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Santorini food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Santorini.
Photo by Travis Fish on Unsplash
What to eat in Santorini
6 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Fava
$4–$8
A creamy purée made from the local yellow split peas, often seasoned with olive oil, lemon, and onions. It's a staple appetizer showcasing Santorini's unique agricultural products.
Where to try: Tavernas across the island, particularly in the villages of Pyrgos and Megalochori.
Tomatokeftedes
$5–$9
Crispy fritters made with Santorini's intensely flavored cherry tomatoes, herbs, and flour. They offer a delightful crunch and a burst of sweet-savory tomato taste.
Where to try: Most traditional tavernas, especially those in Oia and Fira.
Choriatiki Salata (Greek Salad)
$7–$12
While found throughout Greece, Santorini's version often features the island's unique cherry tomatoes and capers, making it exceptionally flavorful. It's a refreshing and simple classic.
Where to try: Anywhere serving traditional Greek cuisine, look for tavernas with fresh produce.
Psaronefri
$12–$18
Pork tenderloin, often marinated and grilled or pan-fried with herbs and local wine. It's a simple yet satisfying main course showcasing quality local ingredients.
Where to try: Traditional tavernas in the less tourist-heavy villages like Emporio and Karterados.
Santorini Vinsanto
$8–$15
A unique dessert wine made from sun-dried Assyrtiko, Aidani, and Athiri grapes, aged for many years. It has rich notes of honey, dried fruit, and nuts.
Where to try: Wineries throughout the island, particularly in the Megalochori and Pyrgos areas.
Katsikaki me Fakes
$15–$22
Slow-cooked goat with lentils, a hearty and traditional dish. The goat is tender and infused with herbs, making for a deeply flavorful meal.
Where to try: Rural tavernas and those in inland villages, often a weekend specialty.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Oia
Chic and romantic, with stunning caldera views.
Sunset diningUpscale restaurantsSeafood
Fira
Bustling capital with a wide range of options and nightlife.
Variety of tavernasCafesNightlife
Pyrgos
Traditional and historic, offering a more authentic village feel.
Authentic tavernasLocal wine tastingQuiet dining
Kamari/Perissa
Beachfront dining with a relaxed atmosphere.
Casual seafoodBeach barsFamily-friendly
Dietary notes
While many dishes are naturally vegetarian-friendly (salads, fava, vegetable-based meze), the cuisine often features fresh seafood and pork. Gluten-free options are usually available, especially with grilled meats and vegetables, but cross-contamination can be a concern in busy kitchens. Vegan options are possible but require careful selection and communication.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is customary.
- •While card payments are increasingly accepted in tourist areas, carrying some cash is advisable for smaller tavernas or market purchases.
- •Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially during peak season and for sunset views in Oia.
- •Dinner is typically eaten later, often starting around 8:30 PM or 9:00 PM, especially in the summer months.
- •When offered a drink or a small treat upon entering a shop or restaurant, it's polite to accept.
Plan the rest of your Santorini trip
Food guides elsewhere