Kim Santorini, with its stunning landscapes and enchanting sunsets, is also home to some of the most delightful culinary experiences I’ve ever had. During our small group tour, we visited four exceptional restaurants that left us with unforgettable memories and a longing to return. Here are our favourites, complete with directions from Fira and a glimpse into what makes each of them so special.
1. Coralli’s Restaurant Perivolos
Located at the serene Black Beach in Perivolos, Coralli Restaurant Perivolos was our first shared plate experience on the island, and it set the bar incredibly high. To get there from Fira, you can either take a 20-minute taxi ride or hop on a bus to Perivolos Beach. As you approach the beach, you’ll find this charming, family-run restaurant.
What to Expect:
Coralli Restaurant Perivolos offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, thanks to the lovely family who owns and operates it. Our meal here was a feast of flavours, starting with the refreshing cerviche and the crispy tomato fritters. The highlight, however, was the married sardines – perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection.
Beyond the food, the restaurant offers beach lounges where you can relax and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea. It’s a place where you can truly unwind and savour the moment. We left with a heartfelt wish to have had more time to enjoy another meal there. A visit to Coralli Restaurant is a day you’ll always remember.
2. Melina’s Tavern
For a dining experience that combines culinary delight with artistic charm, Melina’s Tavern is a must-visit. Situated right against the water, this family-run restaurant offers a breathtaking view of the Aegean Sea. To get to Melina’s Fish Tavern near Akrotiri and the Red Beach on Santorini, drive or take a bus south from Fira, passing through Pyrgos and Emporio. Follow the signs to Akrotiri, and just before the Red Beach parking area, you’ll find the charming tavern with its red life saving ring sign as you walk along the waterfront.
What to Expect:
The location alone is worth the visit, but the food is what truly captivates. Their menu is fresh and delicious, featuring locally sourced ingredients. As you dine, you can hear the gentle lapping of the waves against the shore, creating a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere.
What sets Melina’s Tavern apart is the attached gallery, where you can admire the sculptures created by the father and paintings by the daughter. They also offer “paint and sip” or “sculpt and sip” nights, providing a unique and fun way to spend an evening. This blend of great food, art, and stunning scenery makes Melina’s Tavern an unforgettable destination.
3. Metaxi Mas
Our visit to Metaxi Mas was a delightful surprise, thanks to our fantastic tour guide and driver, Aris from Roadtales Santorini. Located in Exo Gonia, this hidden gem is a bit off the beaten path but well worth the effort to find. Aris dropped us off and walked us down a little path past a church, leading to a breathtaking view over the valley below.
What to Expect:
Metaxi Mas is a popular spot, so booking a table a few weeks in advance is recommended if you want to sit outside. We were lucky to get a table inside, where we were treated to a feast of delicious dishes. The menu is diverse, featuring traditional Greek cuisine with a creative twist.
Some standout dishes include their lamb chops, seafood risotto, and saganaki (fried cheese). And though we were full by the end of the meal, the owner insisted we try their strawberry cheesecake. It was a generous gift, and despite our initial reluctance because of full bellies, we couldn’t resist finishing every last crumb. The crumbly biscuit base, smooth and creamy cheesecake, and fresh strawberry jam syrup on top made it a dessert to remember. We searched for the same cheesecake throughout our travels but found nothing that compared.
AND our last suggestion…
4. Volkan – on the Rocks
For our last night on the enchanting island of Santorini, we wanted a truly special experience, and Volkan on the Rocks delivered beyond our expectations. Located in the heart of Fira, this restaurant offers breathtaking views that perfectly capture the essence of Santorini. Overlooking the caldera and extending towards the sunset over Firostefani, was the ideal setting to conclude our memorable trip.
Getting There
From Fira: Volkan on the Rocks is conveniently located in Fira, making it easily accessible on foot. From the main square in Fira, it’s a short, pleasant walk through the charming streets filled with shops and cafes. As you stroll along, the stunning views of the caldera guide you to the restaurant.
From Firostefani: If you’re staying in Firostefani, a leisurely walk to Volkan on the Rocks will take about 15-20 minutes. The path is lined with picturesque views of the island’s iconic whitewashed buildings and the deep blue sea, creating a magical ambience even before you arrive. Just head towards Fira on the cliffside and you’ll come across it on the corner that leads to Fira just before Firostefani can no longer be seen.
The Culinary Experience
Volkan on the Rocks offers a diverse menu that showcases the best of Greek cuisine with a modern twist. Some highlights from the menu included:
- Seafood Platter: Fresh, locally sourced seafood prepared to perfection, with a variety of flavours that truly capture the essence of the Mediterranean.
- Lamb Kleftiko: A traditional Greek dish featuring slow-cooked lamb wrapped in parchment paper with vegetables and herbs. The meat is tender and flavourful, a true delight.
- Santorini Salad: Featuring the island’s famous tomatoes, fresh cucumbers, olives, and a generous helping of creamy feta cheese, all drizzled with local olive oil.
- Zucchini fritters are always a favourite too and their Lamb Chops were delicious
Each dish was not only a treat for the taste buds but also beautifully presented, adding to the overall dining experience. And yummy cocktails if that’s your thing.
A Magical Setting
The view from Volkan on the Rocks is nothing short of spectacular. As we dined, we were treated to panoramic views of the caldera and the twinkling lights of Fira. The sunset over Firostefani was the highlight, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, creating a romantic and unforgettable backdrop for our meal.
After dinner, we enjoyed a leisurely walk back to our hotel in Firostefani. The pathway along the cliff face, illuminated by the lights of the houses and restaurants, added a magical touch to the end of our evening. The calm and serene atmosphere was the perfect way to reflect on the wonderful experiences we had on the island.
Unique Experience
One unique feature of Volkan on the Rocks that caught our eye was their outdoor movie screen. On the night we visited, they were playing “Mamma Mia!” – a perfect choice given the Greek setting. Guests were provided with headphones, allowing them to enjoy the movie while savouring their meals and drinks. It looked like a truly enchanting experience, one we’ll definitely have to try next time we visit.
Volkan on the Rocks provided the perfect setting for our final night in Santorini. The combination of delectable food, stunning views, and a magical ambience made it an evening to remember. Whether you’re in Fira or Firostefani, a visit to Volkan on the Rocks is a must. It offers not just a meal, but an experience that captures the true spirit of Santorini. We left with full hearts and happy memories, already looking forward to our next visit.
So to sum it up, Santorini’s culinary scene is a treasure trove of delightful experiences, each offering its own unique charm. From the family-run warmth of Coralli Restaurant Perivolos to the artistic ambience of Melina’s Tavern, the hidden gem of Metaxi Mas, and the spectacular views of Vulcan on the Rocks, these restaurants embody the essence of Greek hospitality and flavour. Each visit not only filled our bellies but also our hearts with unforgettable memories. If you find yourself in Santorini, do not miss the chance to dine at these remarkable places.
Your taste buds and your soul will thank you.
