Any traveler to Mykonos goes with the full understanding that they are about to be surrounded by incredible scenic beauty, bright skies, sparkling sea waters, unforgettable views, and an endless array of things to see and do. They also know that dining is at the top of the agenda.
In fact, Vogue Magazine said that the best way to see Mykonos is to “eat and drink everything in sight.”
Like so many popular destinations, the Greek island of Mykonos is home to local favorites and high-end, award-winning eateries. In this guide, we are going to look at those that travel experts and enthusiasts have identified as the best or as “must-try” options for those traveling to the area.
The Geography of Mykonos
When planning to visit Mykonos and savor its most delicious restaurants, it helps to know the basic layout and locations to visit. The island spans only 33 square miles and has ten villages, each with a unique character. They are:
- Agios Ioannis
- Agios Stefanos
- Ano Mera
- Ftelia
- Kalafati
- Mykonos or Chora
- Ornos
- Platys Gialos
- Psarrou
- Tourlos
You will find luxury rentals within most of these towns, or moments from them, and during your stay, you will want to head into the village and explore its local offerings. It is likely that you will find many offering such specialties as local cheeses, wines, and meat dishes. By all means, try them all, but also save room for the most recommended options that include:
Spilia Seaside Restaurant
Famous for its cliff-side setting above Kalafatis Beach, it specializes in the seafood that comes from the waters directly below. It focuses on Mediterranean cuisine, and on the classics of Mykonos in particular. It also features some dining within the caves along the beach and is an icon of Mykonos eateries.
Kiki’s Tavern
One expert said that everyone will recommend this restaurant, which is actually a beach shack without electricity, but which specializes in grilling local seafood and serving a lot of local wine. Most suggest the roasted eggplant and grilled shrimp and pork chops, and that you go early and get in line because the owners often pass out free wine and they often sell out!
Interni
Enjoy the height of fusion cuisine with a meal in the garden setting of this famous restaurant. Focusing on seafood that has taken its inspiration from many Asian and Italian classics, it is located in the Matogiannia area of Mykonos Town and gazes out towards the water. In business for years, it is considered a culinary treasure, and one not to miss.
Eva’s Garden
Set in the heart of Mykonos, this is a spot when you want to enjoy the same dishes that locals head out to enjoy, and the garden setting ensures the ultimate in romance. There is a small patio and the award-winning restaurant has a signature wine list that pairs flawlessly with such classics as kolokithokeftedes, the traditional soutzoukakia, and the house-made pastas.
Scorpios
This Bohemian inspired eatery has daybeds you can reserve, seaside dining, and food that is often described as next-level good. Fish is deboned tableside and everything is served with an array of house sauces and salads. There is often a DJ and dancing later in the night, and many arrive to enjoy this part of the open-air fun. If you are not a big fan of crowds, you can book one of the signature daybeds during the breakfast or lunch hour and linger over the food.
Ling Ling – Hakkasan
Part of the Hakkasan chain, it is a unique branch emphasizing Cantonese cuisine using only the local island ingredients. Thus, lucky travelers will be able to eat dim sum that features Mediterranean fish or braised briny lobster with black Chinese vinegar. An open-air eatery, it is a romantic classic in the heart of Mykonos Town.
Matsuhisa Restaurant at the Belvedere Hotel
Another Mykonos Town location, this is another fusion eatery that focuses on Japanese cuisine prepared with ingredients from Mykonos. If you are craving sushi with a flair, this is the spot. It too is another open-air eatery that adds an extra special something to local ingredients.
M-Eating
Described by one expert as offering some of the best food in Mykonos Town, it is a small restaurant in a traditional island home. With all of the bright white and blue colors that make the island famous and photogenic, you step inside into a lovely indoor eater and verandah space. The chef has a background in five-star cuisine but emphasizes only Greek specialties that include octopus, soutzoukakia, and honey-based desserts.
Hippie Fish
Set along Agios Ioannis beach, this is considered to be a must-try beach bar that also takes its name from the house specialty – the day’s freshest catch. Here you find options like sea-urchin spaghetti and Myconian pie. All is served in their lovely garden area, indoor seating, or open-air spaces.
Fokos Taverna
This is a more romantic and secluded spot far from the hustle and bustle of town. Located along Fokos Beach, it is housed inside a building that emphasizes classic island architecture and which is furnished in natural materials to support the elegance of the wood and stone structure. It offers an open air space and lots of climbing plants, and a menu that is inspired by the Mediterranean region, but Mykonos in particular. Ravasaki grilled feta, savory pies, and lots of fresh seafood are the emphasis.
So, go with the recommendations of the travel experts and be sure to eat everything in sight during a visit to Mykonos. Whether or not you are a fan of fresh seafood, you are sure to find an abundance of regional specialties. Vegetarians, pescatarians, and everyone else will enjoy the most delicious vegetable-based dishes, and there is always an emphasis on local wine and a bit of something sweet at the end of the meal. Your trip to Mykonos will be unforgettable because of the scenery and the charm of the villages and towns, but it will also be remarkable when you make sure you sample some of the island’s best beach shacks, restaurants, and bars.