathopita

The quiet Serifos island is the perfect destination for whoever wants to relax and spend some time on one of the many peaceful beaches. And if you want to eat something new and delicious, there is no better place than Serifos. 

Locals use a lot of fresh seasonings in their dishes, making their recipes some of the tastiest in Greece. 

Marathopita is a famous recipe of the island prepared healthy and by tradition. Marathopites are flat in shape, looking like pancakes made of fennel leaves, maybe some feta cheese, and, of course, olive oil. 

This is the perfect option for breakfast, a snack, or an appetizer, served with a good portion of Greek yogurt or even tzatziki. 

Ikaria: Sofiuko

People living in Ikaria island follow a traditional way of life and cooking that helps them live a long and healthy life. About 10 years longer than the Greeks from the rest of the country. For real! 

One of their traditional dishes is soufiko, a summer recipe that requires a lot of patience to prepare, but it’s always worth it. 

Eggplants, zucchini, bell peppers, and other seasonal vegetables are carefully sautéed one by one and then baked in tomato sauce, olive oil, and extra seasoning. This is a perfect meal that can be served hot or cold. 

Pair it with a glass of Greek red wine. Liatiko or Limniona are great red wines with vegetarian dishes if you want red.

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What to Eat on the Greek Islands

Gabi Ancarola

I have been living in Chania, Crete, since 2016. This has given me an intimate knowledge of Greece. In Crete, I’m a travel writer and also host culinary experiences. I co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete. I write about Crete at Crete Insider and about Greek food at My Cretan Recipe.

This post has affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I might make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Greek cuisine, known for its rich, hearty flavors and fresh ingredients, is undoubtedly one of the world’s most cherished. This guide will explore 25 of the best Greek gastronomy recipes. So keep reading for tips on what to eat in Greece during your next Greek experience!

What to Eat in Greece

When thinking about healthy summer nutrition, the minds of connoisseurs will subtly travel to the Mediterranean.

The Mediterranean diet, formulated around the summer season, brims with predominantly light yet moreish food options and is abundant in vegetable dishes without sparing any expense on the meat varieties.

Balanced, well-rounded, flavorful, and simply delightful, Mediterranean cuisine is worth traveling for.

Greece is definitely a country able to provide travelers from far and wide with a truly unforgettable holiday experience, combining succulent gastronomy with sensational landscapes. Let’s see what to eat in Greece during your vacation!

Greek Appetizers

We’ll begin as any Greek meal would, with a few appetizers to get your appetite going.

Kalamarakia: A Taste of the Mediterranean

In almost any seaside taverna or restaurant, Kalamarakia, or fried squid, is a beloved Greek seafood dish. Yet, it’s a delicate dish that requires careful steps and timing. To make it perfect, the cook has to find fresh squids and clean them carefully before frying them to crispy perfection in Extra Virgin olive oil. 

Fava: A Santorini Specialty

Fava is a traditional dish from the Greek island of Santorini. It is made from yellow fava beans, onions, garlic, and olive oil. You usually sample this simple yet flavorful dish as a dip or a side dish. The plant (Lathyrus Clymenum) is found on the island of Santorini, where people have been using it to make Fava for over 3,500 years. 

Dolmades: Stuffed Grape Leaves

Dolmades is a typical Greek side dish. They are grape leaves filled with herby, lemony rice, folded into small parcels, and steamed. Some variations also include meat, making them a versatile complement to any Greek meal.

Greek Salad: A Summer Staple

A trip to Greece is incomplete without trying a Greek salad (or, as locals call it, horiatiki salata). This iconic dish combines fresh tomatoes, crunchy onions, salty Kalamata olives, cucumbers, and a large piece of feta cheese. It’s the perfect way to start a meal, especially on a hot day.

Ntakos: The Cretan Bread Salad

Ntakos is a traditional Cretan dish with a twist. Although it was created to use leftover bread, Greeks have enjoyed it for generations—and for a reason! It’s a salad served on a large, crunchy rusk made of barley or wheat bread. The rusk is then topped with diced tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese, sometimes also with sliced onions, and always drizzled with olive oil.

Sesame-Covered Koulouri

Koulouri is a popular Greek street food. These large, soft bread rings are generously coated in sesame seeds and typically enjoyed on the go with a cup of coffee in the morning. It’s a classic breakfast item that encapsulates the simplicity and deliciousness of Greek food culture.

Bougiourdi: A Fiery Greek Meze

Bougiourdi is a traditional Greek appetizer known for its fiery flavor. This simple yet delicious dish harmoniously blends feta cheese, tomato sauce, onions, and spices. And the best part? They are baked together in the oven until they become gooey and bubbly. Yummy!

Souvlaki: Grilled Meat Skewers

Souvlaki, grilled meat skewers, are famous worldwide and a local delicacy in Greece. Typically served hot off the grill, these pork skewers fit great with tzatziki, pita bread, salad, and tomato. An easy way to try this delicacy is to choose the marinated version, known in Athens as Kalamaki.

Saganaki: A Cheese Lover’s Dream

No Greek meze platter is complete without saganaki. This famous Greek appetizer contains various cheeses, including feta, kefalotyri, and halloumi. The cheese is fried in a hot saganaki, a small frying pan, until golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining gooey on the inside. It’s a dream come true for every cheese enthusiast! 

Keftethes: Greek Meatballs

Keftethes, or Greek meatballs, are usually made with lamb meat and served with a creamy yogurt sauce. You’ll love them because they’re crispy and juicy, perfect for enjoying with salad or rice on the side.

Tzatziki: The Perfect Accompaniment

Tzatziki, made with Greek yogurt and cucumber, is often served as an appetizer or meze. It can also be enjoyed as a sauce to accompany other dishes. Its tangy lemon and dill flavors will be a refreshing addition to any meal.

Greek Main Dishes

Ready for the main course? Served!

Kleftiko: Rustic Lamb Dish

Kleftiko is a traditional Greek dish that combines lamb, potatoes, and tomatoes, all cooked together for hours. Traditionally, Greeks cooked this dish in an underground fire pit, sometimes wrapped in parchment paper.
A variety of this dish is also a staple in Cypriot gastronomy.

Stifado: A Savory Stew

Stifado is a Greek meat stew perfect for colder months. It typically includes beef or rabbit, tomatoes, and small whole onions. Stewed for hours, this traditional Greek comfort food is a must-try on your culinary adventure.

Gyros: A Greek Sandwich

Gyros is one of the first words you’ll learn in Greece. They consist of rotisserie-cooked meat pieces (usually chicken, pork, lamb, or beef) wrapped in flatbread or pita, lettuce, onions, and various sauces. Vegetarian versions often include grilled halloumi or feta cheese. This is the king of Greek street food!

Pastitsio: Greek Lasagna

Like Italian lasagne, Pastitsio is a comforting dish made by layering ground beef or lamb with small macaroni and béchamel sauce, often flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, and Greek herbs. Although you won’t always find it in taverns, keep an eye on daily menus. If luck strikes you, prepare for a treat of the senses!

Giouvetsi: A Tasty Baked Dish

Giouvetsi is a baked dish with Kritharaki pasta (similar to orzo) and lamb meat or seafood. To make it, stew pasta and meat in a clay pot and add cheese before serving.

Moussaka: A Greek Classic

Moussaka is arguably the most famous dish in Greek cuisine. It’s a layered casserole that typically includes thin slices of eggplant, minced meat, and potatoes, topped with a creamy béchamel sauce and baked until golden brown. The vegetarian version is equally delicious, replacing the meat with various vegetables. Here, you can find my moussaka recipe!

Papoutsakia: Stuffed Eggplants

Papoutsakia, which means Little Shoes in Greek, are eggplants scooped out and stuffed with eggs, bell peppers, minced meat, tomatoes, lemon, and olive oil. To make the most of this hearty dish, top it with local salty cheeses and let your taste buds explode!

Fasolatha: A Hearty Bean Soup

Fasolatha might not be well-known globally, but it’s a staple in Greek households. This traditional bean soup is simple yet hearty, featuring white beans, crushed tomatoes, and a medley of vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery. Herbs like thyme, parsley, and bay leaves add a unique flavor.

Yemista: Stuffed Vegetables

Yemista (or Gemista), which in Greek means Filled With, features fresh local vegetables like tomatoes or peppers stuffed with rice and roasted until tender. Some versions also include minced meat, making it a versatile dish for vegetarians and meat lovers.

Spanakopita: Greek Cheese Pie

Spanakopita is one of the most classic Greek pies. It features layers of phyllo pastry filled with feta cheese and spinach, flavored with dill. Another favorite is Tyropita, a savory cheese pie wrapped in crispy phyllo pastry.

Greek Desserts

Do you have room for dessert? Keep reading to check out Greece’s tastiest treats.

Baklava: A Sweet Pastry

Baklava, found all over Greece, Turkey, and the Middle East, is a sweet pastry soaked in honey-like syrup and layered with crushed nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pistachios. It’s a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Amygdalota: Almond Cookies

Amygdalota, or Greek Macaroons, are crunchy and chewy almond cookies. They are typically sweetened with orange blossoms or rose water and pair perfectly with coffee in the afternoon.

Loukoumades: Greek Doughnuts

Loukoumades are one of Greece’s most beloved sweet treats. These small, fried doughnut-like balls are drenched in honey syrup, sprinkled with cinnamon or crushed walnuts, and typically shared among friends and family. 

Galaktoboureko: A Sweet Custard Slice

Galaktoboureko is a sweet custard pie served in slices, made with layers of flaky phyllo pastry and sprinkled with cinnamon. Best eaten warm and straight from the oven, it’s a dessert worth traveling to Greece for.

As you’ve probably noticed, Greek cuisine is as diverse as delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned food lover or a culinary novice, Greek gastronomy offers something for everyone.

So why wait? Start planning your Greek food adventure today, and savor the flavors of this incredible Mediterranean nation.

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25 Dishes to Try in Greece

Gabi Ancarola

I have been living in Chania, Crete, since 2016. This has given me an intimate knowledge of Greece. In Crete, I’m a travel writer and also host culinary experiences. I co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete. I write about Crete at Crete Insider and about Greek food at My Cretan Recipe.

This post has affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I might make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

There are many reasons to visit the Greek Islands; the sun, the beaches, the nightlife, to name but a few. Yet there’s one more reason that shouldn’t be overlooked: the food.

Greece is renowned for its healthy and delicious Mediterranean Cuisine and the islands are among the best places in the country to try the most authentic Greek dishes. 

Food in Sifnos

Sifnos is one of the most beautiful and unspoilt islands in Greece. From pristine beaches and picturesque villages to scenic drives and stunning traditional architecture, Sifnos has all those ingredients that are necessary for a perfect Greek summer vacation. 

That said, the island’s food is also a valid reason to visit Sifnos in its own right. Prepared with the freshest local ingredients and utter love, food in Sifnos is as authentic and mouthwatering as everywhere else in Greece but it also comes with a twist. Here’s why. 

Who Was Nikolaos Tselementes?

Sifnos is the birthplace of Nikolaos Tselementes, a Greek chef who’s known for changing Greek cooking forever.

Tselementes published the first Greek cookbook back in 1932. This cookbook was such a huge success that it found its way to each and every household in Greece and changed the country’s cooking mentality once and for all.

Tselementes was responsible for introducing Western tastes to Greece’s thus far Eastern Cuisine. In other words, he is responsible for Greek Cuisine as we know it today, this fascinating mixture of Western and Eastern flavors.

Evidently, locals in Sifnos are really proud of Tselementes, and for a good reason.

This is why the island continues the great chef’s legacy by keeping food standards at the highest level and by constantly experimenting with new tastes, but without ever turning its back on the core of local gastronomy, which comprises no other than the island’s century-old, hassle-free recipes. 

Festival of Cycladic Gastronomy

Moreover, the people of Sifnos pay homage to Nikolaos Tselementes by organizing an annual culinary event, the much-loved Festival of Cycladic Gastronomy.

The latter takes place every September and it’s a unique feast where visitors can try exquisite dishes from all the Cyclades Islands, wash them down with local wine, and dance to traditional music in the company of locals. 

Top 5 Things to Eat in Sifnos

In no particular order, these are some delicious dishes you should try in Sifnos to taste the most authentic local gastronomy!

Revithada

The island’s signature dish is revithada or chickpea stew. There’s a dispute over which island, Sifnos or Paros, serves the best revithada version. Either way, revithada is a hearty, must-try dish that brings legume dishes to a whole new level. 

Slow-cooked to perfection in a clay pot for an entire night to ensure that chickpeas are incredibly tender, revithada is traditionally prepared on a Saturday night so that locals can enjoy it during their Sunday lunch.

Moreover, revithada is the main dish served at traditional festivals that take place in Sifnos throughout the year, especially during the summer months.

The best place to try revithada in Sifnos: Simos Restaurant in Kamares. 

Revithokeftedes

Another chickpea-based dish not to be missed in Sifnos is revithokeftedes or fried chickpea balls.

Revithokeftedes are usually served as a meze dish or starter but they can definitely be enjoyed as a main alongside some salad or freshly cut French fries.

Revithokeftedes are always meat-free but they may contain cheese sometimes.

The best place to try revithokeftedes in Sifnos: Mosaico Restaurant in Artemonas. 

Mastelo 

Second only to revithada in popularity, mastelo is the island’s typical meat-based dish. It consists of lamb or goat’s meat, washed in red wine, and doused in dill. It’s then slow-cooked inside a clay pot also called mastelo. 

It should be noted here that, apart from all its other charms, Sifnos is also renowned for its rich pottery tradition. This is why most of Sifno’s traditional recipes are prepared in special clay pots, which are handmade in Sifnos for generations.

There are a handful of pottery workshops scattered across the island, selling handmade pots, tools and decorative items made of clay. 

Mastelo was once a special dish reserved for a special day: Easter Sunday. However, it’s now easy to try mastelo at the island’s restaurants all year round. 

The best place to try mastelo in Sifnos: Meropi Restaurant in Kamares. 

Local Cheese from Sifnos

Sifnos produces some of the best cheese in the Cyclades. Cheese in Sifnos is made according to traditional methods and with the freshest ingredients.

In this respect, it’s very much like the cheese produced in many parts of Greece and other Mediterranean countries such as Italy, especially as far as Apulian Cuisine is concerned. 

The three main types of cheese produced in Sifnos are chloromanoura, gilomeni manoura, and xinomizithra. Depending on the producer, local cheese can be spread-like or firm.

That said, there aren’t any huge differences in taste, while it’s absolutely certain that cheese in Sifnos is always made of fresh local milk.

The best place to try local cheese in Sifnos: Any traditional restaurant on the island.

Kaparosalata

Kaparosalata or capers salad is a staple starter dish in Sifnos. Its main ingredients – capers and onions – are cooked together until they reach a chutney-like texture with a very distinct, sweet and sour taste.

Although Kaparosalata is a very popular spread in Sifnos, some people find its flavor too intense for their taste buds. 

The best place to try kaparosalata in Sifnos: Tsikali Restaurant in Vathi.

Bonus: Dessert

Of course, no culinary trip is complete without dessert. The typical dessert in Sifnos is melopita, a traditional sweet that’s made of local cheese and honey.

In essence, melopita is the island’s take on cheesecake. Furthermore, Sifnos produces fresh and delicious cookies that come in many flavors. 

The best place to have dessert in Sifnos: Any pastry shop or bakery on the island!

Travel is all about getting in touch with different people, cultures, and customs through immersive and authentic experiences. One of the best ways to delve into any destination’s local culture is by trying its food.  

Apart from being one of the quaintest islands in the Aegean Sea, Sifnos is also a unique culinary heaven. Food in Sifnos can’t and shouldn’t go unnoticed, as it’s central to the local culture and lifestyle. 

Therefore, the best way to get to know and, ultimately, fall in love with the real Sifnos is through the island’s tastes.

Food in Sifnos manages to achieve the perfect balance between traditional cooking and experimenting, a blend that renders the local cuisine one of the best not only in the Cyclades but in the entire country.

Basic Information About Sifnos

Sifnos is an island belonging to the Greek Cyclades, on the South Aegean. It’s located near other popular islands including Serifos Serifos, Paros, and Antiparos. Sifnos stands about 75 nautical miles from the Port of Piraeus, on mainland Greece.

Not as big as other Greek islands, nor as tiny, the top sights and points of interest on Sifnos can be visited in 3 to 5 days, a perfect number of days to explore the island’s beaches, the delicious local food, and the fantastic hiking paths and trails.

As with many other islands in the Aegean, the rugged terrain is a fascinating part of the island’s landscape. In fact, on Sifnos, there are four different mountain ranges and a few peaks to climb as well.

How to Get to Sifnos

There are no airports on Sifnos Island, so you need to travel by sea. Year-round ferries from the port of Piraeus connect Athens to Sifnos, and there is a more frequent service during summer, featuring both fast ferries and regular ferries. In summer, it’s also possible to reach Sifnos from the Port of Lavrio, close to Athens.

You can also travel to Sifnos from nearby islands such as Paros, Milos, Kimolos, Serifos, and Santorini among others.

Where to Stay in Sifnos

• Aerides Boutique Rooms
• Ammos Sifnos Village
• Niriedes Hotel

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What to Eat in Sifnos

Gabi Ancarola

I have been living in Chania, Crete, since 2016. This has given me an intimate knowledge of Greece. In Crete, I’m a travel writer and also host culinary experiences. I co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete. I write about Crete at Crete Insider and about Greek food at My Cretan Recipe.

About the Authors

Katerina and Maria are two part-time yet passionate travelers who focus on authentic experiences and responsible travel. Katerina captures their travel moments to eternity through her camera while Maria is the one who puts them down on paper. 

Currently living in Athens, Greece, Katerina and Maria started It’s All Trip To Me in an effort to help people with full-time jobs travel more by making the most of their vacation time. They publish highly informative travel guides and carefully planned-out itineraries about the destinations they visit across the world, with a focus on Greece and Italy. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook!

This post has affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I might make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Booking a wine tasting tour in Santorini can be an interesting experience, however, if you’re traveling with kids, you might feel that they might be missing out.

Solve this by booking a wine tour in a wine museum. Everyone in the family will certainly have a great time, and you won’t miss that wine tasting!

Winery Tours in Santorini

Upon arrival, red signs attracted our attention in Santorini, they were placed along the road that from the airport takes you south to Perissa. These signs indicate the official Wine Road of Santorini.

Santorini is not just a picture-perfect island, full of romantic landscapes, it also has a wonderful history and magnificent cuisine. Besides, Santorini is also known for the good quality of its grapes and a top-class wine.

So, it’s very simple. If you visit Santorini you should definitely include a wine tasting experience. It’s a genuine activity that will connect you with the local traditions in a very different way.

In this post, I will tell you why we chose Koutsoyiannopoulos for our Santorini wine tasting, but also a bit about all the other wineries you can check on the island.

Wines of Santorini

More than 90% of the land in Santorini is devoted to grape production, the vineyards occupy about 14000 hectares (3450 acres) of land and produce approximately 500 tonnes of grapes.

The most famous local variety is known as Assyrtiko, and it’s original from Santorini, where it has been growing since 1500 BC.

The volcanic soil of the island is a mixture of pumice (kissiri in Greek) and ash, but also calcium, magnesium, and iron. All elements that, according to some experts, shape the character of Assyrtiko. Yet, there’s a lot of controversy regarding this aspect, new studies have recently found that minerals in the soil don’t really affect tastes and aromas.

Everyone agrees, though, that Assyrtiko can produce great wines, regarding the minerals in the soil and its influence on the wine, the dispute remains.

Moreover, the dry atmosphere of Santorini creates a hostile environment for insects, thus allowing the local grapes to strive. The unique climate of the island, its soil, its dryness and very low yields per acre seem to be key elements when it comes to producing wines so rich in aromas and flavors.

Some Facts About Santorini Wines

The vineyards in Santorini are among the oldest in Greece.

They are unique because of the special ecosystem created thanks to the successive eruptions of the volcano and to the island’s warm and dry climate.

To protect the grapes from the fierce winds, locals prune the grapevine close to the ground in the shape of a coil. It retains the dampness from the atmosphere and the one rising from the soil. It also provides a safe nest for grapes to grow.

Santorini’s vineyard is home to more than 50 red and white grapes, the most prevalent of which is Assyrtiko.

Santorini is also known for its renowned for its sweet sun-dried Vinsanto wine, with its orange-yellow color and strong bouquet.

Wine tasting in Santorini & kids…
How to combine them?

During our first visit to Santorini, our kids were still very little (and obviously skipped the alcohol part of the experience). Their age made us wonder what cand of wine experience to choose. We really wanted something that allowed us (mom and dad) to try the local wine varieties, but that also gave something to the kids that they were able to enjoy.

We got in touch with several wineries, and although most of them were ok with receiving kids, the offer usually included stunning views of the island and a few glasses of wine. Eventually the kids were going to get really bored.

Kousoyannopoulos Winery, instead, had a proposal that looked just right from the very beginning. And it became even better after reaching out and learning that they indeed welcome kids, from pre-school on.

In this winery, they not only produce top quality wines, but they have also created a wine museum dedicated to explain the wine production process.

Koutsoyannopoulos Winery

Koutsoyannopoulos Wine Museum is close to the village of Vothonas, roughly in the middle area of the island, and quite close to the airport. If you have time, after the winery, you can take a look at the small village, it won’t take more than an hour.

The philosophy in this winery is to receive adults for wine tasting and to include their kids. They open their doors to children of all ages to teach them about the history and tue culture of wine production on Santorini, as well as about the people that has been involved in the wine industry through the times.

The Wine Museum in Santorini

Other than the modern wine tasting facilities, Koutsoyannopoulos Wine Museum has been settled in a unique underground area about 8-meters deep. It’s a maze that along 300 meters portray the different stages of wine production.

It includes motion characters and explanations easy to understand but also entertaining.

The proposal truly ignited the interest in our kids. The best part of it is that the whole visit is designed for you to be completely independent.

At the entrance of the tunnel you are handled and audio guide (available in 21 languages) that accompany you along the 24 different stages and that you can hear as many times as you want. This means that your visit can last as much as you want.

The museum and the winery staff were a very pleasant surprices. Our kids were also encouraged to learn and ask questions in order to better understand the process of winemaking, both in the past and in the present.

Koutsoyannopoulos Wine Museum received second place in the list of Top Ten Wine Museums in the World. “A pleasant satisfaction – Mr. Koutsoyannopoulos said – that pays off for all the work done“.

The tour was excellent to teach kids about grapes, production processes, and machiners. After the tour, we sat and tasted different wines that are produced in the premises. There’s a comfy bar area as well as different rooms with chairs and tables to sit and enjoy their wines.

Our kids chose fresh orange juice while we went for a white dry Assyrtiko as well as for two dessert wines. The first one, Vinsanto, is a trademark on the island. The second one, Kamarítis, is a superb sweet wine made by Koutsoyannopoulos.

KOUTSOYANNOPOULOS KAMARÍTIS

This is a 10-year old, naturally sweet wine made from sun-dried grapes. A wine that is a blend of six indigenous varieties of Santorini; three white ones: (Assyrtiko, Aidani, and Athiri); and three red ones: (Mantilaria, Mavrotragano, and Mavrathiro).

A curious note is that the name Kamarítis derives from the word kamara (meaning cave room).

For this variety, grapes are sun-dried for a fortnight, and their sugars are dehydrated and caramelized; then, the winemaking process begins.

The wine ages in oak barrels for 10 years before bottling.

They limit the production of this sweet, delicious wine to about 4.500 bottles per year. A limited production that was the secret recipe of the family’s great-grandfather.

Another curious note is that Kamarítis cannot be purchased outside the winery.

Mr. Koutsoyannopoulos wants this wine only for his visitors as a thank you gesture for coming and visiting the museum. (If you are flying back home with no liquid restrictions, you are likely to take a bottle with you, for it is delicious).

Kamarítis is best enjoyed before or after a meal, ice-cold at 6-8 ºC with fruit, nuts, cake, chocolate or over ice-cream. A completely natural product with no additives. It is pure grape juice with 11 % alcohol.

It has an inviting fragrance, it’s sweet, warm, from medium to full-bodied and has an attractive darkish caramel color.

VINSANTO PDO

Vinsanto PDO is a naturally sweet wine, with a rich caramel yellow-brown color.

It’s made from white grapes sun-dried for 14 days. A blend of Assyrtiko, Aidani, and Athiri with strong rich aromas of caramel, toffee, dried fruits and marmalade, raisins, and nuts.

It offers a fine balance between intense sweetness and final acidity in the mouth. We also learned the name Vinsanto is Italian and comes from the words vino (wine) and Santo (Santorini).

Vinsanto is exclusively produced in Santorini. Five kilos of dried grapes produce a liter of Vinsanto. The wine ages in oak barrels for 2 to 4 years before bottling.

The aging process goes on in the bottles for some more years.

This wine is served at 7-9 ºC, normally before a meal, accompanied by fruit, nuts, cake, or chocolate. Also on top of ice-cream, or after a meal.

The visit to this winery was one of the best moments in Santorini. Our kids were involved in the learning part of the visit and wanted to know things “hard to understand for kids” like why does the wine taste like chocolate..?

So, do I agree on taking kids to a winery, the answer is yes! They do not need to drink in order to learn!

• Kids saw how grapes were pressed in the past and how now it’s a mechanized process.
• They learned that pressing grapes bare-footed was a night job because the hot weather was intense.
• Many things kept their interest alive for hours, and that also left the family talking about advances in technology for the rest of the afternoon.

Visit this winery: GEORGE KOUTSOYANNOPOULOS WINERY AND WINE MUSEUM
Road to Kamari Beach, Vothonas.  (+30 22860 31322) e-mail: info@volcanwines.gr  or visit the winery site. The museum website is www.winemuseum.gr

More Wineries in Santorini

Updated in 2021

This small list includes the top wineries you can visit in Santorini, I’ve visited some of them in successive trips to Santorini, but without the kids. Take a look!

These are other wineries you can check when you visit Santorini:

If you think Santorini is an island for romance and honeymooners, you are right. But if you think Santorini is there only for romance and honeymooners you are making a big mistake. There are endless possibilities and things to do on the island. Wine tasting is just one more of them!

Best Winery Tours in Santorini

If you have just finished outlining your Santorini itinerary, or if you’re short of ideas, check this post to discover more things to do on the island. Instead, if you’ve already made up your mind and want to visit a winery, below you check the best guided tours for wine tasting in Santorini.

Santorini Wine Sunset Tour

This is a four-hour tour that includes a visit to two traditional wineries and over 6 different wines to taste. The tour ends with a sunset & wine tasting experience in the last winery. It has excellent reviews and it’s good value for money. You can check and book this tour here.

Santorini Private Wine Tour

A five-hour tour through the countryside that takes you to three traditional wineries with a private guide. Check reviews and book in this link.

Small-Group Wine Tasting Tour

This is a certified afternoon tour that includes the visit to three wineries, wine tasting with an expert, and the sampling of 12 different wines. Check it here.

Santorini Wine Adventure

A fantastic tour that also lasts half a day, the visit takes you to 3 renowned wineries and allows you to sample 12 different wines, served with cheese and snacks. Here you can check Santorini Wine Adventure.

Santorini Wine Roads with a Sommelier

This is another great value for money experience on the island. It will take you to visit three different wineries. and you will learn about Santorini’s winemaking techniques and with a local sommelier. You can book your wine road trip here.

Wine Tasting and Sunset

Another fabulous half-day tour in which you will be driven through the countryside to visit three wineries. In each of them, you will taste local wines, sampling up to 15 different varieties throughout the tour. You can book this special tour in this link.

Gabi Ancarola

I have been living in Chania, Crete, since 2016. This has given me an intimate knowledge of Greece. In Crete, I’m a travel writer and also host culinary experiences. I co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete. I write about Crete at Crete Insider and about Greek food at My Cretan Recipe.

This post has affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I might make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Athens can be such a pretty city by day. It is an alluring, dazzling, gorgeous town to wander through. Art and history are all over the place.

However, at night, the city changes deeply. It unveils a magic atmosphere that will conquer visitors searching for unexpected fun. Let’s see what to do in Athens at night!

Athens at Night: Seeing Athens Under a Whole New Light

They say the Greek crisis has squeezed creativity resources from the locals, giving a further twist of imagination. Like their ancestors, Greek people search for beauty, and nights in Athens are live-proof.

Alternative tribes of counterculture movements lighten up the atmosphere. They give new life to retro alleys and express authentic art in offbeat areas.

Having seen several angles of the city under the daylight, it was about time to peep into its dark alleys once the sun had set. I picked an Athens by night and had the time of my life.

And… I took my kids with me! They had as much fun as adults did and it was worth every minute. They were enthusiastic and loved every moment.

Take an Athens-at-Night Tour

Our appointment was at Syntagma Square, just after dawn, with a local guide with the right attitude for such an evening. It was an immediate entente as he was well acquainted with every palm of his city!

Our guide was able to share with us the love he feels for his city, making us feel a bit Athenians ourselves, even just for a night. 

> Click here for a night tour experience with a fantastic food tasting.

Sweet Chocolate

We headed down what he called the street of chocolate,  a sweet path promising the right kind of night ahead of us. The most refined and traditional chocolate stores in Athens, all dressed up for the upcoming Easter.

Among them, Matsouka Le Chocolate stands out with wonderful windows displaying the most exquisite chocolate figures, a feast for our imagination and the senses.

Our stroll continued with a wise lesson: Don’t ever be afraid of Athenian traffic, but most of all, don’t be afraid of drivers. Be careful, but also be brave.

Secret galleries, drives, and porticos led into hidden alleys of gone splendor, boasting a wonderful array of light and imagination.

Cafés, bars, and pubs are crowded with eclectic people and more liberal decorations. Even a quick stop at a very ordinary door revealed itself as the gate to the only Private Bar in Athens.

A very anonymous entrance would open itself to a night of excitement and great cocktails for those few chosen ones who knew which bell to ring.

It’ll be the beginning of exclusive parties and excitement that few know about. Through more entrances and stairs, a marvelous world opened to our eyes.

Dark, narrow paths with amazing places to eat/dance/drink or laugh the night away… your choice! These are just some of the places we visited. All in all, the whole tour made me want to return.

Discover the Best Bars in Athens

The first bar we entered, Artizan, is a laid-back place famous for its coffee.

Right after Artizan, it was the moment of Bar Tessera, where the classy atmosphere, warm colors, and inviting scenario welcome visitors to stay for long hours just relaxing and having fun.

Little tables populated by friends having late cups of cappuccino and rivers of conversation. Laughter and utter joy.

A few steps away, Booze Cooperativa is a unique blend of play zones for you to take your time. Smoking allowed fun admitted.

It’s a magnificent to spend some time admiring all the strange forms of art in every single zone. How do they define themselves? Well, like this …

“A BRAIN HUB. TRIBES AND NATIONS IN CREATIVE DISRUPTION. TRENDSETTERS AND MIND CLUSTERS COOPERATE IN FULL TIME“
Go in, look up, and look around. You will love it.

Drunk Sinatra couldn’t be missing!

It offers alternative music, cool cocktails, and young people going about. I would definitely choose this space for a late-night meeting with friends for drinks, meze, and conversation.

Two more places followed our tour: The Holiday Bar, also known as Noel, a magical venue where, despite the plethora of clocks hanging everywhere, time seems to have stopped to allow people to live in an endless parallel world.

Athens, an Old-Time Favorite

Then it followed a beautiful underground garden which houses Six Dogs.

A mysterious entrance transports you into a city oasis, sandy floors, open terraces and trees, candles, animals and dimmed lights make out of this place a rightful contradiction.

A gate to the sixties opening into the most extravagant nineties. Loved it.

Athenian Gyros

Right after that, our second stop took us to enjoy a gyros wrap the way Athenians do, on the go.

The chosen place was Monastiraki, and the food was really good!

We walked through Monastiraki Square to discover a secret feature that the city won’t even care to show you if you are not attentive enough.

A tiny river flowing in the guts of Athens, covered by glass and barely seen if you don’t pay close attention. It’s the Eridanos. Look for it when visiting Monastiraki!

Monastiraki at Night

Through the entrance of the Monastiraki Flea Market, a completely different place at night. No shops, no crowds, hence it offers the opportunity to see the local imagination behind the closed doors, blinds, and shutters of the shops.

Turning into what seemed a dangerous alley, we made our way to one of the most beautiful, bizarre, and extravagant places I’ve ever been to. Above all, I found the place alluring.

It’s Taf Monasthraki. What used to be a detention and interrogation place in the past has been turned into a multicultural space (they define it as metathematic) where drinks and a lively atmosphere are not the only key features.

An impressive tour of what used to be detention cells allowed us to see how they were turned into zones devoted to interactive forms of art, including sounds, video, and live animals!

Right at the end of the street, the most famous mannequin of Athens opens the gates to Psirri.

Another favorite alternative spot in town, both day and night. In addition, incredible street lamps lead the way to the heart of a vibrant area of Athens… So close to the center of town and yet so far from it in terms of vibes and visitors.

Psirri

Psirri is one of those places you want to take advantage of when in town. Choose any bar, pub, or café, sit to see people passing by, enjoy a nargile, or stop for a snack.

This famous alley, Pittaki Street, has been decorated with lamps and artifacts donated by citizens to give the neighborhood new life and amazing light.

The most eccentric decorations lead to the heart of a vibrant area of Athens, so close to the center of town but so far from it in terms of vibes and visitors.

The alley ends in The Little Kook, a tea house and bar for which extreme imagination does not even start describing the concept of this venue.

From the outside setting, a reminder of Alice in Wonderland, to the way waitresses dress, it’s an invitation to childhood reminiscences with a darker twist. Like going through the mirror and never coming back.

Psirri is a must-see. Just head there, stop by, and make a pause at To Koulouri To Psirri. Choose a freshly baked treat and move on to reach a more alternative or traditional venue. The choice is endless.

Rooftop Glam

As most Athenians do, we ended the night with a glass of wine. The place? A rooftop bar. Over the last few years, rooftop bars have become the thing to do in Athens.

However, we still needed to settle for the common thing to do. Thodoris chose a fantastic place, a magnificent rooftop bar in Athens Style, one of the top hostels in Athens, where super convenient prices don’t even match the outstanding beauty of Athens at night when seen from above.

Just as we were basking in the magical aura of the Greek capital, the unexpected happened-it started to rain. But even the rain couldn’t dampen our spirits or the beauty of the city, which seemed to shimmer under the droplets.

Wide skies boasting the profile of an illuminated Acropolis, Mt Lycabettus illuminated ancient sites under the rain.A glass of red wine and great conversation with our tour mates. In conclusion, this was the perfect way to end a night with style.

With that unique Athenian charm that never fails to captivate, every visit to Athens deepens my love for this city. It’s a love that’s no secret and one that I can’t help but share with you.

This time, I surrendered to the city. I suspect my guide had a lot to do with my renewed love for Athens. Honestly…, I can’t wait to go back.

My special thanks go to Thodoris, a smart, smiling local guide who knows everything about Athens night hours.

When in Athens, we love to sleep here. Take a look if you are looking for a place to sleep in Athens. Urban Adventures offered the tour, but it is no longer available. Alternative food tours we recommend are:

The Authentic Greek Food Tour in Athens
Half-Day Ultimate Food Walking Tour
Athens Street Food Tour

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Things to Do and See in Athens at Night!

Gabi Ancarola

I have been living in Chania, Crete, since 2016. This has given me an intimate knowledge of Greece. In Crete, I’m a travel writer and also host culinary experiences. I co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete. I write about Crete at Crete Insider and about Greek food at My Cretan Recipe.

This post has affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I might make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

One of the things I adore about currently being based in Greece is the possibility of indulging in the local cuisine anytime I want to. 

It is abundant in genuine ingredients from the Mediterranean, it can be terribly simple and tasty, yet keep refined touches of the autochthonous traditions. When it comes to choosing a place to dine in Athens, one of my favorite ones remains the Atrium Greek Bistrot… Let me tell you why.

Atrium Greek Bistrot

I first had a taste of Atrium cuisine back in June, when in town to do some research and meet friends.
That night was incredibly warm and quiet, the views were amazing and dinner proposals from their rooftop bar – Point a – surprised me in such a way that I’ve always wanted to go back.
On this occasion and being winter, the option was a very creative winter menu.

Their classic winter garden boasts magnificent views of green trees and the stars. Candles, dimmed lights and quietness make the Atrium a perfect choice for a romantic evening with your partner. Or even for some quality time on your own.

Once I was shown to my table, I was equally tempted to try all their dishes on the menu. The same as I had been back in summer.

Cocktails are Olympian Gods

One of my most vivid memories from the Point a has always been their bizarre variety of cocktails. They display a colorful array of creativity, variety, and tastes from all over Greece.

My choice was a bitter-sweet cocktail: Mediterraneo. A delicious mix of Mastiha from Chios, Cocchi Americano vermouth, and 3 cents of lemon tonic. Greek olives on top of it… paradise.

But there is more… your choice might get even more drama with their God’s Theory (Aperol infused strawberry, M.B. elderflower liquor, M.B. apricot liquor, 3 cents lemon tonic), their Olympic Flame (Sailor Jerry rum, Bacardi, Fresh lemon juice, Strawberry puree, Chamomile syrup infused with spices, M.B. cacao liquor, Basil, Fig marmalade tapas: loukoumas) or their Nostalgia (Vodka, M.B. coconut liquor, Aperol infused sage, Fresh lime juice, Pepper, Strawberry puree, Blackberry puree, Basil tapas: fish and chips).

Popular Dishes for Dinner

Even when there’re plenty of choices and you might have no idea where to start from, I knew one of the many reasons to come back was their incredible revisitation of loukoumades.

Definitely one of the most amazing starters I’ve ever tried.

They are a bittersweet delicacy of the traditional Greek sweets, filled with manouri cream cheese from Elasona and drops of local honey. I could have also tried a different dish this time; the proposals were all enticing… However, I couldn’t really resist the loukoumades temptation.

For main, I decided to taste their Slow cooked lamb with avgolemono sauce and greens. A simple touch of black pepper on top and it was Heaven.

A creamy acidulous sauce bathing tender pieces of meat. Herbs and aromas were all there, not invading, but evoking Greek mountains.

A must-try. Sweets would have meant sinning even more. I decided to skip them and honestly I regret doing so.

Their Sweet pumpkin pie with mastic ice cream sounded heavenly, but I settled for a cozy cup of Greek coffee with homemade butter cookies.

The Experience at the Atrium Greek Bistrot

Whether you go for it in summer, adding to your dinner that impressive touch only Athenian nights can offer; or in winter, enjoying the calm atmosphere of their winter garden, the staff caring for your meal will be the same.

Staples dishes are available all year long in the Atrium’s menu, and the seasonal additions are simply a tough decision.

The service is incredibly thoughtful. Everything is looked after with detail and attentiveness. And in case you’re wondering, two details that should not go unobserved.

They have a very appealing menu for kids and prices are affordable too. Not the usual trap for tourists, but an incredible place where to relish the most amazing Greek traditions with a surprising sense of modern elegance.

The Atrium Greek Bistrot is at the Herodion Hotel, in the very heart of Athens. The Atrium is open daily from 10 am till late at night.

You can make a reservation at +30 210 9236832. Read their whole menu! Rovertou Galli 4 Athens, Greece

I personally thank the staff at the Atrium for turning my stay in Athens into a memorable experience.

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Atrium Greek Bistrot Review

Gabi Ancarola

I have been living in Chania, Crete, since 2016. This has given me an intimate knowledge of Greece. In Crete, I’m a travel writer and also host culinary experiences. I co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete. I write about Crete at Crete Insider and about Greek food at My Cretan Recipe.

This post has affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I might make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Eclectic Cocktails Over Athens: Point α Rooftop Bar

One of the nicest experiences during my last trip to Athens was a round of cocktails in one of Athens’ most exclusive rooftop bars: Point α. Stunning cocktails and superb dishes surrounded by the splendid scenario of Athens.

Impressive cocktails add a touch of drama to any evening, in fact, most signature cocktails boast names that recall Greek Mythilogy, such as Dionysus Mask or Act Two: Comedy.

If you enjoy a bitter taste, you can explore the Athenian Nectar, an aperitivo cocktail that combines ginger essence, Aperol-infused sage, coconut water, and a hint of grapefruit soda.

A Creative Palette of Dishes

Food is simply another chapter… Well, calling it food sounds reductive. It looked as if there was no kitchen involved. Masterpieces came from an artisan workshop directly to the table.

The blogging ritual of taking pictures before actually eating extended dangerously because – trust me – there was a lot to picture. And tastes lived up to visuals.

My favorite dish was the olive oil sorbet, delicate in taste and with an unforgettable presentation.

Their version of the loukoumades with manouri cream cheese and warm honey on top was terrific. I also had the traditional moussaka which was everything but traditional.

Then it was time for pasta… Now, having spent the last 15 years in Italy, hearing about pasta does not exactly stand for innovation to me. Even less when dining out of Italy. However, against all odds, the last dish I tried was ravioli with octopus ragù. A thrilling combination of textures, color, and aromas… all of it is quite close to my idea of paradise.

Heavenly Atmosphere

You can choose to relax on lounge chairs or enjoy a cozy, intimate table while candles flicker in the soft Summer breeze. Then, get ready for a selection of fancy dishes rooted in the Mediterranean tradition recreated with an excess of mastery and creativity.

On this rooftop, everything seems possible. It’s as if you could extend your hand and almost touch the Parthenon…

Location: R. Galli 4, Herodion Hotel 5th floor – Athens www.herodion.gr

A Short Stay in Athens

Athens is one of my favorite cities in the whole world, and I aleays enjoy the visit. I’ve stayind in several Athens hotels along the years.

Herodion Hotel, which is also home to Point A, is a favorite (read my review). Another place I suggest to enjoy the views of the Acropolis is the fantastic AthensWas.

If you travel on a budget, I suggest Central Hotel, in the heart of Plaka.

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Best Cocktails in Athens

Gabi Ancarola

I have been living in Chania, Crete, since 2016. This has given me an intimate knowledge of Greece. In Crete, I’m a travel writer and also host culinary experiences. I co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete. I write about Crete at Crete Insider and about Greek food at My Cretan Recipe.

This post has affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I might make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Everything About Kumquat from Corfu

They told us that kumquat (or koum quat) originally comes from China and south Japan, and the meaning of the word is golden fruit.

It was an English agronomist that brought the fruit to Corfu back in 1860 and it has come to be one of the main agricultural products of the island. 

Greek Tastes: Kumquat from Corfu

The round kumquat, also called Marumi kumquat, produces a small, round, or oval-shaped golden-yellow colored fruit.

Its peel has a sweet flavor but the fruit is sour. You can eat kumquat raw but they mainly use it to make marmalade and jelly.

In Asiatic countries they also use the kumquat in bonsai and, as a symbol of good luck, it is sometimes given as a gift.

On a personal note, this plant brings a lot of childhood memories as there was a kumquat tree in my grandma’s backyard (though I admit I hated its taste back in those times!).

During our visit, we saw the old machines of the distillery, learned about the production process and tried some fine products. My favorite was their jam, but there were preserves and spoon sweets too.

As far as the liqueur, following my curiosity, I first tried the colorful one, made from the skin. Kumquat is a very sweet spirit, bright orange, and very fragrant. It’s quite strong in taste, therefore better for cocktails or to enhance desserts.

The white extract is less sweet and Corfiots usually serve it after meals.

Kumquat Products

Mavromatis produces a variety of delicacies, such as kumquat in syrup (ideal for Greek yogurt), marmalade, and cookies.

Of course, I came home with my carry-on-size bottle of liqueur and marmalade jar!

It’s easy to find typical wines and spirits of high standard quality in Greece.

Each of them is distinctive in its area. The writer of this blog has a declared weakness for Cretan raki (for Greek wines too, to be honest), that’s no secret.

Knowing how good local drinks are, I try to learn about the local favorite every time we visit a new destination. My inquisitiveness is rewarded with tasty surprises. Kumquat was certainly one of them.

You can visit Mavromatis or look for some authentic Corfiot recipes on their webpage! The company Mavromatis Kumquat began in 1965, this family business specializes in processing and bottling Kumquat, in liqueurs and sweets, reaching a production line of one million bottles and fifty tons of Kumquats in jams and pastries.

The factory also produces ouzo, brandy, and twenty different fruit-flavored liqueurs.

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Guide to Kumquat from Corfu

Gabi Ancarola

I have been living in Chania, Crete, since 2016. This has given me an intimate knowledge of Greece. In Crete, I’m a travel writer and also host culinary experiences. I co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete. I write about Crete at Crete Insider and about Greek food at My Cretan Recipe.

What to Eat in Greece with Your Children? Kid-Friendly Greek Food

The flavors of the dishes are straightforward and delicious and enjoying a meal usually involves some chunks of bread for dunking in tasty dips served as appetizers!

Potato chips are popular in Greece and bowls of horiatiki – a village-style salad that accompanies almost every meal.

In tourist areas, you will find the Greek versions of ‘fast food’ – souvlakia and gyros- two different types of kebabs that are much-loved by children. 

Greek Food for Everyone in the Family!

If you’re planning a vacation in Greece and are the mom or dad of a picky eater, you may be wondering what your children will end up eating during their time in the country.

Well, the Greek diet is really varied and offers plenty of things to eat that please every member of the family, so if what to eat in Greece with kids is an issue that has been worrying you, read this guide to learn what to expect at the table when visiting the country.

You’ll certainly find more than one dish that your children will love!

Introducing the Greek Mezè to Kids

A fun way to sample a wide range of traditional Greek dishes is to order a Mezé.

The name is short for Mezedes which means ‘little dishes’ and is an array of many different ones served so that everyone enjoys a taster of each.

A meze is more like a banquet than a meal and is not meant to be hurried but enjoyed at a leisurely pace. It starts with a variety of dips before moving on to vegetable specialties and some fresh fish.

The next array of dishes includes traditional Greek casseroles and is followed by a selection of grilled meat straight from the charcoal, with seasonal fresh fruit to complete the feast! 

All the dishes are served in generous portions, so it is best just to order for the adults as there will be more than enough for your children can eat everything that appeals to them. If your children like fish, it is possible to order a fish mezé.

Horiatiki: Kids Love Greek Salad

eppers, red onions, and black olives which are tossed in a dressing of olive oil and lemon juice and sprinkled with crumbled Feta cheese.

Younger children can choose which bits they like best, while teenagers will enjoy eating them every meal as they will appreciate how healthy the salad is.

A Trio of Great Dips!

Often when you sit down at a Greek restaurant or taverna, you will be served an array of dips and an accompanying basket of fresh crusty bread or warmed slices of pitta bread.

Over the years, the ‘classic trio’ of dips has become available in supermarkets across Europe and needless to say, they always score highly with young diners! The three most popular dips are:

Tzaziki 

Who doesn’t love tzatziki???
This is a lovely cream dip made from Greek yogurt, finely chopped cucumber, and garlic and flavored with dill or mint.

Tahini

Made with crushed sesame seeds, sesame paste is the main ingredient in this popular dip.

The tahini paste is blended with olive oil, garlic, and cumin seeds to make the perfect dip that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or used as a sauce with grilled meat or fish.

Taramosalata

Pale pink in color and slightly salty to taste, proper homemade taramosalata – tarama – takes a lot of beating!

This dip is made from the dried and lightly smoked roe of grey mullet, mixed with lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic. The color of this dip appeals to children but the taste is a little sophisticated!

Extra Bonus Dip: Melitzanosalata

A more unusual dip, but one that is particularly delicious is melitzanosalada which is made from the flesh of oven-baked aubergines mixed with tahini paste and olive oil. 

Dolmades

This classic dish is made from the fresh new leaves of the grapevine.

The vine leaves are filled with rice or meat and rice and finely chopped vegetables then formed into a cigar shape and served either cold with salad or warm with a rich tomato sauce.

They can be bought ready-made in the food shops and are nutritious snacks for all ages. 

Kalamari

These distinctive battered rings that have been deep fried till they are golden brown are made from tenderized pieces of squid.

They should be sprinkled with plenty of lemon juice to enjoy them at their best. If you can persuade your children to try them, they will definitely ask for more!

Gyros: The Most Kid-Friendly Greek Food Ever!

Who doesn’t love a nice, juicy gyro wrap? The most iconic street food in the country, the gyro is a delicious wrap made with pita flatbread and featuring delicious grilled meat (normally pork or chicken).

The traditional wrap includes fries, a portion of Greek yogurt, fresh sliced tomatoes, and onions, but in most gyro places it is possible to change the ingredients to make it more appealing to your kid’s taste.

It’s sometimes possible to ask for a different sauce if yogurt does not sound like the right sauce to your children and choose ketchup or mayo if your kids like those sauces better.

Moussaka

This classic Greek dish is made with layers of aubergine (eggplant), sliced potato, sliced tomato, and minced meat that are topped with a creamy sauce – much loved by all age groups!

Pasticcio (Maccaronia Sto Fourno)

Often referred to as ‘the Greek version of Lasagne’, children love the thick macaroni tubes used to make this dish!

The macaroni is layered with a tasty sauce made with minced meat and tomatoes and a thick creamy sauce is poured over the top before the dish is baked in the oven.

Greek Desserts that Kids Love

he Greeks are not big on desserts because the usual grand finale to every meal is a bowl of chilled seasonal fruit and during the hottest summer month of August this is usually huge slices of sweet-tasting watermelon- which are absolutely perfect! 

Greek Yogurt with Honey: Top Kid-Friendly Greek Dessert!

This is a popular breakfast dish but is sometimes served as a dessert too. A generous portion of creamy Greek yogurt is spooned on a saucer and a depression is made in its center.

This hollow is filled with delicious locally made honey so, of course, is perfect for younger children.  

Bougatsa

Delicious at any time of the day, some Greeks enjoy Bougatsa for breakfast and others as a dessert.

Bougatsa is an envelope of sheets of phyllo (filo) pastry containing cinnamon-flavored custard that has been baked in the oven until golden brown and then sprinkled with icing sugar – irresistible!

Baklava

This sticky dessert is the classic favorite in Greece!

It is made from layers of phyllo pastry, that are sprinkled with chopped nuts and local honey. The result is the most delicious-tasting dessert imaginable!

Kid-Friendly Greek Snacks to Enjoy at Any Time

Greek pastries are really popular either for breakfast, a mid-morning snack, or a picnic lunch if you are out exploring.

Greek pastries are made with phyllo pastry which is very light and crispy and the pastries can be bought in all bakeries. The prices displayed are by weight rather than individual pastries. 

Tiropita (Cheese Pie)

Delicious Greek-style cheese pies are made from an envelope of pastry layers, filled with crumbled Feta and usually one or two other local cheeses, brushed with olive oil, and then baked until they are golden. 

Spanakopita (Spinach Pie)

This pastry is a Greek spinach pie. The layers of pastry contain a tasty mixture of crumbled Feta cheese and spinach, mixed with eggs and flavored with dill. 

Kolokotes (Chipriot Pumpkin Pie)

If you have the chance to sample a kolokotes, you will be really impressed with its delicious sweet taste.

These pies contain mashed pumpkin with sultanas, and although they are more of a Chipriot dish, it is also available on many Greek islands.

And There’s a Great Choice of Drinks Too!

All the popular fizzy drinks are available in Greece, but many youngsters love the local freshly squeezed orange and pomegranate juice and traditionally styled homemade lemonade.

During the hot summer months, the popular drink to enjoy throughout Greece is Frappé – iced coffee- which will certainly appeal to teenagers.

What makes the drink extra appealing is that it will be made to your personal choice regarding the amount of coffee, sugar, and milk that is added! 

Still Picky? Take a Kid-Friendly Greek Food Tour!

Booking a food tour that encourages kids to taste something completely new might be a fun way to introduce new flavors to a kid.

These are fun crafted tours created about the concept of the local diet and can prove to be really useful when encouraging children to try new dishes and tastes.

Even better? Book a child-friendly cooking class experience! Oftentimes, actually cooking your own food is the most encouraging way for children to taste new dishes.

These are some of the best food experiences on the market right now!

Best Food Tours for Families in Greece in the Most Popular Destinations

Athens

Athens, the capital of Greece, can be a great destination for families (also in winter!) with children.

Other than visiting the magnificent archaeological sights and discovering all there’s there to do in Athens with kids, you can take advantage of the different markets to have your picky eaters explore unique tastes. These are some of the best food tours in Athens that kids love!

• Street Food Tasting Tour: A great tour to try quick and child-friendly dishes, sample the best street food, explore Athens, and visit the same places where locals eat.
  >>> Check this tour here.

• Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings With Locals: This tour covers all grounds with a combination of savory, sweet, and drinks plus city highlights in between food stops.
  >>> Check this tour here.

• The Greek Food Discovery in Athens: Indulge yourself in a culinary journey during which you will get to know the people who create the culinary story of the city. You will taste regional specialties, try the best street food, and discover secret gastronomic gems.
  >>> Check this tour here.

• Greek Cooking Lesson & 3-Course Dinner: Learn the secrets of Greek cuisine in this 4-hour cooking lesson and dinner experience. Discover every Greek cooking secret with easy instructions and plenty of hands-on cooking!
  >>> Check this cooking class here.

Crete

As you know, this is the island where I live, and there’s no need to speak further about the magnificent tastes of the Cretan diet. There are plenty of reasons why kids love Crete, and trust me, food is one of them!

• Heraklion Food Tastings Walking Tour: Experience Heraklion like a local & explore the best the city has to offer. Learn about the culinary culture & wander in local neighborhoods as you eat and sip your way through authentic Heraklion.
  >>> Check this tour here.

• Heraklion – Authentic Greek Food Cooking Class: Travel to a beautiful traditional village in the countryside of Heraklion for your private hands-on cooking lesson. Enjoy a tour of the village and visit the Museum of Cretan Folk Art before creating your delicious lunch with fresh Cretan produce.
  >>> Check this experience here.

• Chania Sightseeing & Tastings Tour: Explore some of the Old Town’s best sights, and visit famous spots, historic haunts, and hidden gems while discovering the lesser-known quarters. Discover local traditions and taste exquisite cuisine.
  >>> Check this tour here.

• Do you want to check out my food tour in Chania? I take you around town for the best kid-friendly Greek food imaginable!
  >>> Check my Chania food tour here.

Corfu

This is another of my favorite Greek islands to visit with the family. It has a lush green landscape, kids love the beaches and there are amazing nearby islands with pristine seas, like Paxos and Antipaxos, that the kids really like. Plus the food is spectacular!

• Small-Group Food and Cultural Tour in Corfu:
  Meet an accredited guide at the Old Fortress of Corfu for a fascinating culinary and cultural journey through Corfu Town’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town. See some of Corfu’s top cafés and restaurants on Spianada Square, stroll the former Jewish quarter, taste artisan produce in local stores, and chat with the owners about their cuisine.
  >>> Check this Corfu food tour here.

• Greek Cooking Class & Meal at a Local Family Home: Become a member of a Greek family for a day and cherish food as the locals do. Enjoy a cooking class and meal the authentic way in a local’s home.
  >>> Check this cooking class here.

• Small Group Corfu Gastronomy Tour: Discover the cuisine of Corfu with a local guide. Meet local traders and artisans who will provide a selection of local specialties for you to taste.
  >>> Check this food tour here.

Naxos

Naxos is an amazing Greek island that’sextremely child-friendly and an ideal destination to try delicious local food and enjoy some of the best beaches in Greece. If you’re traveling to Naxos with the kids, they might enjoy this kid-frendly food tour a lot!

• Greek Cooking Class & Dinner at a Village House: Enjoy a 4-hour hands-on private culinary experience in a traditional house in the heart of Naxos island. Cook and eat a typical Naxian menu with local wine together with local Greeks.
  >>> Check out more Naxos food experiences here.

If you’re still doubstful about ordering food in Greece for picky eaters, just relax. Even if you feel that your children won’t enjoy local flavors, you might be surprised to find out that they really love the Mediterranean food.

On the other hand, most restaurants are extremely accommodating, especially with families, and ordering a dish of plain pasta – order it as makaronia sketa – will be easy in every Greek destination… in fact, locals love to spoil kids!

Pin this Guide to the Kid Friendly Greek Food for Your Next Family Vacation in Greece!