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Santorini food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Santorini.
What to eat in Santorini
6 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Fava
A creamy, earthy purée made from yellow split peas, often seasoned with olive oil, lemon, and capers. It's a staple appetizer that showcases the island's unique agricultural products.
Tomatokeftedes
Santorini's cherry tomatoes are intensely flavorful and used to make these delicious fritters, mixed with herbs and fried to a golden crisp. A must-try snack or appetizer.
Katsikaki sto fourno
Slow-roasted goat, often marinated with lemon, garlic, and herbs, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful meat. A hearty main course that reflects traditional Greek cooking.
Saganaki
Fried cheese, typically graviera or kefalotyri, served hot and crispy with a squeeze of lemon. It's a simple yet addictive appetizer that's a Greek island classic.
Santorini Salad
A variation of the Greek salad, featuring the island's unique small, sweet cherry tomatoes, capers, local chloro cheese (a soft, goat cheese), cucumber, and onions.
Psalida
A local specialty of grilled cuttlefish, often marinated in olive oil and lemon. It's a lighter seafood option with a distinct, slightly sweet flavor.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Chic and romantic, with stunning caldera views and upscale dining options.
The bustling capital, offering a wide array of tavernas, cafes, and bars with lively energy.
A traditional village with a more authentic feel, featuring charming tavernas tucked away in narrow alleys.
A picturesque fishing harbor known for its fresh seafood restaurants right by the water.
Dietary notes
Greek cuisine is generally Mediterranean, with many vegetable-based dishes and fresh seafood. Vegetarian options like fava, tomatokeftedes, and various salads are abundant. Vegan and gluten-free diets can be accommodated by focusing on grilled vegetables, salads, and avoiding fried items or dishes with cheese, but cross-contamination can be a concern in traditional kitchens.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5-10% is customary for good service at restaurants.
- •While cards are increasingly accepted, carrying some cash is advisable, especially for smaller tavernas or shops.
- •Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, particularly in Oia and Fira during peak season.
- •Mealtimes are generally later than in Northern Europe; lunch is typically between 2-4 PM and dinner from 8 PM onwards.
- •It's polite to greet shopkeepers and restaurant staff with 'Kalimera' (good morning) or 'Kalispera' (good evening).
Plan the rest of your Santorini trip
Food guides elsewhere