Greece
Santorini’s volcanic landscape shaped its agriculture. Farmers developed methods to cultivate crops in arid conditions, leading to unique varieties of vegetables.
The cuisine reflects simplicity and a focus on high-quality ingredients, a hallmark of traditional Greek cooking. Flavors are typically simple, fresh, savory, and aromatic.
Meals in Greece are social events, often extending for hours, especially dinner.
Dinner is often eaten late, typically after 9:00 PM in summer. Many restaurants are not busy until then.
Sharing "mezedes" (appetizers or small plates) is common, allowing everyone to sample a variety of dishes.
Crispy fritters from Santorini's cherry tomatoes, herbs, onion, and flour.
Widely available in traditional tavernas.
Creamy, savory dip from Santorinian split peas, served warm with olive oil, onion, and capers.
Found in most traditional restaurants.
Grilled or fried catch of the day, including barbouni (red mullet), octopus, or calamari.
Highlight at seaside tavernas like Ammoudi Bay.
Assyrtiko (crisp, dry white) and Vinsanto (sweet dessert wine from sun-dried grapes).
Strong, unfiltered Greek coffee; Frappé and Freddo Espresso/Cappuccino for refreshing cold options.
Fira offers several upscale establishments with sophisticated atmospheres and caldera views.
A range of comfortable options offering traditional Greek food at good value.
Quick and affordable meal options are readily available throughout Fira.
Relatively easy to find. Many traditional Greek dishes are naturally vegetarian like Fava, briam, and gigantes plaki.
Look for "nistisima" (fasting dishes), often vegan.
Can be challenging as wheat is common. Communicate clearly with staff.
Safe options often include fresh grilled fish, salads (without croutons), and grilled meats. A Translation app or Greek phrasebook helps for specific allergen phrases.
Pizza and pasta choices.
Some Chinese and other Asian restaurants.
Limited diverse options.
Greek cuisine is a major focus.
Experience a meal in a traditional cave dwelling, offering an unique ambiance.
Found in caldera-side villages.
Visit wineries built into the volcanic landscape for tastings of unique wines like Assyrtiko and Vinsanto.
Many offer stunning views alongside the tasting.
Enjoying a meal with a panoramic caldera view at sunset is a quintessential Fira experience.
Do not hesitate to ask restaurant staff for recommendations. They often suggest daily specials or fresh catch of the day.
Many traditional Greek dishes are vegetarian by nature. Vegan options are often found in "nistisima" (fasting) dishes.
Can be challenging due to wheat in Greek cuisine. Clear communication with staff is paramount.
Not widely available. Travelers with strict requirements may consider vegetarian/fish options or self-catering.
Fira offers the widest selection of dining choices due to its size and tourist focus.
From quick bites to elaborate meals.
While Fira has variety, individual villages may have slight variations or specialties of traditional dishes.
Explore for unique local tastes.
Do not hesitate to ask restaurant staff for suggestions; they often share daily specials or the freshest catch.
Embrace the local tastes, even if they are unfamiliar, for an authentic culinary journey.
For popular caldera-view restaurants, make reservations well in advance, especially during sunset hours.
For specific dietary concerns, writing down your restrictions in Greek can significantly help communication with restaurant staff.
