Beyond its breathtaking sunsets and stunning landscapes, Santorini is a treasure trove of culinary delights! Blending traditional Greek flavors with unique local ingredients, it offers a toothsome gastronomic experience for every seasoned foodie.
In this thorough guide, we reveal every Santorini food you should taste during your stay. From savory appetizers to hearty main dishes, get ready to be mind-blown by the diversity of the island’s cuisine.
What is the food like in Santorini?
In one word: Heavenly! And there are multiple reasons contributing to that.
- Distinct microclimate: Santorini’s sunny weather, minimal rainfall and strong winds throughout the year create ideal conditions for producing fantastic crops.
- Volcanic soil: Following the cataclysmic eruption of the Thera volcano in 1600 BC, the island’s soil was enriched with plenty of nutrients.
- Cooking methods: Many dishes are slow-cooked, allowing flavors to meld together splendidly. Additionally, the generous use of extra virgin olive oil and fresh herbs elevates each meal to the next level.
What food is Santorini known for?
Due to its rocky volcanic landscape, Santorini doesn’t have typical cornfields. However, the local produce that can grow on the island is mouthwatering!
- Fava: A staple in Santorini, fava is a local variety of yellow split peas that has been cultivated on the island for over 3500 years.
- Cherry tomatoes: First planted in the 18th century, Santorini’s tomatoes are small, deep red and juicy. They taste so good that they constitute the perfect ingredient for salads and sauces.
- Katsounia: This weird name refers to Santorini cucumbers. What makes them one-of-a-kind is that they’re larger than the common variety, with thicker skin, more seeds and a sweeter taste.
- White eggplants: Unlike their purple counterparts, Santorini’s white eggplants are sweet and have no seeds. Since they don’t absorb oil, they make for the best healthy snack!
- Capers: Wild capers grow abundantly on the island and are known for their intense scent. They’re used to add a sour, spicy flavor to salads and a wide variety of dishes.
- Chlorotyri: Produced in small quantities by local farmers, chlorotyri is Santorini’s traditional goat cheese. Soft and creamy, it has a slightly tangy flavor and is often spread on bread.
- Wines: With a winemaking history of over 4 millennia, Santorini is famed for its exceptional wines made from indigenous grape varieties, such as Assyrtiko and Aidani.
12 traditional Santorini dishes to relish
1. Fava me koukia
Whether you’re a vegan or simply looking to indulge in the most delicious side dish, fava is what you need!
Mashed to creamy perfection with olive oil and lemon sauce, it’s complemented with caramelized onions and capers on the top for a tantalizing result.
2. Domatokeftedes (tomato fritters)
Another beloved specialty you shouldn’t skip is domatokeftedes. Made from the island’s flavorsome cherry tomatoes, onions and fresh herbs, they’re crispy on the outside and juicy inside.
Although this is yet another vegetarian dish, it has nothing to be jealous of the regular meatballs!
3. Greek salad with chlorotyri
We can all agree that there’s no need to introduce the world-renowned Greek salad. And while its typical version includes feta cheese, you can savor an equally yummy alternative in Santorini.
Ask the chef to replace feta with chlorotyri so you can get a glimpse of how uniquely this local cheese tastes!
4. Melitzanosalata
This is the Greek name for eggplant salad. Although it’s not a real salad, it makes for a remarkable appetizer that will keep your tastebuds delighted until the main dishes are served!
Made from roasted eggplants which are then pulped with lemon and olive oil, this creamy spread is ideal for dipping bread.
5. Apochti
If you’re a meat lover, we’ve got the dream starter for you! Named apochti, this jerky consists of salted pork loin that’s been marinated in vinegar and spices and air-dried.
When and where to try it? It’s served across the island in many restaurants and wineries since it works as a palate cleanser between tasting different labels.
6. Melitinia
Melitinia are sweet, cheese-filled pastries that are a common treat in Santorini, especially during Easter.
Their recipe is seemingly simple, but flawless execution requires practice. Concocted from mizithra cheese, sugar and a hint of mastic, they can be found in many local bakeries.
7. Kopania
Who said sweets are unhealthy? Well, while some might be, kopania is definitely not among them!
Low in fats, these bite-sized treats are made from crushed barley rusks mixed with raisins, sesame seeds and cinnamon. Tempted to try them? You should absolutely grasp the opportunity when time comes.
8. Sfougato
Resembling a frittata, sfougato is Santorini’s hearty omelet. Even though its ingredients might vary in different parts of the island, the most popular version includes zucchini, potatoes and cheese.
If you’re thinking about trying it, make sure your next meal isn’t too soon! Sfougato is so thick that it’ll keep you full for hours! So, it’s best to eat it for breakfast or lunch.
9. Saganaki
Saganaki is a popular Greek appetizer consisting of pan-fried cheese, typically graviera or halloumi.
This easy-to-cook dish is served with a squeeze of lemon juice, enhancing its rich flavor. Crispy on the outside yet gooey on the inside, it’s a favorite among cheese aficionados.
10. Moussaka
Often referred to as Greek lasagna, moussaka features layers of eggplant, minced meat, potatoes and béchamel.
When done right, it emits a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will stay in your memories forever.
11. Spanakopita (Greek spinach pie)
Spanakopita is a savory pastry made with flaky phyllo dough filled with spinach, feta and herbs.
Baked until crispy and golden, it’s a popular breakfast option for both locals and tourists. Try it, and you’ll immediately understand why!
12. Sun-dried octopus
Fancy some freshly caught seafood? If yes, the Aegean Sea is your ally. Opt for a grilled sun-dried octopus paired with a local wine.
To elevate your experience, you can also order shrimp linguine pasta or fried squids with a sprinkle of lemon.
Is Santorini expensive for food and drink?
While Santorini can be expensive for food and drink, it also has many budget-friendly options. Let us explain further.
The cliffside caldera restaurants in Fira and Oia are very pricey. Many of them even charge a minimum spend per person.
If you want to avoid paying too much for a single meal, you can visit a local tavern in a countryside village that’s less touristy. Alternatively, you can always buy fresh ingredients and prepare a meal yourself if your accommodation has a cooker.
Embark on a unique journey through Santorini’s culinary scene
Santorini food is as diverse and exciting as its volcanic landscapes. Fusing locally sourced ingredients with meraki and time-honored cooking methods, each meal promises to leave a lasting impression.
If you want to immerse yourself in the island’s food secrets, we highly recommend you book a Santorini cooking class. What’s better than learning how to prepare famous Greek dishes and then feasting on them?
FAQs about Santorini food
What is the food culture in Santorini?
Santorinian people love eating healthy! They follow a Mediterranean diet consisting of fresh local ingredients and extra virgin olive oil. Additionally, they embrace balance by consuming both vegetarian and meat dishes.
Where do locals eat in Santorini?
- Frantsesko’s Fishtavern in Perissa
- Pinakio in Kamari
- Sanafi in Exo Gonia
What is a typical breakfast in Santorini?
It depends on each person’s preferences. While some prefer spinach pie with coffee, others choose eggs, Greek yogurt or bread with butter and honey.
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