Syros is the new foodie destination, here’s why.
Greece, a traditionally beach and poolside destination, has recently developed a growing reputation for great restaurants. This was not always the case. Twenty years ago, the Cycladic island tavernas were fairly basic, ranging from fresh and wholesome, to overcooked and over salted.
Things have changed beyond recognition. Now even a relatively small island like Syros has dozens of excellent restaurants, many open all year. The quality of chefs returning from working in European capitals has forced the change, coupled with an increasingly food aware public. Syros, being an all-year-round island catering to the legal and administrative needs of many island groups, has a particularly developed food culture. From five star to Mama’s kitchen, it’s hard to select the best.
The following list was created in 2023, with the finest, and perhaps the most expensive first. There are so many more great places to eat on Syros, but we find ourselves returning to these restaurants often.
Google the names below for images and information to help you choose the perfect restaurant to suit your programme.
Avant Garden – opposite the Apollon Theatre, Ermoupoli. Mediterranean food, inspirational
St Michaelis – overlooking the bay, Vaporia, Ermoupoli. Exquisite views, excellent chef
Sunsets – on the water, indoor/outdoor Gallisas. Reliably great food and service
Peritinos – harbour front, Ermoupoli, classy deconstructed Greek dishes
Allou Yialou – so close to the water in Kini you can watch the fish. Mediterranean, experienced kitchen, service average
Aristides – in Vaporia, Ermoupoli, lovely rooftop views and intimate courtyard, perfect service, quality food (enter via Hotel Aristides)
Ousyra – behind the limani, in a side road full of tavernas, Ermoupoli, this beautifully presented restaurant has an excellent chef
De La Gracia – on the beach Agathopes, Poseidonia. Busy fun beach restaurant with excellent food and service, Mediterranean
Le Perroquet Tranquille – French restaurant in quiet Poseidonia villa, chef Marco serves French dishes with a Greek flavour – great brunch
Mazi – off Miaoli Square, Ermoupoli in an amazing Venetian ruin. Dramatic setting and quality menu – well worth visiting
Mersini – on the harbour, Ermoupoli so you can watch your boat come in, a local taverna that really exceeds expectations in value for money
Philomila – overlooking the bay at Finikas, this family friendly taberna serves reliably good food at excellent prices
Achladi – a destination taverna overlooking the secluded Achladi beach. Perfect for eating and swimming
Savvas – great seaside Taverna in Gallisas, a busy happy family place, Greek food, good prices
Meltemi – by the Naval harbour, Agathopes, Poseidonia. Fresh ingredients, quality taverna food
Ora – right on the waterfront, Finikas, a cheap and cheerful family place, you can jump off the steps for a swim between courses
Ambela – a swim and eat destination taverna at a small beach Ambela. Inexpensive, family fun
Amvix – Italian restaurant on the waterfront where the boats come in, Ermoupoli. Pizzas, pastas, good service, good food
