9 Best Greek Islands for Foodies & Wine Lovers + Map

If you are traveling to Greece and looking for a gastronomic paradise, you’ve come to the right place! Since living in Greece I have become the expert in finding all the best Greek islands for foodies!

You might think of Greek islands only as a place of turquoise waters and sun-kissed landscapes. But the islands offer much in the way of culinary geniuses.

Each island’s cuisine identity is shaped by its history, climate, and local produce, offering an endless array of unique dishes to explore. 

Whether it’s the robust olive oils of Crete, the tantalizing seafood of Santorini, or the iconic cheeses of Naxos, foodies will find their senses awakened and their appetites more than satisfied.

Let me take you on a mouth-watering journey to discover the best Greek islands for food enthusiasts, where every meal becomes an unforgettable experience.

The purpose of this guide is to share a bit of the history of each island’s culinary story as well as the best restaurants on each island!

The Best Greek Islands For Foodies

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Here is a list of all the islands that offer the best culinary experiences in Greece!

Along with a brief description of the cuisine specialties you will find on each island is a list of the best restaurants along with nearby wineries and related tours.

#1. Naxos

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A Greek Island I just know you fellow foodies are going to love is on that is nestled in the heart of the Aegean Sea. Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades Islands and a haven for food lovers.

Known for its unique ecosystem, the island has many villages with a rich culinary tradition that goes hand in hand with its stunning landscapes and incredible beaches.

One of the culinary highlights of Naxos is the famous mizithra cheese, a delightful treat made from goat’s milk. The island’s fertile land provides an abundant supply of fresh fruit and local honey, both of which play a starring role in traditional Greek cuisine.

This is particularly true in the sweet treats that can be found in local restaurants and traditional tavernas.

Seafood plays a major role in Naxos’ culinary identity, with local fishermen supplying a variety of fish and shellfish that are the main draw in many dishes.

Tomato fritters, a staple on many menus, are fried to perfection and burst with flavor, often accompanied by a tangy red sauce made from the island’s fresh tomatoes.

Wine lovers in Greece will not be disappointed by Naxos’ offerings, as the island’s Mediterranean climate provides ideal conditions for producing red and white wine.

Some of the best dishes can be found at a seaside taverna or deep in the old town of Naxos.

A fun idea when visiting the island is exploring the local specialties at a bustling food tour!

The combination of traditional Greek cuisine with the island’s unique flair is a highlight of the Aegean Islands and a must-visit for any traveler seeking a true taste of Greece.

Don’t miss the summer season, as it’s the best time of year to explore all that Naxos has to offer, from the sandy beaches to the mouth-watering culinary delights.

Foods Naxos is Famous For:

• Mizithra Cheese
• Potatoes
• Kitron
• Honey

Must Try Restaurants: 

• Scirocco Aegean Cuisine ($$)
• To Elliniko Restaurant ($$)
• Metaxi Mas Mezedopoleio ($$)
• Labyrinth Wine Restaurant ($$)
• The Naxos Apothecary ($$)
• Dal Professore Naxos Mediterranean ($$)
• Nissaki Restaurant since 1971 ($$)

Wineries in Naxos

• Saint Anna Winery

#2. Crete

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The island of Crete, Greece’s largest island, stands out as a culinary gem in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea.

The Cretan diet, an essential component of the broader Mediterranean diet, reflects a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and aromas that will surely delight the taste buds of food enthusiasts.

One cannot discuss Cretan cuisine highlights without mentioning its olive trees, which are central to the island’s cuisine.

Renowned for producing high-quality olive oil, these trees have shaped not only the landscape but also the unique flavor of Crete’s most traditional dishes.

On my last solo trip to Crete, I visited the oldest olive tree in Greece, which is said to be 2,000 years old!

Cheese lovers will find solace in the traditional Cretan diet, which often features mizithra cheese, a versatile ingredient used in both savory and sweet preparations.

Twice-baked barley rusk is another signature item, often paired with fresh tomato sauce, feta cheese, and a drizzle of local thyme honey.

A visit to Crete would be incomplete without indulging in local specialties. My favorite is the chickpea stew, enriched with lemon juice and olive oil.

But the culinary adventure doesn’t end with just the food; Crete also offers cooking classes for those interested in diving deeper into the island’s culinary traditions.

Learning from local chefs, visitors have the opportunity to recreate some of Crete’s most popular dishes, making the island a top foodie destination.

A large island with so many areas to stay, Crete invites you to discover its culinary secrets while enjoying the best Greek mythology and culture. It’s the essence of the Mediterranean, captured on a plate ; )

Foods Crete is famous for:

• Dakos
• Cretan Cheese
• Stamnagathi
• Raki 
• Marathópitta (fennel pie)

Must Try Restaurants

• Salis ($$) Get Reservations
• Thalassino Ageri ($$) Get Reservations
• Tamam Restaurant Chania ($$) Get Reservations
• The Five Restaurant ($$) Get Reservations

Wineries in Crete

• Manousakis Winery
• Lyrarakis Winery & Tasting Room
• Zacharioudakis Winery

#3. Sifnos

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A few hours from Athens is the Island of Sifnos. My top choice of all the Greek islands for foodies. I had the most incredible dining experience when I visited last year.  

Sifnos is the birthplace of Nikolaos Tselementes, a renowned Greek chef who has left an indelible mark on Greek culinary history.

Born in the late 19th century, Tselementes revolutionized Greek cooking by infusing it with French culinary techniques and modernizing traditional recipes. 

He penned one of the most iconic cookbooks in Greece, which for many generations served as the go-to guide for Greek home cooking.

His influence spread far beyond Sifnos and made a significant impact on Greek culinary traditions.

The island of Sifnos takes great pride in its native son, celebrating his legacy through annual food festivals and continuing to inspire chefs who aspire to blend tradition with innovation.

The island’s Mediterranean foods are rich in flavors, often featuring local ingredients like olive oil, sesame seeds, and fresh vegetables.

A popular island dish that you must try is “Revithada.” It is a slow-cooked chickpea stew that’s flavored with lemon and olive oil, suitable for vegans.

Sifnos also offers an array of baked goods, including pastries made with local thyme honey and sesame seeds.

Whether enjoyed in the main town or at a beachside taverna, these sweet treats are a delightful way to experience the island’s culinary heritage.

The island is not only known for its food but also for its vibrant festivals. The Cycladic Gastronomy Festival held in Sifnos showcases the island’s culinary heritage, offering a unique insight into traditional cooking methods and local recipes.

Foods Sifnos is Famous For:

• Revithia (Chickpea Stew)
• Kaparosalata (Caper Salad)
• Manoura Cheese
• Melopita

Must Try Restaurants

• Cantina ($$$)
• Bostini ($$$)
• Omega3 ($$$)
• Kafeneio Drakakis ($$)
• Maiòlica Sifnos ($$$)

Wineries in Sifnos

• Loggia Wine Bar

#4. Rhodes

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Rhodes, one of Greece’s Dodecanese islands, is among the most popular islands for foodies and wine lovers.

The Greek island is renowned for its good food, a delightful fusion of traditional Greek recipes, and unique local twists. Mezes are a highlight, and tavernas across the island serve a variety of these small dishes, perfect for sharing.

A quintessential experience in Rhodes is indulging in “Pitaroudia,” a chickpea fritter that’s a local favorite. Often served with a side of tangy yogurt sauce or paired with fresh salads.

For those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss the opportunity to try “Melekouni,” a traditional sesame seed and honey bar that is often offered at weddings and festivals.

Planning to visit during the peak season? You may have the opportunity to partake in local food festivals! This is where the island’s best chefs come together to showcase their culinary prowess.

From traditional stews to modern interpretations of classic dishes, these festivals provide a glimpse into the island’s rich culinary heritage.

I found the best way to explore Rhodes was by trying as much of the local culinary scene as possible.

A blend of tradition and innovation, Rhodes’s cuisine reflects its history, culture, and the very essence of what makes it one of Greece’s best islands for food lovers.

Whether you are visiting Rhodes solo or with friends, Rhodes promises a culinary adventure that you’ll remember long after your trip has ended.

Foods Rhodes is Famous For:

• Lucan (Goat, chickpeas, and cumin)
• Pitaroudia (minced meat and chickpea pies)
• Trachanas with Fish
• Beans & Garlic
• Ships
• Melekuni

Must Try Restaurants

• Panorama Restaurant ($$)
• Ono by Marouli ($$)
• Koukos ($$)
• Kerasma ($$)
• Marco Polo Mansion ($$)

Wineries in Rhodes

• Kounaki Wines
• Alexandris Family Winery
• Piperis Winery

 #5. Mykonos

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Mykonos, part of the Cyclades islands in Greece, has long been recognized for its vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches. But over the years, it has evolved into an equally impressive culinary scene.

The island’s cuisine is a perfect mix of traditional Greek food and modern culinary innovations, reflecting its cosmopolitan character.

Make it a point to indulge in local cheese specialties like “Kopanisti,” a spicy cheese that’s unique to the island. This tangy and peppery cheese often accompanies freshly baked bread.

No surprise that seafood is another highlight of Mykonos cuisine. May I suggest the day’s catch?

Try it grilled to perfection and served with simple, fresh ingredients like lemon juice, olive oil, and local herbs.

One cannot leave Mykonos without experiencing the joy of dining in a traditional taverna by the sea.

Whether you choose to enjoy a plate of fresh octopus, a bowl of “Louza” (a type of cured pork), or the ever-popular Greek salad.

Street food also has its place in Mykonos’s culinary landscape. From gyros filled with succulent meats, French fries, and tangy sauces to sweet treats like Baklava, the island’s street food culture offers quick and tasty options for those on the go.

Mykonos’s culinary scene reflects its status as one of Greece’s most popular destinations. It’s a place where tradition meets innovation, and local flavors are celebrated in a way that appeals to both purists and those seeking a modern twist on classic dishes.

From simple pleasures like enjoying a glass of ouzo as the sun sets to feasting on a multi-course meal prepared by top chefs. I must advise you that Mykonos is one of the more expensive islands, especially when it comes to dining out.

Foods Mykonos is famous for: 

• Kopanisti (Stinky Cheese)
• Louza (Pork Speciality)
• Kremmidopita (Onion Pie)
• Melopita (Sweet tart)

Must Try Restaurants:

• M-Eating Restaurant Mykonos Town ($$$)
• Rizes ($$)
• Nero Nero ($$)
• Gastronomy Project ($$$)
• Fokos ($$)

Wineries in Mykonos

• Mykonos Vioma Organic Farm
• Phelo Mykonos

#6. Hydra

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Part of the Saronic Islands, Hydra is one of the best Greek islands for foodies. It is also one of the closest Greek islands to Athens.

Given its proximity to the sea, it’s no surprise that local tavernas specialize in dishes like grilled octopus, fresh mussels, and fried calamari.

Many restaurants have terraces overlooking the Aegean Sea, allowing diners to enjoy their meal with a stunning view.

Hydra also offers some unique local dishes that are well worth exploring. “Amygdalota,” almond sweets often flavored with rose water, are a local favorite and a must-try.

They’re a taste of Hydra’s tradition, and I suggest you pair this with a cup of Greek coffee. 

The island is also known for its delicious pistachio-infused desserts and cuisine that makes use of this local produce in various creative ways.

A visit to Hydra’s main town reveals charming streets filled with intimate restaurants, traditional bakeries, and cafes. Dining in Hydra is not just about the food; it’s an experience that embodies the island’s laid-back atmosphere and rich history.

Hydra doesn’t chase culinary trends; instead, it celebrates its own traditions and offers an authentic taste of island life. The absence of cars and the presence of donkey trails instead of roads add to the island’s unique charm.

I had one of the best meals of my life in Hydra in one of the most picturesque settings in Greece.

So if you are in search of some exquisite food, I highly recommend you go from Athens to Hydra. Taste and experience the soul of Greek island living.

Food Hydra is Famous For

• Mountain Greens
• Snails
• Cuttlefish

Must Try Restaurants

• Téchnē Restaurant & Social ($$)
• Il Casta ($$)
• Omilos ($$)

#7. Santorini

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The most iconic Greek Island, Santorini, is not just famous for its breathtaking sunsets and unique landscapes. Santorini is a Greek island foodie’s paradise of out-of-this-world cuisine and epic backdrops.

One of Santorini’s most celebrated culinary contributions is its unique cherry tomatoes. Smaller, sweeter, and more concentrated in flavor than other varieties. You will find these tomatoes are used in various dishes, including the traditional “tomato keftedes,” or tomato fritters.

These crispy, fried delights are a staple in local tavernas and a must-try for anyone visiting the island.

The island is also renowned for its wine, especially the crisp white Assyrtiko, a varietal native to Santorini. The mineral-rich soil gives the wine its distinctive taste, which pairs beautifully with local seafood dishes.

Visiting one of the island’s wineries, tasting the different vintages, and learning about the unique vine-growing techniques is an enriching culinary experience.

Santorini’s volcanic soil is also the birthplace of other unique products like fava beans, which are turned into a creamy and flavorful dip, and white eggplants, a local variety that’s less bitter than its purple counterparts.

Some of the best food in Santorini definitely includes fresh seafood. I recommend trying the fresh catch of the day! It is one of the pleasures that make Santorini a food lover’s paradise.

And let’s not forget about desserts. Melitinia is a type of cheese pastry often served with honey and cinnamon. So anyone looking for a sweet end to a meal and a taste of Santorini’s traditional flavors needs to order this.

Whether dining in a luxurious cliffside restaurant overlooking the caldera or in a family-run taverna in one of the island’s quieter villages, the fusion of taste, ambiance, and view is something to be savored.

Foods Santorini is Famous For:

• Fava Beans
• Domatokeftethes (Tomato Fritters)
• Melitzanosalata (Eggplant Dip)
• Spanakopita (Spinach Pie)

Must Try Restaurants in Santorini

• Selene ($$$$)
• Lycabettus Restuarant ($$$)
• 1800-Floga Restaurant
• La Maison Restaurant ($$$)

Wineries in Santorini

• Venetsanos Winery
• Santo Wines
• Domaine Sigalas

#8. Milos

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The island of Milos, nestled within the Cyclades archipelago in Greece, offers a captivating blend of traditional Greek flavors and unique local specialties.

Milos is known for its black-eyed peas, and grilled octopus fresh from the Aegean Sea. I enjoyed some of the best stews brimming with a variety of fish and shellfish, the maritime surroundings are beautifully reflected in the island’s culinary offerings.

The island’s volcanic soil also contributes to the distinct taste of the vegetables, adding an authentic touch to simple yet flavorful salads, stews, and baked dishes.

Cheese and pastries are other significant highlights of Milos’ gastronomy. “Melichloro,” a soft, white cheese exclusive to the island, graces many dishes, from pies to salads, offering a taste of the region’s dairy traditions.

Pastry lovers will relish unique sweets like “Koufeto,” a traditional treat made with white pumpkin, almonds, and sugar.

Put the traditional fishing village Mandrakia on your Milos itinerary and check out the most incredible seaside restaurant Medusa.

Milos’ culinary scene celebrates authenticity and quality, where food is an essential aspect of community life, and each dish narrates a story of heritage, environment, and culture.

The dining experience on this charming island is about honoring tradition and enjoying satisfying meals that resonate with its character.

Food Milos is Famous For:

• Black-eyed pea dishes
• Local Cheeses – xinomizithra, a soft, sour white cheese
• Dried Tomatoes
• Milos Honey
• Pitarakia (fried pies)

Must Try Restaurants in Milos

• O Hamos Milos
• Medusa Milos
• Yialos Restaurant Milos
• Methismeni Politita ($$)
• Psaravolada Restaurant ($$)

Wineries in Milos

• Kostantakis Winery & Residence

#9. Corfu

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Corfu, one of the Ionian Islands, offers a culinary experience that’s as rich and diverse as its history.

What makes Corfu so interesting and one of the best Greek Islands for foodies is that it is influenced by various cultures. You will notice Venetian, French, and British, are all present on the island of Corfu.

A standout dish is “Pastitsada,” a slow-cooked meat stew with pasta, spiced with cinnamon and cloves, representing the island’s Venetian influence.

Seafood is also prominent, with dishes like “Bourdetto,” a spicy fish stew, showcasing the island’s abundant fresh catch and love for bold flavors.

Local produce plays a significant role in Corfiot cuisine. Olive oil, produced from the island’s extensive olive groves, is a staple in most dishes.

Try traditional recipes like “Sofrito,” thinly sliced veal cooked in white wine, garlic, and parsley. This dish highlights the use of fresh and flavorful local ingredients that the island’s fertile soil has nurtured.

Dining in Corfu offers more than just an array of tasty dishes; it’s a cultural journey that allows you to explore the island’s rich heritage.

Corfu’s culinary landscape is a celebration of history, geography, and gastronomy.

Foods Corfu is Famous For  

• Eggplants filled with onion, tomatoes, and baked
• Local Cheese (Korfos)
• Gyros

Must Visit Restaurants in Corfu

• Venetsianiko Pigadi (Venetian Well) ($$$$)
• Etrusco ($$$$)
• Arcadion Bistrot ($$)
• Nolita Corfu ($$)
• Pomo d’Oro ($$$)

Wineries in Corfu

• Nicoluzo Winery
• Theotoky Estate

Best Greek Islands for Foodies Map

Dining Tips for Foodies in the Greek Islands

Here are some tips to ensure a pleasant dining experience:

Tipping

Tipping in the Greek Islands is usually less formal than in other Western countries. A service charge could be included in the bill, but if not, I would leave from 10-15% tip if you’re pleased with the service.

Dress Code

The dress code for dining in the Greek Islands can vary depending on the venue. In casual tavernas and beachside eateries, the attire is generally relaxed, and beachwear may be acceptable during the day.

However, it’s recommended to wear a cover-up and proper footwear. In more upscale restaurants and chic bars, guests may be expected to dress more smartly.

It’s always a good idea to check in advance or opt for smart-casual wear to be on the safe side.

Time of Eating

Dining times in the Greek Islands might differ from what you’re used to. Lunch is typically a leisurely affair and can start anywhere from 1 pm to 4 pm.

Dinner is often eaten late, usually not starting until 8 pm or 9 pm, and it’s not uncommon for locals to dine as late as 10 pm. Many restaurants may not even open for dinner until 7 pm.

Meals are often an extended experience filled with conversation, multiple courses, and perhaps even some local music.

Local Etiquette

Greeks are known for their hospitality, and you might even be offered a complimentary dessert or digestive liqueur like ouzo at the end of your meal. Saying “Efharisto” (Thank you) and showing enthusiasm for the food will surely earn you a warm smile from your hosts.

Final Thoughts on the Best Greek Islands for Foodies

I hope you have thoroughly enjoyed this post about all the Greek Islands that offer a top-notch dining experience for foodies.

Greece has some pretty incredible restaurants, not just on the islands! If you are going to be in Athens, you won’t want to miss some of the Michelin-starred restaurants.

Start planning your trip to the islands today! It is never too late to get started!

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